Whether you’re a YouTuber or a podcaster, one of the most important things to own is a quality mic. While there are tons of options out there, Blue brand microphones have been particularly popular with creatives all around the world - especially the “Snowball” and “Yeti” models. But which of them is the better choice? In this article, I’ll explore the pros and cons of each mic and will offer my thoughts on which one to choose.
Why are Blue microphones so popular?
If you watch YouTube, there’s a big chance you’ve watched a YouTuber who is using either the Blue Yeti or Snowball. Why is that?
Well, there are many reasons, but the main reason is that both of these microphones are designed to be set up right on your table. In fact, both come with sturdy (and beautiful) table stands. That’s cool because you don’t need to deal with buying and setting up a more complicated stand (although getting a boom arm is a great idea!).
Another reason is that both of them are USB mics. Until a few years ago, you still needed an audio interface if you wanted to work with professional microphones. Thanks to their USB inputs, both the Blue Snowball and Yeti make recording to your computer a breeze.
Now, how do the Blue Snowball and the Blue Yeti differ from each other?
Let’s compare them.
Specs
Some differences already become obvious when you look at the technical specifications. So let’s start there:
Blue Snowball
- Microphone type: Condenser
- Polar pattern: Cardioid, cardioid with -10 dB pad, omnidirectional
- Frequency response: 40Hz - 18kHZ
- Compatible with: Mac, Windows (plug & play)
- Sample rate: 41.1kHZ
- In the box: Adjustable stand, USB cable, user’s guide
Blue Yeti
- Microphone type: Condenser
- Polar pattern: Cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, stereo
- Frequency response: 20Hz - 20kHz
- Compatible with: Mac, Windows (plug & play)
- Sample rate: 48kHZ
- In the box: Adjustable stand, USB cable, instructions
First of all, good news: Both microphones are compatible with both Mac and Windows. They’re also both condenser mics and have the same accessories.
However, we can see some differences when it comes to the technical aspects: The Yeti has more polar pattern options, a wider frequency response and a higher sample rate. In case you’re not sure, that means the Yeti can pick up sound from more directions, and can record more information about that sound, too. In general, both a higher sample rate and a wider frequency response are signs of higher quality mics. So, when it comes to specs, the Yeti clearly wins.
Design & Handling
Snowball
How cute is the Snowball? It looks slick, it looks cool, and you can’t not recognize it when you see it in somebody’s YouTube video.
Now, it’s great to have a good-looking microphone, but is this only a mic to look at or can it handle heavy use?
I’m pleased to say that the Snowball has been built with the average in consumers in mind. You know, people like me who knock over their mics once in a while. While this is certainly not how you should treat your microphone, the Snowball is pretty sturdy compared to other mics, especially in its price range. However, there’s one issue that comes up: Due to its construction with the big ball on top, it can be, in fact, easier to knock over than other mics. If you are as accident-prone as I am, you might want to get a heavier and sturdier stand like this one.
Other than that, the Blue Snowball is quite minimalist. It doesn’t come with a ton of knobs and it has only one output (USB). That means that it’s easy to use and set up, however it also means that you have less control over your recording.
One place where a less minimalist design would have helped is the polar pattern switch. On the Blue Snowball they are marked with numbers 1-3. But what does each number mean? You will have to either pull out the manual to find the right setting, or you’ll have to experiment a bit. This can become frustrating, especially if you use your mic infrequently.
Yeti
The Yeti looks completely different, although it still has a retro look. While one could argue about which microphone is more beautiful, in the end it comes down to taste - and isn’t that important? What’s more important to know is that the Yeti is a lot bigger than the Snowball. In fact, it is easily three to four inches taller and its stand takes up more space as well. If the size of the Yeti is bothering you, you can set it up on a boom arm. That way you can quickly get your mic out of the way when you don’t need it, and get it back just as quick when you do.
What’s great about the Yeti is that it offers an astounding amount of control to its users. It has controls for gain and volume and even possesses a mute button. It also has a zero-latency microphone output, which is great for checking your set up before you start recording.
Some users have commented on the rather wobbly knobs. If you’re using your Blue Yeti a lot, you will definitely have to be careful with them.
When it comes to design and handling, it really depends on what you prefer: Would you like to have a smaller mic with less complex options or would you rather own something bigger that gives you more control?
Now let’s get to the most important aspect of a mic: sound quality.
The Yeti’s sound is present, natural and well-rounded. Compared to other microphones in its price range, it is an exceptionally good mic for creating podcasts, YouTube videos or voice overs. The Yeti doesn’t just have a well-balanced sound, it also has fewer problem areas than other mics in this price category: There is less hissing, booming or other noisy frequencies. Also, The Blue Yeti sounds good no matter if your voice is deeper or higher.
In all other cases, I would recommend getting the Yeti. It’s the more professional option with better sound, and it offers more control. Find more about the Yeti here.
What microphone do you use at the moment? If you’re a Blue Yeti or Snowball user, let us know in the comments if you are happy with it!
