Best Microphone Boom Arms

When it comes to creating high-quality audio content—be it a podcast, a live stream, a voice-over, or a music recording—the microphone is only half the equation. How you position and stabilize that microphone matters just as much. Enter the microphone boom arm: a versatile, space-saving tool that can transform your recording experience. A great boom arm not only holds your microphone securely but also allows for precise positioning, reduces unwanted noise, and keeps your workspace clutter-free. With so many options on the market today, choosing the best one can feel overwhelming. In this article, we’ll break down what makes a microphone boom arm exceptional, explore key factors to consider when buying one, and review some of the top models available in 2025.

Why You Need a Microphone Boom Arm

Unlike traditional desk stands, which can take up valuable space and limit flexibility, a boom arm attaches to your desk or another surface, suspending your microphone exactly where you need it. This setup offers several advantages:

1. Optimal Positioning: A boom arm lets you place your microphone at the perfect angle and distance from your mouth, ensuring consistent sound quality without straining your posture.
2. Reduced Noise: Paired with a shock mount, a boom arm minimizes vibrations from desk movements, typing, or accidental bumps.
3. Space Efficiency: By clamping to your desk, it frees up surface area, leaving more room for your gear or a cleaner aesthetic.
4. Professional Feel: There’s something undeniably satisfying about swinging a boom arm into place—it elevates both your setup and your mindset.

Whether you’re a podcaster aiming for crystal-clear dialogue, a streamer engaging with an audience, or a musician capturing every note, a reliable boom arm is an investment in your craft. But with prices ranging from under $20 to over $100, and features varying widely, how do you choose the right one? Let’s explore the key considerations.

What is the Best Microphone Boom Arms?

Here is my top picks for the best microphone boom arms for podcasting and recording music this year.

• Rode PSA1+
• Elgato Wave Mic Arm
• InnoGear Heavy Duty Mic Arm
• Blue Compass Premium 
• Samson MBA38 
• Gator Frameworks Deluxe

I will start with my favourite picks for the best microphone boom arms for podcasting and recording music in 2025.

1. Rode PSA1+ – The Industry Standard

The Rode PSA1+ is widely regarded as the gold standard for microphone boom arms, and for good reason. Building on the success of the original PSA1, this updated version offers a sleek design, silent operation, and robust construction. Its parallelogram spring system ensures smooth, squeak-free adjustments, making it a favorite for podcasters, broadcasters, and streamers alike. With a weight capacity of up to 2.6 lbs, it easily supports popular mics like the Shure SM7B or Audio-Technica AT2020 with a shock mount.

The PSA1+ comes with both a desk clamp and a threaded desk insert, offering flexibility for temporary or permanent setups. Its 37-inch horizontal reach is ample for most desks, and the external velcro ties keep cables organized without the hassle of threading them through the arm. While it’s pricier than some alternatives, its durability and professional-grade performance justify the cost. If you’re serious about audio, the Rode PSA1+ is hard to beat.

Pros: Silent adjustments, versatile mounting, sturdy build

Cons: Higher price point, external cable management may not suit everyone

2. Elgato Wave Mic Arm – Sleek and Streamer-Friendly

Designed with streamers and content creators in mind, the Elgato Wave Mic Arm combines style and substance. Its low-profile design sits unobtrusively below your monitor, while the fully adjustable arm offers 360-degree rotation and a ball head with 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch, and 5/8-inch threading options. The standard version supports up to 4.4 lbs, making it ideal for heavier mics, while the newer Wave Mic Arm Pro (introduced in late 2024) ups that to 6.6 lbs with a gas spring mechanism for ultra-smooth adjustments.

The hidden cable channels are a standout feature, keeping your setup clean and camera-ready—a big plus for video creators. While its reach is slightly shorter than some competitors, optional risers can extend it. The Elgato Wave is perfect for those who prioritize aesthetics and versatility, though its price reflects its premium branding.

Pros: Sleek look, excellent cable management, high weight capacity (Pro)

Cons: Shorter reach, premium cost

3. InnoGear Heavy Duty Mic Arm – Best Budget Option

For those on a budget, the InnoGear Heavy Duty Mic Arm delivers impressive value without skimping on quality. Made of durable steel, it supports up to 4.4 lbs—enough for most condenser mics with accessories. Its scissor-arm design offers 135-degree back-and-forth movement and 180-degree vertical adjustment, with a 360-degree rotating base for full flexibility. The internal springs ensure quiet operation, and the built-in cable channels keep things tidy.

While it lacks the polish of high-end models like the Rode PSA1+, the InnoGear punches above its weight class. It’s a fantastic starter arm for podcasters or streamers who want reliability without breaking the bank. However, some users report that the clamp may not grip as securely on thicker desks, and the springs can loosen over time with heavy use.

Pros: Affordable, sturdy, good weight capacity

Cons: Clamp durability concerns, springs may wear out

4. Blue Compass Premium – Stylish and Silent

From the makers of the iconic Blue Yeti, the Blue Compass Premium boom arm blends form and function. Its enclosed aluminum design hides both springs and cables, offering a clean, professional look and near-silent operation. With a 32-inch reach and 360-degree rotation, it’s highly adjustable, and the hand-tightened friction hinges eliminate the need for tools—perfect for quick tweaks during a session.

The Compass is optimized for overhead use, making it a top pick for streamers or video creators who want their mic out of the frame. However, its 2.4-lb weight limit means it’s best suited for lighter mics, and some users find it tricky to balance in non-overhead positions. If style and silence are your priorities, this is a strong contender.

Pros: Sleek design, quiet adjustments, easy setup

Cons: Limited weight capacity, less versatile positioning

5. Samson MBA38 – Best for Heavy Microphones

The Samson MBA38 is a workhorse designed for creators with heavier setups. With a 5-lb weight capacity and an impressive 38-inch reach, it’s one of the longest and strongest arms in its price range. The steel construction and internal springs provide stability and quiet operation, while the included C-clamp and flange mount offer setup versatility.

This arm excels for users with large desks or those pairing hefty mics (like the Electro-Voice RE20) with shock mounts and pop filters. Its no-frills design prioritizes function over flash, though it lacks built-in cable management—cable ties are a simple fix. For the price, it’s a reliable mid-range option with pro-level capability.

Pros: Long reach, high weight capacity, affordable

Cons: No cable management, basic aesthetics

6. Gator Frameworks Deluxe – Compact and Professional

The Gator Frameworks Deluxe boom arm brings a unique twist with its pre-installed 10-foot XLR cable and an LED indicator ring to signal when you’re live. Its 32.25-inch reach and 4.4-lb capacity make it suitable for most studio mics, and the spring-loaded design ensures smooth, quiet adjustments. It mounts securely to desks up to 2.17 inches thick with a clamp.

This arm is ideal for podcasters or broadcasters who value convenience and a touch of flair. However, its fixed XLR cable may not suit USB mic users, and the clamp’s thickness limit could be a drawback for some desks. It’s a solid choice for a compact, feature-rich setup.

Pros: Built-in XLR, unique LED feature, sturdy

Cons: Limited desk compatibility, not ideal for USB mics

Final Thoughts

A microphone boom arm might seem like a small piece of your audio puzzle, but its impact is undeniable. The right one can elevate your recordings from amateur to professional, all while keeping your workspace efficient and comfortable. As of March 25, 2025, the Rode PSA1+ stands out as the best overall choice for its balance of quality, versatility, and reliability. However, options like the Elgato Wave, InnoGear, Blue Compass, Samson MBA38, and Gator Frameworks Deluxe cater to a range of budgets and preferences.

Investing in a quality boom arm is investing in your sound—and by extension, your audience’s experience. Whether you’re whispering ASMR, belting out a song, or debating on a podcast, these top picks will help you sound your best. Which one will you choose to bring your voice to life?