Rode NT-USB Mini review vs NT-USB microphone

[@richardcarlson112]

Using a reasonably good headphone, I can tell that the original does have a little richer sound and thus is better in terms of sound quality. However, if they are not compared side by side and it's not needed for professional use, the mini sounds 90-95% as good. For me, the compromise is minor in exchange for the min's far more compact form factor and I like that the mini is not so "in your face" as the original. Great comparison. Thanks for doing this.

[@cameralabs]

You're very welcome and I agree with your analysis!

[@BagelMaster]

I trust this man for some reason

[@cameralabs]

Well hopefully not just for any reason, but because I've been testing gear and writing or filming reviews for over 25 years now! Glad you found my reviews!

[@MakeKnowledgeFree]

@@cameralabs ke 5PM mein bhi jalan 0hobutnol

[@nadeemafzal8984]

a Brighton man is always trust worthy !!!

[@chickadddee]

Gordon, 4 years on, this is still a great review. I honestly don't know what I enjoyed more, the actual review or your personality! How hilarious, the readings close up, hahaha! Sending thank you from Canada. Cheers.

[@cameralabs]

Thanks, happy to help! The NT USB full size and minis are still great sounding mics today

[@martinXY]

Test 1 mini 5:05 NT-USB 6:10 I think the NT-USB is a bit brighter.

[@sujoyinnovates]

Thanks for the great demonstration Gordon. It is clearly evident that the original NT USB microphone sounded much crisper and captures more details than the mini. Mini seems to ignore the high pitch a little, it has got the bass as the original but not that refined treble as the original

[@johnhaynes9910]

Excellent review, I'm looking at both of these with the intention to buy one so timely, I must admit as a result I do favour the original for the sound quality, thanks Gordon :) To add an update to my original comment, I actually got to look at them side by side and the physical dimensions mattered for my application so I decided on the mini which is very well built and does the job. You can always rely on Gordon's reviews.

[@ShauryaAMehta]

Appreciate the review! Thanks! That helped a lot. Considering the portability & quick-to-roll-out convenience, I'll be going ahead with the mini.

[@ive595]

That was interesting, I even plugged in the headphones! I have neither mic so a completely unbiased view, the old model was a cleaner sound, a bit more bass driven than the mini but not by much, and although Rode will not like this the old screen ‘pop’ filter did a better job.

[@cameralabs]

Thanks, that's what I felt too.

[@maiarebekkaejersbo9212]

This was a really nice review, the comparison outside with everyday noise was especially helpful. Thank you very much.

[@musiclab5127]

no it does not require just connect to laptop

[@chrisberardi2304]

The threaded adapter was supplied with my Rode arm - so now I have two of them. I really like the new mini: I can buy several of them and with the Rode software easily set up a roundtable type interview. It's a very practical microphone. What also surprised me was how hefty it was - solidly built and I found the sound recorded from it very pleasing indeed.

[@VestigeOfFate]

I genuinely can’t hear any difference in quality between the two, and as a result have decided myself now to opt for the NT-USB Mini instead, due not only to its cute little size but the substantially cheaper price (well over 1/3 cheaper, £80 instead over £150). Delightful review, and exactly what I was looking for. Thank you!

[@cameralabs]

You're very welcome! They are very close.

[@glennsak]

I prefer the sound of the original. The mini sounds... well “mini”...

[@cameralabs]

I agree, although it's still good...

[@MaySpitfire]

does it sound like $100?

[@BenRockde]

But the "original" will not be produced any more, the "mini" take that place. I got the "mini" and it does a very good job. Love that Gordon gives a very handsome review! Thanks mate!

[@賴志偉-d7h]

Reason not to just look at specs and actually experience the products when making comparisons.

[@kowalewicz2554]

The mini sounds... well, how about 100$ cheaper?

[@kfash5198]

I will buy the mini and do some eq and compressor settings

[@RobinGerritsen1995]

I think with a few modifications on the audio track you can make them nearly identical to each other. The mini takes a little bit more high, but with a digital equalizer you can make the original and mini sound the same

[@jimshaw899]

I was about t press the buy button for the Mini -- until I started hearing reviews comparing the NT-USB with this Mini. I cannot help myself-- the Mini sounds pretty shallow to me. The NT-USB sounds much more natural, both on the bottom end and the top. Enunciation comes through much clearer. The Mini sounds 'strangled'. I suspect the Mini's built-in pop filter causes that effect. Yet that Mini pop filter isn't as effective as I heard in your demo. The NT-USB (with the screen) is much more effective. I agree about the portability of the Mini -- the NT-USB really isn't a very portable mike. I'd class it as a 'studio' microphone. Put it on a boom or and arm and leave it at home. And I think the Audio Technica AT2020USB sounds just as good for less cost. (Also not very portable) The Mini's sound is strangled enough that any of fifty other microphones can do as well, and some are just as, or more portable. For portability and voice use, I'd stick with a dynamic mic -- especially as they can be a lot more rugged. [Don't try to use a condenser mic near a rain storm.] -Just One Man's view.

[@ChrisBoland]

Thanks, this was really helpful. I have the Rode Podcaster at the moment, but the Mini seems perfect for traveling. 👍

[@monsour1900]

It seems that the Rode NT-usb mini does have a mid-forward sound as opposed to the controlled bass and top end sparkle of the original.

[@Sam-mc2dk]

The Rode NT-USB sound has more depth but the mini sounds good for a portable microphone.

[@KitVlogss]

The original is much more thicker in sound. But post processing is there :D

[@Capoeira360]

Thanks, Gordon for such an honest and helpful review, the best I've seen so far. Great job!

[@cameralabs]

You're very welcome!

[@kshitij260794]

is rode usb mini a better choice for vocals compared to it's elder?

[@WisLockman]

I already own the NT USB. I’ve had it it for sometime and love it. I do plan to get a couple of the NT USB Minis for my podcast station.

[@qariislamhassan-4812]

Is it good for vocal ?

[@WisLockman]

Qari Islam Hassan - إسلام حسن yes

[@fabsterun]

Hey!! Quick question does it work on your smartphone?

[@JacReviewsStuff]

In the train station, what were you recording into? What camera did you use? did you use a phone and connect the ntusb into your phone? did you bring a laptop?

[@tsdmoto]

Great video , very happy with the Mini ! It's excellent for table top unboxing or demo style videos.

[@RageStudios]

can i connect this to rode wireless go 2 transmitter and use it wirelessly directly to my camera?

[@cameralabs]

sadly not, the WGo transmitter only works with 3.5mm analogue inputs and the NT USB only has a USB output.

[@ChaseBowman]

hey thanks for the video. I believe you've convinced me to stick with my Mini, but wondering one thing, the additional dial on the side of the original -- that's for mixing the headphone out, correct? I thought that may be for setting the level going into the computer. If I got this right, neither mics have a way of setting the gain going into the computer?

[@NeilSmallerFilms]

Fantastic review and really very useful, thank you

[@cameralabs]

You're welcome!

[@Pepingco]

A great review. Looks to me I will keep my original NTUSB mic, even if it's a bit old and battered. Still works great. Keep the Camera Labs spirit alive Gordon!

[@marcodiioia3397]

Very useful comparsion, my personal choice is the Full NT_USB, the Mini is good, but in my opinion, the voice is deeper and "warmer" whit the full NT-USB

[@kshitij260794]

Rode nt usb is unavailable on Amazon from quite a long time now, will it ever return?

[@cameralabs]

It's probably low on stock as people were buying them for home web meetings - webcams and HDMI capture devices are also hard to get.

[@kshitij260794]

@@cameralabs do you suggest any alternative?

[@DonVFilmoraTutorials]

I made a big mistake, went and bought the razer seiren elite instead of researching more and finding this amazing microphones THAT ARE CHEAPER! Amazing review by the way.

[@DonVFilmoraTutorials]

Now I have to keep making videos using my old camera as a mic...

[@iminh_x1705]

DonV Filmora Tutorials what about your razer?

[@DonVFilmoraTutorials]

@@iminh_x1705 it just doesn't sound good at all, and picks up a lot of noise, tried different things still not happy with the results

[@illiteratebeef]

It seems to me like the USB Mini sounds much more natural, like you're in the room, and prefer it to you using the NT-USB.

[@cameralabs]

I felt the NT USB was a bit crisper, but perhaps a bit harsher. I certainly like the Mini though...

[@MitchellCatriona]

Thank you - this was really helpful and helped me make the right decision for me. Great presentation style and info.

[@cameralabs]

Thanks!

[@EmilyTestAccount]

Got the mini a few days ago and gave away a samson meteor. was debating getting the regular NT-USB but I'm only using it for voice chat really - the price difference can't justify the sound difference for this application. Feeling good about my choice now.

[@cameralabs]

Glad you like it!

[@ULTRA5364]

Actually I didn't notice that much big difference between both of them.

[@jobcambodia]

My Mac book Pro don't have USB port, so I need adapter. Can it keep the sound quality?

[@AmuthanVethanayagam]

NT-USB Mini comes with USB C

[@catjack90]

I really want a Rode NT USB, but I can't find it anywhere, I've just seen the mini available and I just love the sound of the original. However this video was great and very helpful, thank you!

[@GameOnBeast]

what camera you used to record this part at 8:35?

[@cameralabs]

As I recall, it was a Sony A6400 and E 24mm f1.8. I use it for most of my b-roll too.

[@mustafanaeem4234]

Hi Grodan. What do you prefer for VO especially for deep clear sound; the original or the mini ?

[@NikyRipy]

The Rode NT-USB is out of production. I can't find it on Amazon. But I don't know why but the mini version doesn't convince me very much.

[@EmilyTestAccount]

Prefer the sound of the Mini, it sounds a little better for voice, a bit less highs that round of the S'es more. But that's raw output. The older does give more to work with for editing

[@ashutoshsahuvlogs.]

Poor

[@crosencrance1366]

Hi Gordon, great video. Just a quick question, does the rode nt usb mini work with earlier versions of Windows or just 10? Thanks for your time

[@Simply_Emu]

I stumbled upon this video after seeing the Mini in a store today and was surprised I didn't know it existed. I bought the older one back in the end of 2020 and wish I had seen this video back then. The larger one has a very awkward mounting system when used with an arm and I have to adjust the positioning often. Although my mic is in a fixed location, I really wish i had the mini instead just for a better mounting system

[@cameralabs]

Happy to help

[@ClintsGrievances]

Which would you choose for a deeper voice?

[@Capoeira360]

I sensed not much of a difference in the audio quality between the two microphones. Now, when it comes to music recording (playing instruments), which one would you recommend?

[@cameralabs]

the big one

[@INTELECTO76]

Need recommendation. I have been wanting to get a microphone for my ps4 and idk which one to get whether the HyperXQuadcast or buy this one. I dont stream(but may start soon) but i would love to sound really great!

[@cadenmunoz5553]

Omg same i have a youtube channel as well and i was thinking of the hyperx quad cast or rode nt usb i say go with what matches your room because they both sound great im going hyperx quad cast because my setup is red and black themed

[@Stealthluv]

Sounds like the Rode NT-USB original has wider sound stage, a bit brighter and more airy.

[@dsha2006]

We plan to use a the mic for remote podcast recording. So, I need the podcaster to be able to monitor his own vocals AND the audio from the other presenter coming through the computer via Zoom or Skype. Can both of these mics do that or was it only the NT-USB?

[@felixklimm7225]

Podcast through Skype or zoom? lol

[@Weatherby86]

Great comparison. Is it possible to just edit the audio from mini to sound fuller like original?

[@cameralabs]

Yes, just add some bass EQ

[@MaZEEZaM]

@@cameralabs Bass EQ, is that live voice or post processing?

[@cameralabs]

@@MaZEEZaM that would be in post, as there's no tonal controls on it.

[@thomaslewis7760]

While the older one has more top end, that's the only substantive difference I hear. When you factor in portability and ease of use it's a no brainer. With a little eq or ”air” if you will the mini is the winner.

[@cameralabs]

Yes, exactly EQ can be the great leveller here.

[@rzaba000]

I prefer the sound of the OG NT USB as the Mini's built-in pop-filter doesn't sound as good. Also, as a VO, I will also appreciate the possibility of the Gain knob. If I needed something like the Mini, I would probably go for the ZOOM H2n. The price is right in the middle of the prices of the NT USBs, but it has a load of features and you don't need to have an extra device to record the sound on. So, if I were to change locations often or wanted to be discreet, ZOOM is my choice. Semi-permanent recording space/pro mic for travel, that's the original NT USB. Great review, thanks, Gordon! :)

[@LindonBindon]

Listening this through Beyerdynamic DT-250 ...the NT-USB Mini sounds better to me, or at least smoother or softer. Then again, an external pop filter is always better than a built in ... at least in this case. The NT-USB Mini's pop up filter doesnt do that good job when you get closer. The NT-USB's sound gets better when you get closer, but i would go for the Mini. Thanks for the review :)

[@cameralabs]

You're welcome! I agree, you have to be careful with the Mini.

[@Thee_Jadex]

Really impressed how both handled being at the station, really nice! placed a order for the mini and cant wait to try it out for myself. Rhode makes some really great value stuff usually, though they did just release the XCM-50 which just by the looks of it is "a upgraded mini" but the sound quality is noticably worse from what ive seen so far and it costs 50% more which is disappointing, definitly took a step back there. Also what window curtains do you use i could use a new pair lol

[@cameralabs]

My curtains are just heavy black velvet ones with a blackout material on the other side.

[@CoachBay]

Love the test at the station. I am sold!

[@sandyande]

Excellent review Gordon, was that York station? Cheers sandy

[@cameralabs]

Thanks! No, it was Brighton station!

[@ikomtek]

Gordon is thomas friends?

[@JacReviewsStuff]

I see a 3.5mm hole there... dont tell me you cant connect that directly to the camera with 3.5mm male to male trs connector? (maybe turning it down to like 10%?)

[@RichardsWorld]

You should be able to.

[@dwylhq874]

Thanks for this Gordon. The built-in pop filter on the Mini is inferior.

[@jrfmonline]

My subscription to this channel is worth it.❤️❤️

[@cameralabs]

Thankyou!

[@nadeemafzal8984]

Gordon - not happy with you - your reviews have made me buy the RODE mini x 2 (due to size despite single location) and wireless go - absolute phenomenal microphones ..... quality quality quality ! exactly what i wanted --- and absolute top reviews mate - for those who are thinking of purchasing a microphone in today's COVID19 internet communication world - its an absolute no brainer purchase ..... dont waste money on blue yetis etc etc - those are mere toys in comparison re build quality, audio and convenience

[@sylvelk]

Hello Gordon ! Thank you for this comparison. You mention that the lack of the mixing knob wasn't too problematic. What would you say is the mixing ratio on the Mini then ? Would you say it's appropriate ? Since we cannot change it, I hope it has been well tuned for most applications ...

[@cameralabs]

TBH, I've only been using the NT USB since this review, so can't say.

[@mdatiarrahman9871]

Does mini have volume gain Nob or only headphone nob??

[@paulwoaert]

Hello. I enjoyed this presentation very much. Have you tested the Elgato Wave 3 ? If so, what is the difference with the Rode NT-USB ?

[@cameralabs]

Sorry I've not tested it

[@TrulyCareAboutYou]

Great review! Can you buy an attachment so you can plug it into an IPhone or Android smart phone?Thanks.

[@cameralabs]

it's a USB microphone, so if a device can use a USB mic, then it'll work. I don't know if phones support USB mics or not!

[@TrulyCareAboutYou]

@@cameralabs Can you buy and adaptor to connect to your phone?Thanks

[@ULTRA5364]

I guess we can do it by otg.

[@boncks718]

Hi Gordon, is it possible to record both the Mini and the NT-USB on the same computer?

[@cameralabs]

Two USB mics on one computer? I don't think so, not simultaneously, you'd need some kind of USB mixer I'm guessing.

[@nl4537]

I’m not completely sure, but would creating an aggregate device inside the DAW work? Great review btw! 👍

[@pankaj_negi_melody5]

Excellent review sir. I have one doubt. Actually I'm searching for the mic for only singing with background music (Karaoke) from laptop . So pls tell me sir which mic is best for me.

[@MertBurcu]

Which microphone do you recommend for voice-over and dubbing?

[@cameralabs]

the NT USB, didn't I mention that?

[@MertBurcu]

@@cameralabs My mistake, sorry. Thanks for reply.

[@chengsbond3769]

Great review. Does the mic require additional devices like audio interface or apps or phantom power or pre-amp to work? Or simply plug and play. Would appreciate your valuable comments.

[@tomduff89]

I'm also looking into this mic but everything I've seen says its plug and play that's the benefit on usb mic

[@mikewhiles4635]

Hiya Gorgeous Gordon, Thanks for another great review 😎😎😎

[@cameralabs]

you're welcome Mike!

[@benharveyphotography]

I am going to have to go with the original for sound quality. It had a bit more bass in it, and sounded fuller. The right tool for the job though, a travel version makes perfect sense. Reading extracts from your book to test microphones is a genius idea :-)

[@CamKap]

The USB Mini doesn't pick up as much as low frequencies as the NT-USB

[@danielthegeek4582]

Will the NT-USB (not mini!) fit onto a boom arm ok, and will it fit in a shock Mount?

[@cameralabs]

Yep

[@danielthegeek4582]

@@cameralabs Thank you!

[@ifn_media]

A good review because most reviewers forget the great outdoors.

[@AmicableAngad]

Which one do you recommend for game Streaming Mini or Bigger One ?

[@elijahharing]

If you have the money always go with the best you can. But with the mini you will still be pretty happy with it. Make sure you have a boom stick to get less keyboard and desk noise

[@lana.9073]

Does anyone know if the Mini can be connected to a DSLR with a 3.5mm male to male audio cable?

[@cameralabs]

Sadly not, it's USB only. Rode are beginning to make more mics with USB and analogue outputs, such as the Wireless Go II, so hopefully it will come to a future NT USB model. But not this one.

[@lana.9073]

@@cameralabs Thanks so much for your reply Gordon 🙏

[@josepizart636]

Great comparsion! Thank you Gordon!

[@MaZEEZaM]

Great comparison thanks. I have the NT USB original and need another mic for my laptop and was considering the mini, yes its certainly mini but I prefer the sound of the original but...do I want the more compact design for my laptop...

[@robbyboyo]

Cool review. Looked like Marylebone station in the background.

[@thevijayraj34]

Any opinion on Audio Technica atr2500x?

[@cameralabs]

No, not tried it

[@thevijayraj34]

@@cameralabs do you think it could be better than than this?

[@cameralabs]

@@thevijayraj34 I don't know, I've not tried it

[@Schalari]

Hello Gordon and thank you so much for your Review. I got this little Mic and It´s Recording too much of my enviroment. Is there any software to reduce annoying background noises? In Germany the NT-USB Mini cost 120€ (around 130 Dollar).

[@cameralabs]

Noise reduction never works well, I'd recommend a quieter room or a different mic.

[@JacReviewsStuff]

get nearer your mic or speak louder ... to drown out the outside sounds

[@RichardsWorld]

You need a "dynamic" mic.

[@JacReviewsStuff]

@@RichardsWorld Well that also depends on what model. Dynamic mics do pick up room noise too. I recommend the dynamic mics that singers use on stage and at concerts. They have fantastic noise reduction, but you do have to speak loudly at them and have it near your mouth. 👍

[@nerdMike]

Already bought last months huge blue yeti for more money 💵 🙄 maybe this was better and compact for me

[@cameralabs]

I hear the Blue Yeti is very good though.

[@kaluza8157]

I think that the comparison when u r close is not fair bcs of the pop filter with nt usb which limts u from geting exact same results and distance between u and microphones..

[@govindvaidya8599]

Dear friend, Thanks for a useful demo on “RODE NT Usb & Mini microphone, Request your advice on: - are these Two mic compatible with Apple- iPad8-(2020).... & iPad Air4-(2020) Tablets, For my purpose of HOME recording of VOCAL (singing), which one of these TWO would you suggest in terms of Recorded SOUND Quality Thanks Dilip, India

[@cameralabs]

They require an analogue mic input that's not on the iPad.

[@luckycreatorz8828]

Thank you 🙏 sir , very useful

[@cameralabs]

You're welcome!

[@GregThurtle]

Nice review Gordon - I was wondering if anyone would do a comparison once i saw this new mini usb mic had been released. As I have the nt-usb you've saved me the money of getting the newer one - though i couldn't really hear any difference even with headphones on. have you used/compared the likes of the zoom h1n and h2n which can also be used in usb mode too (I'll often record using these if i'm out on the road and then copy the file and sync in post when needed as I find a lav mic gives me even better audio - but - at the cost of having a lav on ). Be interested to hear your thought's on using those types of recorder in USB modes though.

[@cameralabs]

Thanks Greg. I actually have an old H2N and really like it, although i've not used it as a USB mic, only a voice recorder.

[@user-dx8nj7qj2g]

I got my NT-USB today, and the stupid thing about it is, it comes with a bag, that ISN'T big enough for the pop filter or stand.

[@user-dx8nj7qj2g]

imagine if they came out with an adaptor for the original, that allowed you to attack it to the minis stand.

[@賴志偉-d7h]

Expect to pay more for a portable product with original quality. To me the mini is a downgrade at lower price.

[@nind3282]

Is that york train station?

[@cameralabs]

Brighton

[@user-fu4xx9kk8u]

Perfect review

[@cameralabs]

Thanks!

[@IExist.Q86]

Sir this mic suitable Android phones

[@cameralabs]

Only if your android device can support a large USB mic - it didn't woork for me.

[@aflatan3961]

The nt usb looks far more appealing and professional. The boom stand makes this microphone so much more functional. The nt usb mini looks like a toy

[@felixklimm7225]

Stand stays in the packaging tho. You should always put any mic to a boom arm

[@wolfganglonien2093]

I liked the original one, tho in the end I opted for a real XLR mike (NT-1A) on a proper interface (Focusrite). Mostly using it at 48kHz, and saving as 24 bit uncompressed .wav files with -16LUFS from Ardour.

[@khghangman]

just press the button in mini and you can change to be mic control

[@inactive75464]

the mini seems, just weird. btw if you're picking a first mic then get the behringer c1-u it's easier to operate and sounds very good for the price

[@VisuartStudio]

The original one sounds more crispy in the mid tone

[@Ramboaus]

Gordon, Mate I am Glad I came across this comparison. Great review. As for me I am a retiree and everything I do is in my own Home Studio, which is my Study. I have pretty serious hearing loss and use Phonak Digital hearing aids. Unfortunately not compatible with my Apple MacPro or My iPad. With Covid, Zoom Meetings are an every day affair and I am struggling with the Built in Mic in the Mac as well as the built in speakers. Another favourite pass time of mine is Singing on a Mob Phone Application called Smule using my iPad. Now Can you tell me which will work with Both my Mac Pro and my iPad - NTY USB or NT USB Mini ? Some say both will work, others say I need an Interface like the Rode AI-1. I already use the IK Medias iRig Pro I/O Mob phone interface on my iPad with a dynamic AKG D5 Microphone. I also have the Rode Professional PSA 1 Boom arm. I am sitting on the fence as I am unable to go to the shops to check them out thanks to covid; so have to order on line. Look forward to your Professional advice Brother. Ram - Sydney

[@cameralabs]

Hi there - both will work on your Mac and I'm pretty sure both will work on an iPad so long as it has a USB interface. Maybe the full size NT USB is a bit hungry for an iPad, so the Mini may be a better bet. OR for more mobility on your calls, how about using a Rode Wireless Go II, which is a wireless lav system which also doubles as a USB mic, allowing you to use it on your devices. I find it works really well for zoom calls and is better than having a big mic in the shot.

[@Ramboaus]

@@cameralabs Wow That was super fast response. No my iPad is 6th Gen iPad with a Lightning input not USB probably why a Rode AI-1 interface was recommended. Alternatively I could buy the USB NT1 Mini for Zoom sessions and buy a hand held Condenser Microphone to Sing on Smule using the iPad. The iRig Pro I/O, keeps the iPad 100% charged all the time and has a 48V phantom provision for condenser microphones. I am considering the Rode M2 or Shure SM 87 or similar, as I like to hold the mic in my hand. I need an interface as iPad does not recognise external microphones. Wish Rode had heir own little space for customers to check equipment and get expert advise before buying. Sadly It is all online these days and customer support quality questionable. I have gizmo worth over 1000 dollars sitting in boxes all of which did not do what I wanted . Cheers. Ram

[@cameralabs]

@@Ramboaus I'm afraid I'm not going to be much more help as my iPads are either super-old or have USB C with mic support. You may have better luck in a rode forum?

[@agambhasin]

The original one sounds so much better but its so much costly😢

[@jimshaw899]

$70 US is so much?

[@MarceloLaraM]

You're great Gordon, thanx very much. Saludos de Peru.

[@cameralabs]

Cheers!

[@FFrrEEddRRiiKK1]

Great review.