Windows Central Verdict
You really can't go wrong with the NZXT Capsule Elite if you're price range is $100 or less. It stands out against the rest of the competition, bringing a plethora of options to the table that other microphones around these parts simply don't offer. The Capsule Elite surprised me the more I used it, and it'll surprise you, too.
Pros
- +
Audio quality that's better than it has any right to be
- +
A wide array of EQ options allows greater fine-tuning
- +
Dials on the microphone allow for quick muting and volume control
Cons
- -
The microphone's main body is plastic
- -
Fidgety to set up, especially with a mic arm
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I'm a snob when it comes to audio. For years, I fought over the slightest tonal differences between devices to hunt for the perfect microphone to carry my beautifully ugly voice.
During this time, I've tried over a dozen headsets, including console and PC gaming headsets, Blue Yeti mics, and more. If I were to sound terrible, I would let audio equipment make me sound prettier.
That's when I landed on the SHURE SM7B five or so years ago; I had found my champion. Now, that microphone is $399, while the NZXT Capsule Elite is a mere $89.99.
I'm sharing this story with you so you can better understand my audio journey and where you are on that path. Hopefully, it will help you figure out if the Capsule Elite is right for you.
I've been gaming and playing on PCs for 25 years. I've always been an audiophile who needs the best, especially when it comes to the broadcast of my voice. My personal setup totals more than a normal console costs, so you can trust me when I tell you a microphone is pretty decent or bad!
Disclaimer
This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by NZXT. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.
NZXT Capsule Elite review: Specs and features
- Affordable compared to competitors
- Nice metallic finish for the grills.
- Easy-on-the-eyes aesthetic.
Off the stand, literally, the microphone comes housed in a durable plastic body with steel grilles and aluminum knobs. The stand is a solid, stable piece of metal that feels hefty and well-centered, so bumping your microphone won't send it needlessly flying across your desk. The front is your standard silver metallic finish, while the back grille is white and blends with the rest of the housing.
Some LEDs are also on display, both front and back—the front acts as a volume meter for separate headphones and microphone audio. The back is a simple display RGB that you won't personally see during use. It could add a trim flair to your camera's broadcast if used for streaming.
NZXT Capsule Elite review: The good
- Fantastic sound quality.
- A plethora of customization options that are intuitive to use.
• Price: $89.99 at Best Buy
• Mic type: Condenser cardioid
• Frequency response: 20Hz-20,000kHz
• Mic specs: 192Hz sampling rate, 24-bit rate, 120dB SPL
• Dimensions: 241.11 x 96.94 x 96.94 mm (9.49 x 3.81 x 3.81in)
• Weight: 408g (0.9lbs)
• Other features: NZXT Cam Software, rear RGB, large 25mm condenser capsule, de-esser, de-popper, equalizer
Off the bat, let me say the audio quality is pretty decent. It won't hold up to the juggernauts like a SHURE SM7B, but it more than soundly beats any standard headset microphone. I did quite a few tests using Audacity to capture the sound quality of the microphone and was pleasantly surprised.
The Capsule Elite produces a warm sound that is a cut above traditional microphone headsets, even at the higher end. I'd even argue that the Elite is better than most middle-range microphones or, at worst, on an even playing field. When it comes to dialing in your specific tones, the NZXT CAM Software offers the kitchen sink.
The level of customization this microphone comes with rivals my GO XLR. Seriously, built into the NZXT CAM software is a de-esser, de-popper, noise gate, compressor, and equalizer. I appreciate the fact that these exist; they're wonderful additions you won't generally see in these middle-range microphones. Although, there are some limitations to how well these settings perform.
The difference is ever so subtle and does a terrific job for its price range. The voice equalizer, which will make the most difference for podcasters, gamers, and streamers alike, has a decent range that will cover most cases. It doesn't reach the lengths of something like a GO XLR, and it has a limited range of what it can achieve. However, unless you want to spend an additional $250 for a GO XLR, the software is excellent!
NZXT Capsule Elite review: The bad
- Plastic main body.
- Can be hard to mount to an arm.
I mentioned the application I used to capture the audio earlier because the CAM Software made my voice sound awful using the built-in playback testing feature. I'm unsure what was happening, but don't use this when testing your mic. Instead, lean on free programs like Audacity or listen to your voice over Discord. It's leaps and bounds better.
I also wasn't entirely enthralled by the plastic housing this microphone comes in. While the aesthetic was pleasing to see, it felt odd to the touch. Even my oldest desktop microphones generally came in some form of metal cast. The white plastic feels somewhat cheap, and for a $90 microphone, I expected a little more.
A Blue Yeti microphone only costs an additional $10 and comes housed in a firm, fabulous metal cast. It's premium in both looks and feels. The Capsule Elite is encapsulated by hard white plastic that doesn't quite fit to my liking.
Another annoyance was the attached arm. When I went to test the Capsule Elite with my Rhode mic arm, I couldn't use it. Why? The arm attached to the Capsule Elite only bends in one direction, and based on my current setup, I couldn't make it work without some additional adapters.
Since the arm only bends in one direction, I wasn't able to orient the microphone once I screwed it on. The arm itself doesn't rotate at the pivot point, which meant while fully attached, the microphone was pointed away from me. If the arm was omnidirectional, or the base of the arm itself could rotate, this would have eliminated the problem entirely. It's not a great issue if you're a streamer looking to show off your mouthpiece.
NZXT Capsule Elite review: Should you buy?
You should buy this if ...
✅ You want a microphone that will highlight that beautiful voice.
My friends always comment about how good my microphone sounds, which is due to the fact I use a SHURE SM7B and GO XLR on my home setup. These same friends commented on the fact my voice sounded different, but they still said they were jealous about how good I sounded. Making your friends jealous is always good fun.
✅ Looking for something with high customization without having to spend extra on more audio equipment
Most streamers will eventually upgrade to a microphone that requires extra audio equipment, such as an audio interface or mixer, to power it. The NZXT Capsule Elite offers a taste of that in a much cheaper package.
You should not buy this if ...
❌ You plan to use a mic arm stand
Or at least, plan on possibly needing an extra adapter to make it work. Your arm may work after all.
❌ You're looking for something that can move
The audio quality will drop unless you're right in front of the microphone. Some users may not be aware this isn't something that can be freely moved without penalty. Like any more "profession" mic, you'll need to be front and center to get the most out of it.
For what the NZXT Capsule Elite offers at the price point, it's an excellent deal. At this point, it really comes down to what look you're after. When placed up against a base Blue Yeti, the main difference will be what kind of sound profile you're after and what style you have a preference for.
Other microphones in this price zone, like the Razer Seiren, are far behind in terms of software and voice quality. The Capsule Elite is looking to make its presence felt as it takes on the giants of the industry with its first dive into the premium experience. This microphone should make waves.
You really can't go wrong with the NZXT Capsule Elite if your price range is $100 or less. It stands out from the competition, offering a plethora of options that other microphones in this category simply don't provide. The Capsule Elite surprised me more with each use, and it will surprise you too.
