HyperX QuadCast microphone review: Great value for gamers and streamers

It seems like all the gaming PC accessory vendors are hopping onto the microphone bandwagon and HyperX is the latest to do so with the HyperX QuadCast. This microphone is clearly marketed towards gamers but is capable of being used for streaming, podcasts, and general recording, too.

For the company's first attempt, it's pretty solid.

You'll love how easy HyperX QuadCast is to set up and use

The Blue Yeti remains a popular option for gamers, streamers and PC owners who seek recording equipment without having to invest time and funds into setting up dedicated audio equipment, like mixers. Razer and other gaming hardware vendors have started to produce standalone microphones, and now HyperX has joined the action.

HyperX's QuadCast matches the style and color scheme of other HyperX products with a similar black design with red accents. The microphone comes with a stand and shock mount, and both are pre-installed so the microphone is ready to be plugged in and used from the get-go.

The stand is made from metal with a rubberized underbelly and the microphone itself is a mix of soft plastic and metal with a red foam insert. Interestingly, this microphone has red LED lighting, which shows when it's recording sounds — tapping the mute button on top also turns off the LED. There doesn't seem to be a way to disable the lighting altogether, so this will likely annoy those who aren't fond of such features.

As well as the mute button being part of the top piece of the microphone, there's a volume rocker underneath the main unit and a polar pattern selector on the rear. This microphone supports stereo, omnidirectional, cardioid, bidirectional, allowing you to configure the microphone to your surroundings and application.

While HyperX included a metal stand, you don't have to use it and the company includes an adapter to hook up the shock mount to your favorite microphone stand or mounting arm. This is perfect for streamers and podcasters who tend to have such setups. The only drawback is you won't be able to interface with existing XLR mixers, with USB being the only connection available.

For sound quality, the microphone is very good. Whether you're communicating with clan mates on Discord, recording your own show or setting up a live stream, you'll sound clear with the HyperX QuadCast. Microphone quality has vastly improved in more affordable PC accessories and $140 seems like a solid price of this microphone.

However, if you're serious about studio audio quality, you'll want to look elsewhere and considerably expand the available budget for something like the Shure SM7B. For gaming and streaming on a tighter budget, the HyperX QuadCast is a solid option.

You may dislike the lack of XLR support

Whether you have your own existing sound setup prepared or plan to throw in additional equipment into the mix, the QuadCast only has a USB port and is designed to connect directly to your PC. There also doesn't appear to be a way of disabling the red LED lighting inside the microphone without muting it.

I would have liked to see an option to disable the lighting, as well as controls to manipulate the volume output for headphones directly on the microphone. Lastly, the mute button can be a little strange to operate, but it's a unique way of disabling the microphone without having to hit a physical button.

Should you buy the HyperX QuadCast?

The HyperX QuadCast is a great first attempt for the company. It's a solid microphone and has a lot going for it at this price point. The microphone sounds good, is well-made and can be used with aftermarket mounting options. There are only a few minor drawbacks that prevent it from being truly awesome.

Whether you're a gamer, use Discord to communicate with friends and guildmates, or need something to get you started in the streaming and podcasting world, the QuadCast is a fantastic microphone at a reasonable price.