When you’re gearing up for a live performance or setting up your studio, having the best mic stand can make all the difference. The right stand isn’t just about holding your mic; it’s about enhancing your sound quality, ensuring stability, and providing the versatility you need for different setups.
The Best Cheap Mic Stand - Boom | The Best Cheap Mic Stand - Boom Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 94 | 4000+ |
The Best Boom Mic Stand | The Best Boom Mic Stand Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 96 | 2000+ |
The Best Straight Mic Stands | The Best Straight Mic Stands Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 95 | 300+ | |||
 | 96 | 100+ |
The Best Studio Mic Stands | The Best Studio Mic Stands Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 95 | 400+ | |||
 | 95 | 300+ |
*Gearank = Rating score out of 100.
**Sources = Number of gear owner and user opinions analyzed for these product Gearank Ratings.
Research Process: How Gearank Works
Getting the right one for your studio or stage will depend on what mics you plan to use and how often it would be in the path of movement. For example, overhead mics need to be mounted to stable and tall mic stands to prevent tipping over while in contrast, smaller mic stands are best to mic up speaker cabs from the floor to save space.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best mic stands across various categories, from budget-friendly options to heavy-duty stands designed for professionals. We’ll also dive into what you should consider when choosing the best microphone stand for your needs.
There are 4 sections dedicated to different types of mic stands and price points.
For our budget option section, we opted to choose only boom mics since versatility and bang for buck is top priority at this point. The other sections are devoted to boom mic stands, straight mic stands, and stands that are more suitable for the studio. Our studio stand selections are more heavier duty products that can support larger microphones like condensers and tube mics. To fit into this category, we looked at microphone stands that have longer microphone boom arm length and other useful features for the studio like a counterweight for heavier microphones or casters for easy positioning.
The Best Cheap Mic Stand – Boom
Samson MK10
A great budget-friendly option that offers portability and basic functionality, though it may not be the most durable choice for heavier mics.
Pros:
- Sturdy stand for lightweight mics
- Appropriate for rehearsals and home use
- Tight boom compression lock
- Can become unstable when adding more weight
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If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that still delivers reliable performance, the Samson MK10 is one of the best mic stands in its category. This mic stand is perfect for beginners or anyone who needs a functional stand without spending a lot of money.
One of the highlights of the Samson MK10 is its lightweight and portable design. This mic stand is easy to transport, making it an excellent choice for musicians who are always on the move. Despite its affordable price, the Samson MK10 doesn’t skimp on essential features. The boom arm is adjustable, allowing you to position your mic exactly where you need it, whether you’re singing, recording a podcast, or setting up for instruments.
However, as with most cheap microphone stands, there are some limitations. The Samson MK10 isn’t built to handle heavier mics as robustly as more expensive stands. It’s best suited for lighter mics and less demanding environments like home studios or small gigs. If you’re working with a heavy condenser mic or need something for frequent, intensive use, you might want to consider investing in a more durable stand.
The Samson MK10 is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a cheap microphone stand that gets the job done. It’s not the most durable option on the market, but it offers excellent value for its price, making it one of the best mic stands for those on a budget.
- Max Height not counting the Boom: 3′ 9.5″
- Max Height with Boom: 5′ 6″
- Collapsible to 25″ in height
- Steel construction
- Black finish
- Includes mic clip
The Best Boom Mic Stand
K&M 210/2 (21020)
This industry-standard boom mic stand is a reliable workhorse, perfect for professionals who need a durable and versatile stand that will last.
Pros:
- Great quality tubing and clamps
- Stable tripod base
- Tall enough for drum overheads
- Needs counterweight for heavier mics
- Locking sleeve is made of plastic
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When it comes to finding the best boom mic stand, the K&M 210/2 is a top contender. Known for its robust build and reliable performance, this mic stand is a favorite among both musicians and sound engineers.
What sets the K&M 210/2 apart is its sturdy construction. Made from high-quality materials, this mic stand is built to last, whether you’re using it on stage or in the studio. The tripod base provides excellent stability, and the boom arm offers smooth, precise adjustments, making it easy to position your microphone exactly where you want it.
The K&M 210/2 is also incredibly versatile, making it a great choice for various applications. Whether you need a mic stand for vocals, instruments, or even drum overheads, this stand can handle it all with ease.
The only downside? It’s not the cheapest option out there. But if you’re looking for a great stand that you can rely on for years, the K&M 210/2 is well worth the investment. It’s the best boom mic stand for those who demand quality and durability.
- Single piece boom
- Steel tubing
- Zinc die-cast base
- Boom length: 31.5″
- Height Adjustment from 35.4″ to 63.2″
- Weight: 6.8 lbs.
The Best Straight Mic Stands
Gator Frameworks GFW-MIC-1200
A sturdy and stable straight mic stand, ideal for those who need a solid and dependable stand for both live performances and studio work.
Pros:
- Can accommodate tall singers
- Solid and stable base
- Twist clutch is convenient to adjust
- Excessive weight due to the base
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If you’re in need of a straight mic stand that’s both durable and reliable, the Gator Frameworks GFW-MIC-1200 is a fantastic choice. This mic stand is all about stability, making it perfect for both live performances and studio work.
One of the things that users love about the GFW-MIC-1200 is its heavy base, which keeps the stand rock-solid even when using heavier mics. This mic stand is designed to handle a variety of setups, whether you’re using it for vocals, instruments, or even as part of a drum kit mic setup.
Adjustability is another strong point. The GFW-MIC-1200 allows for smooth height adjustments, so you can easily position your mic at the perfect height for your needs, even with taller singers. It’s a versatile mic stand that’s easy to set up and transport, making it a great option for gigging musicians.
However, it’s important to note that this mic stand doesn’t have a boom arm, which might limit its versatility in certain situations. But if you’re looking for a mic stand that’s simple, effective, and sturdy, the Gator Frameworks GFW-MIC-1200 is one of the best options out there.
- Heavy Duty Steel Construction
- Round Base and Standard Twist Clutch
- Height Adjustment from 36″ – 65″
- Weight: 11 lbs
Atlas Sound MS25
A heavy-duty mic stand built for serious musicians, offering unmatched stability and durability, though its weight makes it less portable.
Pros:
- Even weight distribution
- Works well even with boom arm attachments
- Air suspension protects mics from sudden post drops
- High quality parts and tubing
- Not travel-friendly
- Repositioning can be inconvenient
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For those who need a heavy-duty mic stand, the Atlas Sound MS25 is the ultimate choice. This mic stand is built like a tank, offering unparalleled stability and durability for professional use.
The Atlas Sound MS25 is a classic example of a mic stand designed for serious musicians and sound engineers. Its heavy base ensures that your mic stays put, even during the most intense performances. This makes it ideal for studio use, especially when working with heavier mics or complex setups.
One of the standout features of the MS25 is its smooth, precise height adjustment. Whether you’re setting it up for vocals, instruments, or drum overheads, this mic stand gives you the flexibility to get your mic exactly where you need it.
The only downside to the MS25 is its weight. This isn’t the most portable mic stand, so if you’re planning to take it on the road, be prepared for some heavy lifting. But for those who need a sturdy, reliable mic stand that won’t let them down, the Atlas Sound MS25 is the best choice.
- Available in mirrored chrome or non-reflective ebony epoxy
- Wear-resistant 3-Piece Clutch for secured height Adjustment
- Height Adjustment from 38″ – 67″
- Weight: 23 lbs
The Best Studio Mic Stands
K&M 21021
A premium studio mic stand that excels in flexibility and stability, making it a top choice for professional recording environments where precision is key.
Pros:
- Position mics high with confidence thanks to its solid base
- Great for orchestras, choirs and big drum rooms
- Folds small including the legs
- Placement flexibility is good
- A little excessive for small studio spaces with lower ceilings
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The K&M 21021 is another fantastic option for studio use, offering advanced features that make it one of the best studio microphone stands available. Known for its adjustability and sturdy build, this stand is a favorite among professional recording engineers who need precise control over their microphone placement.
The K&M 21021 is built to last, with heavy-duty construction that ensures it can handle the rigors of professional studio work. The telescoping boom arm is particularly impressive, offering a wide range of adjustability that allows you to position your microphone exactly where you need it. Whether you’re recording vocals, instruments, or anything else, this stand gives you the ability to capture the perfect sound.
The K&M 21021 is also incredibly stable. The tripod base keeps everything steady, even when the boom arm is fully extended. This is crucial in a studio setting, where even a slight wobble can ruin a recording. Users appreciate how reliable this stand is, knowing that once it’s set up, it’s not going to move unless they want it to.
While the K&M 21021 is bulkier and pricier than other stands, it’s an investment that will pay off in spades if you’re serious about your studio work. It’s one of the best boom mic stands for studio use, offering top-tier stability and precise control over mic placement.
- Designed for studios and drummers
- Two section telescopic pole with noiseless clutch
- T-bar locking screw
- Durable metal pole construction
- Height Adjustment from 43.3″ to 79.5″
- Boom Length Adjustment: 42.1″ Fixed
- Weight: 12.5 lbs.
K&M 252
One of the best studio mic stands available, providing excellent stability and flexibility for complex recording setups, though it’s best suited for stationary use.
Pros:
- 3-piece telescoping design reaches tall heights
- Folds up to a compact size for storage
- Stable platform for high mounted overhead mics
- Excellent build quality
- None inherent to the product
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The K&M 252 is one of the best studio microphone stands you can buy. This mic stand is specifically designed for studio environments, offering the kind of stability and flexibility that professional recording engineers demand.
The K&M 252 features an extra-stable tripod base, which is perfect for keeping everything steady during those long recording sessions. This stand is built to handle heavier microphones, making it ideal for use with large-diaphragm condensers or multi-mic setups. The boom arm adds even more versatility, allowing you to position your mic exactly where you need it. The adjustable boom arm is easy to maneuver and locks securely in place, so you won’t have to worry about your mic slipping out of position during a critical take.
Users appreciate the K&M 252 for its high build quality. Made from durable materials, this mic stand is built to last, providing reliable performance session after session. This is why many consider the K&M 252 as the best heavy-duty mic stand.
While the K&M 252 is excellent for studio use, it’s not as portable as some other options. But for those who primarily work in a studio, the K&M 252 offers the stability and flexibility needed to achieve professional-quality recordings.
- Standard Mic Boom
- 3-piece telescoping design
- T-bar locking screw
- Durable metal construction
- Height Adjustment from 24.409 to 57.874″
- Boom Length Adjustment: 19.291″ to 31.299″
- Weight: 6.25 lbs.
Conclusion
Choosing the best mic stand can elevate your performance or recording quality, whether you’re on stage or in the studio. From budget-friendly options like the Hola! Music HPS-101TB to professional-grade stands like the Atlas Sound MS25, there’s something out there for every musician and engineer.
For live performances, the K&M 210/2 stands out as a reliable, durable option that can handle the rigors of the road. In the studio, both the K&M 252 and K&M 21021 deliver exceptional stability and flexibility, making them ideal for serious recording work.
Ultimately, the best microphone stand is the one that meets your specific needs and fits your budget. Whether you’re investing in a high-end stand or looking for a reliable budget option, make sure to choose a mic stand that will support your goals and help you achieve the best possible sound quality.
Things to Consider When Choosing the Best Mic Stand
When selecting the best mic stand, several factors come into play. Let’s break them down to help you find the stand that’s right for you.
Purpose and Usage
The first thing to think about is where and how you’ll be using your mic stand. Are you planning to use it on stage, where durability and portability are key? Or is it for your studio, where stability and adjustability are more important?
For stage use, you need something that can withstand the rigors of live performance. A sturdy mic stand with a boom arm is often the best choice, as it allows for quick adjustments and can handle a variety of microphone positions. In the studio, you might want a tripod stand that offers great stability and flexibility, especially when working with heavier mics or complex setups.
Type of Microphone
The type of microphone you use will significantly influence your choice of mic stand. Heavy-duty condenser mics, commonly used in studios, require a mic stand that can handle their weight without tipping over. If you’re using lighter dynamic mics for stage performances, a lighter, more portable stand might be sufficient.
It’s also crucial to consider how the microphone attaches to the stand. Ensure the mic stand you choose is compatible with your microphone mount to avoid any stability issues.
Adjustability
Adjustability is a critical factor, especially if you plan to use the stand in various settings. Whether you’re singing, playing an instrument, or recording a podcast, you’ll want a mic stand that can be easily adjusted to suit your needs.
A boom arm provides extra versatility, allowing you to position your mic precisely where you need it. This is especially useful in a studio setting or when dealing with complex recording setups. For stage use, a mic stand that can be quickly adjusted is essential for keeping your performance smooth and professional.
Base Type
The base of the mic stand plays a significant role in its stability. Tripod stands offer excellent stability, especially on uneven surfaces, making them a popular choice for studio use. They also take up less floor space, which is a bonus if you’re working in a limited space.
The best mic stand for live performance is one with good stability. So for stage performances, a round base might be more suitable, as it’s compact and easy to maneuver. However, if you’re using a heavier mic, a tripod base with a sturdy build will give you the stability you need.
Portability
If you’re always on the move, portability is key. A mic stand that’s lightweight and easy to carry is essential if you’re frequently transporting it to different venues. Look for mic stands that fold down neatly and don’t take up much floor space in your gear bag.
Build Quality and Durability
Durability is crucial, especially if you’re using your mic stand regularly. Higher-end mic stands are often made from materials like steel or high-grade aluminum, which offer long-lasting performance. While cheap microphone stands might work for casual use, if you’re serious about your music or recording, it’s worth investing in a mic stand that can handle the wear and tear. When working with the best live vocal mics, you want them safe from fall and damage.
Budget
Your budget will play a role in determining the best microphone stand for you. While you don’t need to spend a fortune, it’s often true that you get what you pay for. Investing in a quality mic stand upfront can save you money in the long run, especially if it means not having to replace it frequently.
Best Mic Stand Selection Methodology
The first edition was published in 2016. The current edition was published on August 16, 2024.
We started by narrowing down our focus to stands intended for live performance and studio use, excluding niche options like desktop stands. We surveyed major online retailers in the USA and shortlisted 66 mic stands from reputable brands, ensuring a range of options across different price points. We then collected over 51,700 data points from customer reviews, expert opinions, video reviews, and forum discussions. These were processed using the Gearank algorithm that weighed the feedback and assigned each stand a score out of 100.
The highest-rated mic stands were categorized based on use, with recommendations for budget-friendly options under $50, to high-end models above $100. Each recommendation includes a summary of its strengths and weaknesses, making it easier for users to find the best mic stand for their needs.
By processing a vast amount of data and using the Gearank algorithm to score each product, we’ve ensured that our recommendations for “The Best Mic Stands” are both accurate and helpful for a wide range of users. For more information about our methods, please refer to the How Gearank Works page.
About the Author and Contributors
Here are the key people and sources involved in this guide’s production – click on linked names for information about their music industry backgrounds.
Lead Author & Researcher
Growing up in the punk scene, bad mic stands were always a pet peeve of mine. As a performer, nothing annoyed me more than a mic stand giving out and ending up dropping the mic to the floor. A good mic stand holds secure even during the most energetic performances. In the studio, I always felt more confident with higher quality mic stands. They enable me to position things higher or closer without worrying that they might tip over or that the drummer might brush up against them going to the kit and accidentally reposition them. It’s these things that keep my mind off of worries when I use good ones. So far K&M stands have been a favorite of mine.
Contributors
Alexander Briones: Editing.
Jason Horton: Editing and Illustrating.
Media / Image Credit
Main/Top Image: Created by Gearank.com using photographs of the K&M 21430, Musician’s Gear Die-Cast Solid Round Base, On-Stage SB9600, Atlas Sound MS-10C and Ultimate Support MC-125 stands.
The individual product images were sourced from their respective manufacturers’ websites, promotional materials or supporting documentation.
More Expert Reviewed Best Mic Stand for Stage and Studio – 2024 Related Posts
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Comments:
7 responses
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These stands came off our recommended list when we published the 2022.11 Edition:
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Publication of our August 2021 Edition resulted in the following stands coming off the recommended list above:
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As a result of our September 2020 update the following mic stands came off our recommended list above, but you can still see our analysis of them:
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The following stand was removed from the recommended list above due to a price increase but you can still read about it: On-Stage MS9701TB+.
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