Our Verdict
ZealSound Podcast Microphone Wins

It offers a 46.0 kHz sample rate for clear audio, significantly better than MAONO's 0.0 kHz. Choose MAONO if its robust noise cancellation and PS5 compatibility are key, and the stated sample rate is an input anomaly.
Specifications Comparison
Side-by-side technical details
10 specs total
| Specification | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $44 | $33 |
| Rating | 4.5(4,841) | 4.4(7,204) |
| Sample Rate | 0 kHz | 46 kHz |
| Connection | USB | USB |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid | Cardioid |
| Zero-Latency | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 0.77 lbs | 1.09 lbs |
| Mute Button | Yes | Yes |
| Gain Control | Yes | Yes |
| Software | None | None |
| Headphone Out | Yes | Yes |
| Freq. Response | {"high":20000} | 40Hz - 18kHz |
Swipe to see all columns
MAONO MAONO Gaming
Pros
- One-click noise cancellation reduces background sound.
- Cardioid polar pattern focuses voice capture.
- Integrated mute button and gain control knob.
- Zero-latency monitoring with dedicated headphone port.
- Plug-and-play USB compatibility with PC, Mac, PS5.
Cons
- Not compatible with XBOX consoles.
- Lacks dedicated software suite for advanced control.
- RGB lighting adds no functional utility.
ZealSound ZealSound Podcast
Pros
- Cardioid pattern isolates voice, reduces ambient noise.
- Noise reduction mode cuts fan, keyboard, and room hum.
- Plug-and-play USB; works with PC, Mac, mobile, consoles.
- Zero-latency monitoring with dedicated volume control.
- Physical knobs for gain, monitoring, and echo levels.
Cons
- Lacks dedicated software for advanced audio processing.
- Fixed cardioid pattern lacks polar pattern versatility.
- USB connection limits integration with XLR setups.
- Included desk stand may transmit desk vibrations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for gaming, streaming, or podcasting?
ZealSound is generally better for streaming and podcasting due to its 46.0 kHz sample rate. MAONO is tailored for PS4/PS5 gaming with one-click noise cancellation, but its listed 0.0 kHz sample rate is a major concern for sound quality.
What is the main difference in audio quality based on specifications?
The critical difference is the sample rate. ZealSound offers a 46.0 kHz sample rate for good audio capture. MAONO's specifications state 0.0 kHz, which would mean no audio data, indicating a likely data error or a severe limitation for any recording use.
Do these microphones have software for advanced control?
Neither microphone includes a dedicated software suite for advanced audio processing. Both rely on plug-and-play USB functionality with on-mic physical controls for features like gain, mute, and monitoring. ZealSound additionally offers echo level adjustment.
How do their noise cancellation features compare?
Both microphones feature noise cancellation. MAONO offers "one-click noise cancellation" for ease of use. ZealSound provides a "noise reduction mode" effective against common background sounds like fans and keyboard noise, ensuring clearer recordings.
Get the Deets
Ask our AI assistant
Get the Deets
Ask our AI assistant
Ask Deets anything!





