[Selbi]

I heavily prefer microphones that stand separately on my computer table in front of me, compared to headsets where the microphone is attached. Cannot really explain it, but I like the feeling to not have a bobble in front of my mouth at all times. It also allows me to have more dynamics to when I'm doing voice-overs. Plus, I'm one of those weird people who prefer speakers to headphones in general.

For a long time now I've had this microphone: Trust MC-1200. It's the lowest of the low but still did a surprisingly good job and I liked it a lot. Unfortunately, it broke after two years (go figure).
 
Do you have any recommendations for a new table microphone? I'm targeting no more than ~30 bucks. My main concerns with the old microphone wasn't actually the audio quality (minus some electrical noise cause by my computer, it was surprisingly good), but it was way too quiet. I had to software-amp up my volume during gaming sessions by 20 dB to be loud enough. Therefore a mic with a higher pick-up volume would be cool.

 

[jcn3]

there are tons of options on amazon with tons of reviews.  this looks like a good choice: https://www.amazon.com/Desktop-Microphone-Computer-Laptop-Gaming/dp/B015K11VME/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1475596691&sr=8-7&keywords=usb+pc+microphone

 

[Amish]

I use this: Blue Snowball iCE Condenser Microphone. Over budget but worth the price.
https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Snowball-Condenser-Microphone-Cardioid/dp/B006DIA77E/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1475601854&sr=8-3&keywords=snowball+blue

 

[Selbi]

  I use this: Blue Snowball iCE Condenser Microphone. Over budget but worth the price.
https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Snowball-Condenser-Microphone-Cardioid/dp/B006DIA77E/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1475601854&sr=8-3&keywords=snowball+blue

That one looks interesting. Mind giving some feedback how good it sounds when placed one to two feet away from your mouth? That's really my main concern here, I don't want to have to put it right in front of my mouth to have any significant volume.

 

[Amish]

  That one looks interesting. Mind giving some feedback how good it sounds when placed one to two feet away from your mouth? That's really my main concern here, I don't want to have to put it right in front of my mouth to have any significant volume.

 
I have this sitting on my desk at the far rear left side maybe a good 2 feet+ from my head. It picks up everything I say clearly. I've not listened to my voice quality through it but I was having issues with an older mic I used and my friends online would tell me they couldn't hear me. Once I bought this mic everyone said I came through loud and clear. So I assume it works well. 
 
I also game with my daughter (she in her room and me in the office) and she says I sound good through her head set. I've been very happy with it.
 
I hope this helps.

 

[v4lve]

There's an open box on amazon for $41 which doesn't blow the budget toooo bad. It is a great mic for the price.