Top 10 Best Audio Interfaces Under $250 (2025)
Choosing the right audio interface is crucial for anyone looking to elevate their recording quality, whether you’re a musician, podcaster, or content creator. An audio interface serves as the bridge between your instruments and your computer, ensuring that your recordings are clear and professional. With a budget of $250, you can find excellent options that provide high-quality sound, low latency, and user-friendly features. This guide will help you navigate the best choices available, allowing you to make informed decisions that enhance your audio projects.
Top Picks
- Best Overall: Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen – $199.99
- Best Value: MAONO USB Audio Interface – $69.99
- Best for Musicians: M-Audio M-Track Duo – $69.00
- Best for Beginners: Behringer U-Phoria UM2 – $35.00
- Best for Streaming: Arturia MiniFuse 1 – $99.00
- Best for High-Quality Sound: MOTU M2 – $199.95
- Best for Podcasting: Apogee Boom – $249.00
- Best for Home Studios: PreSonus Studio 24c – $129.99
- Best for Flexibility: PreSonus Quantum ES 2 – $249.99
Selection Criteria
When selecting the best audio interfaces under $250, we considered factors such as sound quality, ease of use, compatibility with various devices, and user reviews. Each product listed has been evaluated based on its performance in real-world scenarios, ensuring that you receive reliable options that meet your recording needs.
Behringer U-Phoria UM2 USB Audio Interface
The Behringer U-Phoria UM2 is your go-to audio interface if you’re looking to elevate your recording game without breaking the bank. This compact 2×2 USB interface packs a punch with its studio-grade XENYX mic preamp and a combination XLR/TRS input, perfect for vocals or instruments. Whether you’re recording a podcast, laying down some tracks, or just jamming with friends, the UM2 delivers crystal-clear sound quality. Plus, it’s super easy to set up—just plug it in and you’re ready to go. It’s a reliable companion for both everyday use and special projects, making it a solid choice for anyone from beginners to seasoned pros.
What People Say
Users rave about the UM2’s sound clarity and ease of use, making it a favorite for both casual and professional recordings. Many appreciate its affordability without compromising on quality.
-
The Behringer U-Phoria UM2 USB Audio Interface is an absolute game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their audio recording setup. I recently paired it with my Rode PodMic, and the results have been outstanding. This audio interface delivers crystal-clear sound quality, allowing the Rode PodMic to shine and capture every nuance of my voice. Whether I’m recording podcasts, voiceovers, or music, the UM2 ensures that my audio comes through with pristine clarity and accuracy.
– Joe GoodVibes
-
Let me start out by saying that I bought this audio interface specifically for gaming. The audio quality is great with this thing. If this interface was $60, I would still buy it without hesitation. The features to control the gain are nice, and the mic monitoring is amazing. You can hear yourself so clearly even while gaming at a high volume.
– Frankie Pezzi
Why You’ll Love It
- Compact and portable design
- Studio-grade sound quality
- Easy plug-and-play setup
- Versatile for various recording needs
Perfect For Any Occasion
Whether you’re recording at home, in a studio, or on the go, the UM2 is lightweight and easy to transport, making it perfect for musicians, podcasters, and gamers alike.
Current Price: $35.00
Rating: 4.4 (Total: 17156+)
MAONO USB Audio Interface for PC
The MAONO USB Audio Interface is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enhance their audio recording experience without spending a fortune. With its sleek design and user-friendly features, this interface is perfect for recording music, podcasts, or even streaming. It supports high-resolution audio at 24-bit/192kHz, ensuring that every note and nuance is captured beautifully. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to set up—just plug it in and start recording. It’s a reliable companion for both everyday use and special projects, making it a great addition to your audio toolkit.
What People Say
Users love the MAONO USB Audio Interface for its impressive sound quality and ease of use. Many have noted how it enhances their recording experience, making it a popular choice among podcasters and musicians alike.
-
I recently started using the MAONO USB Audio Interface for my podcasting setup, and I couldn’t be happier. The sound quality is impressive, and the setup was a breeze. I love the dedicated gain controls for both the microphone and instrument inputs, which allow for precise adjustments. Plus, the routing software is intuitive and makes live streaming a lot easier. It’s a solid investment for anyone serious about audio.
– Kurt W.
-
This interface has been a game-changer for my home studio. I was pleasantly surprised by the clarity and depth of the audio it produces. The ASIO driver support really minimizes latency, which is crucial when recording. I also appreciate the compact design—it’s easy to transport when I need to record on the go. Overall, it’s an excellent value for the price.
– Brian
Why You’ll Love It
- High-resolution audio recording at 24-bit/192kHz
- User-friendly plug-and-play setup
- Compact and portable design
- Versatile for various recording applications
Perfect For Any Occasion
Whether you’re recording at home, in a studio, or on the go, the MAONO USB Audio Interface is lightweight and easy to transport, making it perfect for musicians, podcasters, and streamers.
Current Price: $69.99
Rating: 4.5 (Total: 152+)
M-Audio M-Track Duo – USB Audio Interface
The M-Audio M-Track Duo is your go-to USB audio interface for recording, streaming, and podcasting without breaking the bank. With its dual XLR and line inputs, you can easily connect microphones and instruments, making it a versatile choice for any audio project. It delivers crystal-clear audio at 48 kHz, ensuring that your recordings sound professional. Whether you’re laying down tracks at home or streaming live, this compact interface is designed for ease of use—just plug it in and start creating. It’s a reliable companion for both everyday recording and special projects, making it a must-have for anyone serious about audio.
What People Say
Users rave about the M-Audio M-Track Duo for its impressive sound quality and user-friendly setup. Many have highlighted its versatility for various recording applications, making it a favorite among musicians and podcasters.
-
I recently started using the M-Audio M-Track Duo for my home recordings, and it’s been fantastic. The sound quality is impressive, especially for the price. I love how easy it is to set up with my laptop, and the direct monitoring feature is a game-changer. It allows me to hear my inputs without any latency, which is crucial when recording vocals and instruments. Overall, it’s a great investment for anyone looking to enhance their audio setup.
– Jumpingjackjim
-
This interface has exceeded my expectations. I was initially hesitant due to its low price, but the clarity and depth of the audio it produces are remarkable. I’ve used it for recording guitar and vocals, and it handles both beautifully. The phantom power for condenser mics is a nice touch, and the build quality feels solid. It’s compact and easy to transport, making it perfect for recording on the go. Highly recommend it for beginners and pros alike.
– J. Holland
Why You’ll Love It
- Dual XLR and line inputs for versatile recording options
- Crystal-clear audio at 48 kHz
- Compact and portable design for easy transport
- Direct monitoring feature for zero-latency recording
Perfect For Any Occasion
Whether you’re recording at home, in a studio, or on the move, the M-Audio M-Track Duo is lightweight and easy to carry, making it ideal for musicians, podcasters, and anyone needing a reliable audio interface.
Current Price: $69.00
Rating: 4.4 (Total: 13,665+)
Arturia MiniFuse 1 – Compact USB Audio Interface
The Arturia MiniFuse 1 is a compact USB audio interface that packs a punch for recording, production, and podcasting. With its sleek white design, it not only looks good on your desk but also delivers high-quality audio that will elevate your projects. It features a combo input for microphones and instruments, making it versatile enough for various uses, whether you’re laying down tracks at home or streaming live. Plus, it comes with a suite of creative software to help you get started right away. If you’re looking for an affordable yet powerful audio interface, this one is definitely worth considering.
What People Say
Users love the Arturia MiniFuse 1 for its impressive sound quality and user-friendly setup. Many have highlighted its versatility for various recording applications, making it a favorite among musicians and podcasters.
-
I’ve been using the MiniFuse 1 for a few months now, and I couldn’t be happier. The sound quality is crystal clear, and it integrates seamlessly with my setup. I love the compact size, which makes it easy to transport. The included software is a fantastic bonus, allowing me to dive straight into music production without any hassle.
– Russell Cederberg
-
This interface is a game-changer for my home studio. The audio quality is top-notch, and the setup was a breeze. I appreciate the direct monitoring feature, which lets me hear my inputs in real-time without any delay. It’s perfect for recording vocals and instruments, and the build quality feels solid. Highly recommend it for anyone serious about their audio work.
– Derek Young
Why You’ll Love It
- Compact and portable design for easy transport
- High-quality audio for professional recordings
- Includes creative software to kickstart your projects
- Direct monitoring feature for zero-latency recording
Perfect For Any Occasion
Whether you’re recording at home, in a studio, or on the go, the Arturia MiniFuse 1 is lightweight and easy to carry, making it ideal for musicians, podcasters, and anyone needing a reliable audio interface.
Current Price: $99.00
Rating: 4.6 (Total: 1,657+)
Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface
The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen is your go-to USB audio interface for recording high-quality sound, whether you’re a guitarist, vocalist, podcaster, or producer. With its striking red design, it not only looks great but also delivers professional-grade audio performance. This compact interface features a single upgraded mic preamp with a switchable air setting, allowing you to capture bright and open vocal recordings. Plus, it connects directly to your Mac or PC via USB, making it incredibly easy to set up and use. If you’re looking for a reliable audio interface that won’t break the bank, the Scarlett Solo is definitely worth a look.
What People Say
Users rave about the Focusrite Scarlett Solo for its exceptional sound quality and ease of use. Many appreciate its compact design and the ability to record vocals and instruments without any unwanted distortion.
-
This audio interface works extremely well, handling both output and input seamlessly. I appreciate how it integrates with my setup, especially when switching between devices. The sound quality is pristine, and I love that it works on Linux too. It’s completely configurable, allowing me to create custom setups for my microphone. Overall, it’s a fantastic tool for my audio experiments.
– Daniel
-
I started taking vocal lessons and switched to the Scarlett Solo after some frustrating experiences with my previous mic. The setup was straightforward, and the sound quality is excellent. No more weird voice effects during my lessons. Plus, the customer service was superb, helping me get everything up and running quickly. It’s been a game-changer for my online lessons.
– JL
Why You’ll Love It
- High-performance mic preamp for clear recordings
- Compact design for easy transport and setup
- Direct monitoring feature for real-time audio feedback
- Includes a software bundle to kickstart your music production
Perfect For Any Occasion
Whether you’re recording at home, in a studio, or on the go, the Scarlett Solo is lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for musicians, podcasters, and anyone needing a reliable audio interface.
Current Price: $99.99
Rating: 4.6 (Total: 50,523+)
PreSonus Studio 24c 2×2 USB Audio Interface
The PreSonus Studio 24c is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their audio recording game without spending a fortune. This compact USB-C audio interface is perfect for musicians, podcasters, and content creators alike. With two high-quality XMAX-L mic preamps, you can capture your sound with clarity and detail. Plus, it comes bundled with Studio One Artist and Ableton Live Lite software, so you can start recording right out of the box. Whether you’re laying down tracks at home or recording a podcast, the Studio 24c has you covered with its user-friendly design and professional-grade performance.
What People Say
Users love the PreSonus Studio 24c for its excellent sound quality and ease of use. Many appreciate how it enhances their recording experience, whether they’re working on music or podcasts.
-
I got this interface for my digital piano setup. It connects seamlessly to my MacBook via USB-C, and the sound quality is significantly better than my previous setup. The direct monitoring feature is a lifesaver, allowing me to play without any latency. The build quality feels solid, and I love the clear metering on the front panel. It’s a great value for anyone looking to upgrade their audio chain.
– Antonio
-
After switching to the PreSonus 24c, I was able to make basic recordings quickly. The setup was straightforward, and the included software is easy to navigate. I primarily use it for recording guitar and vocals, and it handles both beautifully. The headphone output is powerful, and I appreciate the sturdy construction. Definitely a solid choice for a home studio.
– RCI
Why You’ll Love It
- Two high-quality XMAX-L mic preamps for pristine sound
- Compact and portable design for easy transport
- Direct monitoring feature for real-time audio feedback
- Includes Studio One Artist and Studio Magic Plug-In Suite
Perfect For Any Occasion
Whether you’re recording at home, in a studio, or on the go, the Studio 24c is lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for musicians, podcasters, and anyone needing a reliable audio interface.
Current Price: $129.99
Rating: 4.5 (Total: 2,883+)
MOTU M2 2×2 USB-C Audio Interface
The MOTU M2 is a standout audio interface that brings professional quality to your home studio without breaking the bank. With its sleek black design and compact size, it’s perfect for musicians, podcasters, and anyone looking to capture high-quality audio. The M2 features ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology, which delivers stunning sound clarity and a dynamic range that rivals much more expensive interfaces. Whether you’re recording vocals, instruments, or streaming live, this interface offers low latency and easy setup, making it a reliable choice for both everyday use and special projects.
What People Say
Users rave about the MOTU M2 for its impressive sound quality and ease of use. Many appreciate how it enhances their recording experience, whether they’re working on music, podcasts, or live streaming.
-
I’ve been an audiophile for over five years and stepped up the costly ladder of ‘the audio experience’ spending thousands on equipment. The MOTU M2 impressed me with its clean pre-amp and low noise floor. The integrated ESS DAC is surprisingly good, providing a rich and sweet sound that enhances my recordings. It’s a perfect fit for anyone looking for a tubey-sounding mic pre without the hefty price tag.
– Wayne
-
Before buying the M2, I had a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2, which failed on me. The M2 has been a game changer with its stable drivers and extremely low latency. I use it with a Rode Procaster, and it handles the gain beautifully, producing clear sound without background noise. The build quality feels solid, and the separate phantom power for each channel is a fantastic feature.
– Steven Molina
Why You’ll Love It
- Exceptional audio quality with ESS Sabre32 Ultra DAC technology
- Ultra-low latency for real-time monitoring
- User-friendly design with clear metering and controls
- Solid build quality and reliable performance
Perfect For Any Occasion
Whether you’re recording at home, in a studio, or streaming live, the M2 is compact and easy to transport, making it perfect for musicians, podcasters, and anyone needing a reliable audio interface.
Current Price: $199.95
Rating: 4.5 (Total: 1,317+)
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is a beloved audio interface that delivers studio-quality sound at an affordable price. Perfect for musicians, podcasters, and content creators, this compact device features two high-performance mic preamps and a user-friendly design. With its sleek red aluminum body, it not only looks great but also provides exceptional audio clarity. Whether you’re recording vocals, instruments, or streaming live, the Scarlett 2i2 ensures low latency and easy setup, making it a go-to choice for both everyday use and special projects.
What People Say
Users love the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 for its impressive sound quality and ease of use. Many appreciate how it enhances their recording experience, whether they’re working on music, podcasts, or live streaming.
-
I recently got the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) Audio Interface, and I have to say—it’s been a game changer for my recording setup. Whether you’re a musician, podcaster, or content creator, this little device delivers amazing sound quality and works flawlessly. It’s super easy to use, and the audio comes through crystal clear, making every recording sound professional.
– AK
-
Scarlett 2i2 4th Gen USB – I love it. I am using a long line of multiple 2i2 devices from Gen 1, Gen 2, Gen 3 for years. I am happy with all of them. Very good built quality, plain, low noise, low distortion. They all meet manufacturer specifications. Truly excellent product here, amazing performance for $200 and this product is far ahead of other USB audio interfaces I used before.
– Peter Sobczak
Why You’ll Love It
- High-quality audio recording with upgraded mic preamps
- Easy setup and user-friendly interface
- Portable design perfect for on-the-go recording
- Comes with a comprehensive software bundle for music production
Perfect For Any Occasion
Whether you’re recording at home, in a studio, or streaming live, the Scarlett 2i2 is compact and easy to transport, making it perfect for musicians, podcasters, and anyone needing a reliable audio interface.
Current Price: $199.99
Rating: 4.6 (Total: 51,329+)
Apogee Boom USB Audio Interface
The Apogee Boom USB Audio Interface is a fantastic choice for musicians, podcasters, and streamers looking to elevate their audio game without breaking the bank. With its sleek design and impressive specs, including 24-bit/192kHz sample rates and built-in DSP, this interface delivers professional sound quality right at your fingertips. It’s perfect for daily recording sessions or special projects, making it a versatile addition to your setup. Plus, the user-friendly interface means you can focus on your creativity rather than getting bogged down in technical details.
What People Say
Users rave about the Apogee Boom for its outstanding sound quality and ease of use. Many appreciate how it enhances their recordings, whether they’re making music, podcasting, or streaming live.
-
I decided to try the Apogee Boom after hearing great things about their sound quality. I was blown away by how much detail it captures. The built-in DSP really enhances my recordings, making my voice and guitar sound amazing. Setting it up was a breeze, and the support team was super helpful when I had a minor issue with the firmware update.
– Dan Austin
-
The Boom is a solid piece of audio hardware that delivers on sound quality. It powers my Shure SM7B without needing a cloud lifter, which is a huge plus. The design is rugged and looks cool, but the lack of separate volume controls for headphones and monitors can be a bit annoying. Still, for the price, it’s definitely worth checking out.
– Craig E.
Why You’ll Love It
- Exceptional sound quality with premium AD/DA components
- Built-in DSP for real-time processing without latency
- Compact and portable design for easy transport
- Compatible with both Mac and PC, making it versatile for any setup
Perfect For Any Occasion
Whether you’re in a home studio, on the road, or live streaming, the Apogee Boom is designed to fit seamlessly into your workflow. Its compact size and robust features make it ideal for any audio project.
Current Price: $249.00
Rating: 4.3 (Total: 33+)
PreSonus Quantum ES 2
The PreSonus Quantum ES 2 is a stellar audio interface that brings professional-grade recording to your home studio without emptying your wallet. With its sleek design and impressive specs, including 24-bit/192 kHz resolution, this interface is perfect for musicians, podcasters, and anyone looking to capture high-quality audio. Whether you’re recording a quick demo or working on a full album, the Quantum ES 2 is versatile enough for daily use and special projects alike. Plus, the included Studio One Pro software gives you everything you need to start creating right away.
What People Say
Users are impressed with the PreSonus Quantum ES 2 for its outstanding sound quality and ease of use. Many appreciate how it enhances their recordings, making it a favorite for both music production and podcasting.
-
I really like this interface. It’s sleek and modern and high performing. Plenty of inputs and outputs for home/small studio use. The pre-amps are dynamite and the auto-gain function is nice for quickly setting up an input channel! Incredibly low-latency drivers on Windows 11. Very flexible routing options, including routing different channels to each headphone jack.
– mBrane
-
Big improvement over my old M-Audio Duo Track from a sound quality and latency perspective. Well built, looks great, very sleek. Easy to set up and works well with Logic Pro. After doing a ton of research, this looks like it has the lowest latency and noise for the money.
– Datriani
Why You’ll Love It
- High-performance signal flow with low-latency drivers
- All-new MAX-HD mic preamps for exceptional sound quality
- Auto Gain feature for hassle-free setup
- Universal Control app for easy management from any device
Perfect For Any Occasion
Whether you’re in a home studio, recording on the go, or live streaming, the Quantum ES 2 fits seamlessly into your workflow. Its compact size and robust features make it ideal for any audio project.
Current Price: $249.99
Rating: 4.4 (Total: 280+)
FAQ
What Should I Look For When Buying an Audio Interface Under $250?
When you’re shopping for an audio interface in this price range, you want to consider a few key features. First, think about the number of inputs and outputs you need. If you’re planning to record multiple instruments or vocals simultaneously, look for an interface with at least two inputs. Next, check the audio quality specifications, particularly the sample rate and bit depth; a good standard is 24-bit/192 kHz for professional sound. Also, consider the type of connectivity—USB-C is becoming more common and offers faster data transfer. Finally, read reviews to see how others have experienced the interface’s performance and reliability.
How Do I Set Up My Audio Interface for Recording?
Setting up your audio interface is usually straightforward. Start by connecting it to your computer using the provided USB cable. Most interfaces are plug-and-play, meaning your computer should recognize it automatically. Next, install any necessary drivers or software that came with the interface to ensure optimal performance. Once connected, open your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) and select the audio interface as your input and output device in the settings. Make sure to adjust the gain levels appropriately to avoid clipping, and enable direct monitoring if your interface has that feature for real-time audio feedback.
Can I Use My Audio Interface for Gaming or Streaming?
Absolutely! Many audio interfaces are versatile enough for gaming and streaming. They provide high-quality audio input for your microphone, which can significantly enhance your voice clarity during streams or online gaming sessions. Just make sure your interface has a headphone output for monitoring your audio. You might also want to check if it has low-latency performance, which is crucial for real-time applications like gaming. To set it up, connect your microphone to the interface, plug your headphones into the output, and configure your streaming software to recognize the audio interface as the input source.
Wrapping Up
Investing in a quality audio interface can significantly enhance your recording experience. With options available under $250, you can find devices that not only fit your budget but also provide exceptional sound quality and features. Whether you’re recording music, podcasts, or streaming, the right audio interface will help you achieve professional results.
