Top 10 Best Audio Interfaces Under $50 (2025)
Finding the right audio interface can significantly enhance your recording and streaming experience. Whether you are a budding musician, a podcaster, or a gamer, having a reliable audio interface is essential for achieving high-quality sound. In this article, you will discover the top 10 audio interfaces available for under $50, which offer excellent features without breaking the bank. By investing in one of these devices, you can elevate your audio quality and make your recordings sound more professional.
Top Picks
- Best Overall: Behringer U-Control UCA222 USB Audio Interface – $24.90
- Best Value: PUPGSIS Gaming Audio Mixer – $39.99
- Best for Beginners: Behringer U-Phoria UM2 USB Audio Interface – $35.00
- Best for Gaming: FIFINE Gaming Audio Mixer – $49.99
- Best for Mobile Devices: IK Multimedia iRig Stream SOLO – $44.99
- Best for Streaming: MAONO Gaming Audio Mixer – $48.99
- Best Compact Option: M-Audio M-Track Solo – $49.00
- Best for Podcasting: Tascam US-42B MiNiSTUDIO Creator – $44.99
- Best for Musicians: USB Audio Interface for PC Computer Recording Music – $47.49
- Best Budget Option: TONOR 2O2 Audio Interface – $44.99
Selection Criteria
When selecting the best audio interfaces under $50, we considered several factors, including sound quality, ease of use, compatibility with various devices, and customer reviews. Each product listed here has been chosen based on its performance, features, and value for money.
Behringer U-Control UCA222 USB Audio Interface
The Behringer UCA222 is your go-to solution for getting high-quality audio into your computer without breaking the bank. This compact USB audio interface is perfect for musicians, podcasters, or anyone looking to digitize their old cassette tapes. With its ultra-low latency and simple plug-and-play setup, you can connect it to your PC or Mac and start recording right away. Plus, it comes with a massive software bundle, including Audacity, so you can dive into audio editing without any hassle. Whether you’re recording music or just want to enhance your sound quality, the UCA222 is a practical choice that won’t disappoint.
What People Say
Users rave about the UCA222’s sound quality and ease of use. Many appreciate its compact size, making it perfect for travel or small studio setups. The ability to monitor audio through headphones with dedicated volume control is also a hit among users.
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I bought this with the intention of using it as a DAC/external sound card for my laptop. I expected better sound quality overall, and got exactly what I wanted and then some. The I/O is as simple as it looks in the picture. As for the sound quality, don’t expect $80 ASUS Xonar quality, but this performed as good as I hoped it would. It pulled things out of songs I never knew were there… Overall, this is worth every penny.
– Justin
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This is a bare-bones, USB, audio interface with analogue inputs and outputs – and it works just fine as one. The addition of an additional digital optical output is a nice feature, as is the dedicated headphone volume control knob. Setup is simple – this truly is USB plug and play. Audio quality is fine – maybe not what discerning ears would want for ‘pro’ audio mixing, but professional audio producers wouldn’t be using an interface at this price point.
– Ricardipus
Why You’ll Love It
- Affordable and compact design
- Easy plug-and-play setup
- Includes a software bundle for recording and editing
- High-resolution audio quality
Perfect For Any Occasion
Whether you’re recording music, digitizing old tapes, or enhancing your computer’s audio output, the UCA222 fits seamlessly into your workflow. It’s especially handy for musicians on the go or anyone needing a reliable audio interface for home recording.
Current Price: $24.90
Rating: 4.5 (Total: 5,435+)
PUPGSIS Gaming Audio Mixer
The PUPGSIS Gaming Audio Mixer is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their audio game without spending a fortune. This compact audio interface is designed for podcasters, streamers, and gamers alike, offering a range of features that make it easy to use. With its 48V phantom power, you can connect professional XLR microphones, ensuring your voice comes through crystal clear. Plus, the built-in voice changer and sound effects add a fun twist to your streams or recordings. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your setup, this mixer is a practical option that delivers great sound quality and versatility.
What People Say
Users appreciate the PUPGSIS mixer for its ease of use and versatility. Many highlight the clear audio quality and the fun features that enhance their streaming experience. The ability to connect multiple microphones and devices is also a big plus for those who like to collaborate or host guests.
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If you’re looking for an easy-to-use audio mixer packed with great features, the T12 Audio Mixer is an amazing choice. It has a preamp and 48V phantom power that makes XLR microphones sound amazing. The audio is crisp and free of unwanted noise, so your voice will always be loud and clear. Plus, it includes fun sound effects that add a special touch to your streams or recordings.
– Anthony C.
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The PUPGSIS Gaming Audio Mixer is an absolute gem for new streamers! This mixer is incredibly user-friendly, making it perfect for those who are new to streaming. The layout is intuitive, which means I can focus on entertaining my audience instead of getting lost in complicated settings. The four custom buttons for sound effects allow me to add fun sound clips instantly, making my streams more interactive.
– Brian En.
Why You’ll Love It
- User-friendly design for easy operation
- Multiple input options including XLR and 3.5mm
- Fun sound effects and voice changer for added creativity
- Compact size perfect for home studios or on-the-go setups
Perfect For Any Occasion
Whether you’re streaming your latest gaming session, recording a podcast, or just want to improve your audio quality for video calls, the PUPGSIS mixer fits seamlessly into your setup. It’s especially handy for those who want to add a professional touch to their audio without the complexity of high-end equipment.
Current Price: $39.99
Rating: 4.4 (Total: 130+)
Behringer U-Phoria UM2 USB Audio Interface
The Behringer U-Phoria UM2 is a solid choice for anyone looking to step up their audio recording game without breaking the bank. This compact USB audio interface packs a punch with its studio-grade XENYX mic preamp and a combination XLR/TRS input, making it perfect for recording vocals or instruments. With 48 kHz resolution, you can expect clear and crisp audio quality, whether you’re podcasting, streaming, or making music. Plus, its plug-and-play functionality means you can get started right away, making it a practical option for both beginners and seasoned pros alike.
What People Say
Users rave about the U-Phoria UM2 for its impressive sound quality and ease of use. Many appreciate how it enhances their recordings, whether for music, podcasts, or gaming. The ability to connect multiple devices without hassle is also a highlight for those who like to keep things simple.
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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
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If you’re a gamer, this interface is amazing. The audio quality is great, and the mic monitoring feature is fantastic. I can hear myself clearly even while gaming at high volume. It’s perfect for streaming on Twitch or just getting started with Soundcloud. I promise it won’t let you down.
– Frankie Pezzi
Why You’ll Love It
- Compact and portable design for easy transport
- High-quality audio with low latency
- User-friendly setup with plug-and-play functionality
- Versatile input options for various recording needs
Perfect For Any Occasion
Whether you’re recording a podcast, streaming your gaming sessions, or just want to improve your audio quality for video calls, the Behringer U-Phoria UM2 fits seamlessly into your setup. It’s especially handy for those who want professional sound without the complexity of high-end equipment.
Current Price: $35.00
Rating: 4.4 (Total: 17,156+)
FIFINE Gaming Audio Mixer
The FIFINE Gaming Audio Mixer is a fantastic option for anyone looking to enhance their audio experience without spending a fortune. This compact mixer features an XLR microphone interface, individual volume controls, and even a mute button, making it perfect for everything from podcasting to gaming. With its built-in 48V phantom power, you can easily connect a variety of microphones, ensuring your voice comes through crystal clear. Plus, the RGB lighting adds a fun touch to your setup, making it not just functional but also visually appealing. Whether you’re streaming on Twitch or recording a podcast, this mixer is a reliable companion that won’t let you down.
What People Say
Users appreciate the FIFINE Gaming Audio Mixer for its impressive sound quality and ease of use. Many highlight how it simplifies their audio setup, allowing for seamless transitions between different audio sources. The ability to customize sound effects and control individual channels is also a big hit among streamers and podcasters.
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This mixer is perfect for putting on your desk and controlling speakers and headphones mixing multiple inputs. It’s got a lot of tricks up its sleeve. First, it’s a great audio interface. You can plug the USB into a computer and play sound out through this mixer into speakers or headphones. Second, it’s got a mic preamp that supplies phantom power, so you can use any mic you want. The mic pre is fine for the money, and it’s a great way to get into pro audio without breaking the bank.
– Griz
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If you are looking for an inexpensive interface, this has an amazing feature set. The dedicated mic in, line/aux in, audio out, and headphone ports, each with its own mute and fader, make this a great mixer. Even if you don’t use all the features, it’s quite handy. I can tell when on my headphones that the audio quality is not the best, but it’s adequate for gaming and even live production use. Can’t beat the value.
– Oliver
Why You’ll Love It
- Multiple input options for versatile audio mixing
- Built-in phantom power for condenser microphones
- User-friendly controls for easy operation
- RGB lighting for a stylish look
Perfect For Any Occasion
Whether you’re gaming, podcasting, or just want to improve your audio quality for video calls, the FIFINE Gaming Audio Mixer fits right into your setup. It’s especially useful for those who want to keep things simple while still achieving professional sound quality.
Current Price: $49.99
Rating: 4.3 (Total: 2,487+)
IK Multimedia iRig Stream SOLO
The IK Multimedia iRig Stream SOLO is a compact audio interface that’s perfect for anyone looking to elevate their audio game without breaking the bank. Designed for both iOS and Android devices, this little gem connects seamlessly to mixers and DJ decks, making it ideal for live streaming, podcasting, or recording music on the go. With its 1/8″ TRRS jack and dual RCA inputs, you can easily plug in your favorite gear and start creating high-quality audio. Plus, it’s lightweight and portable, so you can take it anywhere your creativity leads you. If you want a reliable audio interface that delivers great sound quality without the fuss, this is a solid choice.
What People Say
Users rave about the iRig Stream SOLO for its impressive sound quality and ease of use. Many appreciate how it simplifies their audio setup, allowing for seamless integration with different devices. The ability to connect multiple audio sources is also a highlight, making it a favorite among streamers and musicians alike.
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If you record audio/video for social media or other applications, this product is a terrific option for better audio. Easy to set up and use. Great sound quality and functionality. This unit uses power from your iPhone or other device, so I would recommend purchasing the optional power supply as well.
– J Johnson
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Was looking for the best quality and ease of use route to connect my turntable to my Apple ecosystem. Hands down the easiest and best solution. Now my vinyls play through ALL the HomePods in my house and the sound quality is excellent.
– Norman Kraushaar
Why You’ll Love It
- Compact and portable design for easy transport
- Compatible with both iOS and Android devices
- Direct monitoring with no latency for real-time sound checks
- Versatile connectivity options for various audio sources
Perfect For Any Occasion
Whether you’re live streaming a podcast, recording music, or just want to enhance your audio quality for video calls, the iRig Stream SOLO fits perfectly into your setup. It’s especially handy for those who need a reliable solution that’s easy to use and delivers professional sound quality.
Current Price: $44.99
Rating: 4.2 (Total: 2,250+)
TONOR 2O2 Audio Interface
The TONOR 2O2 Audio Interface is a fantastic choice for anyone diving into the world of audio recording without spending a fortune. This USB audio mixer is designed for podcasting, gaming, and streaming, making it a versatile tool for content creators. With its two XLR and 6.35mm combo inputs, you can easily connect your microphones and instruments, ensuring you capture high-fidelity sound. Plus, the RGB lighting adds a fun touch to your setup. If you’re looking for an affordable yet reliable audio interface that delivers studio-quality sound, the TONOR 2O2 is worth considering.
What People Say
Users appreciate the TONOR 2O2 for its impressive sound quality and ease of use. Many have highlighted its compact design and the ability to connect multiple audio sources, making it a favorite among podcasters and musicians alike. The RGB lighting is also a fun feature that adds a bit of flair to their setups.
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The TONOR TX510 202 USB Audio Interface is an excellent budget-friendly option for home studio setups, offering clear, low-noise sound quality and a simple, plug-and-play design. It’s compact and sturdy, with two XLR/TRS inputs, phantom power for condenser mics, and latency-free monitoring. While it lacks advanced features found in higher-end interfaces, it delivers exceptional value for its price, making it ideal for podcasters, musicians, and content creators seeking professional-grade audio without breaking the bank.
– Leonardo Ovies
Why You’ll Love It
- Studio-grade sound quality for clear audio recordings
- User-friendly design with easy volume adjustments
- Multi-input capability for connecting multiple devices
- Compact and portable for easy transport
Perfect For Any Occasion
Whether you’re recording a podcast, streaming your gaming sessions, or producing music, the TONOR 2O2 fits seamlessly into your workflow. It’s perfect for anyone who needs a reliable audio interface that’s easy to set up and delivers professional sound quality without the hefty price tag.
Current Price: $44.99
Rating: 4.1 (Total: 130+)
Tascam US-42B MiNiSTUDIO Creator USB Audio Interface
The Tascam US-42B MiNiSTUDIO Creator is your go-to solution for creating high-quality audio without breaking the bank. This compact audio interface is perfect for podcasting, streaming, or even recording music. With its dual XLR inputs and built-in effects, you can easily connect your microphones and instruments, making it a versatile addition to your setup. Plus, the user-friendly design means you can jump right into recording without a steep learning curve. If you’re looking for an affordable way to elevate your audio game, the Tascam US-42B is definitely worth a look.
What People Say
Users rave about the Tascam US-42B for its excellent sound quality and ease of use. Many appreciate its dual mic inputs, making it ideal for interviews and collaborations. The built-in effects and compact design also receive high marks, making it a favorite among podcasters and musicians alike.
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Purchased for doing live audio play-by-play streaming for an aspiring teen and this has been very good so far! Pros: – Dual XLR mic inputs for two people. Running two Audio-Technica BPHS1 headsets. Mic levels are good, I’d say running them at about 80% input level. – USB interface for the mixer output, works great with Win11. – Quick audio buttons can be pre-programmed and work well. – Can be powered via computer USB – Compact size – portable.
– Joe Cooke
Why You’ll Love It
- Dual XLR inputs for versatile recording options
- Built-in effects for enhanced audio quality
- Compact and portable design for easy transport
- User-friendly interface with easy setup
Perfect For Any Occasion
Whether you’re recording a podcast, streaming your gaming sessions, or producing music, the Tascam US-42B fits seamlessly into your workflow. It’s perfect for anyone who needs a reliable audio interface that’s easy to set up and delivers professional sound quality without the hefty price tag.
Current Price: $44.99
Rating: 4.3 (Total: 65+)
NUOSIYA USB Audio Interface for PC Computer Recording Music
The NUOSIYA USB Audio Interface is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to record high-quality audio without spending a fortune. With its sleek red design and dual XLR inputs, it’s perfect for musicians, podcasters, or anyone wanting to elevate their audio game. You can easily connect your microphones and instruments, and the 48V phantom power ensures your condenser mics will perform beautifully. Plus, it’s plug-and-play, so you can start recording right away without any complicated setup. If you’re on a budget but still want great sound quality, this interface is definitely worth considering.
What People Say
Users appreciate the NUOSIYA USB Audio Interface for its solid performance and affordability. Many have noted its ease of use, especially for beginners, and the sound quality is often compared favorably to more expensive models. The dual inputs and phantom power feature are particularly highlighted as great advantages for recording vocals and instruments.
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I had to replace my Zoom UAC interface because it started having unknown problems with my Presonus Studio DAW not recognizing my interface. But this one does the job, no real complaints. I recommend it if you need an inexpensive interface for basic purposes. A lot of negative reviews for this item, but I didn’t have any drama with it at all.
– D. Wallace
Why You’ll Love It
- High-quality 24-bit/192kHz recording for professional sound
- Dual XLR/Line combo inputs for versatile connectivity
- 48V phantom power for condenser microphones
- User-friendly plug-and-play design
Perfect For Any Occasion
Whether you’re recording a podcast, streaming your music, or just practicing at home, the NUOSIYA USB Audio Interface fits seamlessly into your setup. It’s compact and portable, making it easy to take along for on-the-go recording sessions, ensuring you can capture great sound wherever you are.
Current Price: $47.49
Rating: 3.7 (Total: 141+)
MAONO Gaming Audio Mixer
The MAONO Gaming Audio Mixer is a versatile audio interface that brings professional sound quality to your streaming and podcasting setup without breaking the bank. With its sleek black design, RGB lighting, and Bluetooth connectivity, it’s perfect for gamers and content creators alike. This mixer features a pro-preamp and 48V phantom power, ensuring that your microphones sound crisp and clear. Plus, it’s user-friendly, making it easy to set up and start using right away. If you’re looking to enhance your audio experience for live streaming or recording, this mixer is a solid choice.
What People Say
Users rave about the MAONO Gaming Audio Mixer for its impressive sound quality and ease of use. Many appreciate the Bluetooth feature, which allows for seamless integration of music and other audio sources. The customizable RGB lighting is also a hit, adding a fun aesthetic to their setups. Overall, it’s seen as a fantastic value for the price.
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I’ve been using this mixer both through Bluetooth for my iPhone as well as on my desktop, and I gotta say, it’s been pretty great for my streaming setup. The voice-changing feature is a blast, and the noise reducer works almost as good as Discord’s noise suppression options. Setting it up was straightforward, and the RGB lighting adds a nice touch to my gaming setup.
– Jo H.
Why You’ll Love It
- Pro-grade 48V phantom power for condenser microphones
- Bluetooth connectivity for easy audio mixing
- Customizable RGB lighting to match your gaming setup
- User-friendly interface with one-click mute and loopback functions
Perfect For Any Occasion
Whether you’re streaming your favorite games, recording a podcast, or just jamming out with friends, the MAONO Gaming Audio Mixer fits right into your routine. Its compact design makes it easy to transport, so you can take your audio setup anywhere. Plus, the intuitive controls mean you can focus on your content without getting bogged down by complicated settings.
Current Price: $48.99
Rating: 4.3 (Total: 586+)
M-Audio M-Track Solo
The M-Audio M-Track Solo is a compact USB audio interface that delivers impressive sound quality for recording, streaming, and podcasting. With its sleek design and lightweight build, it’s perfect for musicians and content creators on the go. This interface features a single combo XLR/line input with phantom power, making it compatible with a variety of microphones and instruments. Plus, it comes with a software suite to get you started right away. If you’re looking for an affordable way to elevate your audio game, this interface is a great pick.
What People Say
Users appreciate the M-Audio M-Track Solo for its excellent sound quality and ease of use. Many have found it to be a fantastic option for beginners and pros alike, especially for its portability and the included software. The overall value for the price is frequently highlighted, making it a popular choice among musicians and podcasters.
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I honestly think this is great. I’m a signed pro musician and I used this to record some ideas I had, and it did the job nicely. The quality of sound was impressive for the price, and the software included was easy to install and use. It’s lightweight and portable, making it ideal for traveling musicians.
– David
Why You’ll Love It
- Compact and portable design for easy transport
- 48 kHz audio resolution for clear recordings
- Compatible with various microphones and instruments
- Includes a software suite to kickstart your projects
Perfect For Any Occasion
Whether you’re recording music at home, streaming your gaming sessions, or podcasting on the go, the M-Audio M-Track Solo fits seamlessly into your routine. Its compact size allows you to easily pack it in your bag, and the straightforward controls mean you can focus on your creativity without getting lost in complicated settings.
Current Price: $49.00
Rating: 4.4 (Total: 14,062+)
FAQ
What Should I Look For When Buying an Audio Interface Under $50?
When you’re shopping for an audio interface under $50, you want to consider a few key factors. First, think about the number of inputs and outputs you need. If you’re planning to record vocals and instruments simultaneously, look for an interface with at least two inputs. Next, check the audio quality specifications, such as sample rate and bit depth; a good standard is 24-bit/192 kHz for clear sound. Also, consider the connectivity options—USB is common, but make sure it’s compatible with your computer. Lastly, read user reviews to gauge reliability and ease of use, as some interfaces may have a steeper learning curve than others.
Can I Use These Audio Interfaces for Live Streaming and Podcasting?
Absolutely! Many audio interfaces under $50 are designed with live streaming and podcasting in mind. They typically offer features like low-latency monitoring and phantom power for condenser microphones, which are essential for clear audio capture. When setting up, ensure you have the right software for recording or streaming, such as OBS or Audacity, and check that your interface is recognized by your computer. You might also want to invest in a good microphone and headphones to enhance your overall audio quality. Just remember, while these budget interfaces can perform well, they may not have all the advanced features found in higher-end models.
Are There Any Limitations to Using Budget Audio Interfaces?
Yes, while budget audio interfaces can be great for beginners or casual use, they do come with some limitations. You might find that the preamps are not as high quality as those in more expensive models, which can result in a noisier signal. Additionally, some interfaces may have fewer features, such as limited inputs or outputs, and may not support advanced audio formats. It’s also common for these interfaces to have a higher noise floor, meaning you might need to manage gain levels carefully to avoid distortion. If you’re serious about audio production, you may eventually want to upgrade to a more professional interface, but for starting out, these budget options can be quite effective.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, investing in a quality audio interface doesn’t have to be expensive. The options listed above provide excellent sound quality and features for under $50, making them ideal for anyone looking to enhance their audio recording or streaming experience. Whether you are just starting or looking to upgrade your current setup, these audio interfaces will help you achieve professional results without a hefty price tag.
