Best Pop Filters for Recording Vocals

When it comes to recording vocals, there is so much to try and remember. 

The polar pattern of your microphone has to be perfect for the recording situation. You need to make sure your microphone stand is holding the mic steadily.

You even have to ensure that your microphone has a wide frequency range to pick up a variety of vocal tones.

When juggling all these things, it’s easy to forget about protecting against plosives. These annoying sounds are almost impossible to eliminate in the editing process, and once they’re on your recording, they are there to stay!

But what’s the best way to keep your recording plosive-free? The answer is simple – use a pop filter.

These genius devices are designed to be placed directly in front of your microphone and will stop any popping, crackling, or breath sounds from appearing on your recording. 

They’re easy to install too, and can even be left in place on your mic stand, so you won’t need to think about setting one up every time you want to record. 

A quick look online will bring up a plethora of pop filters to choose from. However, this can make finding the best one for your needs a little more difficult. That’s why we’ve done the hard work for you!

Below, we’ve compiled a shortlist of the best pop filters for recording vocals. We’ve also put together a buying guide with all the information you need to make an informed choice before settling on your final decision.

In a hurry? Let’s get things started by taking a look at our top pick. 

1. Dragonpad AKORD Microphone Swivel Pop Filter

Featuring a double layer of protective mesh, the AKORD Microphone Swivel Pop Filter from Dragonpad is designed to remove any plosives and leave your recording as clear as possible.

These two layers of nylon mesh create an air gap that also catches any breath sounds, harsh pronunciation, or lisping.

This pop filter also features a universal mount to attach to any microphone stand easily. It has a flexible 360º gooseneck too.

This allows you to angle your pop filter in the best position without being restrained by stiff metal poles.

It’s not just plosives that this pop filter protects against, though. It also acts as a saliva guard and prevents saliva particles from accumulating on your microphone, where their natural salt content could cause corrosion over time.

It will prevent dust from building up inside your microphone too. 

Another fantastic thing about this pop filter is that it’s incredibly budget-friendly.

This makes it an excellent choice for anybody looking to set their home studio up at a reduced cost or if you’re new to podcasting and are still learning what equipment suits your needs best.

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Pros:

• Features a dual-layer of nylon mesh that prevents plosives, breath sounds, and lisping from being picked up
• It has a universal mount that allows you to fix it to any microphone stand easily
• It also has a 360º flexible gooseneck that will enable you to position it at the perfect angle.
• Prevents the accumulation of saliva and dust particles from building up inside your microphone
• It is an inexpensive accessory that is perfect for anybody looking for a pop filter on a budget

Cons:

• The gooseneck can be stiff initially, but it will become more flexible.

User experience

Customers seem happy with the Dragonpad AKORD Microphone Swivel Pop Filter overall.

Users praised the difference it made in their recordings, while some noted that the filter did an excellent job of reducing pop and hiss.

The most significant issue users seem to have with the filter is that it tends to bend after extended use, but this doesn’t affect its performance.

Generally, this pop filter is a good choice for those looking for a budget-friendly option that still offers decent results.

2. Neewer Professional Microphone Pop Filter

Suppose you’re looking for a pop filter that is simple to install and can be used across a variety of recording equipment. In that case, the Neewer Professional Microphone Pop Filter could be exactly what you need.

With an adjustable screw rotating clamp built directly into it, you’ll be able to securely attach it to a desktop stand, boom arm, or standard microphone stand quickly and easily. 

You’ll also be able to easily place it at the perfect angle thanks to the flexible gooseneck design.

This gives you more freedom over the distance between the microphone and the pop filter, allowing you to find the best position for your individual needs.

Once in position, the double layer of nylon mesh guards against plosives and breath sounds, leaving your recording with perfect clarity.

This creates an air gap between the two layers, stopping air pressure from entering the microphone.

This double layer of mesh also helps to protect your microphone against saliva and dust, which can lead to irreparable damage over time.

This inexpensive pop filter would be suitable for any studio setup with the features and versatility you’d expect to find from a higher-priced competitor.  

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Pros:

• Features an adjustable screw rotating clamp that is compatible with a wide range of microphone stands
• The flexible gooseneck design lets you position the pop filter at the best angle.
• This flexibility allows you to create the perfect distance between the microphone and your voice.
• A double layer of nylon mesh creates an air gap that prevents plosives and breath sounds from being recorded.
• It is a budget-friendly pop filter that would be perfect for anybody new to podcasting.

Cons:

• The screw on the universal clamp needs to be tightened as much as possible to keep the pop filter firmly in place.

User experience

The Neewer Professional Microphone Pop Filter is another budget-friendly option for those looking for a pop filter.

However, users have noted that the adjustable goose arm is cheaply made and difficult to keep in place. Additionally, the base of the arm is screwed into the clamp, which means that rotational movements can cause it to become unscrewed.

Despite these flaws, many users find that the Neewer Professional Microphone Pop Filter is a good value for the price and recommend it.

3. Aokeo Professional Microphone Pop Filter

A pop filter needs to be held firmly in place throughout your recording session to get the best performance from it, which is something the Aokeo Professional Microphone Pop Filter has mastered.

The gooseneck is constructed from steel, which makes it incredibly strong while maintaining flexibility for perfect positioning. 

It also features an adjustable rotating clamp and a scratch-proof gripper that allows you to securely attach the pop filter to a variety of microphone stands.

This helps save you that extra bit of money, too, since you won’t need to worry about purchasing special attachments to use with it. 

Thanks to the dual layer of netted gauze, you’re guaranteed clear, concise vocals when using this pop filter.

This works by creating an air gap in which plosives, breath sounds, and harsh pronunciation is trapped and prevented from entering the microphone. 

This pop filter can even help prolong your microphone’s life by catching any saliva particles that might accumulate and cause corrosion over time.

It’s a budget-friendly option, too, so it’s ideal for anybody looking to create high-quality audio without spending a small fortune in the process.

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Pros:

• Features a steel gooseneck that holds the pop filter securely in place while maintaining flexibility
• It also features an adjustable rotating clamp and scratch-proof gripper, making it compatible with a wide range of microphone stands.
• It has a double layer of netted gauze that creates an air pocket and stops plosives and breath sounds from appearing on your recording.
• It can also prolong the life of your microphone while preventing the accumulation of saliva and dust particles.
• It is a good choice for anybody working with a smaller budget

Cons:

• Some people found that the gooseneck took a little time to loosen up and become easily flexible.

User experience

Aokeo Professional Microphone Pop Filter is a product many people seem happy with.

It is good quality, easy to bend and manipulate into the desired position, and according to one review, even better than the person’s old pop filter.

This product seems perfect for anyone in need of a microphone pop filter. There are a few complaints about it not being able to stand on its own, as in the promo photo, but other than that, people are delighted with their purchase.

4. PEMOTech Three-Layer Pop Filter

Offering an alternative design, the PEMOTech Three-Layer Pop Filter is designed to wrap around 180º of your microphone rather than being suspended in front.

This makes it easier to install but also prevents any plosive sound from being picked up from the side of the microphone. 

Something else that makes this pop filter stand out from the crowd is the unique triple-layer of protection. The first of these layers is a foam shield, followed by a metal net layer.

An etamine layer then completes the setup. These work together to eliminate plosives, breath sounds, and other noises from interesting with your recording. 

This pop filter is compatible with a wide variety of microphones, and you can establish a secure connection by using the integrated inner ring and rubber bands.

These are easy to replace, too, so in the unlikely event of them breaking, you won’t have to face the expense of purchasing a new pop filter.  

The metal construction makes cleaning this pop filter super easy, too, so you’ll be able to keep it looking great for years to come. It also helps to protect your microphone against corrosive saliva particles and potentially prolongs its life. 

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Pros:

• A modern design that wraps around the microphone instead of being suspended in front of it
• Features three layers of protection against plosives and breath sounds
• It is compatible with a wide range of microphones and is super easy to install
• Prevents salvia and dust particles from gathering and damaging your microphone
• The metal construction makes it easy to clean and maintain

Cons:

• It is not compatible with the Blue Yeti microphone

User experience

While many reviewers appreciate the quality of the filter, some have found the materials to feel cheap. Additionally, the filter does not always fit snuggly on all mics, and users who want coverage for the whole mic may need to purchase two filters.

Another common complaint is that the bands are not long, making it difficult to achieve a secure fit. On the other hand, many people recommend this filter and find it does a decent job.

Despite its drawbacks, the PEMOTech Three-Layer Pop Filter remains a popular choice among budget-conscious shoppers.

5. EJT 6-Inch Microphone Pop Filter

Featuring a 6-inch circumference and 5-inch diameter, this Microphone Pop Filter from EJT is perfect for covering larger microphones and preventing those annoying plosives from appearing on your recording. 

The dual layer of protective mesh creates an air gap in which breath sounds and popping noises get trapped and removed before entering the microphone.

This double layer also helps stop saliva particles from touching your microphone, reducing the risk of corrosion over time. 

It has a 360º gooseneck stabilizing arm that is strong enough to support this large pop filter’s weight. This doesn’t sacrifice anything in terms of flexibility, though, and you’ll still be able to position it at the perfect angle. 

You’ll also be able to attach this pop filter to various microphone stand designs, including tabletop, boom arm, and floor-standing. This is thanks to the fully adjustable grip, which also features an integrated rubber ring to provide even more stability. 

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Pros:

• It has a 6-inch circumference and 5-inch diameter, so it is ideal for use with larger microphones.
• Features a dual-layer of protective mesh that protects against plosives
• It also prevents saliva and dust from entering the microphone, helping to keep it in good condition.
• The 360º gooseneck stabilizing arm easily supports the pop filter’s weight without sacrificing flexibility.
• It can be securely attached to various microphone stands with an adjustable grip and integrated rubber ring.

Cons:

• Some people found that the adjustable grip didn’t hold as well to microphone stands with a smaller diameter.

User experience

According to customer reviews, the filter does a good job of reducing pops and clicks. Users say it does an excellent job of reducing plosives and wind noise without impacting audio quality.

The filter is also reported to be sturdy and easy to use, although some users find that it does not stay in place as well as they would like.

Overall, many people praise this product as being great for its price and highly recommend it.

Buyer’s Guide

Getting the best quality audio possible is essential for any serious podcaster. Ensuring no plosives or breath sounds are picked up by your microphone is an excellent place to start. 

This is where a pop filter can help. However, as with all audio recording equipment, it’s not as simple as purchasing the first pop filter you find. There are certain things to bear in mind before settling on your final decision.

Below, we’ve outlined some points to give a little thought to during the shopping process.

Microphone Compatibility

You first need to consider the type of microphone you’ll be pairing your pop filter with.

Pop filters come in various sizes, and if you don’t get one that completely covers the front of your microphone, some of those plosives could sneak past.

A pop filter that has a circumference of around 6-inches would be a good, universal option. This will also allow you to switch between microphones whenever necessary without worrying about your pop filter fitting well.  

It is also essential to ensure that the pop filter you’re thinking of buying can be paired with your microphone.

Some brands design their microphones to only be paired with accessories from the same brand, making finding an appropriate pop filter a little more complicated. 

It would be best to consider your microphone stand when looking for a pop filter. Attaching it securely is crucial. If the connection is too loose, the pop filter may begin sliding downwards during your recording.

To prevent this, look for a pop filter with an adjustable grip. This won’t only help you create the most substantial connection possible, but it will also allow you to use the pop filter with various microphone stands.

Some adjustable grips have an integrated rubber ring circling the inside. This is another excellent feature to look out for and will further help to ensure the pop filter is held firmly in place at all times.

Layers

Pop filters work by pulling plosive sounds and breath noise out of the air before reaching the microphone.

This is achieved by creating an air gap between the protective layers, and the more layers your pop filter has, the more effective it will be.

With this in mind, we recommend choosing a pop filter with at least two layers of plosive protection.

If you have a podcast that welcomes a different guest each week, it’s a good idea to go for a three-layered pop filter, as you’ll be dealing with various vocal tones, accents, and pronunciations. 

The multiple layers of a pop filter aren’t only good for removing plosives and breath sounds, though. They can also protect against saliva particles building up inside your microphone. 

These particles contain small amounts of salt, which, over time, can begin to corrode the internal wiring. So, by reducing the risk of this happening, you’ll be prolonging the life of your microphone. 

Style

You’ll notice that there are a couple of styles to choose from when you’re shopping for a pop filter. The type you choose will mostly come down to personal preference; however, there are still some things to bear in mind.

A pop filter placed in front of the microphone in a ‘hovering’ fashion is a good choice for covering larger mics.

They can be a little trickier to install, though. If this is the style you’re considering purchasing, make sure it has a solid and flexible gooseneck.

This will allow you to place it in the best position while still ensuring it’s held firmly in place.

The other style you have to choose from is a ‘wrap-around’ pop filter. These are designed to be attached directly to the microphone’s head, making them much easier to install.

They are also better for covering a wider surface area and will prevent plosives from being picked up from the microphone side.

Price

Finally, it’s a good idea to set yourself a budget before you begin shopping for a pop filter. Generally speaking, they are inexpensive accessories, but pricing can vary dramatically from brand to brand. 

So, remember to look at the features your pop filter offers rather than its brand name. You may be surprised to learn that you can get a fantastic pop filter at a very reasonable price. 

If you’re looking for further explanation on how to make the most out of a pop filter, this video is for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a pop filter?

A pop filter is a piece of recording equipment placed in front of a microphone.

Its purpose is to remove any plosives from the pronunciation of certain words, such as those beginning with ‘p,’ ‘d’, and ‘k.’ It also prevents any breath sounds from appearing on a recording.

Are pop filters good for vocals?

The purpose of a pop filter is to reduce wind and breathing noise when recording the human voice. Whether you’re recording vocals for a song or podcast, a pop filter can help you get clean, professional-sounding results.

How far should the pop filter be from my mic?

The pop filter should be mounted at least 10 cm (4 inches) away from the mic and should be angled slightly so that sound reflections don’t bounce between the capsule and the filter.