The Maono PD100W Wireless Dynamic Microphone is the latest in Maono’s PD dynamic wireless mic lineup. A streamlined, more compact version of the well-received PD200W Hybrid, the PD100W offers a unique set of features to provide a single solution for streamers and content creators looking for a budget-friendly option for their setup. From solid noise reduction to a fairly robust, versatile setup, there is a lot to appreciate about Maono’s latest dynamic microphone.
Following a similar, though slightly revised, aesthetic to the PD200W, the new PD100W is a distinctive-looking microphone. Its outer casing is made of dense plastic and features a honeycomb-shaped metal grille, along with an eight-millimetre foam windscreen that surrounds the microphone capsule. The rectangular lower housing houses a range of onboard controls, enabling straightforward adjustments without additional software. A single RGB ring encircles the base of the PD100W, adding a customizable visual accent.
The PD100W includes two mounting options: a desktop stand or a boom arm, which is available for an additional $10. The desktop stand was provided for review and stands six inches tall, featuring a threaded mounting screw for easy positioning. Made from the same dense plastic as the microphone’s outer casing, the stand performs adequately. However, due to the microphone capsule’s dynamic design, the unit needs to be positioned relatively close to the user to minimize room noise, a point that will be addressed in more detail later.
“As a dynamic microphone, the PD100W performs best when positioned within 12 to 18 inches of the user and set at a 90-degree angle.”
As noted, the onboard controls provide quick access to features such as on-demand, multi-level noise reduction, mute and RGB adjustments, along with onboard monitoring and microphone gain control. Maono has done a solid job of creating a streamlined, intuitive control layout. Even without consulting the manual, I was able to locate and use every control within minutes of setting up the microphone.
The PD100W offers two connection modes: wireless and USB, using the included USB-C port. While it does not include the PD200W Hybrid’s XLR option, the PD100W introduces a dual-mode connectivity feature that allows two devices to capture audio from the microphone simultaneously. By using both connection modes simultaneously, the PD100W can output audio to a console, though Xbox is not supported, or a gaming PC, while also sending a signal to a separate streaming setup.
Given its price point below $100, this feature performed impressively during testing. No software is required to use the dual-mode connectivity. Users simply connect the wireless dongle to a compatible PC, Mac or phone, then run the included USB cable to a second device, such as a supported console or mobile device. Once connected, the microphone is recognized and ready for use immediately.
In terms of audio capture, performance is solid, particularly given its budget-conscious price point. The dynamic capsule performs well for vocal recording, and the cardioid polar pattern is effective for focused sound capture. One important caveat is that audio quality depends heavily on proper placement. As a dynamic microphone, the PD100W performs best when positioned within 12 to 18 inches of the user and set at a 90-degree angle. While the desktop stand can achieve this placement, it requires the microphone to sit directly in front of the keyboard. After a week of testing, I would likely opt for the boom arm option if I did not already have several available in the office.
“Priced at $69.99, the PD100W wireless Dynamic microphone is a good solution for new content creators breaking into the streaming arena.”
That said, the PD100W’s noise reduction performs reliably at minimizing background noise. With three AI-driven noise-reduction modes, the microphone can filter out a noticeable amount of ambient noise. As with most dynamic microphones, the best results are achieved when this feature is paired with proper positioning and moderate gain levels. When configured correctly, Maono’s latest PD microphone delivers consistent and dependable audio capture.
As a wireless microphone, the PD100W can last around 40 hours on average (with the RGB ring off) and should have no problem getting you through longer gaming sessions with ease. While the onboard indicator light provides some indication of when battery life is low, the Maono Link software provides access to all settings and data for the PD100W. The software is straightforward and allows adjustments for everything from the RGB ring light to full EQ and mic capture monitoring. As it did with the Maono DM40 Pro microphone I reviewed last year, Maono Link is a great companion to the PD100W.
The PD100W from Maono is a solid, budget microphone that provides some pretty impressive solutions for streamers. With its dual-capture mode, decent battery life, and good noise reduction, the PD100W is a solid solution for gamers looking to improve their audio capture quality without breaking the bank. Priced at $69.99, the PD100W wireless Dynamic microphone is a good solution for new content creators breaking into the streaming arena.
