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What Are The Best USB Audio Interfaces in 2025

"Unlocking Superior Sound: Expert Insights on Choosing the Best USB Audio Interfaces for Your Setup" In the realm of computer audio, selecting the right USB audio interface can be a game changer for your recording and playback experience. With countless options on the market, it’s crucial to understand what features truly matter. Look for interfaces that offer high-resolution audio conversion, low-latency monitoring, and a variety of input/output options to suit your needs. Additionally, consider the build quality and portability if you plan to take your setup on the go. Compatibility with your operating system and DAW is essential, so always check for driver support before making a purchase. Remember to assess your budget; while premium models boast advanced features, there are excellent entry-level interfaces that provide remarkable sound quality. Lastly, don’t underestimate the importance of user reviews and professional recommendations—they can offer invaluable insight into real-world performance. With these tips in mind, you're well on your way to finding the best USB audio interface for your unique audio needs.

1

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface
Buy Now $109.99

Why We Love It

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is loved by professionals and beginners alike for its clear, high-quality sound and easy setup. Many users have praised the Scarlett 2i2's compact design, making it perfect for on-the-go recording. The interface's high-performance converters are highly appreciated, allowing users to record and mix at up to 24-bit/192kHz. The Scarlett 2i2's upgraded mic preamps have also been lauded for their ability to capture the natural sound of instruments.

Pros

  • High-quality sound
  • Easy setup
  • Compact design

Cons

  • Requires external power supply
  • No MIDI interface

Compact 2-in/2-out USB audio interface with two Scarlett mic preamps.

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface is designed for guitarists, singers, and other digital artists who require a high-quality, yet affordable audio interface. Features two upgraded Scarlett mic preamps with switchable air setting to reproduce your instrument's natural sound, two high headroom instrument inputs for plugging your guitar or bass straight in, and high-performance converters to enable you to record and mix at up to 24-bit/192kHz.

2

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface

Buy Now $110.00

Why We Love It

Users love the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 for its high-quality sound and ease of use. It's praised for its versatility and portability, making it great for on-the-go recording. The upgraded Scarlett mic preamps and high-performance converters ensure a professional-quality sound that users rave about. Additionally, its compatibility with both Mac and PC is appreciated by many.

Pros

  • High-quality audio
  • Versatile and portable
  • Easy to use

Cons

  • Requires external power source
  • May not be compatible with all software

Compact and versatile 2-in, 2-out USB audio interface.

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) is a compact and robust 2-in, 2-out USB audio interface. It features two upgraded Scarlett mic preamps, high-performance converters, and two instrument inputs. The interface also allows for 24-bit/192kHz recording for ultra-high-definition sound. Its Air mode adds an extra edge to vocals and provides more clarity to your recordings. This unit is compatible with Mac and PC, making it versatile for all your recording needs.

3

Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD Audio Interface

Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD Audio Interface
Buy Now $86.90

Why We Love It

The Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD has been praised by reviewers for delivering professional audio quality at a budget-friendly price. Users love the high-quality MIDAS preamps, which provide clear and detailed sound. The included software package is also a big plus, providing everything you need to start recording right away. Despite a few minor drawbacks, most agree that the U-PHORIA UMC202HD offers excellent value for the price.

Pros

  • Affordable price
  • Professional audio quality
  • Bundled with software

Cons

  • Minimal input options
  • May require driver updates

2-input/2-output USB audio interface with MIDAS preamps

The Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD Audio Interface is a 2-input/2-output audio interface that delivers professional audio quality at an affordable price. It features two MIDAS-designed preamps for high-quality sound reproduction, and supports up to 192kHz resolution for ultra-clear audio. The interface also comes with a comprehensive software package, including a DAW and plug-ins, to get you started with recording right away.

4

Behringer U-Phoria UMC204HD Audio Interface

Buy Now $87.00

Why We Love It

The Behringer U-Phoria UMC204HD is often praised by users for its versatility and crystal-clear audio. Reviewers frequently highlight the MIDAS-designed preamps, noting their exceptional sound quality. The device's direct monitor function and high-quality headphone output are also often cited as standout features.

Pros

  • Versatile
  • Crystal-clear audio
  • MIDAS preamps

Cons

  • Driver setup can be difficult
  • Lacks on/off switch

2x4 USB 2.0 audio interface with MIDAS mic preamplifiers

The Behringer U-Phoria UMC204HD is a 2x4 USB 2.0 audio interface that features two MIDAS-designed preamps with +48 V phantom power. It supports 24-bit/192 kHz audio resolution and includes a direct monitor function with mono and stereo mode. The device also offers a high-quality headphone output with level control and Monitor A/B source select for DJ-style cueing.

5

Tascam US-4x4 USB Audio/MIDI Interface

Buy Now $179.00

Why We Love It

The Tascam US-4x4 is loved for its high-quality HDDA mic preamps and high-definition sound. Users appreciate the built-in DSP mixer for low-latency mixing, and the MIDI in/out is a big plus for those using synths, drum machines, and controllers. Despite its higher price point, its professional-grade features make it a favorite among users.

Pros

  • High-quality preamps
  • 24-bit/96kHz resolution
  • Built-in DSP mixer

Cons

  • May require driver updates for optimal performance
  • Higher price point

4-channel USB audio/MIDI interface with DSP mixer.

The Tascam US-4x4 is a 4-channel USB audio/MIDI interface that features high-quality HDDA (High Definition Discrete Architecture) mic preamps for professional-grade recording. It supports a 24-bit/96kHz audio resolution, offering high-definition sound. The interface includes a built-in DSP mixer for low-latency mixing, and has MIDI in/out for connecting synths, drum machines, and controllers. It is compatible with both Mac and Windows.

Product Comparison

Compare features across all products in this category

6 Features 4 Products Updated Oct 04, 2025
Product USB Connectivity Sample Rate MIDI I/O Preamp Quality Bundled Software Monitoring
1 Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface
Yes 24-bit/192kHz No Upgraded Scarlett mic preamps Not specified Direct monitoring not specified
2 PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 Audio Interface
Yes 24-bit/96kHz Yes Combo mic/instrument inputs Studio One Artist DAW Not specified
3 BEHRINGER Audio Interface, UMC22 (UMC22)
Yes 48 kHz No MIDAS-designed mic preamp Not specified No-latency monitoring
3 Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD Audio Interface
Yes 24-bit/192kHz No Two MIDAS-designed preamps Comprehensive software package included Not specified
1

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface

USB Connectivity
Yes
Sample Rate
24-bit/192kHz
MIDI I/O
No
Preamp Quality
Upgraded Scarlett mic preamps
Bundled Software
Not specified
Monitoring
Direct monitoring not specified
2

PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 Audio Interface

USB Connectivity
Yes
Sample Rate
24-bit/96kHz
MIDI I/O
Yes
Preamp Quality
Combo mic/instrument inputs
Bundled Software
Studio One Artist DAW
Monitoring
Not specified
3

BEHRINGER Audio Interface, UMC22 (UMC22)

USB Connectivity
Yes
Sample Rate
48 kHz
MIDI I/O
No
Preamp Quality
MIDAS-designed mic preamp
Bundled Software
Not specified
Monitoring
No-latency monitoring
3

Behringer U-PHORIA UMC202HD Audio Interface

USB Connectivity
Yes
Sample Rate
24-bit/192kHz
MIDI I/O
No
Preamp Quality
Two MIDAS-designed preamps
Bundled Software
Comprehensive software package included
Monitoring
Not specified

Frequently Asked Questions About USB Audio Interfaces

What makes a usb audio interfaces the "best"?

We evaluate products based on quality, performance, value for money, user reviews, durability, and ease of use. Our rankings are updated regularly to reflect the latest market offerings and user feedback.

How often do you update your usb audio interfaces recommendations?

Our team continuously monitors the market for new products and updates our recommendations quarterly. We also adjust rankings based on user feedback and new testing results.

Do you test all the products you recommend?

Yes, whenever possible, we physically test products in our labs. For products we can't test directly, we rely on verified user reviews, expert opinions, and detailed specifications to make informed recommendations.

What if I'm looking for a specific type of usb audio interfaces?

Our top 10 list covers the most popular and highly-rated options. If you have specific requirements, check our detailed product descriptions and pros/cons to find the best match for your needs.