Which is better for streaming on Twitch?

Both work. The Wave:3 wins if you want Wave Link to separate mic and game audio without extra software. The QuadCast 2 S wins if you want to start streaming without buying a stand or shock mount.

Does the QuadCast 2 S need a boom arm?

No. It ships with a desk stand and shock mount, so it works on a desk out of the box. The Wave:3 does not include a stand.

Can I plug headphones into either mic?

Only the Wave:3 has a 3.5 mm headphone jack for zero-latency monitoring. The QuadCast 2 S has no headphone jack listed.

Which is worth the extra money?

The gap is small: $104.99 for the Wave:3 on October 31 versus $100.00 to $105.00 for the QuadCast 2 S on November 2 and 3. The Wave:3 is worth it if you want Wave Link and a headphone jack. The QuadCast 2 S is worth it if you want the included stand and shock mount.

Which has better build quality?

The QuadCast 2 S has a metal grille and a 0.76 lb body. The Wave:3 is compact and solid but lighter. Neither is a rugged field mic.

Do both connect by USB-C?

Yes, both are USB digital condenser mics. The QuadCast 2 S lists USB-C and a 3 m cable. The Wave:3 lists USB and a mini-jack for headphones.

Elgato Wave:3 USB Microphone vs HyperX QuadCast 2 S RGB USB Microphone

Both are USB condenser mics aimed at streamers, and the price gap is small: the Elgato Wave:3 was $104.99 on October 31, while the HyperX QuadCast 2 S RGB ranged from $100.00 on November 2 to $105.00 on November 3. Pick the Wave:3 if you want Elgato's Wave Link software mixing and a 3.5 mm headphone jack for zero-latency monitoring. Pick the QuadCast 2 S if you want a built-in shock mount, a desk stand and a tap-to-mute body in the box.

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