Microphones for iphone: The best iPhone microphone in 2023 |

Boya BY-XM6-S2 wireless microphone system review

Digital Camera World Verdict

The Boya BY-XM6-S2 mic system is a good place to start if you’re on a budget and it will certainly elevate the audio production values of your footage. It works straight out of the box too, so you don’t have a huge learning curve to climb if you are new to wireless mic systems. Its closest alternative is the JOBY Wavo AIR, but extra features such as onscreen displays and a cheaper price make this an attractive option. Compared to the Wavo’s 4 stars the Boya loses half a star for drop out.

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Your smartphone or DSLR can do a great job of recording a subject’s audio if they are in close proximity to the built-in mic. However, as soon as they move away from your device the sound quality will drop and unwanted background noises will begin to obscure the subject’s dialog. A hardwired mic will improve sound quality, but the subject’s freedom of movement will be limited by the length of the mic’s cable.

The Boya BY-XM6-S2 wireless microphone system gives two subjects the freedom to walk and talk for up to 100 meters while their sound is transmitted to the recording device which makes it a perfect choice for vloggers, YouTube content makers and documentary interviewers.

Boya BY-XM6-S2 at Amazon for $169.95

Specifications

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Transmission Type: 2.4GHz Digital Frequency
Modulation: GFSK
Operating Range: Up to 100m (328 ft) without obstacles
Mic Sensitivity: -39dB
SNR: 84dB
Battery Life: Approx 7 hours
Weight: 32g (1.13oz)

Key features

The supplied lavalier mics clip onto the subject’s shirt for a more discreet way of recording (Image credit: George Cairns)

A fluffy wind shield clips straight onto the receiver’s built-in mic for a fast set-up. (Image credit: George Cairns)

One welcome key feature is the fact that both transmitters come paired with the receiver straight from the box, so there’s need to squint at a manual’s tiny font to get them up and running.

Both transmitters in this Boya kit have built-in mics, so if you’re in a hurry you can simply clip a transmitter to your subject’s shirt or jacket lapel and start recording their voice. This non-intrusive mic technique is great for vox pop style interviews where you don’t know the subject and they don’t know you.

If you’re making a documentary and are more familiar with your interviewee you can clip the supplied lavalier mic to their shirt and then tuck the cable down inside their shirt and attach it to the receiver which is clipped more discreetly on their belt. Then only the small lavalier mic will be visible (rather than the larger transmitter). The lavalier mics are omni directional so you can clip them facing downwards and they’ll still pick up the subject’s voice (without the risk of ‘popping’).

The Boya BY-XM6-S2 kit has several useful features to help the sound recordist avoid some of the many pitfalls that they face. Both the transmitters and the receiver have a little display that shows an audio waveform when the subject is talking. If you can see the waveform on the receiver then this reassures you that a signal is being received.

Unlike some similar low-budget wireless mic kits (JOBY Wavo AIR we’re looking at you) the Boya receiver also has a built-in headphone jack so that you can monitor the sound during the recording. This is very handy as it helps you detect take-spoiling background noises or cases of signal drop out.

One thing that’s missing from all the wireless mic kits that we’ve tested is a 3.5mm jack to lightning port adaptor. This short but essential adaptor cable enables you to attach the transmitter to a newer iPhone model such as the 13 Pro Max. Make sure that you attach the Boya’s supplied 3.5mm to TRRS cable from the transmitter to the adaptor (it has a handy ‘smartphone’ label attached to it. ) For our test video we picked up a UGREEN Lightning to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter from Amazon.

Build and handling

The transmitters and receiver display a reassuring waveform graphic on their built-in displays. (Image credit: George Cairns)

To get the receiver to talk to an iPhone you’ll need to buy a Lightning to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter separately. (Image credit: George Cairns)

Like most devices these days, the Boya’s two transmitters and the receiver are made from a lightweight plastic, so you won’t even notice their weight in your kit bag. The belt clip on all three devices has a strong spring so they will stay nicely secured to the subject (or if clipped to a tripod). The only metal component is the sturdy crocodile clip that fixes the lavalier mics to the subject’s shirt.

Optional fluffy wind shields can be clipped directly onto each transmitters’ built-in mic. These wind shields are a fiddle to attach to the transmitters as their two plastic prongs are obscured by fluff and it can be tricky to tell if the shields are fully clipped in. To be honest this fiddly insecure wind shield phenomenon applies to other wireless mics that we’ve tested (including the JOBY Wavo AIR) as they all share a similar design when it comes to attachable wind shields.

Performance

The official specification for the Boya BY-XM6-S2 states that it has a transmission range of up to 100 meters (without obstacles). As you’ll see from our test video the body of the presenter can be considered as an obstacle. The sound occasionally dropped out when the subject turned away from the camera and transmitter lost line of sight with the receiver, even when subject and camera were quite close.

However when facing the camera we could indeed still hear the presenter loud and clear even when we could barely see him in the distance.

Wireless mics can suffer from latency, where the sound is slightly out of sync with the subject’s lips. Despite being cheaper around £50 cheaper than the similar specced JOBY Wavo AIR the latency from the Boya BY-XM6-S2 kit was negligible, so we didn’t need to shift it a few frames in our editing app to get it in sync (as we had to with the Wavo’s audio track).

Verdict

As long as you face the camera you can transmit your voice wirelessly for up to 100 meters. (Image credit: George Cairns)

For a budget wireless mic kit, the Boya BY-XM6-S2 does a good job, transmitting clear and clean sound from presenter to recording device. There is an issue of signal drop out when the presenter turns away from the camera, but most of us tend to talk facing the camera anyway so the Boya gives us freedom to roam and still be heard from a considerable distance (as you’ll hear from our test video).

The waveform display on the transmitters and receiver re-assures us that a signal is being transmitted, plus we can hear the signal via the receiver’s headphone output (key features that are absent in the similar but more expensive JOBY Wavo AIR).

Boya BY-XM6-S2: Price Comparison

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George has been freelancing as a photo fixing and creative tutorial writer since 2002, working for award winning titles such as Digital Camera, PhotoPlus, N-Photo and Practical Photoshop. He’s expert in communicating the ins and outs of Photoshop and Lightroom, as well as producing video production tutorials on Final Cut Pro and iMovie for magazines such as iCreate and Mac Format. He also produces regular and exclusive Photoshop CC tutorials for his YouTube channel.

Top 6 External Mics Reviewed

JG McQuarrie

Nov 01st, 2022

With every new iPhone rollout Apple has, there are video and image quality improvements, and Apple is constantly striving to improve different parts of the product. However, one part which has always been rather neglected is iPhone microphones.

Anyone trying to record audio for video, or just audio period, will find the built-in iPhone microphones inadequate for professional or even semi-professional use.

The mic system simply isn’t good enough. It picks up operational and handling sounds that have poor coverage and offers no wind or noise protection whatsoever.

Frequency Range

Smartphones operate with a very restricted frequency range, around 300Hz to 3.4kHz. As a result, they use very low bit rates. One way external microphones score over the iPhone’s built-in one is by having a much wider frequency range. This means they will record much better audio.

In addition, iPhone microphones may be faulty, and you may find yourself needing a quick, superior fix. If you’re trying to create content, conduct an interview, record a voice-over, or just feel the need for better audio, you’ll need much better external microphones.

Why Should I Use an External Mic?

Using a microphone alongside a phone may seem weird or crude if you’re not typically tech-savvy. However, it is worth doing because it can significantly improve your audio.

Even simple lavalier mics (a lapel microphone worn by the person doing the recording) can make a huge difference. And there is a wide range of microphones available on the market.

But anyone familiar with the Apple ecosystem knows that compatibility with non-Apple products can be a headache.

Here is the Smartphone Video Production guide for you to read: Smartphone Video Production: iPhone 13 v Samsung s21 v Pixel 6.

Apple Connections

This is made worse by Apple’s refusal to switch to the universal USB-C or keep a headphone jack. While some models of iPad do now have USB-C compatibility (and some also still have a headphone jack), iPhones currently have neither.

So any brand that wants their devices to be compatible with iPhones and other Apple products needs to work around that by building a Lightning connection or attaching to an adapter that can simulate that.

Adapters, however, are a bit clumsy. In addition, wires and extra contraptions can dissuade users from using microphones, who opt to make do with the built-in microphone for iPhone instead.

Therefore, once you’ve decided to get an external microphone, you’re likely to find a narrow but competitive product market, reducing the number of options for choosing an iPhone microphone.

However, we’ve got you covered if you are looking for the best iPhone microphones for your setup but are unsure about which brand to get. If you need an external microphone for iPhone audio recording, look no further!

6 of the Best External Microphones for iPhone

These are the adapters that can really make a difference to the quality of your audio recording. They represent some of the best iPhone microphones that are available today.

Rode VideoMic Me-L
Shure MV88
Zoom iQ7
Comica Audio CVM-VS09
Movo VRX10
PALOVUE iMic Portable Microphone

Rode VideoMic Me-L

$79

Usability

The Rode VideoMic Me-L is a shotgun mic that can plug directly into iOS devices through a lightning port (the L in Me-L stands for Lightning).

It is a small shotgun microphone and uses its connection point as a mount. In terms of the mic system, it features a cardioid capture pattern, which focuses on capturing directly in front of the capsule to ensure intelligible and clear audio.

While crafted for iPhone and iPad use, the mic offers a 3.5mm TRS headphone socket that can be used for backup analog recording but is mainly used for direct monitoring while recording with an iOS device.

This is useful as you’re giving up your lighting port for the input and power supply, so there’s no other way to monitor what you’re capturing in real-time.

Build

Its minimalist design and plug-and-play form factor make it ideal for mobile iOS recording. In addition, the audio quality is superb and provides studio-quality sound. So whether you are recording music or speech you know the end result will sound great.

Although targeted at podcasters, YouTubers, and filmmakers shooting on an iPhone, this Rode microphone is compatible with all Apple iOS devices operating on iOS 11 or higher.

It possesses a solid build quality with a durable, gaunt chassis that’s resistant to scratching. Moreover, the iPhone or iPad powers the device, so no additional batteries are required.

It also features a huge windscreen, also known as a dead cat. It works very well at quelling wind, so if you are in a quiet environment, you can get away with using it from several meters away.

However, it is rather conspicuous and receives a lot of attention. In addition, the size makes it difficult to film with, and there’s no chance of using it discreetly. So if you are looking to do a little stealth recording in windy conditions this is definitely something to keep in mind.

Speciality

The microphone’s Lightning connector is relatively short, so you’ll have to remove your phone cover or risk the microphone randomly disconnecting from your iPhone.

This Rode mic offers crisp recordings that rank highly among the best of its class. It works seamlessly with the Rode app and provides a frequency response of up to 48kHz.

Its background noise cancellation is also elite and will keep out any unwanted noise. This makes it an excellent iPhone microphone and a great choice to buy.

Pros

Good connection mount point.
TRS pass-through jack for monitoring.
Extremely good audio recording quality.
Good build quality, as you would expect from Rode.
No additional power required, the iPhone will power it.

Cons

Dead cat furry windshield works well but it is huge (and somewhat ridiculous)!
Short Lightning connector means phone needs to be removed from holder to connect the mic.

Rode VideoMic Me-L Specs

Form Factor – Mobile Mic / Shotgun Mic
Sound Field – Mono
Operating Principle – Pressure Gradient
Capsule – Electret Condenser
Polar Pattern – Cardioid
Frequency Range – 20 Hz to 20 kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio – 74.5 dB
Output Connector (Analog) – 3.5 mm TRS
Output Connector (Digital) – Lightning
Headphone Connector – 3. 5 mm

Shure MV88

$149

Usability

When it comes to condenser microphones, the Shure MV88 is a great choice. The microphone records crisp, clear recordings in 48 kHz/24-bit, making it suitable for near-professional use. It really is one of the best iPhone microphones.

This plug-and-play mic is powered by your iOS device and can capture in either cardioid mode or bidirectional mode. Cardioid is best for recording from a singular direction. Bidirectional works when you want to record from different directions.

You can also utilize both the cardioid and bidirectional mono capsules together if you want to. You will get a natural stereo-sounding outcome since they are configured in an M/S orientation.

Build

Just like the Rode VideoMic Me L, there’s a mismatch between the Lightning connector length and the Lightning port, so you’ll likely have to remove the case from your phone or tablet like with the Rode for the mic to connect correctly.

This is inconvenient, but given the quality audio the mic captures it is not necessarily a deal-breaker. However, it would be worth Shure addressing this in a future release or update.

Speciality

The Shure MV88 comes with a handy windscreen for filming in the wind or around noise. This is effective at cutting down any disruption to the audio quality and works well.

The mic works perfectly with the Shure Motiv app, allowing you to control digital signal processing, bit rate, sampling rate, mode switching, and many other things. This can help reduce the amount of processing you may have to do afterward.

The mic itself does not come with a headphone jack, since the MV88 was released after Apple got rid of the headphone jack. However, you can use Bluetooth headphones to monitor while recording. This works well and the Bluetooth audio quality is high.

In addition, the MV88 delivers clear, dynamic sound and can handle up to 120 dB without distorting.

The MV88 might be a latecomer to the iPhone microphone market, but its dynamism, flexible recording options, and solid performance should carve it a spot.

If you want to record via your iPhone while on the go, you’ll get significantly better audio quality by opting for the Shure MV88. If you are looking for one of the best iPhone microphones then it’s a solid choice.

Pros

Crisp, clear sound quality makes for a great recording experience.
Cardioid and bidirectional mono capsules can be used together.
Shure Movit app works well and saves time later.
Robust metal construction.
Wind protector isn’t absurdly oversized.

Cons

Another iPhone microphone with a too-short lightning connector so you will need to remove your phone from its case to plug it in.
No headphone jack so you are dependent on Bluetooth for listening which can cause latency issues.

Shure MV88 Specs

Form Factor – Mobile Mic
Sound Field – Mono, Stereo
Capsule – Condenser
Frequency Range – 20 Hz to 20 kHz
Output Connectors (Digital) – Lightning
Headphone Connector – None

Zoom iQ7

99$

Usability

A longtime stakeholder in the microphone market, Zoom has stepped up from the iQ5 and iQ6 with their Zoom iQ7 ms stereo microphone.

The iQ7 is unique to both by being a stereo condenser mic. This means that it can receive audio signals from multiple channels giving your recordings the sensation of width.

This is achieved through the microphone’s design, where two mics sit at opposite angles. One microphone captures the signal in front of it, and the other captures left, and right sounds. It also offers a slider to adjust how “wide” you want the resulting sound to feel, as well as a volume control knob.

This unique design feature makes it one of the most distinctive condenser microphones on the market, but it also gives it a real edge in terms of the competition.

Build

When deciding on a microphone for iPhone recording, choosing something lightweight and compact has obvious advantages. The Zoom iQ7 is both of these, but unfortunately, this comes at a cost to the device’s build quality. The entire mic is made of plastic. Even the capsule for the mic is made of plastic.

It doesn’t have the phone case problem other microphones seem to have. Instead, a small removable spacer around the port can help adjust how the device fits.

It comes with a small removable windscreen for the mic, much smaller than the VideoMic’s dead cat. It offers neat left-channel and right-channel recording, although there may be significant overlap due to the small distance between the microphones.

Speciality

The iQ7 records excellent-quality audio. You can also switch to mono recordings with no hassle, making them appealing to people who demand mono compatibility for their stereo recordings.

The mics are arranged in a rotating capsule. This allows you to toggle the orientation for the best stereo recording. This mode switching adds a layer of complexity that may be undesired, but it offers flexibility and dynamism in the long run.

You can use the iQ7 alongside Zoom’s companion iOS app, Handy Recorder. This allows you to record, edit, and share audio files. It’s not the best iPhone app available, so you might want to consider using either native Apple recording software or another third-party app.

The app will let you decide what format you want to record in, from an uncompressed WAV to AAC formats from 64 to 170kbps. Handy Recorder also labels each recording by its format for easy identification.

This mic doesn’t offer RFI protection, which blocks interfering electromagnetic waves. Unfortunately, this means you can’t use this mic with recording apps requiring Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. You’ll get lots of clicks and pops while recording if you do.

With the iQ7, you can be sure that your audio will be better than your iPhone’s built-in mic. If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to get more professional, clear audio out of your iPhone, the iQ7 is a great choice.

Pros

Unique design gives stereo width.
Lightweight and compact.
On-device volume control and stereo width switch – not entirely dependent on software.
Both mono and stereo recording modes easily available.
Affordable for what it is.

Cons

Plastic design isn’t as robust as metal so more fragile than some.
Zoom’s app isn’t very good, its features are outdated, and its clunky design isn’t intuitive to use.

Zoom iQ7 Specs

Form Factor – Mobile Device Mic
Sound Field – Stereo
Capsule – 2 x Condenser
Polar Pattern – Cardioid
Output Connectors (Analog) – None
Output Connectors (Digital) – Lightning
Headphone Connector – 3.5 mm

MOVU VRX10

$50

Usability

The VXR10 is a small, durable, and lightweight microphone for iPhone that can be used in perfect sync with cameras or smartphones.

It comes with a sturdy shock mount, a furry windscreen, and both TRS and TRRS output cables that work with pretty much everything from desktop computers and Android phones to iPhones. In addition, it doesn’t use batteries, so all you have to do is mount the camera on your device and plug it in.

The VRX10 is a super-cardioid shotgun mic, giving you a polar pattern that is better suited for iPhone recording.

In addition, it can accommodate a 35 Hz to 18 kHz frequency response, which is good enough for all kinds of media.

Build

The VXR10 Pro doesn’t come with a lightning cable. It connects fine with iPhones; rest assured. But it requires the user to buy additional hardware, and not including a lightning cable is definitely an oversight.

If you want to mount the VXR10 Pro on a camera, then the shock mount is definitely a great addition to the package. The down side of this that it isn’t useful for anything else.

Something as simple as holding it or placing the mic down on a solid surface is extremely inconvenient. To use it in any way other than attached to a camera will require the additional purchase of a stand or other way to support it.

The construction of the microphone itself is very solid, and this feels like a premium piece of equipment, even given the small price tag. The microphone should be able to handle knocks and bumps when out on the road without any problems.

Speciality

The VXR10 Pro doesn’t seem to have any noise filters, meaning recordings are filled with background noise. This isn’t an issue if you are a reporter and just need a quick clip to transcribe. However, if you are creating a podcast, video, or another project, you might run into some issues.

However, for $50 the VXR10 Pro is still great value for money, and offers recording quality that more than justifies its small price tag. If you are looking for some entry-level equipment without the need to carry around some outsized great then the VXR10 Pro might just be what you need.

Pros

Extremely good value for money.
Sound quality is high for the cost.
Simple to set up
Great build quality.
Good collection of accessories that come with it.

Cons

You need a lightning-to-3.5mm adapter to connect it to your iPhone, the lightning connector isn’t native to the device.
Shock mount is great if you also intend to use mounted on the camera, but it’s useless with the iPhone and there’s no other way to mount it without buying a different mount.

MOVU VRX10 Specs

Form Factor – Mobile Device Mic
Sound Field – Mono
Capsule – Electret
Polar Pattern – Cardioid
Output Connector – Lightning
Headphone Connector – 3.5 mm

PALOVUE iMic Portable Microphone

$99

Usability

The Palovue iMic is a tiny omnidirectional mic that is Lightning-compatible and features noise cancellation. It is one of the best condenser microphones and records crystal-clear sound.

It is far superior quality than the in-built iPhone microphone and is great whether you want to record music or speech.

Build

The iMic features an all-metal body and flexible head that you can rotate up 90 degrees towards and away from you.

It comes with an app you can use to adjust microphone settings. It cannot directly control the start and end of the recording, but you can adjust the gain, EQ, and volume.

This means that the app is a bit limited when it comes to functionality, though it isn’t the worst app out there. You can also toggle a tab to mute or unmute the microphone. You can use the mic without the app, but it is best alongside it.

The microphone comes with a windscreen that reduces the occurrence of wind, breath sounds, and noise interference and also keeps the metal frame of the microphone clean, sanitary, and moisture-free.

Speciality

It comprises two microphone charcoal boxes arranged in a mid-side configuration, and it provides adjustable stereo sound suitable for capturing audio from various sources.

The iMic has an integrated 3.5mm headphone socket with which you can monitor your audio with a wired headphones.

It measures only 2.6 by 2.4 inches, perfectly accentuating its plug-and-play design. In addition, it comes with two lithium-polymer batteries that charge even while recording (it has two jacks on the left and right ends, one for charging and the other for monitoring.)

The PALOVUE iMic Portable delivers high-quality sound, perfect for recording audio for podcasts, YouTube videos, and more.

Pros

Solid metal build means the device is rugged.
Excellent noise cancellation.
Flexible microphone head for improved directionality.
Built-in 3.5mm headphone jack for monitoring.
Built-in batteries won’t drain iPhone battery, and can be charged when in use thanks to the pass-through charging port.

Cons

Short Lightning connector, so be prepared to remove your iPhone from its case.
App is basic compared to some, so might be worth considering third-party software.

PALOVUE iMic Specs

Form Factor – Mobile Device Mic
Sound Field – Mono
Capsule – Condenser
Polar Pattern – Omnidirectional
Output Connector – Lightning
Headphone Connector – 3.5 mm

Comica CVM-VS09

$35

Usability

The Comica CVM-VS09 MI is a condenser microphone designed for recording audio with smartphones. You can tilt the cardioid condenser capsule microphone up to 180 degrees with a rubber clamp which can help keep the unit secure from constant disconnection.

It is a compact microphone specially designed to be mounted on an iPhone or an iPad by plugging it directly into the Lightning port of these devices. The rubber clamp is effective and holds the microphone firmly to the iPhone.

However, the square design, along with the rubber clamp means that the two shapes of the devices don’t quite match up.

It provides a significant sonic improvement to audio and video recordings, especially compared to your iPhone’s built-in microphone.

In addition, with its 3.5mm TRS headphone port, it can provide real-time audio monitoring and allows you to make adjustments on the go.

Build

The Comica CVM-VS09 mic is made of 100% aluminum, which provides an excellent anti-interference effect and ensures a stable recording environment. This makes it perfect for interviews and other purposes that demand uninterrupted audio or speech.

It features a mute button that enables you to mute the mic, ensuring that you only hear the audio you’ve just captured when reviewing your footage. The device has a USB-C output for you to connect it directly to a laptop or desktop computer.

It also comes with a dense foam windscreen that protects against wind noise when recording outdoors. This is effective at cutting down background noise and, as far as windscreens can be, is relatively discreet when placed on the microphone.

Speciality

You can rotate the rotary microphone 180 degrees to match different usage scenarios and angles, meeting the diverse needs of the users. Because the build quality is good, the microphone stays in position and there are no worries that it might become loose over time.

This, alongside its alloy build, makes this microphone for iPhone ideal for vloggers, podcasters, and work-from-home video conferencing.

Pros

Rubber clamp holds the microphone firmly to your iPhone.
Flexible head for directionality adds to the flexibility of the device.
3.5mm headphone jack for monitoring.
Mute button is a nice additional feature.
Ridiculously good value for money.
Strong aluminum construction.

Cons

Slightly awkward, boxy form factor once it’s mounted on your iPhone.
Doesn’t come with a USB cable despite having USB-C output.

Comica CVM-VS09 Specs

Form Factor – Camera-Mount
Sound Field – Mono
Capsule – Electret Condenser
Polar Pattern – Cardioid
Frequency Range – 60 Hz to 20 kHz
Signal-to-Noise Ratio – 70 dB
Output Connectors (Digital) – USB-C
Headphone Connector – 3. 5 mm

Moving Beyond the Headphone Jack: Finding High-Quality Audio for iOS Devices

If you want to increase the standard of your work, you might want to start with the audio, and getting a microphone for iPhone recording is a great way of doing it. Getting external mics for your iPhone will definitely add that extra bit of dynamism to your iPhone footage and is a no-brainer for those who wish to record consistently.

These are some of the best iPhone microphones in terms of subjective quality. They are top-of-the-line and will suffice for all your audio needs, and will prove an effective replacement for the built-in iPhone mic system. Choosing the best microphone for iPhone is still hard, though, so we’ve made it easier.

Above, we discussed six of the best iPhone microphones. Whichever brand you decide on ultimately depends on your budget as well as your personal and professional leanings.

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TOP 10 best external microphones for iPhone and iPad

Have you ever wondered what is the best microphone for iPhone? Well, you have found the right page. We will discuss the best microphones for iPhone and compare them. We condemn sound quality, functionality and best prices.

The regular iPhone microphone isn’t that bad. But you need something extra for professional sound quality. As always, there are different microphones for different occasions.

Your best bet is to find out what’s right for your specific audio needs. Read the rest of this article and you’ll have the perfect iPhone microphone in no time!

Take your audio and video recordings to the next level with an external microphone. Today I will tell you about 5 semi-professional external microphones for iPhone.

Who needs an iPhone microphone?

iPhone microphones are designed for people who record videos with their smartphones. iPhones have cameras that can record high quality videos. Thus, the convenience of using your smartphone to watch videos makes a lot of sense.

The only problem? iPhone microphone sound quality is not professional standard. It is difficult to focus on the main subject. And you get an unbalanced, tinny sound. The wind often drowns out this metallic sound and the voice is not heard. This can reduce all efforts to naught.

iPhone-connected microphones are great for those who can use their phones for video on the go. They are especially useful for vloggers or streamers. They’re also perfect for independent journalists who work with iPhones to cover a story.

© Karolina Grabowska (Pexels.com)

A chest microphone is essential for journalists to record interviews. You don’t want to miss the answer to an important question. You would be angry if you weren’t ready for this!

The lavalier microphone is also crucial for videos in which you imagine yourself in front of the camera. This ensures that your voice is heard and not background noise.

iPhone external microphones are also ideal for recording music. The right microphone allows you to create simple musical recordings in a fast, easy and portable way.

The sound quality is not good enough for professional music recording. But it’s much better than using the regular iPhone microphone.

The best external microphones for iPhone

Do you need to create the highest quality video with the best iPhone? Then you should purchase an external microphone.

Sound is as important a part of video as image quality. It is best if you treat it with the same attention.

We’ll show you the different microphones you can connect to your iPhone. We have listed their features and how to use them so you can find the best microphone for iPhone at the best prices.

1. RØDE VideoMic Me-L Microphone

RØDE VideoMic Me-L Microphone

The RØDE VideoMic Me-L Microphone is a high quality, battery-free directional microphone that easily connects to your iPhone via the Lightning port. Durable aluminum housing is ideal for camping and travel. At the same time, the small and portable design means you can put it in your bag without any problem. The RØDE VideoMic Me-L can be fitted with a windproof cover to keep your recorded sound as clear as possible, making it the best external microphone for iPhone.

Includes windscreen, mounting clip and microphone. And the microphone is an extremely comfortable size. It can even fit in your pocket when you’re not using it but still want to use your phone.

You don’t get many customizable options for different forms of audio recording. But you can always find an app that can simulate various sound effects and qualities.

2. Microphone Saramonic LavMicro U1B

Microphone Saramonic LavMicro U1B

Sometimes we get carried away by believing that we need a big, impressive microphone that costs the price of a kidney, when all we really need is an inexpensive, humble lavalier microphone.

Attach the discreet LavMicro U1A to your lapel and your voice will sound crisp and clear. Move and it will move with you, so your voice will still sound distinct and clear. Buy an extension cord and you can get a decent distance away from your iPhone or iPad and still be heard as if you were standing next to it – distinct and clear.

What’s special about Saramonic LavMicro? Eh, nothing special. Interesting features? Hm, no. It just does what it’s supposed to, with no fuss or ceremony (although the Saramonic includes an alligator clip and case).

We admit that the quality probably won’t be good enough for Adele’s next album, but trust us, it’s good enough for broadcast and vlogging.

3. Zoom iQ7

Zoom has created its iQ7 MS stereo microphone specifically for the iPhone or iPad. If you’re recording music or louder noise than one person, this microphone might be for you.

It is equipped with two microphones placed close to each other and facing in different directions. You can see a switch to switch between 90 or 120 degrees of sound. There is a lot of work on the front too. This makes it easy to adjust the sensitivity even while recording!

Zoom has created a dedicated app for this microphone. This means that you have to use the app every time. This application allows you to decode MS for variable audio width.

You even get a bunch of effects that you can add to your recordings. The only downside? The app does not have a good rating in the Apple App Store. But the situation seems to have improved. Plus, it works with other apps like Garage Band.

I love the EG settings that let you fine-tune your recording. Overall, it’s small and light and great for musicians who want to record from their iPhones.

4. Shure Motiv MV88 microphone

Shure MV88 is a great recording microphone for iPhone. It connects directly to your iPhone. And it can be tilted 180 degrees and rotated 90 degrees.

It is certified by Apple MFi. This means that it connects to any Apple device. It does not require installation or a specific application.

But the microphone comes with two free applications to help you fine-tune the performance of the microphone. These two apps work like a pro. They give you a lot of control over this small but powerful microphone.

Its metal body feels solid. It feels like it can accompany you in the most difficult conditions. It is small enough to fit in your pocket. But it also has a secure carrying case. On top of that, you also get black foam wind protection. This helps in difficult wind conditions.

I am a big fan of this microphone. It is travel friendly and gives amazing results. If you want a microphone that plugs directly into your iPhone, the Shure MV88 is perfect.

5. Shure Motiv MV5-DIG Microphone

Shure Motiv MV5-DIG Microphone

The Shure MV5 is a directional microphone. Schur produced it with podcasts in mind. They made the microphone portable and easy to connect. So you can have a podcast microphone that can travel with you everywhere!

It has a cool, almost retro design. So it will look good in your videos. And the microphone comes with three simple preset modes – Vocal, Flat and Instrument. These settings give you the best settings for each subject you are trying to record.

The microphone comes with both a USB cable and a Lightning connector. This means that it connects not only to your phone, but also to your computer.

And the Shure microphone collection is also approved by Apple. These are MFi products. This means you can connect them directly to any iPhone or iPad. They do not need any other connection kits or adapters.

My favorite part, right? They come with a built-in headphone output. This way you can listen to your recording even if the microphone is connected to the iPhone!

6. Comica CVM-VM10-K2 Microphone

Comica CVM-VM10-K2 Microphone

The Comica CVM-VM10-K2 is an exceptional shotgun microphone for iPhone connection. It comes in a great smartphone kit with tripod, kit bag and connection cables. However, there is no Lightning cable included.

You can buy the Comica CVM-VM10II microphone without this kit. But then you will have to buy a smartphone clip separately. The price of the whole kit together makes it the perfect package for beginners.

This would be especially helpful for the vlogger who likes to film on the go. I also recommend it to people who want to shoot on their own without any help.

Microphone records sound in a cardioid polar pattern. It is ideal for recording sound coming from a specific direction. The adapter is adjustable. This way you can easily move the microphone while it is still securely attached.

You also get foam and fur wind protection. This greatly reduces unwanted sounds. The microphone is also located on the top of the shock absorber. This enhances its noise canceling abilities.

7. IK Multimedia iRig Mic Cast 2

IK Multimedia iRig Mic Cast 2

IK Multimedia’s iRig Mic Cast 2 is the smallest microphone on this list. (Not including lapel mics.) It uses a magnetic attachment system to attach to your iPhone with ease. There is a small switch on the front panel. This allows you to choose between front, reverse, or bi-directional recording.

But even with such a small size, IK Multimedia thought of installing a headphone jack on the device. This means that you can easily listen to the audio while recording.

This is one of the best microphones for iPhone due to its size and ease of use. And it is compatible with the following:

iPhone 5 and newer

iPad mini

iPad Pro

It even works with all Macs with a USB port. But iRig does not come with a connection cable. So, you need to buy a headphone adapter for iPhone.

8. Apogee MiC+ Microphone

Apogee MiC+ Microphone

Apogee MiC Plus claims to be a studio-quality USB microphone that you can take with you anywhere. Apogee has been in the audio equipment industry since 1985 years old. And she managed to keep her products up to date.

We see this with the Apogee MiC Plus, where connecting to various devices is simple and straightforward to use. You can use this microphone in any iPhone app of your choice. That’s the advantage of choosing an Apple-centric microphone.

Apogee MiC Plus has a headphone jack for listening to your recordings. It also has a Lightning cable for iPhone and iPad, Type-A, Type-C and USB cables.

This is a professional microphone. It can be used by many voice acting professionals, from musicians to actors. If you use a microphone professionally, be sure to use headphones. This is because the microphone gain is quite sensitive. There is a fine line between clarity and distortion.

9. Comica BoomX-D-MI2 radio system

Comica BoomX-D-MI2 radio system

Are you looking for a set of microphones that connect to iPhone? The Comica BoomX-D2 is a wireless lapel microphone set. They can be used wirelessly up to 50 meters from the receiver.

It comes with lavalier device and internal microphone as input modes of your choice. These microphones record omnidirectionally. So you get a 360 degree pickup.

The receiver clearly displays the battery for all the devices you use. This is extremely useful on long shoots.

The Comica BoomX-D2 is also easy to charge externally. You can use go from the best external battery for iPhone.

What’s the best thing about this microphone? You can tackle more complex audio recordings. Two microphones make certain jobs much easier. This is most evident in the recordings, where two people often appear.

10. LAVALIER WIRELESS MICROPHONE K9

LAVALIER WIRELESS MICROPHONE K9

Arguably the best wireless microphone on our list as a decent wireless microphone for iPhone. It will not give the best sound quality. But it’s one of the most comfortable mics on our list. You simply connect the main device to your iPhone! After that, you press the button on the wireless microphone and you’re done!

This lavalier microphone can record continuously for 4.5 hours. This should be enough time for the interview. But perhaps this time is not enough to walk around the city all day.

The microphone has an omnidirectional pickup. This ensures maximum sound reception at a distance of 15 meters. It is equipped with intelligent noise reduction. And supports the most popular software. This means you can post directly to your YouTube or TikTok account.

The LAVALIER wireless microphone is designed for people who want a cheap and convenient microphone. Its quick and easy setup makes it a product worth buying. It can be very handy as a backup microphone.

iPhone Microphone FAQ

These are the questions people most often ask about iPhone microphones. If you have a question write it in the comments.

Can I connect a microphone to my iPhone?

Yes, you can do this through the Lightning port.

Where is the microphone on the iPhone?

You can find the built-in microphone in the bottom corner of your iPhone.

Which microphones are compatible with iPhone?

Most microphones are compatible with and connect to the iPhone. But some may need a specialized application. On iPhones prior to the iPhone 7, you could connect any microphone with an auxiliary output. iPhones after the iPhone 7 need a Lightning connector, as do many on this list. If the microphone does not have one, you must purchase a 3.5mm Lightning to AUX 3.5mm cable.

Tell me how to use an external microphone on an iPhone?

An external microphone is easy to set up on iPhone. Most of them will be plug-and-play. If they don’t have their own dedicated app, you can use Apple’s Voice Memos app.

Can you tell me how to record from a microphone on an iPhone?

Just look for the Voice Memos app that comes preinstalled on your iPhone. If you want more control over your recording and make changes, you can do so through the Garage Band app.

Can you tell me how to use the iPhone mini microphone?

The mini microphone needs some sort of clip to attach to the iPhone. You can find many clips that can hold your mini mic at different angles. Most mini microphones should come with a clip when purchased.

What is the best microphone for iPhone?

RØDE VideoMic Me-L is the best external microphone for iPhone. This takes into account various characteristics such as sound quality, size, functionality and price. It may not be the ideal microphone for your specific needs. Browse the rest of the list to find the perfect microphone for you.

Conclusion

Looking through this list of the best microphones for iPhone, we can see a wide selection. You have to think about the microphone type, quality and price range. It would be better if you identified the main purpose of the microphone. Then you can plan your purchase. If you want to give interviews, buy a lavalier microphone. If you want to record an acoustic instrument, choose a directional microphone.

There are two features that I consider the most important. But they don’t break the terms of the deal. One headphone jack. This gives you an idea of how your recording sounds in real time. Secondly, how does the microphone deal with background noise. External microphones perfectly pick up the selected sounds. The presence of noise reduction capabilities will make your sound even clearer!

Top 10 Best Microphones for Phones in 2023

Choose the best microphone for your iPhone or Android phone and improve the sound quality of your recordings or streaming today.

The Best Microphones for iPhone and Android is a big improvement over the built-in microphone that comes with your phone. So you really need to invest in it, whether you’re using your iPhone to record audio, video, or in place of a better webcam.

However, there are so many choices on the market that it’s hard to know which one to choose. In addition, most of the best vlogging microphones can be made to work with your iPhone if you have the right connectors and mounts.

To make things easier for you, in this article we have compiled all the best external microphones for iPhone and Android smartphones available today. All of them offer excellent sound quality, are beautiful, portable, and generally good value for money. So whether you’re creating content for YouTube, Twitch, Clubhouse, podcasts, or just want to get crisp, clear audio on those important calls, read on.

However, before we dive into the details, there are two things to keep in mind. First, if you have an iPhone 7 or later, the only way to connect a microphone is through the Lightning connector. Most of the microphones on this list connect directly to it, but for some you will need a separate adapter. On the other hand, you will be able to connect these microphones to more other devices, such as the best Samsung smartphones or the best cameras for vlogging.

Secondly, you need to decide whether you need a microphone for your phone: directional (aka unidirectional or cardioid) or omnidirectional (aka multidirectional). A directional microphone focuses on picking up sound from only one direction, minimizing the amount of background sound from the sides. In contrast, an omnidirectional microphone picks up sound from all directions. So, for example, you would typically use a directional mic for a one-person show or a one-on-one podcast, but an omnidirectional mic if you want to capture a wide range of sounds at an event.

1

Shure MV88

The best microphone for the iPhone smartphone in general

CASHBACK for purchases, learn more… 002 Connector: Lightning
Polar pattern: Omnidirectional
Dimensions: 35 x 24.9 x 67.1 mm
Weight: 40.5 g

Pros

High Quality Sound

Rugged 90 117
5 presets

Cons

Not the cheapest

We won’t beat around the bush. The Shure MV88 is our clear pick for the best overall phone microphone. It is omnidirectional, making it suitable for interviewing multiple people or recording any event where sound needs to be received from multiple angles. Sound quality is excellent, and the included foam windshield ensures clear sound in windy conditions. There are five preset modes (Speech, Sing, Flat, Acoustic Instrument, Loud) and the included app gives you plenty of options to further fine-tune your recording.

Shure MV88 connects directly to iPhone via Lightning connector. Made of metal and hard plastic, it is durable yet quite light and portable. It’s also flexible: you can tilt, flip, and rotate the microphone 90 degrees to position it exactly where you want. Comes with a zippered carrying bag and headphone adapter cable. All this at such a reasonable price is really impressive.

2

Rode VideoMic Me-L

Best Directional Microphone for iPhone

Connector: Lightning
Pickup Pattern: Directional
Dimensions: 74 x 20 x 25 mm
9 0225 Weight: 27 g

Pros

Affordable price

Well made and durable

Small and light

Cons

Not suitable for third party phones

Looking for a directional microphone for iPhone that focuses on the sound coming directly in front of it? The Rode VideoMic Me-L is our top pick with a solid build, great sound quality and ease of use at a very reasonable price.

It connects directly to your iPhone via the Lightning connector and also has a 3.5mm headphone port so you can control your audio while recording. You also get a clip to keep the mic attached to your phone and a filter in case of bad weather.

3

Rode SC6-L Mobile Interview Kit

Best Microphone for Two-Party Recording

Connector: Lightning
Pickup Pattern: Omnidirectional 902 27 Dimensions: 127 x 31 x 177 mm
Weight: 75g

Pros

Highly flexible

Lots of accessories

Robust cable

Cons

9 0115

Expensive

Do you need a microphone first for an interview? Then let us point to the Rode SC6-L Mobile Interview Kit as it contains everything you need for dual audio recording with your iPhone. The kit is centered around the SC6-L breakout box, which connects to your iOS devices via a Lightning connector. You can connect two smartLav+ omnidirectional microphones to it, as well as your own headphones for direct monitoring and playback.

You also get two noise filters, two clips and a storage bag. In addition, there’s a dedicated Rode Reporter app that lets you turn direct monitoring on and off, change gain, and choose between summed stereo and dual mono. Kevlar reinforced cable is also very durable.

4

Comica BoomX-D2

Best Wireless Microphone Kit for iPhone

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Connector: USB
Directional pattern: omnidirectional
Dimensions: 110 x 70 x 185 mm
Weight: 29 g

Pros

30 m working distance

Decent battery life

Works with many smartphones

Cons

Lightning cable not included

If you want to speak through a microphone, but film yourself at some distance from the phone, here is the best microphone for this. The wireless set comes with two transmitters with built-in microphones, two external mono microphones that you can connect to them as an alternative, and one receiver. Everything is very small and light, and the receiver is especially portable.

You can use this kit up to 30 m away and the built-in lithium battery can be charged via USB for up to five hours. There is also a 3mm headphone jack that allows you to control the sound. However, be aware that if you have an iPhone 7 or later, you will need to separately purchase a TRRS Lightning to 3.5mm adapter cable to connect it.

5

Sennheiser MKE 200

The best microphone for beginner video bloggers iPhone and Android

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Connector: TRS and TRRS 3 coiled cable, 5 mm.
Beam pattern: directional
Dimensions: 69 x 60 x 39 mm
Weight: 48 g

Pros

902 41 Relatively affordable

Works with many smartphones

Works with many cameras

Cons

No Lightning connector

log and want something affordable, easy to find and use? Then we recommend the Sennheiser MKE 200. While it’s not the best iPhone microphone on the market, it’s very affordable, easy to use, and overall does a decent job.

MKE 200 only 69 longmm and weighs only 48g. It is powered by your device so no batteries are required. And its built-in windshield and internal gimbal mount help minimize noise, especially useful when you’re still learning how to shoot.

This unit can be connected using the supplied 3.5mm TRS and TRRS coiled cables to a range of smartphones, DSLRs and mirrorless cameras. However, it doesn’t have a Lightning connector, so if you want to use it with an iPhone 7 and up, you’ll need to buy a Lightning 3.5mm adapter separately.

6

Comica CVM-VM10-K3

Best Shotgun Microphone for iPhone and Android Smartphone

Connector: 3.5mm
Polar Pattern: Directional
Dimensions: 35 x 25 x 8, 4mm
Weight: 34g

Pros

Affordable

Good accessories

Does the job

901 22

Cons

No Lightning connector

The Comica CVM-VM10-K3 is another great choice for newcomers to the vlogging world and is really affordable. For very little money, you get a shotgun mic, phone clip, ergonomic one-handed grip, one-touch wireless Bluetooth controller, indoor foam filter, outdoor filter, carrying case and 3.5mm TRRS-TRS cable.

Despite the low price, in practice everything works well, with good quality, directional sound with minimal interference. But again, there is no Lightning connector here. Therefore, if you want to use it with iPhone 7 and later, you need to purchase a Lightning 3.5mm adapter separately.

7

Apogee MiC+

Best Apple Approved Microphone for iPhone

Connector: Lightning, USB
Polar Pattern: Directional
9 0225 Dimensions: 124 x 38 x 38 mm
Weight: 204 g

Pros

High Quality Audio

Wide Connectivity

Apple Approved

Cons

90 241 Expensive

If you want to be absolutely sure that the microphone will work well with your iPhone, there is no substitute for choosing an Apple-approved device. The Apogee MiC Plus fits right into this category, and as you’d expect, the sound quality is excellent.

You can also connect it to a wide range of devices, as it comes with a Lightning for iOS cable, a USB-C cable, and a traditional USB-A cable, as well as a tripod tabletop stand and a microphone stand adapter. The only negative is that it is quite expensive for what it is.

9

Shure Motiv MV5

Best Retro Microphone for iPhone and Android

Connector: Lightning, USB
Polar Pattern: Directional 902 27 Dimensions: 66 × 67 × 65 mm
Weight: 544g

Pros

Connects to USB or Lightning

Retro Style

Apple Approved

Cons

Not the most portable

The Shure MOTIV MV5 is another Apple-approved microphone for the iPhone, featuring a beautiful retro industrial design. It also has three built-in DSP presets (Vocals, Flat, Instrument) that provide optimal settings for different sources, making it suitable for everything from music to podcasting.

The Shure MOTIV MV5 comes with two included cables, one for USB and one for Lightning, allowing you to use it with Mac, PC, iPhone, iPod, iPad and Android devices. You also get a built-in headphone output for real-time monitoring, a detachable desktop stand, and a free recording app.

9

IK Multimedia iRig Mic Cast HD

High-quality pocket microphone for iPhone and Android

CASHBACK for purchases, learn more… 003

Connector: Lightning, Micro-USB , USB-C
Polar pattern: cardioid
Dimensions: 50 x 27 x 50 mm
Weight: 68 g

Pros

9011 6 Tiny and light
Wide compatibility

Magnetic mount

Cons

Not the cheapest

“Pocket size” is a term that is often overused marketers, but this fantastically compact device really fits that description. Just 27mm wide, the reversible phone microphone comes with Lightning, Micro-USB and USB-C cables, allowing you to use it with all types of phones, tablets and PCs, including the latest iPhones.

There’s also a headphone jack so you can follow your recording too. And it’s easy to attach to your iPhone, thanks to a snap-on magnetic mount that even works with a case.

10

Zoom IQ7

The best microphone for recording music on your iPhone

Connector: Lightning
Polar pattern: bidirectional
9 0225 Dimensions: 55 x 57 x 27 mm
Weight: 160 g

Pros

90, 120 and Mid-Side entry

Lightweight and compact

Smart application

Cons

Overkill for non-musicians

Want to record music with a microphone? Then the Zoom iQ7 is a great choice, as it offers you average recording: a method where two microphones are placed close together and stereo is achieved at the expense of the volume difference. Another tiny, pocket-sized device, the iQ7 features a directional “mid” mic that picks up sound coming from the front, and a bi-directional “side” mic that blocks out the signal around you.