External microphones can improve the audio quality of your iPhone recordings, whether you’re filming a video, recording a podcast, or conducting an interview. The built-in microphone of an iPhone can capture decent audio, but it’s not always enough, especially when you’re in a noisy environment or need to record a distant sound source. That’s where an external microphone comes in.
When shopping for an iPhone external microphone, there are a few things to consider. First, you need to decide which type of microphone is best for your needs. There are several options, including lavalier (clip-on) microphones, shotgun microphones, and handheld microphones. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on the situation.
Another important factor to consider is the type of connector the microphone uses. Some microphones use a Lightning connector, while others use a 3.5mm TRRS connector. Make sure the microphone you choose is compatible with your iPhone’s connector.
In this article, we’ve tested and reviewed some of the best iPhone external microphones on the market. We’ve evaluated each microphone based on its audio quality, ease of use, and compatibility with different iPhone models. Whether you’re a professional filmmaker or a casual vlogger, we’ve got you covered.
Best iPhone External Microphones
If you’re looking to improve the audio quality of your iPhone videos, investing in an external microphone can make a huge difference. Whether you’re a professional videographer or just looking to up your social media game, a good external microphone can help capture clear audio and reduce background noise. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the best iPhone external microphones on the market to help you find the perfect one for your needs.
Bulatry Wireless Mini Lavalier Lapel Microphone
If you’re looking for a wireless microphone system for your iPhone or iPad, the Bulatry Wireless Mini Lavalier Lapel Microphone may be worth considering.
Pros
- Simultaneously picks up sound from 2 parties
- Easy to use, no adapter or additional app needed
- Real-time crystal voice syncs with noise cancellation
Cons
- Only compatible with Lightning devices (iPhone/iPad)
- Wireless microphone for USB-C device is not available
- Some users have reported issues with battery life
This wireless microphone system is perfect for two-person team creators who want to do interviews, Vlogs, YouTube, Facebook, TikTok Live Stream work, and more. The upgraded design allows for the simultaneous picking up of sound from 2 parties.
The Bulatry microphone is user-friendly and easy to use. There’s no adapter, additional app, or Bluetooth needed. The item includes 2 clipped wireless microphones (2.4G signal transmission) and a receiver (Lightning connector). Just plug the receiver into your iPhone/iPad and power on the microphones, and they will automatically connect and pick up sound.
Real-time crystal voice syncs with noise cancellation, using real-time auto-sync technology, 2.4G signal transmission super low latency (0.009s). The sound picking-up follows the picture in real-time and will not be misplaced. Built-in noise reduction chip, get crystal clear audio (44.1~48kHz stereo CD quality).
The Bulatry microphone has a highly sensitive microphone that is perfect for capturing clear audio from 60ft far away. Built-in large capacity rechargeable battery and low power chip, this mini wireless lavalier microphone provides more than 5 hours of battery life and only 2 hours to get fully charged.
Please note that this device is only for Lightning devices (iPhone, iPad), USB-C device is not supported. Wireless microphone for USB-C device is not available.
In conclusion, the Bulatry Wireless Mini Lavalier Lapel Microphone is a good option for those looking for a wireless microphone system for their iPhone or iPad.
MAYBESTA Wireless Lavalier Lapel Microphone
If you’re looking for a wireless microphone that’s easy to use and delivers clear sound quality, the MAYBESTA Wireless Lavalier Lapel Microphone is worth considering.
Pros
- Easy automatic connection
- Omnidirectional sound reception
- Full compatibility
Cons
- Short battery life
- Limited range
- Fragile build
This wireless microphone is perfect for recording interviews, podcasts, vlogs, and live streaming. With its omnidirectional sound reception and noise reduction technology, it captures clear sound regardless of the surrounding environment. Plus, it’s compatible with iOS smartphones and tablets, making it easy to use with your iPhone or iPad.
However, the battery life is short, lasting only up to 4.5 hours on a full charge. The range is also limited, covering only up to 50ft for signal, which may not be enough for some users. Additionally, the build quality is fragile, so it may not be the best option for those who need a more durable microphone.
Overall, if you’re looking for a wireless microphone that’s easy to use and delivers clear sound quality, the MAYBESTA Wireless Lavalier Lapel Microphone is a solid choice. Just be aware of its limitations in terms of battery life, range, and build quality.
SLADE Wireless Microphone for iPhone
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly external microphone for your iPhone, the SLADE Wireless Microphone is a great option to consider.
Pros
- Plug and play design makes it easy to use without the need for Bluetooth or an app.
- Smart noise cancellation chip and omnidirectional condenser microphone provide clear audio in noisy environments.
- Built-in 72mAH battery offers 6 hours of use, making it perfect for longer recording sessions.
Cons
- Some users have reported difficulty with the USB-C charging port.
- The microphone may not be as durable as more expensive options.
- The range of 70 feet may not be sufficient for all recording situations.
The SLADE Wireless Microphone is a miniature and portable option that can be used for a variety of recording situations, including live streaming, conferences, games, online classes, interviews, and video recording. The plug and play design makes it easy to use, and the smart noise cancellation chip and omnidirectional condenser microphone help to ensure clear audio in noisy environments. The built-in 72mAH battery offers 6 hours of use, making it perfect for longer recording sessions.
One potential drawback of the SLADE Wireless Microphone is the USB-C charging port, which some users have reported difficulty with. Additionally, the microphone may not be as durable as more expensive options, so users should take care when handling it. Finally, the range of 70 feet may not be sufficient for all recording situations, so users should be aware of this limitation.
Overall, the SLADE Wireless Microphone is a great option for those looking for a budget-friendly external microphone for their iPhone. While it may not have all the features of more expensive options, it provides good value for the price.
Ttstar ISAIBELL Clip-on Microphone Professional for iPhone
If you are looking for a reliable and easy-to-use external microphone for your iPhone, then the Ttstar ISAIBELL Clip-on Microphone Professional for iPhone is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- MFi-certified Connector-Safe to Use
- Multi-use Lav Mic for iPhone
- Lightweight Micphone for iPhone
Cons
- Does not support Phone Calls×Online Chatting×It only supports audio input
- Cord length may not be long enough for some users
- Sensitive mic may pick up unwanted background noise
This lavalier lapel microphone is designed for iOS devices and is perfect for vlogging, recording videos, films, and more. It comes with a mini head and a strong metal clip, making it easy to clip onto your shirt. The package includes 2 mic muffs, 1 mic windshield windscreen, 1 extra metal clip, and a 3m long cable to help you adapt to various situations.
The Ttstar ISAIBELL Clip-on Microphone Professional for iPhone is a professional lavalier microphone for iOS devices. It requires no extra adapter cable, battery, or driver. Just plug it into your iPhone directly to record audio or video. The portable mic is easy to use and would be a good partner during your content creation.
This mic is also friendly to beginners, coming in a box with a nice little black draw-string pouch. It has a good cord length to wear comfortably and is great for voiceover recording on the go or vlogging. The cord is long enough to get some distance between you and the phone, but not too long to worry about getting tangled up.
One of the best features of this mic is its effective noise cancellation. The omnidirectional lavalier microphone supports a high-frequency range of 16KHz-20KHz, allowing it to capture clear sound around the microphone. The long cord lapel lavalier mic is featured with a highly sensitive sound pickup mic head, which helps the mic pick your voice with a higher sample rate and restores your voice with little distortion in comparison with the built-in.
Overall, the Ttstar ISAIBELL Clip-on Microphone Professional for iPhone is a great buy for the price. It definitely does the job and is perfect for those who need a reliable external microphone for their iPhone.
SLADE Wireless Microphone for iPhone
If you are looking for an affordable and effective wireless microphone for your iPhone, the SLADE Wireless Microphone for iPhone is a great option.
Pros
- Easy to use with no app or Bluetooth required
- Smart noise cancellation for clear audio
- Unobstructed reception within 70 feet
Cons
- Short battery life of only 6 hours
- May not be suitable for professional use
- May have connectivity issues with some devices
This wireless lavalier microphone is perfect for bloggers, podcasters, and social media influencers who want to record high-quality audio on the go. With its built-in 72mAH battery, you can record for up to 6 hours without needing to recharge. The microphone is also easy to use with no app or Bluetooth required, making it ideal for beginners.
One of the standout features of the SLADE Wireless Microphone for iPhone is its smart noise cancellation chip. This allows you to record clear audio in noisy environments, making it perfect for outdoor recording or interviews. The omnidirectional condenser wireless microphone also allows you to pick up audio from 360° all around, ensuring that you capture every sound.
Another great feature of this wireless microphone is its unobstructed reception within 70 feet. With its built-in optimized antenna and advanced 2.4GHz transmission technology, you can achieve high-quality sound from a distance. This makes it perfect for recording live events or performances.
Overall, the SLADE Wireless Microphone for iPhone is a great option for anyone who wants to record high-quality audio on the go. While it may not be suitable for professional use, it is an affordable and effective solution for bloggers, podcasters, and social media influencers.
PGDLOF Wireless Lavalier Lapel Microphone
If you’re looking for an affordable and easy-to-use wireless microphone for your iPhone or iPad, the PGDLOF Wireless Lavalier Lapel Microphone is a great option.
Pros
- Comes with 1 receiver and 2 transmitters, allowing you to record from 2 parties at once or use just one mic for solo recording
- Easy plug-and-play connection, no extra apps or Bluetooth required
- Wireless system allows for hands-free recording and remote distance recording
Cons
- Only compatible with iOS devices, not Android
- Some users have reported issues with the clip-on microphone breaking or not fitting into phone cases
- May not have the same level of sound quality as more expensive microphones
This wireless microphone is perfect for vlogging, live streaming, podcasting, and online meetings. The two transmitters allow for recording from two parties at once, or you can use just one mic for solo recording. The plug-and-play connection makes it easy to use, and the wireless system means you can record hands-free and from a remote distance.
However, it’s important to note that this microphone is only compatible with iOS devices and may not have the same level of sound quality as more expensive microphones. Some users have also reported issues with the clip-on microphone breaking or not fitting into phone cases.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and easy-to-use wireless microphone for your iPhone or iPad, the PGDLOF Wireless Lavalier Lapel Microphone is a great option.
BOYA Wireless Lavalier Microphone
If you’re looking for a wireless lavalier microphone for your iPhone or iPad, the BOYA Wireless Lavalier Microphone is a great option.
Pros
- Easy automatic connection
- Omnidirectional sound reception
- Universal wireless system
Cons
- Windscreen not very tight
- Noise reduction not perfect
- Pricey
The BOYA Wireless Lavalier Microphone is easy to set up and connects automatically without the need for an adapter, Bluetooth, or application. The microphone has omnidirectional sound reception, ensuring that it records every detail of the sound regardless of the surrounding environment. The device also has noise reduction technology that cuts off any noise interference while recording to ensure sound quality. The small lapel microphone is free of wires and can be held by hand or clipped on your shirt. It can cover up to 164ft for a signal, allowing you to clearly record or take video at a further distance indoors or outdoors. The microphone is also rechargeable, with up to 9 hours of operation time with only a two-hour charging time.
However, the windscreen is not very tight on the microphone and can be easily lost. The noise reduction is not perfect, so it may not completely eliminate background noise. Additionally, the BOYA Wireless Lavalier Microphone is a bit pricey compared to other options on the market.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality wireless lavalier microphone for your iPhone or iPad, the BOYA Wireless Lavalier Microphone is a great choice.
PowerDeWise Professional Grade External Lavalier Microphone
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly external microphone for your iPhone, the PowerDeWise Professional Grade External Lavalier Microphone might be worth considering.
Pros
- Always ready to use – no charging or batteries required
- Clear voice without noise thanks to professional-grade technology
- Plug&play – no drivers needed
Cons
- Sensitive – may pick up unwanted background noise
- Cord may cause static and pops with movement
- No way to adjust sensitivity on the microphone
This 100% wired microphone is compatible with iPhones and comes with a clip for easy attachment. It also includes extra wind muffs and a deluxe storage case.
While the microphone may pick up unwanted background noise, it can enhance audio recordings from certain distances away. It’s easy to use with no drivers or batteries needed, making it a convenient option for those on a budget.
Overall, the PowerDeWise Professional Grade External Lavalier Microphone is a decent option for those looking for an affordable external microphone for their iPhone.
ZealSound Gaming USB Microphone
If you’re looking for a convenient and versatile microphone for streaming, recording, and gaming, the ZealSound Gaming USB Microphone is a great choice.
Pros
- The microphone is compatible with a wide range of devices, including PS4/PS4pro/PS5, desktop computers, laptops, iPhone, iPad, and Type C devices.
- The dynamic RGB lighting adds a touch of style to your recording setup, and the tap-to-mute feature ensures that you won’t accidentally broadcast unwanted sounds.
- The natural audio clarity and convenient mic gain knob make it easy to achieve optimal sound quality for your recordings.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the microphone can pick up background noise, which may be an issue if you’re recording in a noisy environment.
- The microphone is relatively heavy, which may make it difficult to adjust or position as needed.
- The RGB lighting may be distracting or unnecessary for some users.
If you’re looking for a versatile and easy-to-use microphone for streaming, recording, or gaming, the ZealSound Gaming USB Microphone is a great choice. With its compatibility with a wide range of devices and convenient features like tap-to-mute and mic gain control, you can easily achieve high-quality sound for your recordings. However, the microphone may not be ideal for users who are recording in noisy environments or who prefer a lighter, more streamlined microphone design.
WZFFPAOJ Wireless Lavalier Microphone
If you’re looking for a wireless microphone for your iPhone or iPad, the WZFFPAOJ Wireless Lavalier Microphone is a great option.
Pros
- Compatible with a wide range of iPhone and iPad models
- Easy to use – just plug and play, no additional apps or Bluetooth required
- Excellent performance – automatic real-time synchronization technology and built-in noise reduction chip for clear recording even in noisy environments
Cons
- Some iPad series with type-c ports are not supported
- Battery life could be longer
- Not suitable for professional recording
The WZFFPAOJ Wireless Lavalier Microphone is perfect for YouTubers, vloggers, bloggers, and other video recording lovers. It supports Multi-Channel Real-Time Mixing, which can synchronize background music and vocals in real-time, making video post-editing easier.
The microphone is easy to use, just plug the receiver into your device and power on the microphone to automatically pair the connection. It has a long-distance transmission and long working hours, with one charge of 1.5 hours allowing for continuous work for about 10 hours.
If you encounter any quality problems with the product within 30 days, the manufacturer provides after-sale service and will provide you with a new one for free.
Overall, the WZFFPAOJ Wireless Lavalier Microphone is a great choice for those looking for a wireless microphone for their iPhone or iPad.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best iPhone external microphone, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Microphone Type
There are two main types of external microphones: condenser and dynamic. Condenser microphones are more sensitive and produce clearer audio, making them ideal for recording vocals or acoustic instruments. Dynamic microphones, on the other hand, are less sensitive and are better suited for recording loud sounds, such as drums or electric guitars.
Directionality
Directionality refers to how the microphone picks up sound. Omnidirectional microphones pick up sound from all directions, while unidirectional microphones only pick up sound from one direction. Cardioid microphones are a popular choice for recording vocals or podcasts, as they pick up sound from the front while minimizing background noise.
Connection Type
External microphones can connect to your iPhone via a lightning port, USB-C port, or headphone jack. Make sure to check which connection type your iPhone supports before purchasing a microphone.
Price
External microphones can range in price from under $20 to over $200. While more expensive microphones may offer better sound quality, there are plenty of affordable options that still provide a significant improvement over your iPhone’s built-in microphone.
Compatibility
Not all external microphones are compatible with all iPhones. Make sure to check the microphone’s compatibility with your specific iPhone model before making a purchase.
By considering these key features, you can choose the best iPhone external microphone for your needs and record high-quality audio for your videos, podcasts, or music.
Aaron Smith is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
