Top 10 Best Portable Audio Recorders for 2023 Reviews

When it comes to larger and features-heavy portable audio recorders, the Zoom H4n Handy has long remained a patent favorite with both semi-professional and professional users. And the latter will be even more delighted with this Zoom H4n Pro model (first released in 2016) that, in addition to a few extra features, offers significant upgrades on its already existing and useful technologies. Thus you have remodeled X/Y stereo microphones capable of handling sound pressure levels as high as 140 dB. Then you have their redesigned FX Processor equipped with ultra-realistic limiting, compression, guitar/bass amp emulation, reverb/delay, etc. The natural-sounding preamps of the recorder have also been upgraded and the improved noise floor of the model enables you to capture audio at very low volumes with little noise interference. These low-noise mic preamps are the same as are used in the more expensive and advanced H5n and H6n models. What is more, with the purchase of this model, you'll receive free access to two advanced audio recording software---namely, Steinberg Cubase LE and WaveLab LE.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 4 CH recording (two built-in microphones plus two XLR/TRS mic press) with 24 bit/96kHz high-resolution audio output.
• Super-low noise preamps (-120 dBu EIN)
• Available with RC4 wired remote control.
• Up to 32 GB storage.
• LCD backlit display.
• Can be bought as a bundle with the special accessory kit that includes splitter cable, USB cable, attenuator cable, hairy windscreen, Ad-14 AC adapter and more.
• Up to 4 hrs of battery life.

Cons

• At 30 seconds, the boot time is somewhat longer than you would expect from a recorder of this price category.
• Some users have reported facing issues such as inline signal handling. 

Just like Zoom, TASCAM is a highly reliable name in the audio and voice recorder industry. They have more than a few models that are highly popular with users and the DR-o5 is certainly one of them. DR-05 is a comparatively smaller and budget-friendly model which still offers great audio output (at standard 24 bit/96 kHz resolution). However, keep in mind that the model comes with two built-in omnidirectional microphones (and not the X/Y mics that are particularly suited to capture noise/sound in front of the mics) and as such, will capture the entire surround sound within its range. The model is also fitted with a host of features that include a chromatic tuner, ability to loop/repeat sounds, automatic peak reduction, ability to change pitch, etc. Not all of these features may be necessary at most common audio recording situations, but all the same, it's nice to have them as one or more of these may come handy at times.

However, we will like to single out two features that will come to your aid frequently enough. One of these is the Peak Reduction Function which is nice to have when you are recording loud music, etc. The recorder will automatically detect a peak sound and will continue recording. The other is the Level Align Function that is useful both when you are recording interviews, meetings, etc. or during a band rehearsal with many instruments involved. Since volumes of different people and instruments vary, the playback of the recorded audio can often be noisome and lacking in clarity. However, the level align feature minimizes this disruption by automatically adjusting the sound volume for playback.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Improved stereo condenser microphones able to handle high sound levels (up to 125 dB SPL)
• High-resolution and high-quality sound at a budget-friendly price.
• A host of useful features such as limiting, tuner, low-cut filtering, peak reduction, and more.
• Comes with a nice little tripod stand.

Cons

• Not ideal for front/unidirectional recording.
• Comparatively limited storage (up to 4GB).

If you want a tiny and convenient audio recorder at an easy price, this model from Sony is a good choice. The model records audio in Mp3 format at 128 kbps. This is not one of your pro models, but if you're looking for quick and easy audio recording without too much of a fuss, this model is ideal. For example, if you want to record lectures, meetings, interviews, band rehearsal sessions, etc. for future reference, you can easily rely on this audio recorder. The model comes with a built-in USB connector which means you can directly connect it to your laptop or PC and pretty much use it in the manner of a flash drive. Features like Auto Voice Recording and Clear Voice Technology are especially useful when you are recording somebody talking or singing. You also have the option to select from four pre-set 'scenes': dictation, interview, music and meeting.

Pros & cons

Pros

 • Battery life up to 57 hrs.
 • Extended storage up to 32 GB.
 • Clear audio output during interviews or 'one-to-one' situations.
 • Allows adding track marks.

Cons

 • If the battery dies during recording, all hitherto recorded audio files will get automatically deleted. So, one must make sure to transport the recorded files regularly.
 • The pre-set scene settings do not make too much of a difference in terms of quality and output during actual audio recording.

This dedicated pro model is geared towards someone looking for excellent quality audio recording solutions for DSLR video purposes. You'll also have to have your own mic collection as the model does not come with any in-built mic. You have options to use a 3.5mm stereo camera input and a 3.5mm stereo mic input via the model's two combo TRS/XLR inputs. The audio is primarily meant to be used on set where you want excellent quality smooth gain audio, something that your camera's in-built audio recording cannot quite provide. The model is also equipped with a 3.5mm camera output as well as a 3.5mm headphone output. When monitoring the sound quality, you have the option to switch between live feed from the microphones and the playback from the camera. You can mount the unit on a tripod, on the bottom of the camera and can also wear it with an optional harness.

Pros & cons

Pros

 • 5 different recording modes: mono, dual mono, stereo, dual stereo, and 4-channel.
 • Simultaneously records 4 tracks
 • Limiter and low cut filter providing distortion-free audio
 • Records BWAV or WAV audio up to 24-bit/96 Jz to SD card
 • All mic inputs equipped with phantom power
 • High quality HDAA Mic Preamps

Cons

 • The digital gain can sometimes be a bit too noisy for a high quality output
 • At 1.12 lbs, the unit may be too heavy for use with a number of common and popular DSLR models (such as Nikon D3100)

This model is ideal for someone looking for a low budget audio recorder that will still suffice for decent audio capture of podcasts, lectures, meetings, interviews, band rehearsal or choir sessions, etc. or for quick getting down of your own musical ideas. The model includes two built-in mics that will record audio in an Mp3 format at 32kbps. The noise reduction technology of the mics also enables you to capture relatively noise-free audio. Additionally, with its compact size, 16 GB built-in memory, high battery life, LCD screen and easy-to-operate buttons, this model, priced at a mere $33, offers great value for money. The recorder also comes with a powerful speaker which means you can use it both for recording music as well as for playback purposes and may also use it as a separate data storage device.

Pros & Cons

Pros

 • Equipped with Voice Activate Recording or VOR
 • Auto-off after 3 minutes for preserved battery life
 • Features like A-B repeat, easy drag-and-drop, time settings
 • Multi-functional, compact and convenient audio recorder for all casual audio recording situations

Cons

 • No replaceable battery
 • Not suggested for professional or semi-professional purposes

The compact body of Zoom H1 with its protective mic enclosures makes it a great choice to carry around for a number of different audio recording situations---location video shoots, band rehearsals and live concerts, putting down song ideas, recording meetings, lectures, interviews, podcast recordings and more. The two unidirectional built-in X/Y microphones (adjustable to a 90 degree angle to one another) do a great job of catching center line audio with high clarity and definition. In addition, the model offers the option to capture other kinds of audio signals via its 3.5mm selectable stereo line input. There is also an output mic with a powerful speaker that you can connect with your camera or other equipment to live monitor the quality of the audio capture.

Pros & cons

Pros

 • An onboard limiter that gives a decent quality distortion-free output.
 • Built-in sensitive mics can handle sound pressure levels up to 120 dB
 • Helpful features such A-B repeat, overdub are useful for playback and editing purposes.
 • Other features include self-timer, auto-record and pre-record
 • Runs on a single battery

Cons

 • External line output signal is not strong enough
 • Captures audio at a highest of 320 kbps, so not recommended for professional use.

The name Roland, primarily a manufacturer of music equipment, may sound a bit strange to some as appearing on this list. However, the brand has more than one high quality audio recorder in offing. The Roland R-05 is perhaps the most popular with the musicians as the model is primarily geared towards recording music situations. However, with the R-07, they have stepped it further and now we have a lightweight, compact and high resolution smart audio recorder suitable for pretty much all audio recording scenarios. Apart from its hi-res audio that you can record in multiple MP3 and WAV formats, the model incorporates a host of smart features that will be greatly useful, especially for today's smartphone-relying, on-the-go generation! For a starter, you can monitor the model wirelessly via your smartwatch or smartphone. You may also readily listen to your recordings with a wireless headphone using the Qualcomm aptX playback.

Pros & cons

Pros

 • Enhanced streaming facilities using the latest Bluetooth technology
 • One-touch Scene Select function. Once you select a scene, all other factors will automatically adjust to the optimal settings for that particular 'Scene'
 • Dual recording mode
 • HQ recording in an altogether wireless setting

Cons

 • Longer boot time
 • Those switching from R-05 to this model may experience initial difficulties due to the complicated functions of the model.

This one is specifically designed for musicians, both professional as well as ones looking to hone their craft. For on-the-spot jotting down of song ideas, you'll hardly find a more convenient and efficient model than this one. This POCKETSTUDIO equipped with two built-in omnidirectional mics and Portastudio functionality allows you to record six audio tracks simultaneously. You can simply place it before your guitar or any other instrument and start recording without any further ado (no additional set up or anything). In addition, the dedicated knobs for each function make the job easier and quicker than if you were to dig through menus for each adjustment.

Pros & cons

Pros

 • Two mic pres for external inputs including synthesizers, guitars, etc.
 • Undo/Redo functions for quick fixing of tracks
 • Compact ultra-light design
 • CD quality recording

Cons
 • Screen size is too small
 • It gets a bit too complicated when you transfer the tracks to your PC for mixing

Another low budget audio recorder that comes with built-in larger HD mics and that is able to deliver high quality performance even at this low price point. In this Aomago model, you can record audio at 1536 kbps---something unparalleled for recorders at this price range. There are also external input options for extended possibilities. The audio is recorded as WAV or MP3 files and with the use of headjacks, you can listen to the recording at the same time as something is recorded.

Pros & Cons

Pros
 • Battery life up to 35 hours
 • 8 GB storage
 • A-B repeat, auto recorder, voice monitor, voice activated recorder and a host of other useful and nifty features
 • 6-digit password protection

Cons

 • Plastic body that may not be too durable
 • Some users report extended buzzing during playback

This EVISTR model comes with pretty much the same functions as offered by the Aomago model discussed right above. However, this one comes in a sturdy metal body which may also explain the slight difference in price between the two. Both are popular models in this price range and enjoy highly positive user reviews on Amazon. The dynamic noise reduction technology of the present model helps in achieving decent quality audio output and you can record up to 300 hrs of audio with its 8GB storage.

Pros & cons

Pros

 • 15 hour of battery life
 • Records up to 40 feet
 • Option to delete files directly on the recorder
 • 3 recording settings: PCM (1536 kbps), HQ (128kbps) and long-time record (64 kbps)

Cons

 • Some features such as A-B repeat may not work properly after some time