10 Best 3.5mm Microphones for Clear Audio Recording

3.5mm microphones are a popular choice for people who want to record audio on their smartphones, tablets, or laptops. They are small, portable, and easy to use, making them ideal for podcasters, vloggers, and musicians who want to capture high-quality sound on the go. In this article, we will be discussing the best 3.5mm microphones available on the market.

When purchasing a 3.5mm microphone, there are a few things to keep in mind. The first is the type of microphone you need. There are several types available, including condenser, dynamic, and ribbon microphones. Each type has its strengths and weaknesses, so it’s essential to choose the one that best fits your needs.

Another factor to consider is the microphone’s frequency response. This refers to the range of frequencies that the microphone can pick up. A microphone with a broader frequency response will capture more detail in the audio, while a narrower frequency response will focus on specific frequencies.

Finally, the build quality of the microphone is essential. A well-built microphone will last longer and provide better sound quality than a poorly made one. Look for microphones with sturdy metal construction and high-quality components for the best results.

In this article, we will be reviewing the top 3.5mm microphones on the market, taking into account factors such as microphone type, frequency response, and build quality. Whether you’re a podcaster, vlogger, or musician, we’ve got you covered with our top picks for the best 3.5mm microphones.

Best 3.5mm Microphones

If you’re looking for a high-quality microphone to use with your smartphone, tablet, or laptop, a 3.5mm microphone is a great choice. These compact and portable microphones are perfect for vloggers, podcasters, musicians, and anyone else who needs to capture clear and accurate audio on the go. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best 3.5mm microphones on the market, based on factors like sound quality, ease of use, and value for money. Whether you’re a professional or a beginner, you’re sure to find a microphone that meets your needs on our list.

Shure MVL Lavalier Microphone

The Shure MVL Lavalier Microphone is a great choice for those looking for a discreet, high-quality microphone for their mobile devices.

Pros

• The 1/8″ (3.5mm) TRRS connector allows for easy use with any mobile phone or tablet equipped with recording capabilities.
• The sleek, miniature housing makes for a discreet appearance onscreen.
• The microphone has a best-in-class signal-to-noise ratio, headroom, and maximum SPL.

Cons

• The microphone is only suitable for close-mic digital speech recording applications.
• The microphone is not suitable for singing or other audio recording applications.
• The microphone is relatively expensive compared to other mobile-device microphones.

The Shure MVL Lavalier Microphone is a great choice for those looking for a discreet, high-quality microphone for their mobile devices. The microphone is easy to use, with a 1/8″ (3.5mm) TRRS connector that allows for easy use with any mobile phone or tablet equipped with recording capabilities. The sleek, miniature housing makes for a discreet appearance onscreen, and the microphone has a best-in-class signal-to-noise ratio, headroom, and maximum SPL.

However, the microphone is only suitable for close-mic digital speech recording applications and is not suitable for singing or other audio recording applications. Additionally, the microphone is relatively expensive compared to other mobile-device microphones. Despite these drawbacks, the Shure MVL Lavalier Microphone is a great choice for those looking for a high-quality microphone for their mobile devices.

PALADOU 3.5MM PC Microphone

If you’re looking for an affordable and easy-to-use microphone for your PC, laptop, or smartphone, the PALADOU 3.5MM PC Microphone might be a good option.

Pros

• High sensitivity large condenser microphone element produces warm sound, rich audio.
• Plug & play 3.5mm jack makes it easy to use without any driver.
• 360-degree adjustable gooseneck allows for easy positioning.

Cons

• Audio sensitivity is only 50 dB, which might not be sufficient for some users.
• Some users have reported issues with the microphone not working properly.
• The microphone doesn’t come with an adapter cable for devices with one audio port.

The PALADOU 3.5MM PC Microphone is a versatile microphone that can be used for a variety of applications, including conference calls, YouTube videos, Facebook Live, MSN, Skype chatting and singing, speech and instrument recording. It features a high sensitivity large condenser microphone element that produces warm sound and rich audio.

One of the best things about this microphone is its plug & play 3.5mm jack, which makes it easy to use without any driver. The microphone also comes equipped with a 360-degree adjustable gooseneck, which allows for easy positioning and setting suitable angles as per the user’s comfort level.

However, the audio sensitivity of the microphone is only 50 dB, which might not be sufficient for some users. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the microphone not working properly. Lastly, the microphone doesn’t come with an adapter cable for devices with one audio port, which might be a hassle for some users.

Overall, the PALADOU 3.5MM PC Microphone is a decent option for those looking for an affordable and easy-to-use microphone for their PC, laptop, or smartphone.

THXCO External Microphone Assembly

If you’re looking for an affordable external microphone assembly for your car radio head unit, the THXCO External Microphone Assembly is a solid choice.

Pros

• The omnidirectional electret condenser cartridge is highly sensitive and low impedance, which reduces noise and jamming.
• The microphone is compatible with most car radios with a 3.5mm mic input.
• The 3m cord length is long enough to reach from the dash to the driver’s side visor or steering wheel.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the microphone may need a boost in the stereo setting to work well.
• The microphone may not be compatible with all car radio models.
• The foam filter may need to be replaced periodically to maintain sound quality.

This external microphone assembly comes with a dash mount and visor clip for easy installation in your car. With fast and accurate data transmission, it guarantees clear and stable voice transmission under various driving conditions. While the THXCO External Microphone Assembly may not be the most high-end option on the market, it’s an affordable and reliable choice for those looking to upgrade their car audio system.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for an affordable and reliable external microphone assembly for your car radio head unit, the THXCO External Microphone Assembly is worth considering.

Hfuear USB Computer Microphone

If you are looking for a portable and easy-to-use USB microphone that provides clear sound quality, then the Hfuear USB Computer Microphone might be a great option.

Pros

• The omnidirectional pickup distance of 10 ft allows you to capture the most subtle sounds from 360° directions and transmit the sound more loud and clear.
• The microphone is constructed of sturdy and durable metal material, making it durable for years and the base is fitted with an anti-slip mat which keeps it stable on desktop during use.
• The USB conference microphone saves your time to debug devices. The USB microphone can be easily connected to your PC computer, Laptop, Notebook, etc., and compatible with both systems like Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10, Mac OS, etc.

Cons

• The microphone does not have a mute button.
• The microphone is not compatible with Raspberry Pi/Linux/Android.
• The cable length is only 78 inches (2 meters), which might not be long enough for some users.

The Hfuear USB Computer Microphone is a great option for those who need a portable and easy-to-use USB microphone for online chatting on Skype, online meeting, recording podcast, gaming, YouTube video, or streaming on Twitch. The microphone is constructed of sturdy and durable metal material, making it durable for years and the base is fitted with an anti-slip mat which keeps it stable on desktop during use. The omnidirectional pickup distance of 10 ft allows you to capture the most subtle sounds from 360° directions and transmit the sound more loud and clear. The USB conference microphone saves your time to debug devices. The USB microphone can be easily connected to your PC computer, Laptop, Notebook, etc., and compatible with both systems like Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10, Mac OS, etc. However, the microphone does not have a mute button, which might be inconvenient for some users. The microphone is not compatible with Raspberry Pi/Linux/Android. The cable length is only 78 inches (2 meters), which might not be long enough for some users.

Movo 2-Pack Universal XLR Condenser Microphone Podcasting Equipment Bundle for 2

If you’re looking for an affordable podcast equipment bundle for two, the Movo 2-Pack Universal XLR Condenser Microphone Podcasting Equipment Bundle for 2 might be a great fit for you.

Pros

• Comes with all the necessary accessories
• Records broadcast-quality sound
• 1-year warranty

Cons

• Requires +48V Phantom Power to operate
• Sound quality isn’t perfect
• You have to sit pretty close to them to grab your audio

This bundle comes with everything you need to start recording podcasts, music, livestreams, and YouTube videos. The solid steel desktop mic stand can be adjusted to the perfect height, and the PF-6 pop filter with dual-layer mesh removes noise twice as effectively as standard filters.

The versatile cardioid condenser microphone records 48kHz/16 bit broadcast-quality sound resolution with no latency, and features a powerful frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz. However, keep in mind that these microphones require +48V Phantom Power to operate.

Overall, the Movo 2-Pack Universal XLR Condenser Microphone Podcasting Equipment Bundle for 2 is a great option for those who want to start podcasting without breaking the bank.

Movo Universal Cardioid Condenser Microphone Kit

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly microphone kit for your home studio, the Movo Universal Cardioid Condenser Microphone Kit is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Versatile cardioid condenser microphone records 48kHz/16 bit broadcast quality sound resolution with no latency.
• Comes with a shock mount, windscreen, table mount microphone stand, and dual-layer pop filter.
• Desk mic mount clamps directly to table, essential to any home studio setup for recording music, YouTube, gaming, podcast, streaming and more.

Cons

• These microphones require +48V Phantom Power to operate.
• The connections and cables they come with are cheap, which gives off a buzz frequently.
• The sound quality is not the greatest and some editing is necessary after recording.

The Movo Universal Cardioid Condenser Microphone Kit is a great option for those who are just starting out with podcasting or streaming and don’t want to break the bank. The kit comes with everything you need to get started, including a shock mount, windscreen, table mount microphone stand, and dual-layer pop filter. The desk mic mount clamps directly to your table, making it an essential tool for any home studio setup.

The cardioid condenser microphone records 48kHz/16 bit broadcast quality sound resolution with no latency, ensuring that your recordings sound professional. However, it’s important to note that these microphones require +48V Phantom Power to operate, so make sure that your setup can accommodate this.

One downside to this kit is that the connections and cables they come with are cheap, which can give off a buzz frequently. Additionally, the sound quality is not the greatest and some editing is necessary after recording. Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable microphone kit to get started with podcasting or streaming, the Movo Universal Cardioid Condenser Microphone Kit is definitely worth considering.

TZ Stellar X2 Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser XLR Microphone

The TZ Stellar X2 Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser XLR Microphone is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality microphone that delivers a smooth and balanced sound.

Pros

• The microphone is carefully tuned to produce a sound that is very smooth and easily sits in any mix, without the harshness of low-cost condenser microphones.
• The high-grade brass and Japanese imported mylar used in the capsule makes it able to reproduce subtle sounds, making it perfect for a variety of sources.
• The custom transformerless JFET circuit is made with German capacitors and components with a tolerance as low as 1%, ensuring great performance without distortion, and a noise floor of less than 13dBA.

Cons

• To connect to a computer, a proper USB audio interface that can supply 48V and an XLR to XLR cable is required.
• Some users have reported counterfeit products on the market, so it’s important to purchase from a reputable seller.
• The included shock mount is not overly sturdy and may need to be upgraded for some users.

The TZ Stellar X2 Large Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser XLR Microphone is a reliable and high-quality microphone that is perfect for recording vocals and instruments. Its carefully tuned sound and high-quality components make it a great choice for anyone looking for a microphone that delivers a smooth and balanced sound. However, users should be aware that a proper USB audio interface and XLR to XLR cable are required to connect to a computer, and that counterfeit products may be on the market. Overall, the TZ Stellar X2 is a great investment for anyone looking for a high-quality microphone.

ZHENREN Professional Studio Condenser Microphone

If you are looking for a budget-friendly 3.5mm microphone for podcasting, streaming, or recording, the ZHENREN Professional Studio Condenser Microphone is a great option.

Pros

• Professional sound chipset for crystal clear recordings
• Plug and play compatibility with most operating systems
• Cardioid polar pattern for clear sound reproduction

Cons

• May require a sound adapter for devices without a 3.5mm mic function jack
• Some users have reported sensitivity issues with the microphone
• Included accessories may not be of the highest quality

The ZHENREN microphone features a professional sound chipset that provides high resolution sampling rate and a wide frequency response for superb sound reproduction quality. It is easy to use with plug and play compatibility with most operating systems, and the cardioid polar pattern eliminates background noise for clear and rich recordings. However, some users have reported sensitivity issues with the microphone, and it may require a sound adapter for devices without a 3.5mm mic function jack. Additionally, while the included accessories are convenient, they may not be of the highest quality. Overall, the ZHENREN Professional Studio Condenser Microphone is a budget-friendly option that provides good value for the price.

LOOYUAN Condenser Recording Microphone

If you’re looking for an affordable microphone that’s easy to use and delivers decent sound quality, the LOOYUAN Condenser Recording Microphone is worth considering.

Pros

• Easy to use with 3.5mm plug and play compatibility
• Works with a variety of devices, including PC, laptop, and smartphone
• Dual-layer filter helps improve vocal recording quality

Cons

• May pick up background noise
• Installation instructions could be clearer
• Not compatible with iPhone 7

This mini condenser microphone is designed for recording, podcasting, gaming, and more. It features a unidirectional polar pattern that minimizes background noise and captures sound from sources directly in front of the mic. The microphone comes with a foldable and adjustable tripod that you can fix on your desk, making it perfect for travel use.

While the LOOYUAN microphone is easy to use, some users have reported difficulties with installation. The included instructions could be clearer, and it may take some time to get the mic set up properly. Additionally, the microphone may pick up background noise, which can be a problem if you’re recording in a noisy environment.

Overall, the LOOYUAN Condenser Recording Microphone is a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable microphone that’s easy to use and delivers decent sound quality.

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Buying Guide

When choosing a 3.5mm microphone, there are several factors to consider to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some features to look for when making your decision:

Compatibility

The first thing to check is whether the microphone is compatible with your device. Not all microphones work with all devices, so make sure to check the compatibility before making a purchase. Some microphones are designed specifically for certain devices, while others are more versatile and can be used with a range of devices.

Sound Quality

The sound quality of the microphone is another important consideration. Look for a microphone that produces clear and crisp audio with minimal background noise. A microphone with a high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is ideal for capturing high-quality audio.

Directionality

The directionality of the microphone refers to the way in which it picks up sound. Some microphones are omnidirectional, meaning they pick up sound from all directions, while others are unidirectional, meaning they only pick up sound from a specific direction. Choose a microphone with the appropriate directionality for your needs.

Portability

If you plan to use your microphone on the go, portability is an important factor to consider. Look for a microphone that is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around with you.

Accessories

Finally, consider any additional accessories that come with the microphone. Some microphones come with a stand or mount, while others include a windscreen or pop filter to reduce unwanted noise. Make sure to consider these accessories when making your decision.

Aaron Smith

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.