Are you looking for a good smartphone microphone? Hopefully, this article will help you to find it. We’ve selected 14 great microphones that can be connected directly to a smartphone. It doesn’t matter whether you have an iOS or an Android device. The mics go well with all the devices that have a headset jack.
Below, you can see four categories of microphones: lavalier, video, condenser microphones for podcasts and music, and karaoke microphones. So, no matter what you need a mic for, we’ve got it all covered! Choose the category you need and find out the best options that are available today.
By the way, we have a collection of microphones that are suitable for Android specifically.
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Lavalier microphones
1. Rode Smart Lav+
Rode Smartlav is a very popular choice when it comes to microphones for smartphones. This miniature mic is able to produce high-quality audio in various conditions. If it is windy outside, you just have to put on a foam windshield that is by the way included in the package.
The microphone is omnidirectional which means that it picks up audio signals from all the sides. On the one hand, it is very convenient since it allows you to record everything that you hear. On the other hand, it is impossible to highlight a specific sound source. Lavalier mics are usually put close to a speaker, which is why it may not be so significant.
In order to make this thing work, all you’ll need is your smartphone device. No phantom power is required. Just download a good equalizer app and start recording! The sound quality is good. This is not the cheapest mic you can find but it is not professional hardware either. So if you want something average for recording videos, audio messages, and more, this is a great option for you!
Specifications:
- omnidirectional pick-up pattern;
- frequency range: 60Hz – 18kHz;
- maximum SPL: 110dB;
- output impedance: 3 ohms;
- sensitivity: -35dB (17.8mV @ 94dB SPL) ± 2dB 1V / Ra @ 1kHz;
- dimensions: 1180.00mm x 4.50mm x 4.50mm;
- headset output;
- comes with a mounting clip, a kevlar cable, and a foam windshield.
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2. PoP Voice Omnidirectional
One more omnidirectional lavalier for your phone. This is one of the cheapest options you can find today. For a little bit more than $10, you get a clip-on microphone, a cable, and a couple of foam windshields. Besides, you get a PC adapter which helps to connect the microphone to a PC or to a laptop. It is a very useful thing in case you intend to use the mic not just with your phone, but also with other devices.
The mic is compatible both with Android and iOS smartphones and tablets. It functions on the ‘plug and play’ principle, so basically, all you need to do is connect the mic to a device and that’s it. You can use your notes app to check whether the mic is working.
If you want to upgrade the game, you can download a special audio app. In sum, this is a budget device that is perfect for those who are not satisfied with their embedded smartphones’ microphones’ quality.
Specifications:
- omnidirectional polar pattern;
- 3.5 mm headset jack;
- 2m cable;
- a PC adapter included.
3. Purple Panda Lavalier Lapel Microphone Kit
One more advantage of the mic is that is has a 3-meter cable. You can really feel the freedom of movement with it. The ‘plug and play’ principle described earlier is attributable to Panda mic as well.
The shipping package includes a 3m extension cord, USB adapter, TRS adapter, windscreen, storage bag, and an extra clip – in case the first one breaks down. There is not much to say about sound quality – it is quite satisfactory. If you are on the budget, this is a great option to consider!
Specifications:
- omnidirectional polar pattern;
- 3.5 mm headset jack;
- 3m cable;
- all kinds of adapters included;
- compatible with smartphones, tablets, camcorders, GoPro, DSLR, laptops, PС.
4. Shure MVL Omnidirectional Condenser Lavalier Microphone
If you are fine with paying a little bit extra for a lavalier microphone, you can go for this Shure microphone. It costs more than the previous options on this list, but it provides you with a much better audio quality. More than that, this mic provides you with stereo audio which is quite rare in lavalier microphones.
The developers advise you to download the free MOTIV app for iOS. There is surely something similar for Android out there.
Perhaps, the most vivid advantage of this mic before other lavs is that it handles noises and plosives very well. The level of self-noise of this mic is minimal. Shure MVL is definitely worth a try.
Specifications:
- omnidirectional polar pattern;
- headset jack;
- compatible with phones and tablets;
- the package includes a fuzzy windshield, a cable, a clip, and a carrying bag.
Video microphones
5. Rode VideoMic Me Compact TRRS Cardioid Mini-Shotgun Microphone for Smartphones
Rode VideoMic is a shotgun microphone for smartphones. It is great for video-recording, interviews, self-recording, etc. The mic has a cardioid polar pattern which is great in case you want to capture what you’re saying and not the sounds that come from your environment.
This VideoMic was created specially for iPhone devices. However, it doesn’t mean you can’t use it with Android devices – just make sure your headphones jack and your camera are on the different sides of your phone – otherwise, you won’t be able to record ‘self-videos’ using this mic – they will all be damaged because the mic will be seen in them.
They ship this mic with a fuzzy windshield that is helpful in windy weather. All in all, if you want a compact mic that can considerably improve the quality of your videos, Rode VideoMic is exactly what you need.
Specifications:
- cardioid polar pattern;
- frequency range 100Hz – 20kHz;
- headset jack;
- mono output;
- weight: 34gm;
- dimensions: 38mm x 21mm x 80mm;
- sensitivity: -33.0dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (22.00mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1kHz;
- 140dB SPL
- comes with a furry windshield.
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6. Rode i-XY
Rode i-XY is a great microphone for iOS devices – iPhones and iPads. The microphone represents a couple of condenser capsules that can provide you with excellent stereo recordings.
The mic can be used for recording music, speech, interviews – whatever you like. There is a windshield in case you want to make recordings outside. Apart from the windshield, the shipping bag also includes a special case for the microphone. So, basically, you get everything you need.
Be careful – there are two different versions of this mic: 30-pin and lightning. 30-pin is only compatible with old iPhone versions, such as iPhone 4. If you’ve got a newer device, you have to buy the lightning option. It is considerably more expensive, but there’s nothing to do. On the other side, you always get what you’re paying for. This Rode mic is not junk. Its sound quality will amaze you, so definitely check it out!
Specifications:
- a pair of ½ inch cardioid condenser capsules;
- frequency range: 20Hz – 20kHz;
- 120dB SPL;
- sensitivity: -42.0dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (8.52mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1kHz;
- comes with a foam windshield and a storage case;
- weight: 40 gm;
- dimensions: 46.00mm x 55.00mm x 40.00mm.
7. Saramonic SmartMic
Saramonic SmartMic is another video mic compatible with all kinds of smartphones. First and foremost, it is compatible with iOS devices like iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch but it can be used with Android operating system as well. In order to use this mic with the fresh iOS devices, you’ll need to buy a lightning adapter. It is not included in the package so you’ll have to make a fuss about it. It is not that difficult though to find the right adapter.
What is included in the package then? Not much – just the microphone itself and wind protection. This can be explained by the fact that the price of this mic is a rock-bottom one. $25 for a directional mic with low self-noise is a very good price.
In sum, this is another great video mic that is attached directly to your smartphone. If you look for a microphone that can improve your videos’ sound quality, it might be the one!
Specifications:
- cardioid polar pattern;
- comes with a windscreen and a muff;
- frequency response: 35 Hz to 18 kHz;
- 74dB SPL;
- weight: 21g.
Condenser microphones for podcasts and music
8. Blue Microphones Blue Raspberry
Blue Raspberry microphone is a condenser cardioid microphone that is very compact. You can take it with you wherever you go. The mic is compatible with all kinds of devices – it goes well with smartphones, tablets, PC. Operating systems can be very different. To find out more about this, check out this mic on Amazon.
You can use Raspberry for making voiceovers, podcasts, recording videos, recording musical instruments, and more. The sound quality is great – much better than the one of your default microphones. Due to special Internal Acoustic Diffuser (IAD), room noise is being minimized, so that you could enjoy clear audio tracks without any distortions.
On the sides of the microphone, there are controls’ buttons that you can you in order to increase or decrease the volume. The microphone is sold together with two cables and a carrying case. All that you need in order to make this microphone work is included in the package. So, this is a very nice USB mic that you can use anywhere. It looks nice too, so definitely check it out.
Specifications:
- cardioid polar pattern;
- requires USB 2.0 or lightning connector for power;
- frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz;
- 120 dB SPL;
- weight with a stand: 272.3 g.
9. ZaxSound Condenser Microphone
If you are fascinated by the idea of having a mic that you can place in front of you, then this category of mics is definitely for you. The Blue microphone described above though is not too economical. If you are not in the mood of splashing out, you can take a look at this microphone – ZaxSound Condenser Microphone.
ZaxSound has a cardioid polar pattern. It can be used with phones, tablets, laptops, and PC. There are special adapters in the package that make it possible. Besides the adapters, the package includes a tripod, so you can place this mic on a table and start recording.
This is a cheap cardioid microphone. Its sound quality is far from perfect, however, it is certainly better than the mics incorporated in your mobile phone or in other devices. For beginners, this mic may turn out to be a great purchase! If you can invest more money though, do that. If not, consider buying this mic.
Specifications:
- cardioid polar pattern;
- high sensitivity – 34db;
- comes with a TRRS 3.5mm adapter for smartphones & USB adapter for PCs; tripod;
- 6 feet cable.
10. Apogee MIC PLUS USB Microphone
Apogee is an American company that produces mics in the USA. This particular model is compatible with all kinds of devices – iPhone, iPad, Android smartphones and tablets, PC, Mac, and others. The microphone is a condenser one with a cardioid capsule. Such mics are used for a number of different purposes – podcasting, interviews, recording vocals, recording musical instruments. For vocals though, it is better to acquire an XLR mic, however since we are talking about the mics for smartphones, this information is not of paramount importance.
What you need to know about Apogee Plus is that it is not that different from the Blue microphone on our list. It has its peculiarities but in general, the two models are more alike than different. This one doesn’t have a carrying bag so you’ll either need to buy that or treat the mic with extreme care. Apogee mics are not the most durable mics in the world.
If you need a good condenser mic that is compatible with all of your devices, don’t miss this option! It is great for making music, YouTube videos, and a lot more.
Specifications:
- cardioid polar pattern;
- lightning, USB (Type-A), USB (Type-C) cables are included;
- weight: 200 g;
- dimensions: 4.9″ (L) x 1.5″ (W) x 1.5″ (D).
11. Line 6 Sonic Port VX
Line 6 Sonic Port VX is not just a microphone. It is the whole system that allows musicians to record all kinds of musical instruments and vocals on the go. You can record both mono and stereo. There are different effects and regimes.
The system can be controlled by a special app that you can download on your device. All in all, if you are into recording music, check out this mic! It offers a range of possibilities.
Specifications:
- stereo and mono condenser mics with high-quality mic preamps;
- 24-bit/48kHz audio quality;
- 120dB high dynamic range guitar input;
- excellent compatibility with mobile devices, tablets, laptops, and more.
Karaoke microphones
12. BONAOK Wireless Bluetooth Karaoke
If you are looking for a mic to entertain yourself or your children, there can be nothing better for you than a karaoke microphone. This Bonaok microphone for karaoke is a colorful device that will beautify any party.
The mic is compatible with iPhone, iPad, Android devices. You can take it with you wherever you go. There are buttons on the side for regulating volume and other parameters.
It may not be suitable for recording or other serious stuff, but you can have lots of fun with this mic! Besides, it is not that expensive.
Specifications:
- works both through a cable and via Bluetooth;
- frequency range: 100Hz-10KHz;
- SPL >115dB 1khz THD<1%;
- battery capacity: 2200mAh/2600mAh
- requires DC 5V;
- the package includes two cables – USB and audio, and a black case.
13. Amicool Wireless Microphone Karaoke
Amicool Wireless Microphone is yet another bright karaoke microphone that may spice your party up a bit. The mic functions via Bluetooth, so it is compatible with all the devices that have Bluetooth.
You can both sing songs in a karaoke mode and record them. When you are recording something, make sure you have put an SD card is inside the mic. Of course, the mic is not the king of recording but it is always fun to listen to how a one is singing.
All in all, this is a toy mic that should not be taken too seriously. It is great for family gathering and parties and it is great for entertaining kids.
Specifications:
- frequency range: 100Hz-10KHz;
- SPL:>115dB 1KHz THD<1%;
- battery capacity: 2600mAh;
- charging voltage: DC 5V;
- working time: 5-8 H
- works via Bluetooth.
14. IK Multimedia iRig Voice Handheld Microphone for iOS and Android
If you want a karaoke mic but you don’t want it to look all festy, try this option. iRig Voice is for everyone who has got a passion for singing. If you want to, you can do lots of other stuff with this mic like, for example, recording musical instruments, however, what this microphone is especially good at is vocals. So if you are up for signing day and night your favorite songs, iRig is what you need!
The mic is compatible with iOS and Android devices. It comes in several colors, so you can choose the one that is really close to you. The sound quality of the device is awesome for a karaoke mic.
Specifications:
- cardioid polar pattern;
- frequency range: 100 Hz – 15 kHz;
- three-level sensitivity adjustment;
- iRig Recorder and AmpliTube Free for voice and musical instruments recording and processing.
F.A.Q.
Q: Do I need special software to use external microphones with a smartphone?
No, you don’t need special software to start to use a smartphone microphone. Most mics are ‘plug and play’, which means that you can simply plug the microphone in and start using it with any app that you have. The most common choice is a notes app. You can try recording an audio note in order to check whether the mic is functioning as it should.
Q: What cables are used to connect microphones to smartphones?
Most of the time simple audio cables are used in order to ensure sound transition. This is due to the fact that microphones for smartphones are usually built with the purpose to improve the recording quality of the device and not to turn the device into a home studio. However, there are different options.
Q: Do I need additional equipment?
Most of the smartphone microphones don’t require additional equipment such as phantom power sources or preamps, however, sometimes you’ll need to deal with adapters.
Conclusion
To end up with, we can say that nowadays there are all kinds of microphones that are compatible with smartphones. You can make music with your pocket monster, record podcasts and videos with high-quality sound. A good mic will considerably improve the recording quality of your smartphone, which is why it is so important to make the right choice!