This article provides a list of the best external microphones that are compatible with the iPhone.
The iPhone is a pretty amazing device, but sometimes its audio quality can be less than stellar, especially for those who like to record and edit voiceovers or recordings of live events.
Fortunately, there are many options for external microphones that can improve your iPhone’s audio quality significantly – even up to professional standards!
You can find USB microphones and wireless devices to choose from as well as some that attach to your camera or offer directional pickup options.
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Buying Guide
When choosing the right external microphone for your needs, consider what’s most important to you. For example, some users prefer the ease of a wireless option while others like the flexibility of being able to record and monitor their audio through headphones or other means. Some people may just want to improve the quality of their iPhone’s internal microphone without investing in a new device, so they are looking for an adapter or clip-on device.
If you’re in the market for a new microphone, here are some things to keep in mind:
What is your intended use? Do you want to record podcasts; make music; record live events; or make voiceovers and presentations? Your answers will help you decide whether you need a USB microphone, wireless device or something more specific like an XLR adapter.
5 Best External Microphones for iPhone
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1. Shure MV88 iOS Digital Stereo Condenser Microphone
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The Shure MV88 has a small footprint but is an amazingly versatile microphone that allows you to record anything, using any recording app of your choice. The MV88 is of the best external mic for iPhone because of its high-quality sound – it can even use advanced vocal processing software to adjust the EQ settings of the mic for enhanced clarity.
Pros:
- Good quality audio with free voice-processing software
- Can use on-board recording studio software with a USB connection, as well as many third party apps, including Final Cut Pro X.
- Aux input works with most iPhone Mixcraft DAWS and Garageband.
Cons:
- Only supports iOS devices with Lightning port; iPhone 5/5c/5s/6/6 Plus only (a cable is included for charging)
2. Comica CVM-VM10-K2 Smartphone Microphone with Tripod, Shotgun Video Mic for iPhone and Android Phone, Vlogging Kit for Youtube Recording Facebook Live
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This compact microphone offers a lot of functionality for its small size and makes a great accessory for just about any recording app on your iPhone. In addition to providing good audio quality, it also includes a tripod to help you position the mic appropriately depending on the type of recording you are doing. It even comes with an extension cable so you can remotely monitor your recordings if desired.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight
- Sturdy tripod included which folds into the included carrying bag when not in use.
- Comes with its own carrying case for easy storage.
Cons:
- Requires iOS 7 or newer to record audio through the mic. Works with most recording apps that support the new feature, including Garageband, iMovie, Final Cut Pro X and many others.
3. Shure MV51 Digital Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone + USB & Lightning Cable
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This is one of the best external microphones for iPhone, iPad and Mac because it can provide studio-quality audio wherever you are. It’s also easy to use, with a close proximity feature that automatically adjusts to provide optimal recording levels.
Pros:
- Excellent build quality and user experience. Solid feel with an all-metal design, adjustable tripod stand and a long cable for connecting to your device or Mac using the included USB cable.
- Attaches to iPhone via the Lightning port or directly to your device’s 3.5mm stereo headphone jack.
- Works on most iOS devices, including iPad, but is compatible with iPhone 4S/5/5c/5s/6/6 Plus only.
Cons:
- Stereo recording only available with iPhone 5s.
4. Shure MV7 XLR/USB Dynamic Podcasting Microphone (Black)
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This is one of the best external microphones for iPhone because it has high-quality XLR/USB connectivity, directional pickup options and powerful sound. It even comes with a flexible microphone clip so you can mount it to your phone or camera to make it easy to use when recording your voiceover. If you want to record podcasts or become a podcaster, this is also one of the best external mics for iPhone.
Pros:
- Can be used as a USB microphone for iOS devices or Mac, as well as a stereo mic for iPhone.
- Comes with its own USB cable and a two year warranty.
- Includes a 1/8″ mini-jack for connecting to your iPhone or iPad. Has an XLR connector for Mac or PC connection.
Cons:
- Requires Apple OS 10.9 or later to use as a USB microphone.
- It can still be used as an XLR mic for any iOS device, however, if you don’t have a newer device, you will need to purchase the Lightning to USB camera adapter separately in order to use with the MV7.
5. PowerDeWise – Lavalier Microphone for iPhone – Portable Clip-On Lav Mic – Vlogging TikTok YouTube
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This compact lavalier mic offers good sound quality and ideal for making voiceovers; YouTube vlogs; podcasts; and even Skype/FaceTime use. The adjustable clip is easy to use and the 18″ cable allows you to move around freely while recording. It also comes with an adapter (included) that works with either iOS devices or Mac – making it one of the best external mics for iPhone and iPad.
Pros:
- Comfortable, flexible clip – can be worn on your collar, shirt, braces or even in your hair!
- Includes two adapters so you can use with an Apple lightning port or 3.5 mm jack (compatible with most devices).
- Comes with its own carrying case for easy storage.
Cons:
- Isn’t compatible with all iPhone models, iOS versions or Macs. Works best on newer than iPhone 6/6 Plus users who use the adapter cable, but still works with all iOS devices and Macs. Does work on earlier devices if you use a lightning to 3.5 mm audio adapter cable.
6. Comica CVM-WS50(C) Wireless Lavalier Microphone with UHF 6 Channels, Built-in Rechargeable Battery, Wireless Lapel Microphone for iPhone Samsung Huawei,Smartphone Lav Mic for YouTube Vlog Recording
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The Comica Wireless Lav Microphone is one of the best external mics for iPhone because it’s easy to use and connects to your device via Bluetooth. You can just pop it in your pocket or clip it to your clothes, and then you’re ready to start recording! This is an excellent solution for anyone who needs a cordless microphone but doesn’t want to pull a wired microphone out every time they want to record.
Pros:
- Good range – up to 33 feet (with clear line of sight). Transmits through walls and floors if needed.
- Works with most recording apps on the iPhone. Does not work with most Macs or PCs at this time.
- Comes with its own stand and carrying case.
Cons:
- Doesn’t have an extended cable in case you want to put the mic on your belt or jacket instead of your clothes. Does work with a cable if needed. Just not included.
Conclusion:
The best external mics for iPhone are designed to help you record audio when you are away from your computer, phone or tablet. However, they are not substitutes for a good recording setup in any case. Here are a few tips to give you an idea about what things to look for in an external mic.
Make sure the mic has a mini-plug that works with your device or, if needed, it comes with an adapter that will work on either the lightning port or the 3.5 mm jack on the older iPhones.
Find a microphone that will work with your recording apps of choice, or the app that you are most likely to use.
Look for quality in the microphone and make sure that it will deliver clear audio without distortion.
Check the cables on the external mic, as they may get tangled easily if left out. Choose one that is designed to be compact and not prone to tangling or one with a built-in case for storage.
FAQ:
Q: What is the best external mic for iPhone?
A: Best overall: RØDE VideoMic Me-L Microphone Best value: PoP Voice Lavalier Microphone Best lavalier: PowerDeWise Lavalier Lapel Microphone Best for interviews: Shure MV88 Digital Microphone Most flexible: Movo VXR10 Universal Cardioid Condenser Video Microphone
Q: How to connect an external microphone to an iPhone?
A: – 3.5mm to 3.5mm TRRS adapter: RODE SC4 – 3.5mm TRRS to lightning adapter: Apple headphone adapter – XLR to 3.5mm TRS cable: MOBOREST XLR to 3.5mm Mic Cable – XLR to 3.5mm TRRS cable: Sennheiser KA 600i Cable – 3.5mm TRRS extension cable (8 ft): DuKabel – 3.5mm TRS extension cable (10 ft): UGREEN
Q: Can I hook up a microphone to my iPhone?
A: You can use a plug-and-play microphone compatible with iOS and plug it directly into your iPad or iPhone via a lightning-to-USB cable. One end enters the USB microphone, and the other end enters the lightning interface. The recently launched Rode NT USB and Apogee MiC 96k are the best iOS condenser microphones on the market.
Q: How do I Turn on the microphone on an iPhone?
A: Open the Settings app . Tap Privacy. Tap Microphone. You’ll see a list of all apps to which you’ve granted Microphone access. Toggle off any apps you’d like to stop from using the mic.