I don’t know what I would do if I did not have my iPhone.
Ever since smartphones were created, they helped people in so many ways.
They connected people through social media and have all the information you need with a press of a button.
Now, you can take a photo, capture and edit video clips, record audio, and even produce music with just your smartphone.
Imagine a supercomputer with a massive amount of computing power in the palm of your hand.
The iPhone is equipped with one of the most impressive microphones ever built on a smartphone.
I remember how clear the audio you can capture is even on the old iPhone 3gs.
The microphone got better with the newer generations.
It may sound like the bomb, but you can still improve the audio quality by investing in the best microphone for iPhone.
If you want to record videos with better audio, upgrading the microphone might be a good idea.
Because of the growing population of mobile music producers and filmmakers, microphone manufacturers are starting to take notice.
Nowadays, there are a lot of companies that develop microphones specifically designed for your iPhone or Android device.
In this article, I will list down the 12 best microphones for iPhone.
Some items on the list are exclusively for Apple devices.
If you are an Android user, you can still read it because there will be items compatible with your Android phone.
Let’s go ahead and dive into the list of the best microphones for your iPhone!
In a rush? Here is a quick rundown for you:
Alright, let’s get to the article now:
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#1 IK Multimedia iRig Mic Studio:
Best Overall
The iRig Mic Studio is one of the best, if not the best, microphone for your iPhone.
IK Multimedia has been making a lot of tools that you can use with your Apple devices.
They are the brains behind the iRig Pro HD and the original iRig audio interface.
The original iRig is used to connect your guitar to your phone and record your original guitar riffs.
Now, IK Multimedia has done it again and released one of the best iPhone condenser mics.
This device works well with your iPhone, Mac, PC, or Android devices.
The package will include all of the adapters you need to connect to whatever device you will be using it with, so you can instantly plug and play with the device right out the box.
This large-diaphragm condenser microphone for your iPhone captures professional-quality audio, which is excellent for musicians, vocalists, podcasters, live streamers, and everything else in between.
The iRig Mic Studio has onboard gain, and volume controls with a multicolor LED level indicator.
It has an integrated headphone jack, which you can use to monitor your vocals.
Since newer iPhones took out the headphone jack, having a built-in headphone jack is essential.
This small device has a massive sound.
This microphone features a 24-bit audiophile-grade analog to digital converter and a built-in preamp all in its small one-inch capsule.
Overall, it is a well-designed portable microphone that you can use in almost any situation anytime and anywhere.
Key Features:
- Built-in preamp
- Onboard gain and volume control
- Multicolor LED indicator
- Small size with a massive sound
- Package includes lightning, USB, and OTG cables
- Integrated headphone output
- Includes portable tripod
#2 IK Multimedia iRig Mic Cast 2:
Best Portable Mic for iPhone
If you are looking for something smaller and more budget-friendly, you can opt for the iRig Mic Cast 2 by, you guessed it, IK Multimedia.
This tiny microphone works with your iPhone, iPad, and Android device.
This mic, believe it or not, has three selectable polar patterns.
You can switch between a cardioid, bi-directional, or omnidirectional polar pattern, making it a versatile mobile microphone.
It has a headphone output that allows you to monitor the signal, and it has Snap-On magnetic mounting for easy microphone positioning.
In terms of sound quality, this mic can capture crystal clear audio with no background interference.
The iRig Mic Cast 2 does a fantastic job of producing quiet recording and canceling out unnecessary noise in the background.
This device is perfect for your Facebook or Instagram live streams.
It also works for your Zoom meetings, and Facetime calls.
It also works great for musicians who want to record or stream live performances with an upgraded mic.
Because of its built-in headphone jack, it works well with newer iPhones.
Key Features:
- Selectable polar patterns
- Portable
- Affordable
- Clear recordings
- Reduces background noise
- Works with any photo and video app
- Compatible with iPhone apps such as GarageBand
- Works with iPad, iPhone, and Android devices
#3 IK Multimedia iRig Mic Handheld:
Best Handheld Mic for iPhone
If you want to bust out live performances using your iPhone or Android device, make sure you check out the IK Multimedia iRig Mic Handheld.
This handheld microphone works great and produces a clear and powerful sound that is ideal for live performances.
Because of its handheld design, it will make you feel as if you are on stage.
Whether you are recording a vocal performance, doing an interview, or anything else in between, this mic is your best handheld microphone choice.
This microphone may look like a dynamic mic, but it is actually a unidirectional capsule condenser microphone.
It works with your favorite streaming and recording apps.
It has a built-in headphone jack for better monitoring, and it is built with a durable metal case.
The package will include a mic clip and a travel pouch so you can take this mic on the road, and anywhere you go.
The iRig Mic Handheld is ideal for vocalists and musicians who need a mic for recording acoustic or electric instruments.
It is easy to set up and easy to operate, making it suitable for people new to iPhone filming or music production.
Key Features:
- Versatile
- 100Hz to 15kHz frequency response
- Built-in headphone jack
- Durable metal housing
- Affordable
#4 PoP Voice Professional Lavalier Microphone:
Best Budget Mic
If you are looking for a budget option that will provide you with quality without breaking bank, the PoP voice Professional Lavalier Lapel Mic might be the mic for you.
It is an omnidirectional condenser microphone that can suit your needs for your video projects.
It may not be as good as high-end brands, but it is decent enough for casual work and small projects.
Overall, this microphone is portable and easy to use.
Key Features:
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- Omnidirectional pattern
- 79-inch long cord
#5 Comica Smartphone Video Kit:
Best for Film Makers
If you are looking for a good microphone kit that includes a tripod for steady filming, the Comic Smartphone Video Kit might be the mic you need.
It comes with all the accessories to get you going and turns your iPhone into a full-blown filming station.
The Comica mic is a cardioid dynamic microphone, and it works well with close up shots. It is excellent for creating vlogs and streaming.
Key Features:
- Great for streaming and broadcasting
- Comes with a lot of essential accessories
- Works with almost any smartphone
- 5mm headphone jack
#6 Shure MV51:
Best for Streaming and Podcasting
The Shure MV51 delivers fantastic audio quality.
If you want to sound like a pro filmmaker or content creator, the Shure MV51 will make an excellent choice.
It comes with five presets that you can switch depending on the purpose.
It comes with easy-to-use controls such as level knobs, a gain knob, and a mute button.
Because of its microphone quality, expect to get the best results with the Shure MV51.
Key Features:
- Integrated kickstand
- Comes with adapters to work with any device
- Quality build
- Sports a vintage design
#7 IK Multimedia iRig Mic Lav:
Best Lavalier Mic for iPhone
The IK Multimedia iRig Mic Lav is excellent for filming outdoors and for filming long-distance shots.
It is an inexpensive, but fully capable mic choice for your iPhone or Android device.
It is an omnidirectional microphone that includes a headphone jack for effortless monitoring, and an extra-long 66-inch cable.
This microphone works with hundreds of apps for streaming, video conferencing, and many more.
Key Features:
- Headphone jacks
- Affordable
- Extra-long 66-inch cable
- Omnidirectional polar pattern.
#8 Comica CVM-WS50 Wireless:
Best Wireless Option
If you want to ditch the wires, you can opt for the Comica CVM-WS50 wireless lavalier mic.
This mic works seamlessly with any mobile device.
It works with 8 different channels and reaches a wireless range of 194 feet.
One of the best features of this microphone is the LCD screen that will display useful diagnostics and information you will need, such as audio status and connection.
This microphone comes with all the accessories you need to start capturing videos such as a tripod, adapters, transmitter, and receiver.
Plus, this microphone is one of the most affordable wireless lavalier mics for your iPhone.
Key Features:
- 6 channels
- Wireless works up to 194 feet
- Real-time monitoring
- Built-in metal holder.
#9 Shure MV88 iOS Stereo:
Best Condenser Microphone
The Shure MV88 iOS Stereo Condenser Microphone is an iPhone exclusive mic.
I would have chosen it to be on top, but there are certain aspects that I did not like so much, such as the direct lightning connection.
Although it does save you from the wires, my concern is what if it breaks.
The MV88 is a pocket recording microphone.
It comes in a small package but delivers with excellent sound quality, almost as good as a professional studio mic.
This condenser microphone has five different presets to choose from depending on the occasion.
You can either choose between the singing, speech, loud, flat, or instrument presets.
This iPhone mic is ideal because of its portability.
It truly fits the purpose of always being on-the-go.
You can take this mic and record anytime and anywhere; all you need to do is plug it into the lightning port and start recording.
A durable metal casing protects this microphone.
It allows the mic to withstand heavy-duty use and abuse on a daily basis.
The Shure brand is a brand that you can trust, especially when it comes to microphones.
Key Features:
- Easy to use
- Portable
- Excellent sound quality
- Works with iOS devices from the iPhone 5 to present
Other Microphone Choices
Here are other microphone choices for your iPhone that you might want to check out as well:
- #10 Comica CVM-WS50 Wireless Handheld Microphone System
- #11 Ploture MIC-)7 Universal Video Microphone
- #12 PowerDeWise Lavalier
iPhone Mic Buyer’s Guide:
Choose the Best Mic for your iPhone
Finding the right mic for your iPhone can be a little challenging.
It is always nice to have a little bit of information before browsing the internet for choices.
Of course, the specs and features are going to be advertised, but do you know what kind of specs and features you are looking for?
If you don’t, you can read this microphone buying guide to make sure you are looking for the microphone you need for your iPhone.
You do not want to end up buying something that you are not going to use.
It would be a waste of time and a waste of money.
Purpose
What is your purpose for buying a microphone for your iPhone?
Before looking for a microphone, you will need to determine the purpose first.
Some of the mics on the list work for most purposes, but knowing each mic type’s specific purpose will help in selecting the right one.
- Streaming
If you need a mic for streaming, make sure you pick up a stationary mic with a stand.
You want to be able to do something else with your hands while speaking.
For example, if you are making an unboxing video, you want a mic with a stand.
- Podcasting
For podcasting, you would also need a stationary mic or lavalier mic.
If you will be inviting guests, an omnidirectional mic would capture sound from every direction.
- Video Conference
For video conferences and internet calls, a clip-on mic would be your best bet.
It is more portable, and it would do the job in terms of audio quality.
- Filming
If you need a mic for filming movies with your iPhone, a wireless lavalier mic would be suitable for long-distance shots.
For close up shots, you could go for an omnidirectional stationary mic with a tripod for more stable audio and video.
- Music Production
For music production, particularly recording vocals, something like the Shure MV88 iOS or the iRig Mic Studio is ideal.
Because they are both large-diaphragm condenser mics, they can do an excellent job of capturing every dynamic of your vocals.
Make sure it is a condenser mic with a directional polar pattern to capture the voice and cancel out all the unnecessary background noise.
Features to Consider
Here are the main feature you should keep in mind when looking for the best mic for your iPhone:
- Polar Pattern
Do you need an omnidirectional mic or directional mic?
Directional mics are excellent for recording vocals.
It reduces background noise, restricting sound coming from different directions.
Omnidirectional mics, on the other hand, captures the sound coming from almost every direction.
It is an ideal mic for recording multiple sound sources at once.
- Frequency Response
The frequency response determines the frequency range a mic can pick up.
Let’s say you want to record bass; you want a low-frequency mic.
Moreover, a mid-range microphone is excellent for recording the human voice or guitar tracks.
- Bit Depth
The bit depth determines the amount of information each sample contains, meaning the higher the bit rate is equal to higher quality.
Most professional microphones measure up to 24-bit, but a 16-bit depth should do the trick.
- Portability
The size of the microphone you should get is up to you.
Some people prefer something smaller, primarily if it will be used with an iPhone.
- Sound Quality
Lastly, make sure the mic you purchase provides the best sound quality for your projects.
Most of the mics I listed above have outstanding sound quality, so there shouldn’t be any problems.
Related Questions:
- Can you use an XLR microphone for your iPhone?
Yes, you can use an XLR mic with your iPhone.
However, you will need an audio interface to connect the mic to your phone.
It can be tedious to use an XLR mic, so I suggest sticking with the convenient choice.
- Is the iPhone’s built-in mic any good?
The iPhone’s built-in mic is fantastic.
It is better than any other phone mics I came across.
Still, if you want to sound more professional, an upgrade is necessary.
The iPhone’s mic is good enough for casual content creators, but investing in quality shows that you are more dedicated to what you are doing.
Conclusion
Now that you read the list of the best microphones for iPhones, I hope you know which one to get.
Don’t think of buying a microphone for a smartphone is a waste of money.
Who knows?
It might be the way for you to gain more followers and monetize on your channel views or the videos you are creating.
Last update on 2021-07-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API