The Best Microphones for iPhone
Table of Contents
Your Ultimate Guide to the Top Microphones for iPhone
Using your iPhone or digital camera is perhaps one of the easiest and most convenient ways to record any audio and video content nowadays. This all-in-one smartphone device is small, portable, and fits in your pocket, making it easy to record then and there!
However, while the latest models must have impressive features, the built-in microphone in general could still get a bit of help from an external mic to achieve studio-quality audio recording. With that said, here are our picks for the top microphones for iPhone.
Which Are the Top Microphones for iPhone?
Editor's Choice  Best Overall |  Best in Value |  Best in Noise-Cancelling |
Sennheiser MKE 200The Sennheiser MKE 200 is a straightforward professional super-cardioid condenser capsule microphone suited for recording entry-level vlogging to recording music and instruments. | PoP Voice Lavalier MicrophoneThe PoP Voice Lavalier Microphone is a clip-on omnidirectional mic that is versatile in applications and compatible devices yet affordable. | Shure MV88The Shure MV88 is a powerful plug-and-play stereo condenser mic that has superior noise-cancellation features. |
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Let’s Go Over Each Microphone for iPhone
#1. Sennheiser MKE 200
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If you’re looking for a suitable on-camera microphone that is portable, easy to use, can deliver professional audio quality for recording, and won’t break the bank, then the Sennheiser MKE 200 is the best iPhone microphone for you!
This top-notch directional shotgun mic is ideal for vloggers, videographers, and even musicians as it can record enhanced audio quality thanks to its super-cardioid capsule that is great at rejecting ambient noise while bringing clarity to your overall in-camera recording process. The super-cardioid polar pattern also helps with producing clear recordings.
Outdoor recording won’t be a problem if you use the Sennheiser MKE 200 as your iPhone microphone. Unlike the internal iPhone mic, the MKE 200 has integrated wind protection and an internal suspension mount so it’s great at handling noise be it direct or peripheral. This iPhone mic also comes with a furry windscreen to reduce wind noise and minimize distortion despite the lack of a shock mount.
Speaking of the outdoors, the Sennheiser MKE 200 on-camera shotgun mic is one of the iPhone microphones when it comes to portability. Measuring just 2.7 inches long and weighing 1.7 ounces, the compact and lightweight external microphones won’t be a hassle to bring along whenever and wherever.
While you can fit this iPhone mic inside your pocket, we recommend that you purchase a carry case for added protection.
Sennheiser keeps it convenient with the MKE 200 microphone as these external microphones for iPhone can also be used for other devices. The included 3.5mm TRS and TRRS coiled cables make the MKE 200 one of the external microphones in general as it can be used with Android devices, DSLRs, and mirrorless cameras.
The only downsides to the MKE 200 microphone are the lack of a lightning adaptor and a headphone jack. You may need to purchase a separate 3.5mm lighting attachment to connect it to your iPhone’s port and similarly, a headphone jack adaptor if needed.
Pros and Cons of the Sennheiser MKE 200
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Super-cardioid polar pattern ✔ Lightweight, small, and portable ✔ Built-in wind protection ✔ Has an internal suspension mount to minimize ambient sounds ✔ Great for outdoor recording ✔ No batteries needed ✔ Furry windscreen included ✔ Compatible microphone for iPhone, DSLR, mirrorless cameras, and other mobile devices | ✖️ Need to buy a separate lightning connector ✖️ No headphone jack |
#2. PoP Voice Lavalier Microphone
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If you’re a video journalist or content creator who tends to conduct interviews, then consider using the PoP Voice Lavalier Microphone. This top-notch lapel mic is one of the best mobile journalism or microphones for iOS devices as it is versatile for any audio recording and mighty yet affordable.
This plug-and-play powerhouse microphone can record music, speech, and much more. With an omnidirectional polar pattern, this small mic is mighty enough to record audio around the room just like full-sized omnidirectional microphones. To even help with rejecting background noise, this mic comes with a windscreen assuring you of enhanced audio quality.
Although you will need to purchase your lightning cable and connector to make it compatible with newer iPhone models, this Lavalier mic is perfectly compatible with other devices such as DSLRs and smartphones.
This best interview microphone for iPhone also comes with a 3mm TRS and a long cable that is 16ft in length, making it the perfect mic system to use if you plan on conducting interviews.
To maximize the use of lapel mics for iPhone recording or recording interviews, check out our guide on the best way to use a Lavalier mic.
Pros and Cons of the PoP Voice Lavalier Microphone
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Affordable ✔ Small footprint for grab and go recordings ✔ Lengthy cable ✔ Easy-to-use ✔ Comes with a windscreen, clip, and aux adapter | ✖️ Need to purchase a standard headphone jack converter to make it compatible with iOS devices |
#3. Shure MV88
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The Shure MV88 is one of the best microphones for iOS devices when it comes to noise-cancellation and recording audio on a professional level.
This cardioid mic comes with a built-in windscreen that is great at rejecting wind noise and other peripheral noises so you can achieve high-quality audio recording each time. It also comes with two modes: cardioid or bidirectional, which is convenient for when you need to switch depending on the environment and application.
Should you want to make use of both modes, then you can achieve stereo quality. This also allows the Shure MV88 to function as two mics as it can record audio from different directions at once.
Speaking of stereo-sounding quality, the Shure MV88 is compatible with the Shure Motiv app, which allows you to control volume adjustment, bass, digital signal processing, bit rate, sampling rate, mode switching, stereo width switch, and others that will help you control the stereo image as well as headphones monitoring. Such a feature is exceptionally convenient for on-the-go video recordings!
Another feature that makes the Shure MV88 one of the best microphones for iPhones and the most convenient mics for recording out there is its Apple MFi certification. This means that the Shure MV88 attachment can be connected to any Apple device and iOS device directly without the need for installations or applications.
No lightning cable, headphone converter, or headphone jack is needed as the Shure MV88 is a plug-and-play external microphone that plugs straight into your iPhone.
For maximum convenience and compatibility, the Shure MV88 also connects directly via USB. When you combine the USB C port, polar pattern, and characteristics of the Shure MV88, this makes it one of the best microphones for iOS devices currently out there.
Pros and Cons of the Shure MV88
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Excellent noise-canceling ability ✔ Microphone kit comes with carry case and black foam windscreen ✔ Travel-sized yet sturdy ✔ Can be plugged directly into any iOS device via lightning cable ✔ Can be tilted to 180 degrees and rotated 90 degrees ✔ Stereo width can be switched ✔ Works with the Shure MOTIV app | ✖️ No headphone jack ✖️ No shock mount |
#4. Apogee Hype Mic
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The Apogee Hype Mic is the first directional microphone on our list and is one of the best at what it can do.
This directional microphone can produce one of the best quality possible for an iPhone audio recording — one that can match a studio-quality sound. With a frequency response of 96 kHz / 24-bit and an A/D conversion, this Apogee mic can handle high sample rates and resolutions.
Despite it being a microphone for iOS devices, the Apogee Hype mic has a built-in analog compression and gain knob and will show input levels via the LED. You can even monitor your recording since it comes with a headphone jack.
While it is on the pricier side, the Apogee Hype wireless system comes with accessories that make it worth it. It has a travel case, tripod, pop filter, and various cables.
Pros and Cons of the Apogee Hype Mic
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Comes with multiple microphone accessories ✔ Has a built-in analog compression ✔ Extensive frequency response for an iPhone microphone | ✖️ Expensive |
#5. JOBY Wavo Plus Shotgun Mic
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With its innovative features and sleek design, it’s no wonder the JOBY Wavo Plus shotgun mic is considered the new benchmark in microphone technology. It utilizes Rycote Technology, ensuring crystal-clear audio capture even in noisy environments.
Its super-cardioid directional pattern focuses on your audio with precision, making sure your message comes through loud and clear.
This JOBY Wavo Plus seamlessly works with both phones and camera devices such as an iPhone, thanks to the inclusion of two audio cables. Whether you’re filming on your smartphone or DSLR, these microphones have you covered.
Plus, the Rycote Shockmount provides superior stability and flexibility, ensuring your audio remains pristine even during movement.
Despite its powerful performance, The JOBY Wavo weighs only 40g (1.40z), making it lightweight and portable for on-the-go use, making this a handy tool for content creators looking to elevate their live streaming or mobile journalism games such as conducting interviews.
Pros and Cons of the JOBY Wavo Plus
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Super-cardioid directional pattern and high-quality audio ✔️ Active noise reduction ✔️ 4-band parametric equalizer ✔️ Crisp audio adjustments | ✖️ Expensive |
Do iPhones Have Good Mic Quality?
Phones are known for their high-grade built-in microphones. The iPhone’s mic is generally excellent, providing enhanced audio quality for calls, video recording, voice memos, and mobile journalism. Apple continuously improves the microphone technology in their devices, resulting in reliable performance for various recordings.
However, like any device, the mic quality can vary slightly between different iPhone models, such as the bass, highs, and lows, but overall, iPhone mics are considered to have a professional sound.
What Microphone Works Best With an iPhone?
Choosing a suitable microphone for an iPhone recording will depend on several factors. Aside from the technicalities and specs of the microphone, you will need to account for the intended application, the environment you will be using the microphones in, your preference, and of course your budget.
As each microphone will have its pros and cons, you will need to conduct your due diligence and research on each. Hopefully, with this guide we wrote, we were able to help cut out some of the work for you in choosing the best mic for your iPhone.
What Is the Best Lavalier Microphone for iPhone?
There are several Lavalier microphones available for iPhones, each with its own set of features and price points. One popular choice is the Rode SmartLav+. This Rode mic offers excellent sound quality and compatibility with iPhones. This Rode mic kit also has a convenient design for clipping onto clothing.
Another suitable option is the Sennheiser ClipMic Digital, known for its clear sound and durable build. The Shure MV88 is a versatile option that plugs directly into the iPhone’s lightning port, providing professional-quality audio recording for various applications. Another option is the Hollyland Lark M2 mic kit that comes with two transmitters and a lightweight receiver that is discreet and can be charged in one case. The Lark M2 transmitters also have an operating time of 8 hours.
Ultimately, the best Lavalier microphones for iPhone depend on your specific needs, budget, and preferences. It’s essential to consider factors such as quality, compatibility, ease of use, and any additional aspects you may require when choosing the right microphone for your iPhone.
Can You Connect a Microphone Directly to an iPhone?
The newer iPhones use a USB-C port so if your mic has a USB-C cable, you can plug it directly. However, unless the external microphones you are using have a lightning converter that is fit for your iPhone model, then you will need external accessories before you can directly connect it to your phone.
The first method is via Lightning Adapter. Should your external microphones make use of the standard 3.5mm, then you will need a 3.5mm TRRS converter that can be connected to your iPhone port.
The second method is via headphone jack and such is the case if you own older iPhone devices. For this method, you will need to use a 3.5mm headphone jack. If your iPhone makes use of the traditional headphone socket, then you can connect the TRRS microphone directly.
Can I Change What Microphone My iPhone Uses?
For you to use a different microphone on your iPhone aside from the internal or built-in one, you will need to make sure that the settings of your iPhone have the external microphone as the default input device.
For iPhone units with iOS 10 or earlier, you will have to do the following steps:
- Open and access settings
- Go to General
- Select Accessibility
- Turn on Assistive Touch
- Press the Home button to open the Assistive Touch menu
- Select Device and open Microphone
- Find the name of the microphone model you are using and set it as the default input device
For iPhone devices with iOS 11 and above, you will have to do the following steps:
- Open Control Center
- Press the volume button until you see an orange bar
- Drag the bar to either the left or right to adjust the desired settings
Can You Record From an iPhone with an External Microphone?
Yes, iPhone users can record using an external microphone for more fine-tuned and professional audio. Depending on the intended application and preference, one can have a variety of microphone types to choose from as the iPhone’s external microphone.
Do Bluetooth or Wireless Microphones Work with iPhones?
Bluetooth or wireless microphones can also be paired with iPhones. These are top-notch choices if you want the best wireless mic while still giving you ample range.
One of the top-rated Bluetooth microphones for iPhone recordings is the MAYBESTA Wireless Microphone Set. This omnidirectional condenser wireless mic system is a favorite by many video journalists and YouTube content creators, especially if your intended application is for conducting interviews. Despite it being a lav mic, the MAYBESTA wireless mic kit is completely a wireless mic but can still be clipped onto the user. It can cover 50ft for signal and can run on 4.5 hours of recording time.
Bluetooth or wireless mics are a convenient choice for iPhone recordings if your smartphone’s battery tends to drain out quickly. Since the port will not be in use, your iPhone can be plugged in and left to charge while you continue with your recordings using a Bluetooth or wireless mic.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make my iPhone’s microphone sound better?
Achieving the best audio for iPhone recordings is more than purchasing the best external microphone in the market. There are certain tips and steps to follow that can help ensure that your microphone can perform at its very best so it can capture and produce premium sound recordings.
The first step is to make sure that the microphone is void of any objects that can block its sound path. Make sure that your fingers, palms, or any other objects will not muffle out the audio. The same thing goes for avoiding any objects on the table as the microphone can pick up clattering sounds and such.
The second step is to make sure that the microphone is pointed directly toward the sound source you would want it to record. The polar pattern of the microphone will also play a role here, which is why you must choose the right one and know the proper mic placement.
The third step is placing enough distance between the microphone and the sound source. This can help in avoiding the proximity effect or making the sound recordings sound muddy or boomy. Aside from this, placing the microphone too close to the sound source or speaker can result in noise and plosives from getting picked up.
The fourth step is to mute or turn your iPhone into airplane mode. This will help prevent any notifications from apps, messages, or incoming callings from disrupting an ongoing recording. Make sure that the vibrate mode is also turned off.
The fifth step is to change the settings in the sound quality of your iPhone to Lossless. The lossless audio will help your recordings be bumped up to high-grade files instead of getting compressed. iPhones with the latest iOS will carry these features, otherwise, you must have to install the latest iOS to enjoy this.
Lastly, enhance the recordings in the voices memos app so it can reduce any echoes and ambient sounds that may be picked up.
Is an iPhone microphone good for videos?
While the built-in iOS microphone works perfectly well, using external mics can further enhance and improve the overall quality of your footage and audio recordings.
Final Note
Although the iPhone itself has exceptional tech and a decent enough microphone, using an external mic can further upgrade and elevate the overall audio quality of both sound and video recordings.
If you want to invest in a more extensive mic setup, then check out guides on the best microphones for streaming, YouTube, interviews, and recording.
Editor’s Choice
Sennheiser MKE 200
The Sennheiser MKE 200 is one of the best external iPhone microphones due to its portability, versatility, and ability to produce quality recordings all at an affordable price.
With a super-cardioid polar pattern, audio equipment, and built-in features that help in rejecting unwanted background noise, the MKE 200 Mics will surely upgrade your iPhone recordings for YouTube videos and more.
Just like your iPhone and digital camera, the MKE 200 is portable and easy to carry around, making it one of the best microphones for iOS devices out there. Lightweight and compact, yet sturdy, the MKE 200 can easily be transported and is unobtrusive.
Although it does not come with a lightning connector for your device’s port, the MKE 200 is versatile enough to be used for various mobile devices, DSLRs, and mirrorless camera devices, making it a professional microphone fit for vloggers, filmmakers, video journalists, and more.
