Are you looking for a high-quality mobile microphone to record audio on your smartphone? In 2024, having the best mobile microphones can make all the difference in sound quality. Explore the best ones in detail from this comprehensive article.
Whether you’re an aspiring vlogger, an experienced podcaster, or just want better-sounding recordings from your phone, this guide is here to help you find the perfect fit. We will review 8 of the top-rated microphones available in 2024 – wired and wireless options featuring different types and models.
Not only that, but we’ll also share some tips and tricks so you can get the best out of your new mic! Get ready – it’s time to step up your audio game with “The Best Mobile Microphones For 2024”.
Content Highlights
- Lavalier mics such as the Rode Lavalier II and Sennheiser XS are small yet powerful recording solutions for interviews or vlogging.
- Shotgun mics like the Sennheiser MKE 400 (2nd gen) or Rode VideoMic GO II are suitable for capturing audio in noisy environments.
- Desktop and USB mics, including Apogee HypeMic or Samson Q2U, provide great sound quality for studio use and podcasting.
- Wireless systems like Hollyland Lark C1 Compact Wireless Microphone System or Shure MV88 Portable iOS Microphone offer convenience during live streaming events.
Best Mobile Microphones for 2024- At a Glance
Look at the following table to learn about the best mobile microphones.
|
Category |
Top Picks |
Key Features |
|
Lavalier Mics |
Rode Lavalier II, Sennheiser XS |
Small and discreet, clip-on design; crisp, clear audio quality |
|
Shotgun Mics |
Sennheiser MKE 400, Rode VideoMic GO II, Shure MV88+ |
Highly directional for noise rejection; lightweight and portable |
|
Desktop/USB Mics |
Apogee HypeMic, Samson Q2U, Tula, iRig Pre 2 |
Studio-quality sound; connectivity for computers/mobile devices |
|
Wireless Mics |
Hollyland Lark C1, Shure MV88, Sennheiser Memory Mic |
Convenient wireless pairing; direct mobile device connectivity |
|
Budget Mics |
Hollyland Lark M1, Rode SmartLav+, Movo PM10 |
Affordable prices under $100; good basic audio quality |
|
Best USB Mics |
Blue Yeti, Amazon Basics Mini, Shure MV5 |
Versatile recording; easy plug-and-play USB connectivity |
Best Mobile Microphones in Detail
Here are the best mobile microphones for you. You’ll get many options out there, but we’ve chosen the best to make your selection task more manageable.
Lavalier Mics
Make your miking up easy, and don’t compromise on quality with these small but powerful recording options, such as the Rode Lavalier II or Sennheiser XS.
[Video Credits @Br8 Future]
1. Rode Lavalier II
The Rode Lavalier II is a broadcast-quality Lavalier microphone offering crisp and natural audio in any application. It has a low-profile design, featuring a sleek aesthetic for discreet usage, and comes at an appropriate mid-range price of $99.
The Lavalier II can easily clip onto clothing such as blouses or jackets, making it the perfect equipment for recording interviews or vlogging content for users across all platforms.
This mic offers excellent sound quality with its variable polar pattern, delivering clear audio in any environment thanks to its ultra-efficient nontangle cabling system and its water-resistant construction, ensuring this microphone will last through different scenarios, making it an ideal choice for 2024! In addition, you can also read an article on- The 5 Best Microphones for Twitch Streamers
2. Sennheiser XS
The Sennheiser XS (USB-C) lav mic is an excellent choice for mobile audio recordings. The device features an omnidirectional clip-on microphone, which ensures that sound capture remains of high quality.
Additionally, the plug-and-play feature makes it incredibly easy to use, as no extra setup is required. This Lavalier microphone is designed specifically to enhance dialogue recordings on mobile devices and laptops – its low-handling noise design optimizes the quality and clarity of these types of applications.
With a price tag of only $60, this mic offers excellent value for money, given its exceptional sound capture capabilities and versatile usability with many different types of devices and software platforms on the market today.
Shotgun Mics
Commonly used for capturing audio in noisy environments, top choices include the Sennheiser MKE 400 (2nd gen), Rode VideoMic GO II, and Shure MV88+.
[Video Credit: @Camera Insider]
3. Sennheiser MKE 400 (2nd gen)
The Sennheiser MKE 400 is the perfect mobile microphone for 2024, helping capture audio with both cameras and smartphones. Sound quality is improved massively with a highly directional recording pattern that helps reject unwanted background noise.
While it can come at quite a price forward (at $199.95), it’s still one of the best shotgun mics available for capturing high-quality video and music content – perfect for professionals and hobbyists alike!
4. Rode VideoMic GO II
The Rode VideoMic GO II is a lightweight directional microphone that brings broadcast-quality audio to mobile video production. This compact shotgun mic helps users capture clean, detailed sound on the go – even in noisy environments.
Weighing just 89 grams, this ultra-portable device makes convenience an essential part of your setup without compromising quality. It also requires no batteries or complicated switching controls– perfect for quick shooting sessions and vlogging with your smartphone or camera.
The Rode VideoMic GO II utilizes a custom-designed capsule to produce high-fidelity audio recordings with natural depth and clarity – making it one of the best budget choices available today for creating professional videos on the move. Additionally, you can also read about- Action Camera Microphone Attachment: We Got the Best Options!
5. Shure MV88+
The Shure MV88+ Video Kit is designed for mobile recording and comes with all the necessary accessories to connect directly to your phone. It features a stereo condenser microphone compatible with Apple devices, connecting via a Lightning connector – allowing you to start recording instantly.
Part of Shure’s MOTIV line of mics, the MV88+ also offers superior audio quality compared to most other iPhone microphones. The kit includes interchangeable mic capsules for different applications and iOS apps and editor tools to develop, mix, and customize recordings perfectly tailored to your needs.
Ultimately, this makes it an exceptional choice for any severe iPhoneographer looking for excellent audio capture on the go!
Desktop and USB Mics
These mics offer high-quality audio recording and are ideal for studio or desktop performance applications. Popular models include the Apogee HypeMic, Samson Q2U, Tula, and IK Multimedia iRig Pre 2.
6. Apogee HypeMic
The Apogee HypeMic is the perfect solution for on-the-go recording. It is a studio-grade USB microphone that delivers high-quality recordings wherever you are. Priced at $349, it keeps up with the competition in quality without breaking your wallet.
Reimagined from the classic Apogee MiC Plus, this newer version amps up its features to provide even more advantages for mobile recording. That includes a built-in analog compressor, allowing you to make radio-ready recordings straight from your phone or laptop without needing additional equipment or plugins.
The sound quality is unparalleled thanks to the 24bit/96kHz sample rate and ultra-low noise preamp – ensuring that every nuance of your voice or instrument is accurately captured in sparkling detail.
7. Samson Q2U
The Samson Q2U is a versatile microphone that offers great sound quality at an affordable cost. It can be connected to any device with its USB and XLR connectivity, making it ideal for all types of use, including Garageband users and podcasters.
The mic is praised for its performance level comparable to higher-priced microphones, yet comes in at a reasonable price range. Thanks to the simple setup process and easy maneuverability, using this microphone requires minimal effort while still delivering satisfying results – so you won’t have to break the bank on expensive equipment just for good sound quality.
8. Tula
The Tula mic is a professional-grade USB-C microphone and mobile recorder fitted with the latest noise-reduction technology. It’s compatible with a wide range of devices, including phones, tablets, PCs, and more.
Its foldable design makes it easy to transport and store away for when you’re done using it. This studio-quality mic has an impressive 12 hours of record time thanks to its built-in battery and memory functions.
With its reliable performance that helps reduce white noise in recordings, quick setup process, and sleek design, the Tula mic is well suited for both indoor & outdoor recording uses as a great way to amplify your voice or capture sound on the go without sacrificing quality or performance.
9. IK Multimedia iRig Pre 2
The IK Multimedia iRig Pre 2 is the perfect microphone choice for anyone looking to record audio on their mobile devices. It’s compatible with iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, and Android devices thanks to its 1/8″ / 3.5mm jack standard headset input that allows you to connect it directly to your device.
The iRig Pre 2 meets the CTIA/AHJ standards and has all the features that make it one of the best mobile microphones for 2024, such as a selectable 24-bit 32-48 kHz sampling rate, high dynamic range mic preamplifier, integrated LED signal indicator status light and a headphone out plus volume control knob so you can monitor what’s being recorded without ever having to take off headphones or earbuds from your ears.
A standout feature of this microphone is its portability – great for traveling around towns since it pretty much fits in any pocket size – while still providing professional quality recordings via XLR equipment connection if desired from time to time nonetheless.
You May Find Interest: The Ultimate Video Wireless Mic in 2023 That Facilitates Your Shooting Experience
Wireless Mics
Check out the Hollyland Lark C1 Compact Wireless Microphone System, the Shure MV88 Portable iOS Microphone, the Sennheiser Memory Mic Wireless Microphone, Comica’s CVM-WS50(C) Wireless Smartphone Lavalier Microphone System, and Movo’s WMX-1-DUO Dual Wireless Lavalier Microphone System for convenient and wireless recording.
10. Hollyland Lark C1 Compact Wireless Microphone System
The Hollyland Lark C1 Compact Wireless Microphone System allows for direct connection and recording to your mobile device. It is designed specifically for Android or iOS handheld devices and takes minimal setup before plugging in and using it.
The system features a sleek, lightweight design that easily fits onto the device without blocking peripheral vision. It also comes with powerful noise-canceling technology, ensuring that external sounds are minimized and only quality audio recordings are made.
Furthermore, its dual lavalier microphones offer improved stereo amplifications for increased professional sound quality when capturing conversations or performances on the go.
11. Shure MV88 Portable iOS Microphone
The Shure MV88 Portable iOS Microphone is the perfect choice for mobile audio and video recording on the go. Designed specifically for use with Apple’s iOS devices, it connects directly to your device via a Lightning connector for convenient audio capture.
It features an adjustable frequency response in Real-time EQ for enhanced audio manipulation capability and professional-grade sound quality when used with compatible headphones, headsets, or interfaces.
Often sold as part of a vlogging kit, the Shure MV88 includes such helpful components as a tripod and phone grip and can even be used with Android phones using modular cables.
12. Sennheiser Memory Mic Wireless Microphone
The Sennheiser Memory Mic is the perfect companion for your smartphone with its ability to capture professional audio while on the go! This unobtrusive wireless microphone pairs with smartphones and tablets via Bluetooth, providing reliable sound capture from up to 10 meters away.
It also features built-in storage that allows for up to 4 hours of recording- giving you more freedom than ever before! Plus, the high-quality sound recordings made using this mic are more robust than those accomplished by most smartphones’ built-in microphones, meaning projects both big and small can benefit.
With quick setup times and easily adjustable settings such as gaining control via an accompanying app, producing content like podcasts or music videos has never been more accessible.
13. Comica CVM-WS50(C) Wireless Smartphone Lavalier Microphone System
This system is widely recognized as the best wireless microphone setup for mobile devices. It is incredibly portable and lightweight, making it perfect for on-the-go recording, while its LCD screen shows all necessary information, such as volume, frequency, etc. This mic was also explicitly designed for smartphones to improve audio quality when making videos or other content.
The dual lavalier microphones are arranged centrally to capture sound from both sides equally and accurately, improving audio mixing. Combined with its ease of use and portability, it definitely deserves a mention when discussing great microphones geared toward mobile users in 2024!
14. Movo WMX-1-DUO Dual Wireless Lavalier Microphone System
The Movo WMX-1-DUO is an effective solution for those seeking a quality mobile microphone. Featuring two omnidirectional Lavalier microphones, the wireless system operates on 2.4GHz frequency to provide interference-free recordings.
Compatible with DSLR cameras, camcorders, iPhone, Android devices, and tablets, this microphone system offers an impressive range of up to 200 feet, allowing flexibility in challenging recording scenarios.
The mic’s sensitivity ensures clear audio capture every time, so you can be confident that your recordings will sound professional every time without unwanted noise or distortion.
Best Budget Microphones
For budget-minded buyers, options such as the Hollyland Lark M1 Compact Lavalier Microphone, Rode SmartLav+ Omnidirectional Lavalier Microphone, Movo PM10 Deluxe Microphone, Saramonic Blink 500 B3 Microphone System or the Movo PM20-S Dual-Headed Lavalier Mic are ideal choices.
15. Hollyland Lark M1 Compact Lavalier Microphone
This Lavalier microphone is the perfect choice for anyone looking to record quality audio on their mobile devices in 2024. It has incredible features that make it one of the best budget microphones currently available.
The M1 provides a crystal clear 16-bit sampling rate so you can enjoy high-quality audio every time, and it offers a long battery life ideal for extended recording sessions or traveling adventures with your device.
You don’t have to worry about signal interruption thanks to its stable and reliable working distance of up to 650ft in open spaces – making this wireless mic suitable even for large-scale professional productions!
16. Rode SmartLav+ Omnidirectional Lavalier Microphone
The Rode SmartLav+ is a must-have for any audio professional. This omnidirectional Lavalier microphone provides clear, crisp sound and recording flexibility from near and far distances.
It features a TRRS connection that’s compatible with most smartphones as well as other devices like laptops, cameras, etc., and also delivers professional-grade sound recording capabilities at an affordable price point.
The SmartLav+ has a discreet design that allows it to blend in easily on stage or during filming while capturing all the details of your performance or shoot. With a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz and a maximum SPL of 106 dB, this microphone won’t let you miss even the most minor nuances of sound – perfect for theatre stages, outdoor performances, or simply home recordings!
17. Movo PM10 Deluxe Microphone
The Movo PM10 Deluxe Microphone is an affordable solution for mobile recording. The small, lightweight Lavalier microphone can be easily clipped onto smartphones, allowing users to record high-quality audio quickly and easily.
It has an omnidirectional pickup pattern that captures sound from all directions with excellent clarity and detail, even in noisy environments. Plus, it comes in black and white color options to suit various tastes and styles.
Additionally, the PM10 is compatible with many popular audio recording apps and devices that require a 3.5mm input or 6mm output adapter – such as phones or laptops – making it really easy to use on the go.
18. Saramonic Blink 500 B3 Microphone System
The Saramonic Blink 500 B3 is a compact and lightweight system designed for iOS Lightning devices, perfect for on-the-go use. The ideal choice for iPhone users requiring long-range audio recordings with broadcast-quality sound, the Blink 500 B3 ensures you capture every moment in precise detail while comfortably fitting in your pocket.
This robust microphone system fits all your portable device needs without compromising on set versatility or connection reliability, allowing up to 8 simultaneous audio channels and an impressive recording range of 50m (depending on the environment).
With up to 6 hours of usage from the rechargeable batteries, capture crisp and powerful audio that will blow away any remote audience with absolutely no surprise dropouts.
19. Movo PM20-S Dual-Headed Lavalier Microphone
The Movo PM20-S is a dual-headed clip-on microphone designed to record voice-overs or conduct interviews directly through a smartphone. It features two omnidirectional Lavalier microphones connecting to the mobile device with only one 3.5mm TRRS plug.
The system comes complete with a 3.5mm TRS cable and is compatible with Apple iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch, Android, and Windows smartphones – making it ideal for all users regardless of brand.
The PM20-S enables you to record professional-sounding audio at any time and in any location, as it amazingly provides clear and high-quality audio each time it’s used. This makes it an excellent choice for interviews or voice-over recordings on the go – eliminating the need to invest large amounts of money in studio equipment, such as mixers or interfaces, to get quality sound recordings from your mobile phone!
Best USB Microphones
Popular audio recording options include the Blue Yeti, Amazon Basics Desktop Mini Condenser Microphone, and Shure MV5.
20. Blue Yeti
The Blue Yeti is among the most respected and highly-rated USB microphones. It is popular among vocalists, musicians, podcasters, and even casual users for its immense flexibility and excellent sound quality.
It’s become prevalent for its clarity in recording vocals, which can be heard across any room or platform when played or broadcasted back. In addition, it has been proven to do well with a range of different audio types, like musical instruments, that require complex tone adjustments and simpler sounds, like podcasting interviews.
What makes it unique from other USB-grade mics is how, despite being over a decade old on the market now, it continues to hold its place at the top position due to unbeatable features such as unparalleled versatility of sound output options into your device via all kinds of connections regardless what type you’re trying out with.
21. Amazon Basics Desktop Mini Condenser Microphone
The Amazon Basics Desktop Mini Condenser Microphone is designed to capture superior sound quality. Featuring a single-capsule condenser microphone with a unidirectional pick-up pattern, it captures vocals and sound sources from the front while naturally filtering out background noise.
It boasts impressive clarity regardless of the volume levels, making it suitable for video calls, streaming, and primary podcasting. Constructed out of plastic and metal grill components in an unobtrusive black hue, priced at $42, it’s considered a competitive option over other USB microphones on the market for 2024.
Compatible with GarageBand software, this budget microphone is great for simple recording needs without compromising on audio quality; it is perfect for aspiring content creators looking to upgrade their set-up!
22. Shure MV5
The Shure MV5 is a digital condenser microphone that provides instant setup and delivers professional audio recordings. It can easily be connected to laptops or computers through USB connectivity.
Compatible with computers and iOS devices, the MV5 also has a desk stand and Micro-B to USB Type-A cable for convenience. Advanced technology like built–in analog gain control allows you to adjust recording levels before entering digital signal processing — perfect when capturing live sounds from any location! With impressive sound quality, a straightforward installation process, and solid construction, this mic is an easy choice for any at-home or professional setup!
Tips for Using Wireless Microphones
Gain optimum performance when using wireless microphones by ensuring the signal is not blocked, setting the correct frequencies for your audio device, adjusting gain settings between receivers and transmitters accordingly, and managing battery consumption properly.
Avoid blocking the signal
Whether using a wireless microphone for recreation, video, or podcast recording, users must ensure their signal is never blocked. Blockage can lead to lower sound quality and decreased audio range performance.
To avoid this issue, ensure the transmitter (the device that converts the original sound into radio waves) and the receiver (the device that receives those radio waves) aren’t interfered with by placing metal objects like tables, walls, and similar obstructions between them.
Additionally, if you’re recording in a crowded place such as an arena or market plaza, be aware of crowd interference—a large enough audience may interfere with your signal, too! Setting correct frequencies on both devices is also important: This ensures no other device can share/interfere with your microphone signal frequency.
Set correct frequencies
It is essential when using wireless microphones to set the correct frequencies. This is because if two systems transmit simultaneously on the same frequency, interference may occur, producing poor sound quality and reduced range.
In addition, signals outside of a specific frequency band will be blocked or weak and can lead to drop-outs in audio. Therefore, ensuring each microphone is tuned into its specific frequency within a spectrum band is essential.
In the United States, legal frequency bands for wireless microphones are 470-608 MHz and 614-698 MHz, and unlicensed use is permitted on 902-928 MHz band, 1920-1930 MHz band plus portions of 2.4 GHz and 5GHz bands, which must all be different from one another to avoid conflicts between devices operating in proximity with each other.
Adjust gain settings
Properly adjusting the gain settings of a wireless microphone is an essential step for recording high-quality audio. An adequately set gain setting allows you to control the sensitivity and loudness of the recorded audio.
When setting the gain, the goal is to keep it at a level that avoids distortions or feedback and yields a good signal. When adjusting, it can be helpful to look at the receiver for overload or peak indications from time to time, as this will let you know how close your adjustments are to getting you to your goal.
If too much input is detected, increase attenuation until certain distortion levels stop appearing on the receiver. If insufficient input is received, decrease attenuation until sufficient output comes from the mic.
Manage batteries properly
Ensuring that batteries are appropriately managed is key for users to get comfortable and reliable performance from their wireless microphones. Poor battery management will lead to shorter transmitter battery life, so ensuring the batteries used can provide a long enough runtime is essential.
Lithium-ion rechargeable 9V batteries offer higher capacity than alkaline or NiMH batteries, making them the best choice for wireless microphones. Monitoring the battery level of your microphone while in use is crucial as this would indicate when a fresh replacement should be made.
High-quality and brand-specific batteries with higher capacities will also give longer transmission time compared to others, thus optimizing the microphone’s performance. Proper maintenance, such as ensuring contacts remain clean, easily extends its life span too – drilling out any corrosion that can build up on contact surfaces over time increases efficiency when supplying power from these sources.
Takeaway
The best mobile microphones for 2024 vary depending on the type and purpose. Lavalier mics like the Rode Lavalier II `or Sennheiser XS are great for interviews, whereas shotgun mics like the Sennheiser MKE 400 (2nd gen) or Rode VideoMic GO II are perfect for film shoots.
Desktop and USB mics, including Apogee HypeMic or Samson Q2U, can be useful when podcasting. At the same time, wireless systems like Hollyland Lark C1 Compact Wireless Microphone System or Shure MV88 Portable iOS Microphone offer much-needed mobility during live streaming events.
Budget mic options include the Hollyland Lark M1 Compact Lavalier Microphone, Rode SmartLav+ Omnidirectional Lavalier Microphone, and others, which give professional-level sound quality at more affordable prices.
Whether recording voice-overs, shooting a movie, or live streaming a performance—you can find an appropriate microphone to suit your needs from this comprehensive list of top models available in 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If you have further queries about the best mobile microphones, please look at the following questions and answers.
Which mic is best for a mobile phone?
Enhance your smartphone filmmaking experience with the Sennheiser MKE 400 Mobile Kit, an ideal solution for vloggers and content creators seeking superior audio quality.
What is the most high-quality microphone?
Elevate your audio recordings with the versatile Blue Yeti condenser microphone, featuring four distinct pickup patterns: cardioid, stereo, omnidirectional, and bidirectional. Its built-in stand and USB connectivity ensure seamless integration with your recording setup.
What is the best microphone quality app?
Wonder Grace’s Microphone app empowers Android users to capture high-quality audio easily. Its comprehensive feature set includes a customizable noise limiter to eliminate background noise and maintain pristine audio recordings.
Which mic is best for recording audio?
For capturing the nuances and subtleties of vocal performances, condenser microphones reign supreme over their dynamic counterparts. Their heightened sensitivity and broader frequency response range translate into superior audio quality, making them the favored choice for vocal recording.
How do I record high-quality audio with my mic?
Achieving high-quality audio recordings with your microphone requires careful attention to mic placement, background noise minimization, and proper recording techniques. Position the microphone close to the sound source, ideally within 6-12 inches for vocals, while avoiding direct placement in front of the mouth to reduce plosives.
Minimize background noise by recording quietly and eliminating distracting sounds like fans, traffic, or conversations. Utilize a pop filter or windscreen to reduce harsh sounds further. During recording, speak, enunciate your words, maintain a consistent distance from the microphone, and avoid excessive movement. Employ a recording program that allows you to monitor audio levels to ensure optimal sound quality.
Categories: Technology
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