With the best external microphone for iPhones, you can record pro-level sound using your Apple smartphone. But what kind of iPhone microphone is best for you?
Vloggers might like a clip-on lavalier microphone. Musicians and other streamers need a directional mic, like a shotgun microphone. Meanwhile, journalists are best served with wireless, multi-mic systems. Fortunately, we’ve included all these types of microphones in our article.
The PQRQP Wireless Lavalier Microphone is the best external mic for iPhones. It’s a two-mic set that wirelessly connects to your iPhone using Bluetooth. It’s an affordable mic set that works well indoors or outdoors.
What Is the Best External Microphone for iPhones?
The best external microphone for iPhones lets you record professional-quality audio using your Apple smartphone. If you’re a vlogger, journalist, or podcaster, you need sharp, clear sound in your content. That’s why our top pick is the PQRQP Wireless Lavalier Microphone.
iPhones have cameras that can record high-quality videos, which makes them an excellent tool for shooting videos on the go. You don’t need an expensive camcorder or mirrorless camera. But without the right microphone, sound quality is an issue.
The sound quality of the iPhone’s native microphone is not at a professional standard. It is hard to direct toward your main subject. It picks up a lot of background noise. You get an unbalanced, tinny sound. Plus, any wind often overpowers sound, making voices disappear.
There are plenty of different iPhone microphones to choose from. You have clip-on lavalier microphones that attach to your lapel or shirt. You have shotgun mics that attach to your device. And you have stand-alone mics for studio or office setups.
Check out the table below for a quick overview of all the best external microphones for iPhones. We then look at all the iPhone microphones in more detail. And we have an FAQ section at the end if you need more information.
- Excellent sound quality with reduced background noise
- Lightning connection compatible with iPhones and iPads
- 65 ft / 20 m of wireless coverage
- Two-piece wireless microphone set
- Clear, professional sound with noise-reduction chip
- Omnidirectional tech for fantastic sound capture
- Compatible with a wide range of iOS devices
- Extremely portable for on-the-go recording or broadcasting
- Ideal for YouTube vlogs, interviews, and live music
- Universal compatibility with multiple devices
- Durable aluminum construction with sturdy shock mount
- Helpful DeadCat Windscreen and carrying case
- Directional mic for vloggers and videographers
- Universal use with interchangeable 3.5mm connectivity
- Superior wind protection and shock absorption
- Compact design with a sleek, stylish finish
- Clean, clear stereo sound with innovative design
- Highly flexible positioning with 90° hinge and rotation
- Real-time app adjustments for optimal results
- All-metal construction and 2-year warranty
- High-quality audio capture with less than 0.1% distortion
- Stable signal transmission up to 328 ft / 100 m
- Dual-channel system perfect for two-person vlog
- OLED display for clear device information and settings
- Next-level sound clarity with 24-bit / 96kHz support
- Built-in compressor perfect for podcast recording
- Studio-quality analog compression
- 3 professional compression presets
- High-quality audio with noise protection
- Compatible with multiple iPhone models
- No need for drivers or batteries
- Comes with extra wind muffs and storage case
- Professional-grade noise reduction for high-fidelity sound
- Advanced 2.4G wireless tech ensures stable signal
- Efficient real-time monitoring and one-button muting
- Dual-channel system supports mono or stereo output
9 Best Microphones for iPhones
Let’s take a closer look at each external iPhone microphone. Our list has a wide range of mics, so every type of content creator can find the microphone they need.
1. PQRQP Wireless Lavalier Microphones
| Brand |
Brand
PQRQP
|
| Microphone Type |
Microphone Type
Omnidirectional, lavalier
|
| Connection |
Connection
Lightning
|
| Number of Mics |
Number of Mics
Two
|
| Mic Size |
Mic Size
0.76 x 3.2 x 3.6 inches / 2 x 8 x 9 cm
|
| Mic Weight |
Mic Weight
0.7 oz / 20 g
|
| Compatibility |
Compatibility
iPhones, iPads
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
65 ft / 20 m wireless range, built-in muffler, Bluetooth
|
| Best For |
Best For
Anyone who needs two wireless microphones
|
The PQRQP Wireless Lavalier Microphones are the best option for many reasons. The set has two microphones, ideal for interviews or spoken media with two people. Both mics connect wirelessly to your iPhone. And it’s an affordable audio kit that delivers beautiful sound.
Thanks to the Bluetooth connectivity, you can record wirelessly from both mics at the same time. Only the receiver physically connects to your phone, while the mics clip onto the clothing of the person you want to record.
With a wireless range of 65 ft (20 m), you get plenty of room to move around without losing signal. The overall audio quality is excellent. The sound also comes in loud and clear, whether far or near.
And thanks to the built-in mufflers, there’s little detrimental effect from wind. They are also good at eliminating unwanted background noise due to the pro-grade noise reduction chips.
With a 1.5-hour charge time, some waiting is involved until they are fully ready. But once charged, you get six hours of uninterrupted recording time. That’s great news for journalists on the job.
They aren’t the smallest lavalier mics on the market. But the sleek design means they don’t attract too much unwanted attention.
The PQRQP Wireless Lavaliers are the best external mics for iPhones. The dual mic set is perfect for journalists recording interviews or vloggers talking to guests. They are simple and affordable. And they deliver excellent sound quality when recording through your iPhone.
Note that they have a specific PQRQP Wireless Lavalier Microphone for the iPhone 15.
2. TTStar Lavalier Lapel Mic
| Brand |
Brand
TTStar
|
| Microphone Type |
Microphone Type
Clip-on, lavalier
|
| Connection |
Connection
Lightning
|
| Number of Mics |
Number of Mics
One
|
| Mic Size |
Mic Size
1 x 1 x 1.3 inches / 2.5 x 2.5 x 2.6 mm
|
| Mic Weight |
Mic Weight
0.3 oz / 8 g
|
| Compatibility |
Compatibility
iPhones
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Plug-and-play design, built-in noise reduction, three cable lengths
|
| Best For |
Best For
Anyone looking for a simple, budget mic for their iPhone
|
The TTStar Lavalier Lapel Mic is perfect for anyone on a tight budget. It’s a simple microphone that’s a good choice for making vlogs or voice notes. The mic’s best aspect is that it is plug-and-play. You plug it in, and it works immediately. It has no other setup requirements.
TTStar claims their active-noise reduction has a high sensitivity. They also mention their thicker anti-interference cable that should help with noise cancellation. This won’t be a professional level of quality. But it is much better than the built-in mic.
The simplicity of the microphone is its selling point. It is also lightweight, weighing 0.8 oz (18 grams). This mic is best for casual interviews, live streaming, or recording YouTube videos.
I also recommend this for video calls. Plus, it’s great for lecturers who have to use their phones to stream classes. It helps students hear them more clearly.
The TTStar Lavalier Lapel is a simple and affordable microphone for recording audio with your iPhone. There are three different cable lengths depending on your needs. There are a 6.7 ft (2 m), 9.8 ft. (3 m), and 16.4 (5 m) mic versions.
3. Movo VXR10 Shotgun Mic
| Brand |
Brand
Movo
|
| Microphone Type |
Microphone Type
Directional shotgun
|
| Connection |
Connection
3.5 mm TRS
|
| Number of Mics |
Number of Mics
One
|
| Mic Size |
Mic Size
6.5 x 5.3 x 2.8 inches / 14.7 x 13.4 x 7 cm
|
| Mic Weight |
Mic Weight
1.8 oz / 51 g
|
| Compatibility |
Compatibility
iPhones, DSLRs, mirrorless cameras
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Windscreen, hotshoe mount, connection cable, 1-year warranty
|
| Best For |
Best For
Targetted audio recording
|
The Movo VXR10 Shotgun Mic is one of the best iPhone microphones for its price. This is because it is a cheap shotgun microphone. This means it’s a directional microphone, so you point it at the person or object you’re recording.
A directional microphone does a good job of eliminating peripheral noises. This mic features aluminum construction and a battery-free design. A sturdy shock mount is also included, which reduces handling noise.
The Movo VXR10 is the definition of a small and lightweight shotgun mic. It also has universal compatibility. So whether you want to use it for your iPhone or digital camera, the mic is up to the challenge.
You get a smartphone and camera cable in the box to connect the mic. It includes a bag to carry it. And you also get a furry windscreen. This protects the mic from gusts of wind and people’s breathing, preventing sound pops and noise.
The VXR10 Shotgun Mic is a great choice for conducting interviews. And it’s ideal if you’re recording yourself playing music. It also comes with a one-year warranty.
4. Sennheiser Professional MKE 200
| Brand |
Brand
Sennheiser Pro Audio
|
| Microphone Type |
Microphone Type
Directional
|
| Connection |
Connection
3.5 mm TRS
|
| Number of Mics |
Number of Mics
One
|
| Mic Size |
Mic Size
9.4 x 4.5 x 2.8 inches / 7 x 6 x 4 cm
|
| Mic Weight |
Mic Weight
1.6 oz / 48 g
|
| Compatibility |
Compatibility
iPhones, DSLRs, mirrorless cameras
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Hot shoe connector, integrated wind protection
|
| Best For |
Best For
Exceptional sound at a reasonable price
|
Sennheiser is one of the top brands in the world when it comes to sound equipment. The MKE 200 is no different from Sennheiser’s other microphones. It’s a professional microphone with amazing audio quality.
The microphone was primarily made for DSLRs as it fits in a hot shoe. But it was also designed to work with smartphones. You need a clamp (included in the Mobile Kit version).
The MKE 200 minimizes handling noise with internal suspension. It also has integrated wind protection. There are no batteries needed. It runs off your device. This makes the mic lighter and smaller. So, it’s perfect for iPhone users.
This microphone is best suited for vloggers who want professional audio quality. The Sennheiser Professional MKE 200 is good enough to record everything—even musical instruments.
One missing aspect? It doesn’t have a headphone jack. You need a lightning to 3.5mm dongle to connect it to your iPhone. But I understand they wanted to keep the mic as condensed as possible.
5. Shure MV88 Portable iOS Microphone
| Brand |
Brand
Shure
|
| Microphone Type |
Microphone Type
Directional
|
| Connection |
Connection
Lightning
|
| Number of Mics |
Number of Mics
One
|
| Mic Size |
Mic Size
1.4 x 1 x 2.6 inches / 3.5 x 2.5 x 6.7 cm
|
| Mic Weight |
Mic Weight
1.4 oz / 40.5 g
|
| Compatibility |
Compatibility
iPhones, iPads
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Tiltable joint, windscreen, carry case, 2-year warranty
|
| Best For |
Best For
Creators looking for a mic that connects directly to the iPhone
|
The Shure MV 88 is an excellent recording mic for iPhone. It plugs directly into your iPhone. Plus, it can be tilted 180 degrees and rotated 90 degrees.
It is Apple MFi certified. That means it connects to any Apple device. It doesn’t need installation or a specific application.
But the microphone does come with two free apps that help you customize the mic’s performance. These two apps work at a professional level. They give you a lot of control over this small but powerful microphone.
The mic’s metal body feels robust like it can go with you through some tough environments. It is small enough to fit in your pocket. But it also has a secure carry case. Plus, you also get a black foam windscreen. This helps in challenging wind conditions.
I’m a big fan of this microphone. It is travel-sized, produces amazing results, and has a two-year warranty. If you need a microphone that stays on your iPhone, the MV 88 is for you.
6. BOYA XM6-S4 Wireless Lavalier Microphone
| Brand |
Brand
BOYA
|
| Microphone Type |
Microphone Type
Lavalier
|
| Connection |
Connection
3.5 mm TRS
|
| Number of Mics |
Number of Mics
Two
|
| Mic Size |
Mic Size
2.4 x 1.2 x 0.6 inches / 6 x 3 x 1.5 cm
|
| Mic Weight |
Mic Weight
1.1 oz / 32 g
|
| Compatibility |
Compatibility
iPhones
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Windshields, carry case
|
| Best For |
Best For
Journalists or content creators looking for a complete wireless mic set
|
Boya has developed a great set of wireless lapel mics with the XM6-S4. The super sleek microphones come with an OLED screen. It presents crucial information to you in a clear manner. It shows signal strength, battery life, real-time volume, and gain levels.
One of the best aspects of the Boya XM6-S4? It can pick up a signal from 328 ft (100 m) away! This lets you walk a long distance from your iPhone and still receive the signal.
The set comes with two microphone transmitters. Each one has a charge of up to seven hours of non-stop use. This is almost a full day of recording audio!
I like how small and sleek the whole set is. The receiver plugs directly into your phone. It is small and won’t affect how you handle your phone. Each transmitter can record omnidirectional sound (from all directions). And they each have an input for a lavalier microphone.
The BOYA XM6-S4 Wireless Lavalier Microphone set comes with charging cables. And there are protective fur windshields for each microphone. These reduce popping sounds from wind and breath, so you get clear audio in all conditions.
7. Apogee Hype Mic
| Brand |
Brand
Apogee
|
| Microphone Type |
Microphone Type
Directional
|
| Connection |
Connection
Lightning, USB-A, USB-C
|
| Number of Mics |
Number of Mics
One
|
| Mic Size |
Mic Size
5 x 1.5 x 1.5 inches / 1.2 x 3.8 x 3.8 cm
|
| Mic Weight |
Mic Weight
7.2 oz / 200 g
|
| Compatibility |
Compatibility
iPhones, computers, laptops
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Mini tripod, pop filter, carry case
|
| Best For |
Best For
Podcasters, creators, or beginners recording long-form audio
|
The Apogee Hype is a professional microphone that can connect directly to your iPhone. But it’s also compatible with computers, so it’s a versatile option for content creators.
The Hype Mic is one of the only USB microphones with a built-in analog compressor. This has a profound effect on how your voice sounds. Usually, you add this process in post-production. But this feature takes out this step for you!
This mic is ideal for beginners and those who know little about audio editing. It’s really easy to use. And the sound quality is so good it needs minimum editing after recording.
There are three built-in compression settings—Shape, Squeeze, and Smash. You can flick through these options quickly to find the best sound in your environment. You can also listen through the headphone jack for a live preview of the recorded sound, which is super helpful.
It comes with a pop filter, preventing imperfections from being picked up in the audio. This is very helpful for long-form voice recordings, like podcasts or audiobooks.
The Apogee Hype Mic can capture everything from podcast streams to instrument recordings. You can also select the blending control for zero-latency recording. All its features and fantastic quality make this an excellent microphone.
8. PowerDeWise External Lavalier Clip-on Mic
| Brand |
Brand
PowerDeWise
|
| Microphone Type |
Microphone Type
Lapel, Lavalier
|
| Connection |
Connection
Lightning
|
| Number of Mics |
Number of Mics
One
|
| Mic Size |
Mic Size
1 x 1 x 1.3 inches / 2.5 x 2.5 x 3.3 cm
|
| Mic Weight |
Mic Weight
2.2 oz / 68 g
|
| Compatibility |
Compatibility
iPhones, iPads, iPods
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Wind muffs, 12 ft / 3.7 m cable, storage case
|
| Best For |
Best For
Anyone looking for a simple but effective lapel mic
|
The PowerDeWise External Lavalier Clip-On is one of the simplest mics on our list. It’s an affordable option. And the sound quality is great if you’re recording single voices.
This lapel microphone is plug-and-play and goes straight into your iPhone’s lightning port. It even works with iPads and other Apple devices. But if you have a new iPad, you may need an extra connector for the USB-C port.
Powerdewise says their mic is a professional-grade lavalier microphone. It was made with current professional recording equipment in mind. It does a good job of keeping out peripheral noises, especially if you use the wind muff.
Lapel microphones can be quite limiting if you want to record a range of noises. They are only useful when isolating one voice or sound from the environment.
But it is perfect if your work revolves entirely around this type of sound recording. That’s why we recommend it for vlogging and interviews.
It isn’t a wireless microphone. But the cable is a healthy 12 ft (3.7 m), so you can move around or record others without handing over your device.
This PowerDeWise Clip-On Mic plugs straight into your iPhone, iPad, or iPod, letting you record on the go. It is a reliable option. Plus, it won’t break your bank. It’s one of the most affordable iPhone mics on our list.
9. Comica BoomX-D2 Wireless Mic System
| Brand |
Brand
Comica
|
| Microphone Type |
Microphone Type
Wireless lavalier, omnidirectional
|
| Connection |
Connection
3.5 mm TRS, USB
|
| Number of Mics |
Number of Mics
Two
|
| Mic Size |
Mic Size
4.3 x 2.7 x 7.2 inches / 11 x 7 x 18.5 cm
|
| Mic Weight |
Mic Weight
1 oz / 29 g
|
| Compatibility |
Compatibility
iPhones, cameras, computers, laptops, camcorders
|
| Other Key Features |
Other Key Features
Wind muffs, noise reduction chip, carry case
|
| Best For |
Best For
Creators looking for a complete wireless mic set with wide compatibility
|
The Comica BoomX-D2 is a wireless set of lapel microphones. They can be used wirelessly up to 50 ft (15 m) from the receiver. And it’s compatible with a wide range of devices.
Not only is it compatible with your iPhone, but you can use it with a laptop or desktop computer. You can sync it with a DSLR or mirrorless camera. You can even hook it up to all the best camcorders.
It comes with a lavalier and an internal microphone as input modes for you to choose from. These mics record omnidirectionally, so you get 360 degrees of sound pickup.
The receiver clearly shows the battery for all the units you are using. This is extremely helpful on long shoots.
Also, the Comica BoomX-D2 is easy to charge externally. You can use portable charging equipment for this microphone kit. It comes with a cable to charge all your devices at once.
The best part about this setup? You can tackle more complex sound recordings. Two mics make certain jobs a whole lot easier. This is most evident in recordings where two people are featured heavily.
The BoomX-D2 is one of the microphones that connect to the iPhone through an auxiliary input. This means you need a lightning-to-aux cable with an iPhone 7 or newer.
Best External Microphones for iPhone FAQs
External mics for iPhones can be complicated if you’re new to them. But we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions to help you get started.
Can You Connect a Microphone to an iPhone?
Yes, you can do this through the lightning port.
Where Is My Microphone on My iPhone?
You can find your built-in microphone at the bottom corner of your iPhone.
What Microphones Are Compatible With iPhones?
Most microphones are compatible with and connect to an iPhone. But some may need a specialized app. iPhones before the iPhone 7 can take any mic with an auxiliary output. iPhones after the iPhone 7 need a lightning connector, like many on our list.
You must purchase a 3.5mm aux-to-lightning cable if the microphone doesn’t provide this.
Can You Tell Me How to Use an External Mic on iPhone?
An external mic should be easy to set up on your iPhone. Most have a plug-and-play feature. If they do not come with a dedicated sound app, you can use the Voice Memos app from Apple.
Can You Tell Me How to Record With a Microphone on iPhone?
Use the Voice Memos app pre-installed on your iPhone to record with a mic. If you want more control over your recording and to make edits, you can do this through the Garage Band app.
Can You Tell Me How to Use a Mini Microphone for iPhone?
A mini microphone needs some form of clip to attach to your iPhone. You can find many clips that can hold your mini microphone at multiple angles. Most mini microphones should provide a clip upon purchase.
What Is a Lavalier Microphone?
A lavalier microphone is a small mic you attach directly to the person you’re recording. They are often called lapel mics because you usually attach them to a speaker’s lapel. But you can clip them onto any clothing or hang them around a speaker’s neck.
Lavalier mics are small and unobtrusive. They don’t distract from the speaker’s face when recording audio and visual. They’re best to use if you don’t want the speaker to wear a big, heavy microphone.
They don’t always offer the best audio quality. You can get pro-level lavalier mics, but even they will struggle in wet and windy outdoor conditions. They are also limited as they can only record voices, usually only one at a time.
Lavaliers are perfect for interviews and talking head features. They are perfect for recording audio when vlogging. And you can even use them for podcasting indoors or outdoors.
What Is the Best External Microphone for Cameras?
The Movo VXR10 Shotgun Mic is the best camera mic featured in this article. It’s a directional shotgun mic, which is great when shooting video from a camera. It’s great for recording yourself playing music. But it’s a great option for movie-style shooting, too.
The Sennheiser MKE 200 is another good option for mirrorless and DSLR cameras. It has a hot shoe connector, meaning you can attach the mic directly to the camera. The sound quality is also great. You can record anything from vlogs to movies.
There are plenty more excellent external mics for cameras. And if you want to see more, check out our full list of the best external microphones for cameras.
These versatile mics can be paired with a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or camcorder. So, you get pro-level sound with your 4K+ video footage.
Conclusion: The Best External Microphone for iPhones
If you’re using an iPhone to create audio and visual content, you need the best external microphone for iPhones. The native microphone in the iPhone isn’t up to the job of pro-level sound recording. So whether you’re a vlogger or journalist, you need a top-level iPhone microphone.
In our opinion, the PQRQP Wireless Lavalier Microphone is the best microphone for iPhone. It’s a set of two wireless microphones with a large wireless range. The sound quality is fantastic, even when recording outside. And it’s affordable for content creators on a tight budget.
