Best Mini Microphone For iPhone & iPad 2023; iOS Mic Reviews

Here in this article “Best mini microphone for iPhone & iPad” we’ve rounded up 10 best iOS mics for video, vlogging, recording, singing etc. of various types, specifications, and budget. Below, you’ll find in-depth reviews of each, as well as an elaborate buying guide to pick out your favorite.

In this article we have reviewed and compiled a list of 10 best external mini microphones for iPhone & iPad. You can use these mics on-camera, or for recording music, meetings, and more.

The microphones included in this list are the best iPhone iPad mini mics that use the lightning port, but you’ll also find a few that use the headphone jack.

Definitely yes. Just be sure to get a Cardioid pattern USB mic that really captures your vocals and forgets the rest of the background noises.

Like all microphones, USB mics come in a variety of formats. Handheld mics are great for recording vocals and interviews, while desktop models are generally better for acoustic instruments and podcasting. 

Some USB microphones are compatible with standard mic stands, which makes them ideal for studio-style recording.

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Mini Microphone for iPhone

Mini Microphone For iPhone Video

Shure MV88+

If you want an all-in-one vlogging setup, the Shure MV88+ Video Kit is a great entry-level option. 

The Shure MV88+ Video Kit is made with everyday creators in mind. It’s a one-stop shop for your transportable recording needs and doesn’t sacrifice quality for portability.

The Shure MV88+ Video Kit aims at taking video making and video conferencing on your iOS or Android phone to the next level, with a host of powerful features not commonly found on similar mobile microphones.

The kit is centered around the MV88+ microphone, specifically engineered to deliver Shure’s broadcast-quality sound to your phone, and adds all the accessories needed to create a portable and versatile audio/video rig that is self-contained and easy to use.

The kit includes the microphone, a wind guard, two cables – Lightning and USB-C, and a shoe mount to fix the microphone to, as well as a tripod mountable clamp for your smartphone. 

Everything fits in a roll-up, neoprene style case that’s also included in the box, along with the Manfrotto Pixi mini tripod. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aWREXnXGl3U

The MV88+’s cylindrical, all-metal, black body houses a micro USB connection on its rear panel, and this connects to either a USB-C or a Lightning cable, both of which are included. Thus, the MV88+ can also be used with Android devices, and the case can likely stay on regardless of the type of mobile device you’re using.

Behind the grille, the MV88+ houses a condenser mic capsule, and the abilities to switch patterns, also, you can record in stereo, bi-directional mono, cardioid, or mid-side patterns. 

There’s DSP (digital signal compression) that brings compression, limiting, and EQ into play, but it can be adjusted to a degree—there are four DSP modes (speech, singing, acoustic, loud), and a fifth neutral, DSP-free mode. 

This is undoubtedly one of the best mini microphones for recording video on iPhone.

The mic records with a frequency range of 20Hz to 20kHz, at up to 24bits with a 48kHz sampling rate. It can also record at 16bits and 44.1kHz.

Vloggers will benefit from the portable design. The included Manfrotto tripod, while plastic, seems durable and takes up little room in a bag. Plus, the phone mount supports vertical and horizontal recording, making it a versatile setup.

Interviewers who want high-resolution audio should consider this, especially if you want the option to record video to accompany the audio. The MV88+ mic works with both Android phones and iPhones.

Shure has a companion Android and iOS app called Shure Motiv. It’s easy to find in the Play Store or App Store, and is quick to install.

The cylindrical capsule has two inputs: micro USB and a 3.5mm headphone jack. This allows you to adjust the gain as needed, saving you from dawdling with settings in post-production.

Pros:

• Amazing audio quality
• Very useful app.
• Automatic synchronization of audio to match phone videos

Cons:

• Tripod is a bit difficult to adjust

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Mini Microphone For iPhone Recording

Zoom iQ7 

The iQ7 is a unique microphone because it is a mid-side stereo condenser mic. That means that users can adjust the width of the stereo recording even in post-production, completely changing the environmental character of the audio. 

The advanced technique is accomplished through the microphone’s design. Two mic elements sit on top at opposite angles. 

One element captures the signal in front of it, and the other captures left and right ambient room tone.

The iQ7 has a switch on the side that can change the encoding from 90º to focus on sound in the center, 120º for a wider stereo field that captures ambience, or M-S for raw mid-side encoding, enabling one to vary the width after the fact. 

The mic is attached with a standard Lightning connector in the bottom of any modern iOS device. A small spacer around the port can be removed if desired to adjust the device’s fit.

Zoom includes a foam windscreen for the iQ7, though if you’d like to have usable field recordings, upgrading to the WSU-1 hairy windscreen is a must.  

This is one of the best mini microphone for iPhone for interviews, dictation, recording, vocals and more.

If you expect to be recording in the field, we recommend getting a good windscreen.

The iQ7 works with all Lightning-equipped iOS devices. It comes with an extended Lightning connector and a removable spacer for compatibility with most iPhone, iPad and iPod cases.

The mic is designed to work with Zoom’s free Handy Recorder app, available on the iOS store. You’ll be able to monitor audio without latency straight from the app. 

When it comes to preparing your recording for the outside world, you’ll be able to perform fine editing functions with a waveform display, save your files in either linear PCM or AAC file formats, and apply effects such as compression, EQ, and reverb to further enhance the sound.

Pros:

• Full-featured mid-side stereo condenser mic
• Works with all Lightning-equipped iOS devices
• Great-sounding recordings on your iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch
• Large front-facing MIC GAIN knob

Cons:

• Zoom App’s look and feel is a bit outdated

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• Best Microphone For Recording Music; Reviews
• Best Microphone For Fitness Videos

Mini Microphone For Vlogging

Movo Smartphone Vlogging Kit

The Movo Smartphone Video Kit V7 will instantly improve your smartphone videos. Whether you’re starting a YouTube channel, creating a documentary or just filming your vacations, this kit will elevate your video and audio quality.

This kit is compact and lightweight – put it all into the hard case, toss it in your bag and you’re ready to go. Setting it up is quick and easy, too, letting you capture high quality video on the go. It’s the essential tool for vloggers, YouTubers, mobile filmmakers, travelers and more.

The PR-1 smartphone rig will give you added stability and multiple mounting options for accessories, and the LED light will give you great lighting in low light settings. 

But the real kicker here is the VXR50 Pro Stereo Mic, which will add full, stereo sound to all your videos.

The professional microphone features X/Y stereo recording and an integrated shock mount to help keep your footage free of noise from the handling of the smartphone rig. 

For added clarity, both a foam and furry windscreen are included to minimize noise, whether filming indoors or outside. 

The included adapter cable connects the mic to the 3.5mm audio input on your smartphone.

The smartphone rig features a rubberized grip handle, wrist strap, accessory shoe, and shoe extender. It is designed to fit phones from 2.2-inches wide up to 3.6-inches wide. This means nearly all major handsets including bigger ones like the Galaxy Note.

There’s also a tripod thread at the bottom which means you can add it to your tripod for a standalone setup. And, to make sure you have the proper orientation you can check out the built-in bubble level.

The mini microphone for iPhone comes with a foam and furry windscreen which can be added on the fly to help eliminate wind whistling and blowing from sneaking into your audio.

The video light features 30 LEDs and allows for three brightness levels. The remote can be paired to your Android or iPhone and makes it easy to take selfies or group shots from a distance.

Pros:

• Lightweight & compact
• Best for travel use
• Offers bright results for LED lights
• Easy to set-up

Cons:

• The handle may be too small for some users

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Mini Microphone For Interviews

Shure MV88 

Shure’s MV88 is a portable microphone for iOS devices. For its tiny size, the MV88 is quite versatile, with multiple patterns and the ability to record as a stereo or a cardioid mono mic. 

Designed to capture clear, high-quality sound, the MV88 is a stereo condenser microphone that directly connects to any iOS device equipped with a Lightning connector.

The MV88’s capsules are visible through a fine-mesh metallic grille. Internally, the mic employs two capsules in a mid-side configuration that allows for adjustable stereo field recording, as well as multiple mono channel recording, or mono summed recording.  

The whole assembly is no more than 67mm long (including the connector) and can be stored in its own zippered carrying case, along with a foam windscreen, and a headphone monitoring adapter cable.

Any iPhone or iPad with a Lightning socket is compatible.

With the free ShurePlus MOTIV software from the App Store installed on your iPad, iPhone, or iPod Touch, you can record a stereo signal from the MV88 while controlling mic gain and stereo width, as well as advanced features like EQ, compression, limiting, wind reduction, channel swap, and polar pattern. 

Patterns include adjustable L/R stereo, mono cardioid, mono figure-8, and raw M/S stereo. Five preset quick-settings titled Speech, Singing, Flat, Acoustic, and Band are a button push away. 

The main record-mode window has a high-resolution input meter; a familiar waveform/timeline display; filename, time, and time-remaining statistics; and a big record/pause button. Bitrate is adjustable, maxing out at 24-bit, 48 kHz uncompressed.

You can also opt to enable or disable the limiter and dynamic compressor (it has three modes: off, light, and heavy). 

There is a five-band EQ that can be applied during recording—the EQ and compression essentially combine together to form what we typically call DSP. 

So if you want DSP, it’s there, but plenty of users will prefer getting a clean recording by closely monitoring and setting conservative gain levels that won’t peak out. 

EQ and compression can always be added in mixing, but once they’re baked into the recording, they’re there to stay. Other options include wind reduction and left-right channel swap.

Pros:

• Small Size
• Easy To Use
• Options for Audio and & Video
• Great for Live & Group Recording Sessions

Cons:

• No Monitoring

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Mini Microphone For Facebook Live

BOYA BY-MM1

This is probably the best cheap vlog mic in the market today. If you don’t have a Boya microphone yet, this will most likely be your first purchase of this brand.

The BOYA BY-MM1 is a cardioid microphone specially designed to improve the sound quality of videos on the basis of built-in microphones. 

With both TRS cable and TRRS output cable included, it can be used on Smartphones, cameras, camcorders, audio recorders, PCs, and other audio/video recording devices.

The BY-MM1 microphone offers real plug-and-play design, which means no battery is required to operate the mic. 

It is built with aluminum construction and includes a shockmount, carrying pouch, and furry windshield. 

Also, included: 3.5mm TRS to a 3.5mm TRS cable for cameras, camcorders, and audio recorders and 3.5mm TRS to TRRS mini-jack cable for smartphones, tablets or Mac computers.

The included anti-shock mount effectively reduces unwanted vibration, cable and handling noise.

Pros:

• Compact on-camera microphone
• For smartphones, DSLRs, and Camcorders
• Lightweight aluminum design
• Plug-and-Play design

Cons:

• Poorly designed mount

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Mini Microphone For Singing

Movo LPM100

The Movo Photo LPM100 directional stereo microphone can be directly connected to your Lightning-equipped smartphone or tablet to capture sound with better clarity than your device’s built-in mic allows. 

The microphone features dual cardioid capsules in an X/Y stereo configuration, which yields a wide sound pickup zone in front of the mic and reduced response behind the mic, which is ideal for decreasing reflections and room reverb in your recordings.

The microphone comes along with a foam windscreen, which you can use to impede wind noise from fans, air conditioners, and light breezes, or switch to the furry windshield for enhanced reduction of wind noise during outdoor shoots. 

This one of the best mini microphone for iPhone also includes a travel case for safe and convenient transport.

Additionally, the microphone comes with a 1-year warranty for your peace of mind.

The microphone features an MFi certified lightning output connector made for the Apple iPhone 12, 11, XS, XS Max, XR, X, 8, 8 Plus, 7, 7 Plus.

It’s Multibit DeltaSigma 16/24-Bit AD signal conversion delivers high-quality sound, perfect for recording audio for your vlogs, travel videos and more.

The kit Includes a foam windscreen, furry “deadcat” windscreen, and carrying case, so you can capture superb quality content on your iPhone and iPad on the go.

Its twin cardioid mic capsules capture crystal clear sound in front of the capsule while reducing unwanted pick-up from the sides.

Pros:

• Dual capsules for stereo capture
• Reduces sound pickup behind the mic
• Lightning connector
• Connects directly to mobile devices

Cons:

• May not fit thicker phone cases

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Best Budget Pick

Rode VideoMic

The VideoMic Me is a compact and lightweight, high-quality directional microphone that connects directly to the iPhone TRRS microphone/headphone socket. 

Its flexible mounting bracket accommodates a wide range of smartphones and allows the microphone to be fitted for primary camera or front camera (‘selfie’) use. 

A 3.5mm headphone jack on the rear allows for play-through of audio while recording (app dependent) as well as easy playback of your videos without having to remove the microphone. 

The VideoMic Me includes a deluxe furry windshield for shooting outdoors or in adverse weather.

The microphone’s casing is made of aluminum and it is certainly well made and robust considering it’s for a mobile device.

RØDE gives an adjustable rubber mount to securely mount the mic to the iOS device. 

As soon as you plug in the VideoMic Me will become the default microphone for all recording and video apps.

It works with Apple, Android, and other smartphones and tablets, as long as the camera lens is on the opposite end of the headphone jack. Otherwise it may show up in the field of view.

The two best features of this microphone are that it records directional, like a shotgun microphone and it has a built-in headphone jack for monitoring sound before, during, or after recording.

The VideoMic Me features a 1/2″ condenser microphone capsule that produces a higher quality of audio. All of the audio is transferred digitally via the lightning port to the device. 

It is also a directional microphone so it will pick up more audio from the front and cancel out the sound from side and rear. This is important as when you are filming with a smartphone you generally don’t want to hear any audio behind you. 

If you are a V-logger and need to film yourself, the lightning jack is reversible, so you can face the mic back towards yourself in selfie mode.

Pros:

• Lightweight at only 1.2 oz.
• Flexible mounting bracket
• 3.5mm TRRS connector
• 3.5mm headphone jack on rear

Cons:

• You might need to download an extra app

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Best Clip Mic 

Rode SmartLav+

The Rode smartLav+ is a lavalier microphone for your Apple or Android mobile device that is designed to deliver high-quality audio recording. 

The smartLav+ clips on to your shirt or lapel, and the sensitive, omnidirectional condenser capsule captures the sound equally from all sides of the microphone. 

This design lends to effective, hands-free recording of speeches, interviews, dictations and more.

Being an omnidirectional microphone, it doesn’t matter whether you point it upside down or sidewise, etc. as long as it’s close enough to the source. 

Due to the absence of proximity effect, an omnidirectional capsule is also less susceptible to the shock or handling noise. 

The smartLav is compatible with iOS devices, including the iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch over several generations, but it is also for use by Android users, too, thanks to the TRRS connection.

Overall, the RØDE SmartLav+ delivers on its promise to give you great quality sound and improves on the sound from your phone’s microphone and it also minimises wind and ambient noise as well, and that’s what makes it one of the best omnidirectional microphone for iPhone and smartphones.

It’s extremely easy to use. It really is plug and play so you don’t need to fiddle with any of the settings to make it work and deliver exceptional sound. It’s an extremely versatile microphone that you can use with your phone and with your DSLR camera.

Pros:

• Sounds crispy and natural
• Low self-noise
• Great quality for the buck
• Works with all smartphones

Cons:

• Comes with a short cable

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Best Condenser Microphone 

Apogee MiC Plus 

The Apogee MiC Plus is a studio-quality microphone in a USB form factor for your podcasts, one that can deliver a record-ready sound in minutes, even if you don’t know much about room treatment or mic technique. 

The mic sports converters and preamps from Apogee—a company famed for their analog-to-digital technology—, and is designed to work with Mac, Windows, or iOS devices.

The metal and plastic composition of the MiC Plus utilizes a fairly traditional front-address style condenser mic build—a large grille up top protects the cardioid capsule, which is to be addressed from the front-facing panel. 

Below the grille, we have what might be described as a fairly straightforward USB mic build, including a gain knob (which doubles as a mute button) with three multicolor status LEDs above it. 

The included tripod is about the same size as the MiC+ itself, and comes with an adjustable knob on the side to tweak the top’s fit. 

Technically, the tripod can make the top of the mic point directly at the sound source, but that will not be efficient for its recording use (that is more geared towards dynamic microphones). The tripod itself is very sturdy as well, and all three legs can adjust to fit your needs accordingly. 

While the MiC Plus is mounted on the tripod, the extremely small and versatile fit all around is beautiful for placing it anywhere in your music studio, home office, or even on the go next to a laptop or smart device, such as an iPhone or iPad, regardless of environment.

The MiC Plus offers excellent clarity, as we’d expect from this brand and at this price. The capsule seems well-protected inside the grille—even with no pop filter, our plosives rarely set off a gain overload (the LEDs light up red when you peak out). 

The audio signal the MiC Plus provides is less bright than some of the others we’ve tested—it is certainly clean and clear, but it sounds somewhat less crisp than, say, the Blue Raspberry. This isn’t to say the mic sounds muffled, but it does seem slightly less bright. 

Depending on what you’re looking for, this can be a positive or a negative, and of course, there’s always the ability to adjust the recording with EQ after.

Pros:

• Superior quality
• Very clear sound
• Low latency
• Plug and play
• Lightweight 

Cons:

• Can be glitchy sometimes

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Best With Smart Mixer

Saramonic SmartMixer

The Saramonic SmartMixer is a compact and lightweight audio mixer with phantom power and amplifier, ideal for iOS and Android mobile devices video production. 

The mixer features one mini XLR input for balanced microphones and two microphone/line inputs for the included condenser microphones or other user-supplied microphones. 

A volume control knob and level meter allow easy adjustment of the input level. A headphone monitor output allows you to monitor the input and playback signal. 

It comes with an aluminum handgrip for recording on the move or it can be mounted on a tripod for stationary use. 

The included device holder allows the SmartMixer to be used in either landscape or portrait orientations. 

The audio quality and versatile operation of the Smartmixer makes it ideal for both professional and in-home applications.

The device can capture 20 Hz to 20 kHz, depending on the microphone you use. Input 1 and 2 gain is at 15 dB which is perfect for a un-powered mic or lav microphone. 

The side MINI jack can connect a Dynamic microphone or one needing Phantom power.

The unit runs on a 9 Volt battery (battery life dependent on your microphone usage and phantom power needs). A Lithium battery can also be used for a rechargeable source.

Smartmix is lightweight and small enough so that it can easily fit into your bag.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight audio mixer
• Phantom power for condenser mics
• Mini-XLR input
• Two 1/8″ stereo mic/line inputs
• Play/rec monitor switch
• Includes 2 Plug-in power condenser mics
• Device holder, hand grip, and cables

Cons:

• Sometimes connection can be a bit glitchy

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Mini Microphone For iPhone & iPad – Buying Guide

Features To Look For In A Good Microphone For iPhone & iPad

Physical connection

Check how the microphone connects to the iPhone or iPad. A microphone that can attach to an iPhone with or without a case is a big deal. Does the mic move independently of the iPhone and how well does it stay connected to the phone?

Electrical connection

The transfer of audio, whether analog or digital, is critical when connecting an external mic to an iPhone. How reliable is the electrical connection for proper signal flow?

Audio quality

Lightning is a digital connector, so these microphones must have analog-to-digital converters. Audio quality is essential at the capsule (analog) level and at the iPhone input (digital) level).

Frequency Response

Choose a microphone with a natural frequency response in order to capture natural sounding clean audio.

Durability

Choose a microphone that is built well and will last a long time. Chances are the microphone, just like your iPhone, will endure some abuse.

Overall functionality

The microphone that you chose for your iPhone or iPad should be easy to set up and use. Check for a few things while buying the microphone. Does it interfere with the camera(s) of the iPhone? Does it have multiple options to improve versatility? These are all questions to ask when picking an external mini microphone for your iPhone or iPad.

How to Connect an External Mini Microphone to your iPhone or iPad.

When it comes to choosing an external microphone for your iOS device, you have two options.

You can either use a plug-n-play iOS compatible microphone that directly plugs into your iPad or iPhone with a lightning to USB cable. One end goes into the USB microphone while the other into the lightning connector port.

Most of the latest iOS condenser microphones ship along with the necessary lightning and USB cables and require no batteries or external powered USB hubs.

Alternatively, if you already have a good-quality USB microphone that you are using with your computer, you can save some money and connect your existing desktop mic to your iPad or iPhone with the help of few cables and accessories.

Conclusion

Our top pick for the best mini microphone for iPhone & iPad for video is the Shure MV88+. With this mic creating professional video content will not be complicated. The MV88+ Video Kit is the perfect partner for your mobile device to level up your next video production or YouTube video. 

Ur next pick for the best mini microphone for iPhone & iPad is the Zoom iQ7. The iQ7 mid-side stereo condenser mic is the ideal audio accessory for your iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch. Lightweight and compact, small enough to fit in your pocket, it is perfect for capturing music as well as video with great-sounding audio.

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