The video quality of most new smartphones is pretty incredible. iPhone picture quality is constantly improving, but it’s always been pretty good. In fact, it was good enough in 2015 (which is basically two decades ago in phone years) to be used to shoot the feature film, Tangerine. There’s almost no limit to what you can shoot with a smartphone. Emphasis on almost. The main problem is audio quality. Using the built-in mic results in pretty poor results, but the benefit of having a portable smartphone is instantly negated by having to carry a boom mic. That’s where clip-on phone mics come in.
A clip-on mic is similar to the kind you’d see a guest on a talk show wear on their lapel. The difference is that instead of needing to carry a clunky transmitter, you just plug the mic into your phone. Clip-on phone mics are perfect for on-the-go interviews, podcasting, and creating video content. Even if you’re not using it on-the-go, you can use the clip-on mic for vlogging at home instead of a traditional standing microphone. Whatever you need a clip-on mic for, the applications are nearly endless. These are some of the best options.
1. PowerDeWise Lavalier Lapel Microphone
This lavalier microphone plugs into any 3.5mm jack, and the plug and play design means that no additional software is needed to start using it. The mic comes with various accessories, including extra wind muffs, a long extension cord, a mono adapter, and a storage pouch. The mic picks up sound omnidirectionally, and its sensitivity is -46±2db.
Pros: Very sensitive, can pick up nuanced sounds while still reducing interference from wind and other noise. Comes with a bonus 79″ cord, laptop adapter, and other accessories.
Cons: Louder sounds can cause the mic to clip.
2. Miracle Sound Lavalier Microphone
This lapel mic picks up sound omnidirectionally, and it works with iPhones or Androids without needing to download any special software. The mic includes a detachable wind muff, and a faux leather carrying pouch is included, as well.
Pros: Most lightweight option on this list, picks up audio omnidirectionally. Metal clip for a secure hold.
Cons: Limited suppression of background noise. Doesn’t come with as many accessories as the other options.
3. PoP voice Upgraded Lavalier Lapel Microphone
If you’re prone to misplacing small things, this microphone comes with eye-catching orange and red wind muffs, as well as discreet black. The cord is 78 inches long, and there’s an adapter to make it compatible with laptops or desktops.
Pros: Comes with an adapter and differently colored wind muffs.
Cons: Can pick up too much background noise.