The Best Smartphone Microphone

You can capture some truly stunning images with the iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, or Google Pixel, but relying on a default smartphone microphone is another story. Smartphone audio is usually not very high quality, and built-in mics struggle to pick up sound outdoors or at a distance. You’ll need to get a dedicated smartphone external microphone if you want audio that sounds professional. 

Of course, there’s more than one kind of microphone for smartphone video recording. Depending on what kind of content you’re creating, you may want a low-profile lav mic, a high-powered shotgun microphone, or anything in between. To make that decision a bit easier, take a look at this list of our best external smartphone microphones

VXR10

Shooting outside, especially in public, can be very problematic if you want clear audio. TheVXR10 Universal Video Microphone cuts through background noise thanks to its accurate cardioid pickup pattern. While it is compatible with almost any recording device, the VXR10 makes a great external microphone for smartphone videos thanks to its small, lightweight design.

The VXR10 comes with a TRRS audio cable, making it compatible with any smartphone that has a 3.5mm headphone jack. It’s included shock mount makes it ideal for run and gun recording, and the battery-free design draws power directly from your phone, eliminating the need to carry bulky power packs with you on shoots.

WMX-2

The WMX-2 Wireless Lavalier Microphone System Is a compact and intuitive wireless microphone system.  The lightweight transmitter features a highly-sensitive built-in omnidirectional microphone, allowing you to clip the mic on and record broadcast-quality audio in any setting.

While the WMX-2 is compatible with traditional DSLR cameras and recorders, the included 3.5mm TRRS audio cable means it’s also a great wireless microphone for smartphone videos. For a set with two transmitters, check out the WMX-2-DUO. The WMX-2 also comes in different versions - the WMX-2-L / DUO for lightning connection (iPhones 14 and below) and the WMX-2-C / DUO for USB-C type connections (Android, iPhones 15 and above).

EDGE-UC & EDGE-DI

If you want a lav mic built specifically for your smartphone, consider the EDGE series. TheEDGE-UC Wireless Lavalier Microphone System interfaces with Android tablets and phones, as well iOS devices like the iPad Pro that utilize USB-C ports. The compact wireless receiver plugs directly into your device, keeping your setup compact and uncluttered.

The EDGE-DI functions exactly like the EDGE-UC, but is compatible with iPhones and iPads thanks to its built-in Lightning output. Both versions feature an effective transmission range of up to 200 feet and support real time headphone monitoring. If you’re looking for a dedicated Bluetooth microphone for smartphone videos, you can’t go wrong with either EDGE system.  

There is a microphone for every occasion, and having one that works with your smartphone means you can be ready to capture crystal clear audio wherever you go. The best smartphone microphone is the one that suits your needs the most, so for even more options, be sure to check out  our online store for all of our excellent mobile recording devices!