Be it recording the podcasts, interviews or YouTube videos with audio, your iPhone’s in-built microphone isn’t a perfect companion. After all, the best external microphone for iPhone does its job pretty well as compared to the built-in mic.
Of course, your iPhone is perfect in terms of video recording, camera resolution, overall performance, etc but it needs to record crystal clear sound as well and that’s possible with the best iPhone external microphones. Just ensure that when you use any external mic or lightning connector mic, put your iPhone in Airplane mode to avoid cellular disturbances while recording.
Best External Microphones for iPhone 11, X Series, 8/8 Plus and 7/7 Plus [2020]
#1. Shure MV88 Portable Microphone with Lightning Adapter
The AT2020 is a classic vocal mic that performs well above its price point. The AT2020USB+ is, you guessed it, the plug-n-play USB version. It has a headphone jack so you can listen to yourself speaking (don’t use your speakers or there’s a good chance you’ll get a nasty echo) and a mix control dial that lets you blend audio from your computer with whatever you microphone is hearing. Lavalier Microphone, MAONO AU-100 Hands Free Clip-on Lapel Mic with Omnidirectional Condenser for Podcast, Recording, DSLR,Camera, Smartphone, PC,Laptop (236 in) MAONO: 8.6: GET ON AMAZON: 10: USB Lavalier Lapel Microphone,Fifine Clip-on Cardioid Condenser Computer mic Plug and Play USB Microphone with Sound Card for PC and Mac-K053 FIFINE. Make Offer - Apple Mac Computer Microphone Sealed Original Box-1990 Vintage VTG Apple Macintosh PlainTalk Microphone Clear 590-0736 in new sealed condition. The Movo DOM2-USB is a mini Omni-directional Condenser Microphone with included USB Adapter for Laptops, PC's and Mac. The DOM2-USA plugs directly in to a USB port and provides accurate, professional audio recording. With its small size and simple?plug and play? Functionality, the DOM2-USB is optimized for on-the-go use.
With a pocket-friendly design, Shure is probably the most-loved external mic for iPhone users. The mic comes with 5 preset modes such as speech, singing, flat, loud and acoustic instrument and moreover, it automatically adjusts the compression, EQ for quality output.
The flexibility to tilt the mic whenever you need is something which I like the most about Shure microphone. And being able to rotate up to 90-degrees is just like icing on the cake. Isn’t it? It comes with two free apps through which you can control the recording. And of course, it works with most of the iOS devices.
Pros
- Apple MFi certified
- Pocket-friendly design
- Allows you to flip and rotate the microphone up to 90°
Cons
- The app needs some improvement in terms of UI and performance
- A bit expensive
Price: $149
Check out on Amazon
#2. Zoom iQ6 Adjustable Mic
Don’t go with the design and look of this mic from Zoom. It works amazingly with your iPhone and iPad as well. It can easily adjust from 90 to 120-degrees without any hassles. Even if your iPhone or iPad has a case on it, that doesn’t affect the overall output of the recording.
It’s compact design and easy to fit feature makes it a unique iPhone external mic. The maximum sound pressure this mic can handle is around 130 dB, if you try to give more sound pressure, it may not give you perfect results. So use it with case keeping the sound pressure in mind.
Pros
- Comes with the same condenser microphones as the noted H4n
- Allows adjustment from 90° to 120°
- 44.1 to 16-bit audio quality
Cons
- The microphones are comparatively less durable
Price: $99.99
Check out on Amazon
#3. Altson Ultra-Compact Clip Omnidirectional Microphone
Altson is a mini microphone compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPods with a lighting interface. The product is equipped with a clip that lets you buckle the mic to your collar while recording podcasts, interviews, and live YouTube videos. With its omnidirectional design, it is capable of collecting radio waves from each direction.
Regarding noise-cancellation, the mic can effectively reduce noise up to 74B signal to noise ratio and –30 dB ±3/0 dB sensitivity.
Pros
- Active Noise cancellation
- Compact and Lightweight Design
- Good Sound & Recording Quality
Cons
- Low Warranty Period
Price: $26.99
Check out on Amazon
#4. INSEESI Easy Installation Mic
Just like Gepege, Insessi is also a lavalier lapel mic designed for iPhone and iPad users. All you need to do is, plug-in and start recording the music or songs right from your iPhone. There’s no need for an external app to control the recordings. Of course, you can later on use them when you edit the recordings.
With an omnidirectional condenser, it makes it possible to pick your sound from any corner (360-degrees). The cable is 1.5m long and hence, you can use it on various occasions to record your desired songs or YouTube audios.
Pros
- Omnidirectional condenser
- Pretty simple plug and play
- Anti-friction
Cons
- At times the sound might distort
Price: $29.99
Check out on Amazon
#5. BOYA Lapel Microphone with Lightning Cable
If you’re looking for a mic just for YouTube vlog or podcast recording, Boya’s lapel lightning mic is your way to go. It’s easy to connect directly to your iPhone or iPad as it comes with a lightning connector. The cable is 6m long and it’s more than enough to use it in any situation.
With 3 different windscreens, you can select your preferred one for the recording. Each and everything in this product is made of pure metal giving it a sturdy configuration overall. The product includes a Mic clip, a windscreen, lightning cable, and a carrying pouch.
Pros
- Captures clear sound
- Connects directly to any iOS device
- 6m long cable
Cons
- The frequency response needs some enhancement
Price: $69.95
Check out on Amazon
#6. Movo MA200 3.5mm Dongle Clip Mic
If you’re looking for an extremely lightweight and pocket-friendly designed external mic for iPad or iPhone, Movo MA200 must be your preferred choice without any second thoughts. The small-sized microphone not only gives you perfect sound while recording but it’s also affordable at the same time.
The 3.5mm TRRS connector makes it possible to connect your iPhone and Android phone as well. So just in case, if you own two devices, it’s a combo offer for you. It’s made of aluminum to ensure the durability factor and it even works if the case on your iPhone.
Pros
- Ultra-portable design
- Works with both iOS and Android devices
- Omnidirectional polar pattern
Cons
- Requires Lightning to 3.5mm adapter
Price: $14.95
Check out on Amazon
#7. Yichuang Microphone with Lightning Connector
The traditional mic from Yinchaung leaves no stone unturned when it comes to the quality of the sound and the material as well. As it comes with the lightning connector, you will not need an adapter to connect it with your Apple devices. With an omnidirectional condenser, be rest assured of picking up sounds from all directions.
Its metal lavalier clip can be easily used with your shirt if you’re recording an interview or a podcast and this gives you a hands-free experience of recording. The cable is size is around 1.5m and with the lightweight configuration, it makes it easy to carry on the go!
Pros
- Automatic noise cancellation
- Hands-free clip-on lapel lavalier microphone
- Quick plug and play setup
Cons
- Not completely distortion-free
Price: $28.99
Check out on Amazon
#8. PowerDeWise Mic with Easy Clip
Going by the ratings (4.3 stars out of 5 from well over 4.5K ratings), PowerDeWise is easily one of the most popular external microphones for the iPhone. The microphones sport a lightweight design which makes it pocket-friendly. As for the setup, it’s quite straightforward. But you will require a 3.5mm Lightning adapter.
Sound quality-wise, I think PowerDeWise delivers a solid punch. So, you will get crisp and distortion-free audio. At $33.33, PowerDeWise is a reasonably good yet cheap external microphone for iOS devices.
Pros
- Highly-rated on Amazon
- Lightweight and pocket-friendly design
- Up to the mark sound for the price
Cons
- You will need to have 3.5mm Lightning adapter if you want to use it with iPhone 7 or later
Price: $33.33
Check out on Amazon
#9. Shotory Lavalier Microphone with USB Charging
Check out this omnidirectional Lavalier Lapel Microphone with Noise Cancellation technology. It’s got high capability in all directions and provides excellent sound quality. It’s excellent to improve the sound quality of your videos and wow your audience.
Moreover, the important thing is that the battery is rechargeable with a universal USB cable. It offers extra-long 45-50 hours of work time after full charging. The convenience that comes with rechargeable products is excellent when you’re traveling.
Pros
- Noise cancellation
- Rechargeable battery
- LED indicators
Cons
- Could be more ergonomic in design
Price: $35.99
Check out on Amazon
#10. BONAOK Bluetooth Wireless Karaoke Mic
Whether you are on the lookout for a reasonably good microphone to amp up your karaoke time or enhance the audio quality of your monologues, BONAOK can seamlessly fit into your taste. And that too by keeping your budget in check. First and foremost, the Bluetooth microphone has a modern-looking design with the LED light on both the front and rear sides.
Thanks to the colorful dynamic lights, BONAOK looks spot-on for your party time. Not just that, the wireless microphone features DSP technology and three-layers of filters to deliver clear sound. On top of all, this wireless microphone comes with a robust lithium battery (18650mAh) to deliver up to 4 hours of uninterrupted sound recording.
Pros
- Modern-looking design
- DSP technology and three-layers of filter
- Built-in battery delivers up to 4 hours of sound recording
Cons
- The volume is a bit low
Price: $35.99
Check out on Amazon
That’s it for today, folks!
Final Verdict!
So which of these lightning connector microphones would you buy for your iPhone or iPad for recording your videos or interviews? Do let us know in the comment section right away! If you ask me to pick one of these iPhone external microphones, I would go with Shure on any given day due to its flexibility and clear sound output.
Recommended Accessories You Might Like!
Jignesh Padhiyar is the co-founder of iGeeksBlog.com who has a keen eye for news, rumors and all the unusual stuff that happens around Apple products. During his tight schedule, Jignesh finds some moments of respite to share side-splitting contents on social media.
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- https://www.igeeksblog.com/author/iosblogger/How to Share Purchased Apps Between iPhones and iPads
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Recording with the best omnidirectional microphone is easy and can give you major tonal advantages without excess gain. Many people think omni directional mics aren’t great for recording or live sound and that’s just not true.
Omni mics do produce gain in the critical zone, but outside of that they have plenty of advantages. You get way less wind noise, popping, vibrations, and no chance you’ll be outside of the polar pattern.
Don’t worry if some of this is over your head, we’ve reviewed all the top omni directional mics to show you their pros and cons and help you decide which one to add to your recording gear.
Top 3 Omnidirectional Mics
Contents
- 2 Top Omni Directional Microphones in 2020
- 2.1 Blue Yeti USB Mic
- 2.2 Rode smartLav+
- 2.3 Movo HM-M2 Dynamic Handheld Microphone
- 2.4 Blue Snowball USB Microphone
- 2.5 Sony ECMCS3 Stereo Microphone
- 2.6 Rode Reporter Interview Microphone
| Best Omnidirectional Microphones | Model | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Blue Yeti USB Mic | ||
| Rode smartLav+ | ||
| Movo HM-M2 |
Top Omni Directional Microphones in 2020
This is a full list of the best omnidirectional microphones to record your guitar, podcast, or anything else in your recording studio.
Blue Yeti USB Mic
In the world of microphones, Blue is a relatively new kid on the block. By the time it was founded in 1995, there were already established brands on ground. Despite this, Blue has gone on to make a name for itself and has continued to do so.
The microphone we are looking at here is the very popular Yeti. This is a USB microphone that is among the most sought after by podcasters.
It is designed with three condenser capsules that allow it support four different polar patterns. You simply switch to the pattern that best meets your need at the time. Your options are cardioid, stereo, bidirectional and omnidirectional.
Being a USB microphone, it derives its power from the USB port. It also has a gain knob for controlling the level that goes into your device and a volume knob for managing the headphone level from its direct headphone out.
This microphone does not require any additional preamp as it has an internal preamp that sends an already optimized signal out. It is very easy to use because it is plug and play which is what has made it a favorite with podcasters.
Pros
- Type – USB condenser.
- Frequency response range – 20Hz to 20kHz.
- Polar pattern – Cardioid, stereo, bidirectional and omnidirectional.
Cons
Because of its design, it may have a limited use application.
Suggestion
This is a lovely microphone that is easy to setup and use. However, it is best for vlogging or podcasting. It may not find a practical use in a professional recording environment.
Rode smartLav+
Rode is an established microphone brand that has been in the market since 1967. It has delivered a lot of top quality microphones that are being used in different sectors of the music industry.
What Rode is offering us here is the SmartLav+. This is a lapel microphone designed for use with smart phones and mobile devices because of its 1/8 TRS connector.
It is a condenser microphone with a 360 polar pattern. Pinned to your lapel or collar, you can speak normally and it will easily capture what you are saying.
This microphone makes it easy to improve the quality of your audio on videos, podcasts and more. It is equipped with a kevlar reinforced cable which ensures durability, as it will not easily get stretched or severed in the course of your normal use. The same goes for the clip which is designed to withstand the rigors of regular use.
You will also get a foam windscreen which will serve as both a pop filter and shield against wind noise. This microphone offers a professional level output and is very easy to use especially with your mobile devices.
Pros
- Type – Lavalier, Condenser.
- Frequency response range – 60Hz to 18kHz.
- Polar pattern – Omnidirectional.
Cons
It has a limited use application.
Suggestion
If you will be doing a lot of audio recordings using your smartphone or other mobile device and want to get as professional an output as you can, then you should consider getting this microphone.
Movo HM-M2 Dynamic Handheld Microphone
Movo is a company that is consumed with a desire to enable content creators do what they do best with ease and professionalism, using simple and affordable tools.
Since one of the areas of greatest challenge, especially for vloggers, podcasters and others who create content is audio recording, the brand offers this microphone to make life easier for them.
The HM-M2 is a dynamic, handheld microphone designed to aid on the field interviews. It features an omnidirectional pickup pattern that ensures uniform all-round sound pickup.
As part of its design, it does not need to be powered by external phantom power. To further make it ideal for its purpose, it has an in-built pop filter that reduces plosives from anyone speaking in close proximity to it and also cuts down on wind noise that may be prevalent on some field projects.
This microphone is specially designed for speech so its frequency response range is optimized just for that.
It is ruggedly designed for easy handling and movement while its discreet finish makes it blend well into shots. It comes with a carrying pouch and promises durability through loads of projects.
Pros
- Type – Dynamic, handheld.
- Frequency response range – 70Hz to 15kHz.
- Polar pattern – Omnidirectional.
Cons
It is specialized for speech and so may not excel for other uses.
Suggestion
If you conduct interviews on the streets or anywhere outside a controlled environment, then this is a good microphone to consider. It is specifically designed for conducting interviews.
Blue Snowball USB Microphone
Once again we are looking at another product from Blue, the new kid on the block that appears to be pulling its weight nicely.
What we are looking at this time is the Snowball USB Microphone. Just as with the Yeti, this is a microphone designed with podcasters in mind. It possesses the key specification that folks in this niche look out for – ease of use.
By simply plugging it into your computer, you immediately put at your disposal professional level audio recording.
Though podcasters really love it for the versatility it offers them, this microphone also works very well for other kinds of recordings. With its switchable pickup patterns and attenuation pads that allow signals with much louder volumes to be recorded without the signal clipping, you can actually record a band or instruments with this microphone.
When you get this, what you get is a condenser microphone with two polar patterns – cardioid and omnidirectional, attenuating pads for regulating volume, a sample rate of 16bit/44.1kHz and a frequency response of 40Hz to 18Khz.
For accessories you will get a desktop stand and a USB cable.
Pros
- Type – Condenser, USB.
- Frequency response range – 40Hz to 18kHz.
- Polar pattern – Switchable cardioid and omnidirectional.
Cons
It offers limited control options.
Suggestion
This is a lovely microphone for podcasting. It will especially shine when you are recording a panel discussion because it will pick from all sides. You can also use it for other recording applications.
Sony ECMCS3 Stereo Microphone
Sony is an electronic manufacturing company that dominated its niche for decades. It has continued to retain its position as one of the top electronic brands till this day, producing top quality products for different markets.
One of its products is the ECMCS3 Stereo Microphone package. This is a clip style microphone with an omnidirectional polar pattern.
Because of its design, this microphone is best suited for use with smartphones, mobile devices, laptops and other devices with a 1/8 jack mic input. It will therefore be great for skype calls, podcasting and the like.
Usb Omnidirectional Microphone
This microphone is easy to use. Aside from the fact that it is omnidirectional and offers hands-free use, the microphone itself can also be rotated to achieve the best placement.
As an electret condenser microphone that also picks sound in a 360 degree direction, it will easily pick up a lot of sound from the background. This can however be mitigated by placing it as close to your mouth as possible.
With proper placement, you can be sure of achieving a good quality audio recording with this even on your mobile device.
Pros
- Type – Clip-on, electret condenser.
- Frequency response range – 50Hz to15kHz.
- Polar pattern – Omnidirectional.
Cons
It will easily pick up a lot of background noise
Suggestion
This microphone offers mobile users and people recording or broadcasting from simple devices like laptops, a tool with which to improve the quality of their audio. The placement however has to be gotten right to ensure that the background noise to actual signal ratio is as low as possible.
Rode Reporter Interview Microphone
We are concluding this review with another product from Rode. Like we stated earlier, this is one of the leading microphone brands today.
Previously, we looked at the smartLav+ but now we are looking at a microphone the brand simply calls Reporter. This is a handheld dynamic microphone that was specifically designed for use as a handheld interview or presentation microphone.
Best Omnidirectional Microphone
First, its body design features an ergonomic, die-cast aluminum construction that enhances both ease of use and durability. It also features a built-in mesh that offers protection from wind noise.
For its actual task, the frequency response range was designed to optimize speech while its pickup pattern, which is omnidirectional, ensures that little or no audio signal is lost during the interview.
As part of the package, it comes with a carrying pouch as well as a microphone flag which can be used for branding purposes.
If you are always on the road conducting one interview or the other, this baby will surely make your job a lot more professional. There is a reason why Rode offers a 10 year warranty on this.
Pros
- Type – Handheld, dynamic.
- Frequency response range – 70Hz to 15kHz.
- Polar pattern – Omnidirectional.
Cons
Because of its application design, it will not serve effectively for much other than for speech.
Suggestion
This is a very precisely designed microphone. If you need something for conducting interviews on the road or for presentations, then this microphone was tailor made just for that.
What You Should Get!
We are finally done with our review of top omni directional microphones and it really was an interesting journey. We saw a number of products from different brands offering various features. It is now time for us to choose one from the lot to be named our pick for the day.
Having carefully reviewed all the products, we considered two factors above all others. These are versatility and ease of use. Based on these two factors, we picked the Blue Yeti USB Mic as our Top Omni Directional Mic because we believe it offers the best value on those two factors and also offers good overall quality.