The iPhone audio is actually pretty decent for a phone, but if you are regularly recording interviews, YouTube videos or podcasts, you’ll definitely want to invest in an external iPhone microphone. You can also use these mics on-camera, or for recording music, meetings, and more.
One tip: turn on Airplane Mode while recording or you will likely experience cellular feedback or distortion.
We are going to focus on the best iPhone mics in 2024 that use the lightning port as that is what Apple has used for the most recent iPhone and are likely to continue using, but you’ll also find a few that use the headphone jack.
Our top iPhone mic for most people: Shure MV88
If you are looking for a lavalier mic that plugs into the headphone jack (or Lightning-to-headphone adapter), check out the first 3 recommendations in our best lavalier mics post.
If you want wireless options, check out the wireless lav mics here.
If you are looking for something to use with the Apple camera connection adapter, take a look at the best USB microphones post.
Quick Overview: Best External Microphones For iPhone and iOS
| IMAGE |
PRODUCT |
|
| Best Lightning Connector Shure MV88 - Provides superior audio quality and clarity
- Apple MFi certified compatible with all iOS devices
- 5 DSP preset modes
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| - Adjustable microphone angles from 90 to 120 degrees
- Able to be used both on phones with cases and without
- The same condenser microphones as the world-famous H4n
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| - Comes with two smartLav+ mics
- Gives you the ability to record interviews
- Record separate tracks for each mic
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| Best Headphone Jack Rode VideoMic Me - Compact TRRS cardioid microphone designed for iOS devices
- High-quality directional microphone
- 3.5mm headphone output
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| For Older iPhones Rode IXY-L - Record stereo audio at 24-bit, 96 kHz
- Matched pair of 1/2" Cardioid condenser capsules
- Metal casing for Enhanced durability
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