The 6 BEST External Mics for iPhones (iOS) For Perfect Audio

If you create your audio using an iPhone and you're tired of that muffled sound... or just want to take your recordings to the next level, investing in an external microphone can be the way to go. It really does make a difference!

Now, there are quite a few good options out there, so we have selected a few of the top picks for external microphones you can connect to your Apple device and start using for your audio recording right now.

Why Your Microphone Matters (and Your iPhone Mic Might Not Be Enough)

Let's first talk about why your microphone matters, especially if you're an iPhone user. Don't get me wrong, iPhones are pretty awesome devices, but when it comes to capturing top-notch audio, they might fall a bit short.

iPhones come with built-in microphones. But while they do the job for everyday tasks like phone calls or voice memos, they're not exactly designed for professional-level audio recording. Why? Because they can pick up a lot of background noise, the sound quality might not be as clear or crisp as you'd like, especially in noisy environments or when recording music or videos.

That's where external microphones come into play. These devices are specifically designed to capture sound with precision and clarity so you can hear every nuance and detail in your recordings (without a USB-C connection).

In short, external mics can help you achieve professional-grade sound quality, eliminate background noise, and give your recordings that extra oomph that sets them apart from the rest. And, of course, you can still use them with other devices like your iPad or even an Android phone.

The Best External Microphones for Your iPhone

No matter if you're a content creator, a budding musician, or someone who loves recording audio with crystal-clear sound, these little wonders are about to revolutionize your iPhone experience.

Without further ado, here are the top five mics for recording podcasts and/or doing vlogging and interviews — and taking your iPhone productions from good to downright amazing!

Apogee HypeMiC

The Apogee HypeMiC offers exceptional sound quality and a built-in compressor for smooth audio.

This little microphone just plugs straight into your iPhone or iPad, turning it into a legitimate recording studio in seconds. The HypeMiC isn't just a pretty face either - it's got some serious audio chops. With its built-in analog compressor and fancy condenser capsule, it pumps out a rich, warm sound that'll make your recordings pop.

But wait, there's more! The HypeMiC also features a headphone output with zero-latency monitoring. So, you can hear exactly what you're recording in real-time without any annoying delays.

• Price: $349

Rode Wireless GO II

The Rode Wireless GO II provides high-quality audio without cables cluttering your space.

Say goodbye to tangled cables because the Rode Wireless GO II lets you record high-quality audio without being tethered to your device. Whether you're filming videos, chatting up interviews, or jamming out live, this little powerhouse lets you roam and get creative without missing a beat.

The Rode Wireless GO II also has two ultra-compact transmitters that can be used together for dual-channel recording (or separately for interviews or performances). Plus, each transmitter packs its own built-in mic and can hook up with external Lavalier mics for even more options.

• Price: $190 (for the system)

Shure MV88+

The Shure MV88+ is perfect for capturing high-quality audio in various environments.

This microphone plugs right into your iPhone 15 or iPad's Lightning port, instantly transforming it into a portable recording studio. But here's where things get really exciting: the MV88+ features adjustable stereo width and polar patterns, so you can customize your recordings to suit any situation.

The MV88+ also comes with a free Shure MOTIV Audio & Video app, which allows users to access a wide range of powerful recording tools and features, as well as all the adapters you will need to take your recording with you anywhere you go.

• Price: $249 (for the kit)

PQRQP Wireless Lavalier Microphone

The mini PQRQP Wireless Lavalier Microphone delivers high-quality audio with crystal-clear clarity and minimal interference.

This super-compact microphone system includes a wireless transmitter and receiver, along with a discreet Lavalier microphone that you can clip onto your clothing for hassle-free recording. With its wireless design, you can move around freely without being tethered to your iPhone, giving you the flexibility to capture the perfect shot from any angle.

No matter if you're indoors or outdoors, in a quiet room or a noisy environment, this microphone ensures that your recordings sound professional and pristine every time.

• Price: $22 (for a pack of 2)

Comica BoomX-D2

The Comica BoomX-D2 features a dual-channel system supporting mono or stereo output for versatile recording options.

With the Comica BoomX-D2, you can say goodbye to tangled cords and hello to wireless microphone freedom. Just clip the transmitter onto your belt or pocket, attach the compact receiver to your iPhone, and you're good to go!

The BoomX-D2 delivers crystal-clear audio quality with minimal interference, so your recordings sound professional and polished every time. And the best part? The BoomX-D2 is super easy to use. It's plug-and-play, so you can set it up in seconds and start recording right away.

• Price: $199

TTStar Lavalier Lapel Mic

The TTStar Lavalier Lapel Mic is a clip-on Lavalier microphone designed for easy setup on iPhones.

With the TTStar Lavalier Lapel Mic, you can capture clear and crisp audio without any hassle. Just clip the microphone onto your clothing, plug it into your iPhone's headphone jack or Lightning port (with the appropriate adapter), and you're good to go!

Despite its small size, the TTStar Lapel Mic delivers big on audio quality. Whether you're indoors or outdoors, in a quiet room or a noisy environment, this microphone ensures that your recordings sound professional and polished every time.

• Price: $12.99

Conclusion

If you're serious about your audio game and want to take your recordings to new heights, investing in an external microphone is definitely worth considering. With one of these mics in your arsenal, you'll be well on your way to creating audio masterpieces that'll impress even the toughest critics.

Now that we’ve covered the hardware, are you happy with your recording platform? And have you heard of StreamYard? StreamYard is an all-in-one professional live streaming and recording studio that works directly from your browser. Try StreamYard today!