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For smartphone filmmaking, the mic choice comes down to one question: are you recording an interview/dialogue, or general on-the-go video? If the subject can wear a mic, a lavalier gets clean, close speech in noisy rooms. If you need to shoot fast and point-and-go, a shotgun or a mic that clamps to the phone captures directional sound without wiring anyone up. The second thing that decides it is your phone: a plug-in analogue mic (3.5 mm/TRRS) needs the right adapter on modern phones, whereas a mic with its own Lightning/USB-C or app control sidesteps that.
Want more picks? Check our roundup of the best microphones for iPhone & iPad.
Quick steer: for interviews and pieces-to-camera get a lavalier — the Rode SmartLav+ or Shure MVL. For run-and-gun B-roll and vlogging use a phone-mounted shotgun like the Rode VideoMic Me or TAKSTAR SGC-598. For the most control over levels and stereo, the Shure MV88 with its Motiv app is the standout.
Quick comparison
| Microphone | Type | Best for | Connection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rode SmartLav+ | Lavalier (clip-on) | Interviews & dialogue | 3.5mm TRRS (headphone jack) |
| Shure Motiv MVL | Lavalier (clip-on) | Interviews & pieces-to-camera | 3.5mm TRRS (headphone jack) |
| Audio-Technica ATR-3350 | Lavalier (clip-on) | Budget dialogue, long cable runs | 3.5mm (may need TRRS adapter) |
| Movo PM10 | Lavalier (clip-on) | Budget interviews | 3.5mm TRRS (headphone jack) |
| Rode VideoMic Me | Directional (mini shotgun) | Run-and-gun & vlogging | 3.5mm plug onto phone |
| Shure MV88 | Condenser (stereo, adjustable) | Music, controlled recording, best app control | Lightning (digital) |
| TAKSTAR SGC-598 | Shotgun (mounted) | Budget directional B-roll | 3.5mm TRRS output |
It’s fascinating that 10 years ago, we had advanced technology, but we didn’t really consider it seriously. Back then, it was seen as just cool features for smartphones and entertainment. The problem was that the execution wasn’t great in every aspect and not as good as professional equipment. Nowadays, professional photographers praise the camera on the iPhone, and Stephen Soderberg even made a whole movie using multiple mobile devices. The progress is clearly visible to everyone.
Now, let’s talk more about using audio. Smartphones haven’t taken the place of professional equipment yet. When you’re creating reports or interviews, you need extra tools. Nowadays, you can find specific microphones for these tasks. They easily connect to phones and work well with mobile apps. These are a better option than the built-in phone microphone, which is mainly for calls. Things might change in the future, but currently, I recommend using external solutions for mobile devices. There are two main types: Lavalier and Shotgun microphones.
What everyone should notice while choosing best cell phone microphone?
- The length of the wire. Please note that pulling the wire a few meters is inconvenient. A short wire will not work either. I prefer 2-3 meters.
- The size. There is no direct dependence on size, but if the microphone is small, the audio quality will be poor.
- Functionality. Pay attention to the functions. If there are not enough useful working elements, a person should not take the goods.
- Compatibility. Some microphones are cross-platform; others can only exist on certain operating systems. Be sure to check compatibility before buying.
- Frequency. The best option is 60 – 15000 Hz. This option is good for every journalist. Singers need a bigger range.
All this will help with the selection, but I also chose some good microphone options for the phone. Below, we have a list of features, pros, and cons.
Best Lavalier Mics For Android
I recommend beginning with lavalier mini microphones. So, what do we know about them overall? Well, they’re small, clip onto clothes easily, and are usually affordable. However, they have some cons. Most of them pick up extra background noise because they’re not very directional. Also, they’re better for recording on phones than making music, mainly due to their limited frequency range. For music, you’d need a device with a range of 20 – 20000 Hz. Despite these limits, there are still many useful and decent options in this category.
Rode SmartLav+ Microphone
I think this model of microphone for cell phone recording is one of the best. Several objective reasons support using it for recording blogs, interviews, and videos.
The sound quality is high. This mini microphone possesses good sensitivity, and it practically eliminates third-party noise when in use. Its functionality is wide, and users can get files in any popular audio formats: MP3, AAC, FLAC and so on. A built-in phone recording app will help to do this. However, the model works efficiently with any other software.
At a glance, you can see the great build quality. Wind protection is easy to put on and take off. It securely holds, and it securely makes the clothespin. It will not break when the person puts it on a second time. I did some small “mechanical” tests for the wire and mounts, and I did not find any breakdowns or deterioration in the quality of the device after that.
Yes, this option is relatively more expensive than other devices in this category. But the quality fully justifies the price. And the price tag is not so prohibitive if a person looks closely. The mic is perfect for everyday professional tasks in a regular mode.
Features: omnidirectional condenser mic, 20-20000 Hz, JFET converter, 110 dB SPL maximum sound pressure level
Pros: high build quality, software included, good sound without third-party noise, reliability
Cons: relatively high price
Shure Motiv MVL Microphone
This mini microphone for cell phone is considered a convenient solution for speeches, lectures, interviews and so on. It can be used with cellphones and tablets based on both popular mobile platforms. Personally, I really like its functionality and reliability.
Shure MVL mini mic has a circular pattern and boasts a high signal to noise ratio. When using the device with an iPhone or iPad, a person can involve in the working process both the multifunctional proprietary application, which is available for free download, and any other third-party software.
It is cheaper than the previous model, and the quality of work remains decent at the same time. A foam rubber wind protection, a clip for attaching to clothes and a carrying case are supplied with the novelty.
Features: omnidirectional orientation, MEMS mic capsule, 45-20000 Hz, high signal to noise ratio 65 dB, 124 dB
Pros: protection against external interference and distortion, stylish design, useful accessories, compact body
Cons: unreliable clip
Audio-Technica ATR3350iS Microphone
The base model is considered the industry standard for the portable mic category for interviews and similar activities. And this variation is a modification for mobile issues.
Most features are similar, and this is a solution of outstanding quality. I easily put this model in the top-3 here.
This cell phone microphone accepts frequencies from 50 Hz to 18 kHz, has a sensitivity of -54 dB and is omnidirectional. In terms of numbers, the characteristics are good, and this is confirmed instantly in practice. This model has some noises, but with a good location, speech is recorded as it should in the entire range of corresponding frequencies.
The construction quality is decent, but there are some inconveniences to be. Notice than, a clip is made of soft plastic and it may break. The user should be careful. The hardware parts itself is much more reliable. With all the controversial design features, the device provides great sound quality.
Features: best design for video recording, adapter for a wide range of phones, wind protection 50-18000 Hz, omnidirectional type
Pros: high sound quality, stylish appearance
Cons: some design inconveniences
Movo PM10 Microphone
This mini microphone for cellphone should be attributed to the budget price category. It costs less than other user options from this list, but the price / quality ratio remains at a high level. This is the best choice for undemanding users and occasional tasks. The scope is universal and wide at the same time: recording interviews, videos, live streams, conferences. Third-party noise is minimal.
It is compatible with all current phones and tablets based on two most popular mobile software platforms. It does not require additional power and quickly connects to a cellphone. Separately, it is worth noting the case for transportation in the kit.
The design is simple and pleasant, it fits perfectly into any app and does not spoil the appearance. At the same time, it also eliminates inconvenience in the process of wearing and recording sound.
Features: 35-18000 Hz, 3.5mm TRRS jack (adapter included) is compatible with all current phones
Pros: reasonable price, reliability
Cons: sound quality is good, but not high enough in comparison with analogs from the list
Best Shotgun Microphones for Android
A shotgun mics are a directional type solutions. It spared the cons that have devices of the options described above. These solutions can work directly in front of itself and cuts off the noises on the sides. This provides an extremely useful signal.
This kind of device is also can’t be involved in the process of recording songs due to its directivity. It can’t record reverberations and echoes which is useful for some working issues. But for everyday fieldwork (interviews, videos, streams) they are good. The main thing is to find a good model. Here I also picked up some of the best ideas.
Rode VideoMic Me Microphone
Need something solid and effective for every day? There are enough options, and many float on the surface in the tops of online stores. For example, this model. It is characterized by fast synchronization with mobile devices, efficient operation and high quality recording regardless of external circumstances. You need to try very hard to spoil the interview or making the film. The model also has simple connection and synchronization tools.
The difference between the sound quality of this microphone and the integrated solutions for smartphones is striking. Compactness plays a large role in the field. This device is not only portable, but also well thought out in detail. It is convenient to carry and use in any environment. Special attention should be paid to the equipment, which contains everything necessary for a working exit in the field and everyday use of the device without the risk of accidentally breaking something during transportation.
In general, I recommend it as the best option for recording video in any situations.
Features: cardioid type, 1/2 “standard capsule, 100-20000 Hz, 20dB-A equivalent noise level
Pros: compact size, light weight, convenient design for use with a cellphone, fur wind protection included
Cons: compatibility issues with certain smartphone models are possible
Shure MV88 Microphone
I think everyone have no doubt about the choice when hearing the word Shure. The same applies to this user option, which performs the tasks of a mic for cellphones and tablets at the proper level.
What was the aim of the developers of this model? They sought to ensure the perfect compatibility of an external microphone with an iPhone. Along the way, the developers provided everything necessary for comfortable compatibility with devices of the other popular platform. The result was perfect sound and practicality. The main connection is through the standard iPhone connector, but an adapter for connecting to Android phones is also provided. This does not entail changes in the quality of work or anything else. Sophisticated design allows you to position the direction with virtually no restrictions in any conditions. The interview or movie soundtrack will be recorded in full accordance with the creative idea. Third-party noises are virtually eliminated. Specialized software is supplied.
Features: special software, two capsules with four radiation patterns to choose from, limiter, compressor, 5-band equalizer
Pros: robust design, HD sound recording, sound capture in all conditions, versatility
Cons: high price
Takstar SGC-598
Who’re looking for a cheaper option, but the sound recording quality should remain at a high level? There are also such options in the Shotgun category, everyone has the opportunity to save. For example, pay attention to the Takstar SGC-598. I believe that this is the best that China can offer in this category of equipment today.
This model cannot boast of portability, but it performs the main task perfectly. However, the model has a very durable case and is marked with high resistance to mechanical stress. Users value the sound quality that this model provides. Third-party noises are excluded. The manufacturer also added several useful filters that are located on the device. This is an integrated amplifier, increasing the volume of the signal, removing bass.
I would recommend this model to anyone who uses phone microphone regularly and is not very demanding on practicality factors in the field. It can withstand severe operation with decent quality of sound output.
Features: 50 – 16000 Hz, 100 hours of operation from 1 AA battery, built-in filters, aluminum case, battery indicator
Pros: great sound quality, reasonable price, durability
Cons: too large
Conclusion
I found many interesting options in the process of researching this category of microphones. Interestingly, there are no perfect microphones. But there are many models that provide HD sound. And each model has some personal small flaws: unreliable structural elements, a bit overpriced, and so on. I tried to collect exactly such, almost perfect microphones in the article for people who use equipment regularly and appreciate high sound quality as the main factor of choice.
In the ever-evolving landscape of smartphone audio accessories, the journey to find the perfect microphone is a quest for the holy grail. After researching various options, it’s clear that while no microphone is flawless, there are gems that shine brighter than others. From the reliable Rode SmartLav+ to the versatile Shure MV88, each model has its unique strengths. When choosing, consider your specific needs – be it impeccable sound quality, durability, or affordability. Embrace the imperfections, find the one that aligns with your priorities, and elevate your audio game. After all, in the symphony of smartphone recording, the right microphone is the conductor of excellence!¸
FAQ
Will these plug into a phone that has no headphone jack? The 3.5mm mics (SmartLav+, MVL, Movo PM10, VideoMic Me, TAKSTAR) need a headphone-jack adapter on phones without one — a Lightning or USB-C to 3.5mm dongle. Buy a headset-style (TRRS) adapter, not a headphone-only one. The Shure MV88 connects via Lightning directly, so it needs no adapter on compatible iPhones.
Lavalier or shotgun for smartphone filmmaking? Use a lavalier when the subject is close and can wear it — interviews, presenting, seated dialogue — because it isolates the voice from room noise. Use a mounted shotgun for moving shots, vlogging and B-roll where wiring up isn’t practical. Many filmmakers own one of each.
Do I need a recording app, or will the stock camera work? Most of these work straight into your phone’s stock camera or video app. The Shure MV88 is the exception worth noting: its Motiv app unlocks gain control, stereo width and EQ, which is why it’s the pick if you want to shape the sound. For the analogue mics, a manual-audio app helps you set levels.
Are the cheaper lavaliers good enough? For talking-head video, budget lavs like the ATR-3350 and Movo PM10 get you clean, close speech that easily beats the built-in phone mic. Step up to the SmartLav+ or Shure MVL for a more natural tone and sturdier build. For pro-grade dialogue you’d eventually move to a wireless system, but for smartphone work these are plenty.
Choose by shooting style first: lavalier for interviews and presenting, a phone-mounted shotgun for run-and-gun. For dialogue, the Rode SmartLav+ and Shure MVL are the reliable picks, with the ATR-3350 and Movo PM10 as budget-friendly alternatives. For directional B-roll on the move, reach for the Rode VideoMic Me, and if you want the most control over your sound, the Shure MV88 with its Motiv app is the standout.