If you’re a digital content creator frequently sharing trending stories and producing fresh videos, a microphone for smartphone can be a game-changer for you. By using an external audio gear with your Android or iPhone, you can speed up your publishing process, as it eliminates the need to edit poor-quality audio—something that can happen when relying on your iPhone’s small built-in mic. This article is a beginner guide to explore how to choose and use it, including:
- Which type is best for you?
- What key factors to look for in it?
- What are the best options you can pick at the Moman Store?
- How to use it effectively?
What types of microphone for smartphone can you use?
Microphone for smartphone recording has three common types: lavalier, directional, and wireless models, each with its own features and special applications. Below, we provide a detailed introduction to help you choose the right type.
Lavalier microphone: Compact and discreet, perfect for capturing dialogue on the smartphone
Also called lapel or clip-on mics, lavalier audio gears are compact, wired devices that provide a discreet way to record conversations on the smartphone. They typically feature a 3.5mm TRS or TRRS connector and can be attached to clothing with a small clip.
When to use: Lavalier types are perfect for situations that need subtlety while capturing dialogue, such as vlogging, filmmaking, on-camera reporting, or interviews. Their key advantage is their ability to be positioned near the speaker’s mouth without being visible. They usually have an omnidirectional polar pattern, picking up sound from all directions, ensuring consistent audio quality wherever the mic is placed.
Directional or shotgun microphone for smartphone: Precise sound capture, isolating background noise
Directional mics are designed to pick up sound primarily from one direction while reducing noise from other angles. This type has cardioid, supercardioid, and hypercardioid polar patterns, which are more sensitive to sound coming from the front and less sensitive to sound from the sides.
When to use: Directional models are ideal when isolating a specific sound source is important and minimizing background noise is a priority. They are great for phone recordings like vlogging, filmmaking, interviews, and live streaming or video calls.
Wireless microphone for smartphone: Cable-free convenience, offering flexibility for mobile recording
A wireless microphone system transmits audio signals wirelessly to a receiver, eliminating the need for cables. The receiver is typically connected to a recording device, such as a smartphone or computer.
When to use: Wireless options are perfect for smartphone recording where freedom of movement is needed and a cable-free solution is essential, such as in mobile filmmaking, interviews, podcasting, presentations, video calls, and more.
How to choose the best one?
Selecting the right microphone for smartphone can significantly improve the audio quality of your content. Here are key factors to consider when making your choice:
Assess your needs: Start by thinking about the type of content you create—whether it’s podcasting, vlogging, interviews, or filmmaking—as each requires different audio solutions. Your choice should align with the format you use most often.
Check compatibility: Make sure the microphone is compatible with your smartphone, whether it’s an iPhone or Android. Verify that it works with the connection ports such as USB-C, Lightning, or the traditional 3.5mm headphone jack.
Prioritize audio quality: Determine what matters most in terms of sound—background noise reduction, clarity, or capturing ambient noise. Different models excel in specific areas, so choose one that suits your needs.
Consider portability: Think about whether you need a compact, portable microphone for on-the-go recording, or if a larger, more substantial option fits your content style.
Set your budget: Phone microphones can vary greatly in price. Establish a budget based on how much you’re willing to spend to enhance your audio quality.
Look for extra features: Consider additional features like headphone jacks for real-time monitoring, windshields for outdoor recording, and shock mounts to reduce handling noise.
Check user reviews: Research what other content creators say about the microphone’s performance in real-world situations to help you make an informed decision.
Best microphone for smartphone video recording: 4 picks at Moman
Moman offers a range of smartphone microphones to suit various needs. Here, we’ve carefully selected four reliable options, each with its own unique features.
SYNCO S6M2: Lapel microphone for smartphone wired with 3.5mm jack at $18.99
The SYNCO S6M2 is the perfect option for phone video bloggers who need a discreet, high-quality audio solution. This ultra-compact mic connects via a 3.5mm audio cable, with a connector designed specifically to plug into a headphone jack. Since many smartphones no longer feature a headphone jack, you’ll need an adapter to connect the microphone. Once connected, you can easily hide it under your shirt and clip it facing your mouth. The cable will remain out of sight, and if you’re wearing dark clothing, the mic is easily concealed. It comes with two cotton wind muffs to minimize wind interference during outdoor recordings and reduce annoying sibilance sounds. While the lapel design is great for phone recording, it is less suited for other purposes. This model is not ideal for musicians or reporters needing to record interviews away from the device.
Moman C1: Wireless lavalier microphone for phone recording including 3.5mm TRS/TRRS cable at $79
The Moman C1 is an omnidirectional microphone for smartphone featuring a wireless lavalier design. You can also use the included 3.5mm TRS/TRRS cable to connect it to the laptop, camera, and camcorder. With a 230ft/70m transmission range, the C1 ensures reliable and secure audio performance, even in challenging environments. Equipped with built-in DSP technology and a 180Hz low-cut filter, it effectively reduces unwanted noise such as wind and traffic sounds, delivering clear audio for vlogs, live streams, and field recordings. With up to 8 hours of battery life and compact clip-on design, the C1 provides convenience and flexibility for mobile content creators.
Moman CP2: Mini microphone for smartphone featuring a wireless charging case $65.99
The Moman CP2 is perfect for content creators using mobile devices to capture and share their creativity. One standout feature is that the receiver can charge while connected to your phone, allowing you to record without interruption. This plug-and-play audio system includes two mini lavalier transmitters and one receiver, enabling dual-channel recording. It comes in three versions, compatible with Type-C or Lightning devices such as Android and iPhone. The CP2C and CP2AC models also include a Type-C to USB adapter for broader device compatibility. With a full charge, it supports up to 15 hours of recording, and the wireless charging case provides two extra full charges. Additionally, the active noise cancellation technology reduces background noise, ensuring clear and crisp audio for your recordings.
SYNCO G3 Pro: Dual wireless lavalier system for mobile recording with touchscreen at $129
The SYNCO G3 Pro is a wireless lavalier microphone system for smartphones offering stable transmission up to 250m. It has two transmitters and one receiver, capturing sound from all three channels simultaneously. It also offers three levels of noise cancellation, allowing you to adjust based on the recording environment. The 2-inch touchscreen provides real-time information on battery and audio levels, making adjustments easy. With over 10 hours of battery life and quick charging, the G3 Pro is ideal for long outdoor shoots. Compatible with USB-C and TRS devices, it’s perfect for a variety of mobile recording setups.
How to use microphone on smartphone?
Once you’ve chosen a microphone for smartphone, it’s important to know how to use it properly. Here are four steps to use for recording high-quality audio.
Connect the microphone to smartphone
Connecting an external microphone to your smartphone is an easy way to boost your audio quality. The process depends on your device’s port, but it’s simple and quick. Here’s how to connect your microphone based on the available ports.
For smartphones with a Lightning or USB-C port
As many smartphone manufacturers move away from 3.5mm audio jacks, the simplest way to connect a microphone is through your device’s USB-C or Lightning port. There are two primary options for this:
- Use a mic with a USB-C or Lightning connector: This connection is straightforward. Simply plug it into your smartphone, and it will automatically be recognized as the default audio device, bypassing the built-in microphone and providing significantly better sound quality. That’s it – you’re all set to start recording. Moman CP2 is designed to plug directly into smartphones this way.
- Use a 3.5mm microphone for smartphone: You can use an adapter or interface to make the connection. For example, you can use a lightning or Type-C adapter to connect SYNCO S6M2 to your iPhone or Android phone.
For smartphones with a 3.5mm Jack
Any microphone with a 3.5mm output and a TRRS cable will work. If your smartphone still has a 3.5mm headphone jack and lacks a USB-C or Lightning port, you can use any microphone with a 3.5mm output. Since most smartphones use a TRRS jack, make sure your microphone has a TRRS connector, or use a TRS to TRRS adapter or cable as needed.
Properly place and secure your smartphone microphone
The placement and positioning of your audio gear are key to achieving clear, high-quality sound in phone recording. Ensure it is close to the sound source without being too close to avoid distortion or popping sounds. Also, avoid positioning it near clothing or accessories that could rub against it, creating unwanted noise. To keep your wireless microphone like SYNCO G3 Pro or Moman C1 in place, use clips, tape, or mounts, and hide any wires or transmitters under clothing or out of view.
Improve your phone recording environment
Achieving high-quality audio on smartphones relies significantly on your recording environment. Ensuring the space is optimized helps prevent the need for retakes caused by external noise or disruptions. To create the ideal recording environment, consider the following:
- Unplugging devices that create unwanted noise, such as air conditioners or refrigerators
- Soundproofing your recording area
- Selecting a quiet location for outdoor recordings
- Reducing ambient noise to avoid an overly “live” sound
- Using a windscreen or pop filter on external microphones to minimize interference
Test the microphone to ensure it works well
Remember to test your audio devices before recording on the phone. Launch a voice recording app or any software that uses audio input. Speak into the microphone and verify that the sound is being recorded by your device. If necessary, adjust its position or volume settings.
