Almost all mobile companies are working on the quality of their cameras to provide a clear vibrant, grainy, and scratch-proof image. But what about the sound quality of the videos and audio? In my opinion, no brand has worked on improving the microphone of their phones to provide a clear bass sound.
Therefore, you need to attach an external microphone to your device to get an amplifying sound quality. Usually, iPhone users face this issue when making films through their phone camera. Although the images are highly pixeled they have a very patchy sound which is indeed not flattering.
Therefore, here is a list of the best microphones for iPhone, which can take your filmmaking experience to the next level. So without wasting any further time, let’s dig into the article.
Sennheiser MKE 200
The Sennheiser MKE 200 is surely a treat for its users due to its amazing sound quality at a relatively low price. It is indeed an instant upgrade microphone for any camera or smartphone to give a better audio recording experience.
The Sennheiser is known for its amazing audio quality and designs, and even its low budget price shows the potential of the manufacturers. The mic is surely easy to use, compact, and delivers crisp and clear audio even in the noisiest environment. The mic has an astonishingly low price of only $99 but its features are nothing less than low-end professional mics.
Although the super-cardioid pattern delivers a decent isolated sound, it doesn’t facilitate a good sound experience over a distance from the camera. In my verdict, the microphone is surely good for this price range. Moreover, it gives a better audio experience than your camera and smartphone microphone.Â
| Mic type | Shotgun mic | Polar pattern | Super-cardioid |
| Frequency range | 40 to 20 000 Hz | Sensitivity | 33 dBV/Pa |
| Connectivity type | TRS 3.5 mm plug | Power supply | None |
| Impedance | Unknown | Dynamic range | Unknown |
| Shock mount | Yes | Weight | 48 grams |
| Width | 2.7 inches | Length | 2.4 inches |
| Height | 1.5 inches | Max SPL | 120 dB |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 67 dB | Windscreen | Yes |
| Mic input cable | Yes |
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Light in weight
- Portable
- Metal build
- Supercardioid
- Can work with all smartphones (including iPhone)
- Compatible with most of the camera
Cons
- No lightning connector (have to use lightning to 3.5 mm converter)
- The low range of frequency response
- No batteries (depends on the connected device for power)
- No controls
Rode VideoMic Me-L
Although it’s not an all-in-one deal microphone for the filmmakers, it is surely a big fish for capturing quality sound for different scenarios. This is a perfect combination for iPhone users. Indeed gives far better audio record results than your iPhone’s internal microphone. However, in my verdict, the microphone lacks lightning. If the manufacturers also add lightning to the microphone then it will take your mobile filmmaking to another level.
Whether it’s graphics, resolution, or the audio quality everything will be top-notch. In general, investing in a Rode microphone will surely enhance your mobile filmmaking experience. However, some experts have suggested that Apple will deduct its lightning port from future iPhone models, therefore, the portability of Rode VideoMic Me-L is further limited.Â
| Mic type | Condenser mic | Polar pattern | cardioid |
| Connectivity type | Lightning connector | Sensitivity | 35 dB |
| Sensitivity accuracy | 3 dB | ||
| Signal to Noise Ratio | 74 dB | Dynamic range | 96 dB |
| Mounting | Yes | Frequency range | 20 to 20 000 Hz |
| Max SPL | Up to 115 dB | Power supply | From connected device |
| Weight | 28 grams | Length | 3.0 inches |
| Diameter | 0.8 inches | Windshield | Yes |
Pros
- Portable
- Lightweight and compact
- Very compatible with iOS
- Best choice for vlogging
Cons
- Only cardioid polar pattern
- Can not be used with Androids
- The windshield is necessary for outdoor usage
Shure MV88+
No matter how good your phone’s camera quality is, if it doesn’t give a good audio output then half of your hard work is in vain. Whether, you are a mobile filmmaker, blogger, or streamer having a good microphone compatible with your peripheral is indeed what you need to produce better results. Therefore, you should try the Shuru MV 88+ microphone.
It delivers an awesome sound quality and it is compatible with Android, Mac, and PC. whether you are taking an interview or taking a scheduled recording session, all you need to do is plug it into a headphone jack for zero-latency monitoring.
It is a condenser USB microphone with a variety of selectable polar patterns including mono, stereo, bidirectional, and raw-mid-side. It is surely a spectacular deal for beginners who an to record media music or podcasts with a patch-free audio quality and within a budget price.Â
| Mic type | Condenser mic | Stereo | Yes |
| Polar pattern | Mid-sideCardioidBidirectionalMono Cardioid | Sensitivity | Adjustable |
| Sensitivity mode | SpeechSingingAcousticLoudFlat | Bit-depth | 24-bit |
| Sample rate | 48 Hz | Frequency range | 20 to 20 000 Hz |
| Connectivity type | Lightning connector | Headphone output | 3.5 mm stereo |
| Power | Powered by device | Max SPL | 120 dB |
| Adjustable | Yes | Companion app | Yes |
| Case | Yes | Windscreen | Yes |
Pros
- Different polar patterns
- Many recording modes
- Portable
- Light in weight
- Comes with a windscreen
Cons
- Mainly compatible with iPhones
- Only supports the the lightning connector
- Can not be used with other pro apps
Bottom Line
In summary, to improve your iPhone’s audio quality for videos and recordings, consider investing in an external microphone. The Sennheiser MKE 200 is a cost-effective, portable option. The Rode VideoMic Me-L offers excellent audio quality for iPhone users, though it lacks a lightning connector.
The Shure MV88+ is a versatile choice compatible with various devices and recording needs. These microphones can elevate your mobile recording experiences, ensuring your audio matches your video quality. Hence, upgrade your iPhone’s audio with one of these reliable options for better results.
