What do high-quality videos, podcasts, and public speaking performances have in common? Clear and audible audio from a good lavalier microphone.
Thanks to microphones, you can improve your content’s audio quality. You can plug them into your smartphones, laptops, and DSLRs. Lavalier microphones in particular are small and discreet enough to hide underneath your clothing. Plus, you can take them wherever you go for its compact size.
However, these mics come with various features depending on their purpose. There are also high-end and budget brands. Thus, it’s important to know which one will work best for your needs.
Check out our top picks for the best lavalier microphones for mobile devices below.
Best Lavalier Microphone for Mobile Devices
Whether it’s for television or a vlog, the Rode smartLav+ delivers crisp and clear audio. This broadcast-grade microphone is portable and needs no additional equipment. To use this, just mount it on the user, connect it to a mobile device, and start recording.
The smartLav+’s omnidirectional condenser picks up sound from around the microphone. It has a foam pop shield that reduces wind noise and vocal plosives. Plus, the microphone’s cable has Kevlar reinforcement. This ensures that your mic never snaps or breaks despite constant usage.
If you’re an Apple user, the smartLav+ is perfect for you. Although it’s compatible with any recording app, it works best with the Rode Rec App for iOS.
Budget-wise, it’s much more expensive than most brands. This is because Rode is a high-end brand. However, its specifications and features make it worth its price tag.
If you’re looking for an affordable but high-quality lavalier mic, then this one’s for you. The AT3350iS from Audio-Technica’s design makes it versatile. You can use it with a DSLR or plug it in your smartphone, allowing you to record seamless audio on any device.
The newscaster-style mic is discreet enough to use while recording a video. Its low-profile design also makes it ideal for dance instructors. With its omnidirectional condenser, your voice will always be clear in any environment.
For smartphone users, you can use the adapter to plug it into your devices. For a minimalist, high-quality choice, check out the Audio Technica AT3350iS.
A high-end mic with industry-grade specifications, the Sanken COS-11D won’t disappoint. Designed to reduce radio frequency interference (RFI), this lessens interruption. You can still record with wireless devices without worrying about interference.
It’s also built to be tough even after extended use. The rugged cabling stays soft and pliable, but also durable and doesn’t wear out fast. The mic is moisture resistant. With proper care and handling, it will last for a very long time.
The COS-11D is the most expensive option on this list. However, it’s also one of the best lavalier microphone options if you’re looking for high-end models. This is a great investment if you’re working on podcasts or videos.
Need a lavalier mic for mobile journalism, field recording, or voiceovers? The Shure MVL is portable and easy to use for any audio activity. This model suits any mobile device with a recording capability. However, it works best with the MOTIV app for iOS devices.
It has a large dynamic range that makes it perfect for indoor recording. The windscreen blocks out noise and ensures the clarity of the audio. The omnidirectional condenser also picks up sound from all directions.
If you’re looking for a lavalier microphone to use for close-mic tasks, then this is worth trying out.
No more hiding in the closet whenever you’re recording a podcast. The LV8-C XLR cancels out unwanted background noise from a noisy environment. This feature lets you record professional audio anywhere.
It’s also a minimalist microphone — it delivers its main function without the frills. Plug the XLR connector to your device and you’re good to go. This mic is phantom powered, making it the most convenient power source for lavalier microphones.
Get the Movo LV8-C XLR for a professional-grade microphone.
PowerDeWise doesn’t compromise functionality for its price. This lavalier lapel microphone is great for interviews and outdoor recordings. It can connect to any mobile device with a 3.5mm TRRS jack.
Unlike its counterparts, the design is not as discreet. The round mic and earmuff are visible whenever you use it. But considering its performance and affordable price, it’s worth buying.
The PowerDeWise lavalier mic is also compatible with laptops, PCs, and DSLR cameras.
Professional videographers will love the Sennheiser MKE2 Pro Set. It guarantees a perfect, leveled sound, whether the environment is noisy or quiet. It also automatically adjusts the audio level based on the camera’s input sensitivity. This way, you won’t have to manually adjust the volume.
Another great feature is its link protection. It avoids interference by automatically switching to a clean channel. By selecting the best operating frequency, it delivers perfect audio transmission every time.
The set comes with a handheld microphone, bodypack receiver, and digital wireless transmitter.
Here’s another budget mic with clear audio that doesn’t break the bank. The BOYA BY-M1 provides acceptable audio quality for ordinary recording tasks. It works well for voice-overs, interviews, and basic audio recording.
You can use this with Android and iOS devices. You can also connect it to your DSLRs and camcorders. Although it’s not a top-tier lavalier mic, it will improve the audio quality of your videos.
If you’re looking for a cheap lavalier mic for basic tasks, the BOYA BY-M1 will suit you well.
The Countryman B6 is perhaps the smallest and most discreet lavalier mic. It also has a unique design that sets it apart from the others. Don’t let its size fool you, it still delivers exceptional performance and is great for hiding.
Despite its small size, the B6 works great for rugged handling. This makes it an ideal choice for theater, broadcast, churches, and other applications.
The Countryman B6 microphone comes with a wireless adapter, cable clips, and many more.
Azden EX503
Looking for an affordable lavalier microphone? The Azden EX503 is a mono mic that’s easy to use and set up. It’s a good all-around mic for videos, interviews, or just note-taking.
The design isn’t at par with most high-end lavalier mics. The round windscreen is non-removable and very visible from afar. However, it performs well and delivers good audio quality.
It is compatible with most smartphones and tablets. If you’re using it for a DSLR, be sure to check the compatibility with the camera model first.
What is a lavalier microphone?
Lavalier microphones are small microphones you can attach to clothing for hands-free operation. It comes with a clip for attachment, and it is wired or wireless.
You can use it in the theater, television, or public speaking applications. However, people who make podcasts, vlogs, and other content also use lavalier mics.
Benefits of using a lavalier microphone
- Amplifies the speaker’s voice and increases audio volume
- Improves audio quality and clarity
- Compatible with any recording device
- Portable and compact
- Discreet; you can hide it underneath the clothing
How to choose a lavalier microphone
Lavalier mics come in all sizes and designs. Their performance will also vary depending on what you will use them for.
To help you choose the best one, here’s a list of what you should look for in a lavalier microphone:
Wired vs wireless
One factor that you should consider is whether you need a wired or wireless mic. Wireless lavalier mics are ideal for outdoor use. This includes broadcasting, vlogging, or ceremonies. You can get a wireless Bluetooth microphone for these purposes.
While wired lavalier mics are good for indoor, sit-down, and close-mic applications. For example, recording podcasts, voiceovers, and lecture recording. Note that there’s a significant price difference between both types.
Recording device
Another important thing to consider is your recording device. Will you be using a smartphone, camera, or laptop? Make sure that the lavalier mic you’ll choose is compatible with your device. Check the input to see if it will fit or get an adapter.
Cost & quality
Whether you want a budget mic or a high-end one, you’ll find one that fits your budget. Consider the cost and quality of the lavalier mic that you choose.
High-end mics are industry-grade and are long lasting. If you go for affordable mics, you might have to get a replacement depending on your usage.
