Buying Guide for the Best Iphone External Microphone
Choosing the right external microphone for your iPhone can significantly enhance the audio quality of your recordings, whether you're a content creator, journalist, or just someone who wants better sound for videos and calls. To make an informed decision, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your needs. Here are the main factors to consider when selecting an external microphone for your iPhone.Type of MicrophoneThere are several types of microphones, including lavalier (clip-on), shotgun, and handheld. Lavalier microphones are small and clip onto your clothing, making them ideal for interviews and presentations. Shotgun microphones are directional and capture sound from a specific area, which is great for vlogging or recording in noisy environments. Handheld microphones are versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, including interviews and live performances. Choose the type that best fits your recording needs.
ConnectivityExternal microphones for iPhones typically connect via the Lightning port, headphone jack, or wirelessly via Bluetooth. Lightning port microphones offer a direct digital connection, which can provide better sound quality. Headphone jack microphones are less common due to newer iPhone models lacking this port, but they can still be useful with an adapter. Bluetooth microphones offer the convenience of wireless operation but may have slight latency. Consider how you plan to use the microphone and choose the connectivity option that best suits your setup.
Polar PatternThe polar pattern of a microphone determines how it picks up sound from different directions. Common polar patterns include omnidirectional, cardioid, and bidirectional. Omnidirectional microphones capture sound from all directions, making them suitable for recording ambient sounds or group discussions. Cardioid microphones focus on sound from the front and reduce noise from the sides and rear, ideal for solo recordings or noisy environments. Bidirectional microphones capture sound from the front and back, useful for interviews. Choose a polar pattern based on your recording environment and the type of sound you want to capture.
Frequency ResponseFrequency response refers to the range of frequencies a microphone can capture. A wider frequency response means the microphone can pick up a broader range of sounds, from deep bass to high treble. For general use, a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz is sufficient, as it covers the range of human hearing. If you're recording music or other audio with a lot of detail, you might want a microphone with a more extended frequency response. Consider the type of audio you plan to record and choose a microphone with an appropriate frequency response.
SensitivitySensitivity measures how well a microphone can pick up quiet sounds. Higher sensitivity microphones can capture softer sounds without requiring you to be very close to the microphone. This is useful for recording soft-spoken individuals or capturing subtle audio details. However, high sensitivity can also mean more background noise is picked up. If you plan to record in a controlled environment, higher sensitivity can be beneficial. For noisy environments, a microphone with lower sensitivity might be more appropriate to avoid capturing unwanted sounds.
Build Quality and PortabilityThe build quality of a microphone affects its durability and longevity. Look for microphones made from sturdy materials that can withstand regular use. Portability is also important, especially if you plan to use the microphone on the go. Compact and lightweight microphones are easier to carry and handle. Consider how often you'll be transporting the microphone and choose one that balances durability with portability to suit your lifestyle.