Quick-Access To the Best Vlogging Microphones👇

Editor’s picks section, with links to where you can buy each product.

More than ever, cameras and smartphones are being used for vlogs – so you need a quality mic. You probably need a better mic than your phone is giving you. You need the best mic ever nowadays to take advantage of a digital video blogging platform like YouTube.

YouTube is the second-largest search engine in the world after Google. And that’s only one of the platforms hosting thousands of hopeful vloggers out there trying to make an impression. To make a splash in a pool that big, you’re going to need the right gear.

Which brings us to a question — who wants to watch a video with scratchy, mismatched, echoey, audio?

No one, that’s who.

The fastest way to make someone click away from your content is to post it online with low-quality audio. But today, you’re going to level up your game and stand out from the crowd with the best vlogging microphone for you.

Whether you’re a stay-at-home YouTuber, an on-the-go interviewer, or anything in between, you’ll find the best equipment for you in this post. Looking for the best microphones? Whether it’s a shotgun mic or lapel mic, this post will get you covered.

These selections are categorized based on the different types of work you’ll be doing. You’ll find the best microphones listed for any job or passion project.

And don’t worry, if you’re on a tight budget, there are also some great options for that. Let’s dig right in.

Shure MV88+

The Shure MV88+ is the best way to level up your smartphone's latent recording abilities. With its bells and whistles and a brand like Shure backing it, it's our number one pick for the best microphone!

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Shure has made their legendary name by manufacturing industry-standard, top-notch studio equipment. They’ve done nothing less with the MV88+ which includes a small tripod on the mic, and a headphone jack to hear playback in real time.

The Top 15 Mics for Vlogging

Our Top Pick: Shure MV88+

Shure MV88+

The Shure MV88+ is the best way to level up your smartphone's latent recording abilities. With its bells and whistles and a brand like Shure backing it, it's our number one pick for the best microphone!

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If you use a smartphone to record your videos, and you’re ready to turn it into a professional recording studio, the Shure MV88+ is going to be the best microphone on our list today. This product has a higher price point, but it also has everything you’re going to need.

This little microphone is packed with extras that are hard to find on similar products — including a headphones jack and a tiny tripod. This product is ideal for anyone ready to take their game to the next level with one of the best microphones for smartphones on the market.

With multiple pickup patterns and extra features such as the tripod, the Shure MV88 will be the last microphone you’ll need to start your vlogging dream. And with Shure, you know the audio quality will be on-point.

Pro-tip: one thing to keep in mind with the Shure MV88 is that you won’t be able to use it with all Android devices — there are a few that cannot power the mic or support the audio through the USB. A good rule of thumb is, if your phone has fast charging capabilities, you can then tap into these powerful recording capabilities of the MV88+.

Shure MV88+ features:

• Premium audio quality
• Built-in headphone output
• Manfrotto Pixi Mini Tripod included
• Multiple stereo-width and polar patterns
• Compatible with most iPhone and Android devices
• The phone mount is compatible with any tripod, not just the one that it came with
• Fully functional with common IOS recording apps like GarageBand and the camera app
• Included accessories: lightning cable, USB C-cable, phone clamp, shoe-mount mic clip, neoprene roll-up bag

Best Under $100 for Smartphones: Rode VideoMicro 

Rode VideoMicro

Check out Rode’s VideoMicro if you need a great mic but can’t splurge. It comes with a few accessories and a quality mic, you can’t beat that for under $100.

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We know, sometimes you just can’t afford to break the bank over a mic. You don’t have to with Rode VideoMicro, a microphone that is designed with the budget-friendly in mind.

Complete with a furry windshield, shoe mount, and a patching cable, it’ll get you where you need to be if you’re trying to hook up a decent mic to your smartphone.

Compact in size, lightweight, and powered by plugging it into your smartphone or camera, the Rode VideoMicro brings a big ‘bang’ to the game for less cash than some of its competitors.

The core mechanism of the unit is a high quality, cardioid condenser microphone capsule. The directional nature of the mic will let you focus in on your subject while minimizing sounds coming from the sides… which is helpful for isolating purposes.

The furry windscreen that ships with the mic is actually the WS9 synthetic. It’s a furry windshield with a foam inner cell. It is designed for outdoor environments, giving you plenty of protection from the wind and other noisy environmental problems.

Whether you’re recording on the go, vlogging out in the field, or just need a mic to get you started, this is a safe bet that won’t hurt your wallet or your sound quality.

Rode VideoMicro Key Features:

• 3.5mm Output
• Cardioid Polar Pattern
• Maximum SPL: 140dB
• Frequency Range: 100 – 20kHz
• Weight and loing: 80mm (3’) long and 42gm (1.5oz)
• Includes: Deluxe furry windshield, 3.5mm TRS patch cable, Lyre shoe mount

Best Budget Smartphone Video Kit: Lenton Microphone Kit

Lenton Mic Kit

Whether you’re just getting started, or outfitting your on the go studio, a mic kit can come in real handy! A great kit and super budget-friendly, the Lenton kit is the way to go.

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If you are vlogging with a smartphone, and you need the best microphone you can find on a budget, this Lenton Microphone kit could be for you. This bad boy costs less than $70 and it’s got everything you’re going to need — including a windscreen, a tripod, and even an LED light.

You won’t regret it with the sound quality this microphone delivers.

As basically an all-in-one setup, you can use this kit to turn your smartphone into an entire videography station. The microphone mounts to the top, the tripod supports everything, and the LED light is mounted to one side.

The LED light is powered by two AA batteries. And according to users, the microphone is even sensitive enough for ASMR videos… which is really quite impressive!

Pro-tip: this microphone kit works with most smartphones. But if you have an iPhone 7 or higher, you’re going to need to get a 3.5mm lightning adapter.

Lenton Microphone Kit features:

• LED light
• Works with most smartphones
• Tripod has three adjustable heights
• Tripod will hold phones vertically and horizontally
• Cardioid mic with professional shock mount included

Best lavalier microphone for smartphones (wired): RODE SmartLav

Rode smartLav+

The Rode SmartLav is super easy and compatible with smartphones. It’s designed for anyone making their content work with just a phone or tablet!

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If you’re looking for a lavalier microphone, and you want one that will work seamlessly with a phone, look no further than the RODE SmartLav.

Designed specifically to fit a wide range of film scenarios where discreet audio is a requirement, this budget-friendly powerhouse is a favorite among vloggers and other creatives everywhere.

Setting up the SmartLav is seamless and easy.

You just connect it to the subject, connect it to your smartphone or tablet, and record using the Rode Rec App for iOS, or using any other video recording app that you choose.

As an omni-directional condenser, it will pick up audio from every direction… ensuring that you’ll pick up sound from your subject quite well. Of course, omnidirectional lavaliers have their limitations. They will also pick up nearby sounds in addition to the subject’s voice.

But for the proper project, you can absolutely crush it with this smart and intuitive little lavalier mic!

In addition, it ships with a pop shield to help protect it from plosives.

It’s price point is also as attractive as it’s audio quality — you can usually find it for less than $100. And if your vlogging keeps you on-the-move, this could be the mic for you. Capable of delivering great sound quality for every need, this Rode microphone is great for all occasions.

RODE SmartLav features:

• Carrying pouch
• 12-month warranty
• Costs less than $100
• Kevlar reinforced cable
• Discreet size — only 4.5mm
• Windshield mounting clip included
• Omnidirectional condenser capsule
• Compatible with Android and IOS devices

Best budget lavalier mic (Mobile and DSLR): PowerDeWise Professional Lavalier

PowerDeWise

The PowerDeWise Lavalier set is our affordable go-to pick for a lavalier because of its quality and Apple, Android, Computer and DSLR compatibility.

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There is absolutely no shame if you don’t have enough dough to afford one of the super pricey vlogging microphones on our list today.

If you’re balling on a budget, check out this PowerDeWise Lavalier set. This popular and highly-rated set comes lapel mics capable of reducing ambient noise.

This system is compatible with most modern smartphones, but it is also plug-and-play… which means that no drivers are needed.

If you’re worried about ease of use, don’t be. You literally plug these mics in and go. No muss, no fuss, no worries. They also come with metal clips, wind muffs, an extra long extension cable, a deluxe storage case, and a 4 (TRRS) to 3PIN (TRS) adapter.

PowerDeWise features:

• Set of two lapel mics
• Easy to use plug-and-play no drivers required
• Kit contains: 2 microphones, 2 extension cords, Y-splitter, 4 wind muffs, PC/DSLR adapter
• Compatibility: iPhone X, 8, 8 plus, 7, 7 plus, 6, 6s, 5, 5s, iOs and Android smartphone, phone microphone

Best for DSLR: Rode VideoMic Pro Plus

Rode VideoMic Pro+ Compact Directional On-Camera Shotgun Condenser Microphone

The Rode VideoMic Plus has brand power provided by Rode, along with a supercardioid pickup pattern, tons of controls, and great sensitivity.

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The Rode Video Mic Pro Plus is a sure thing when it comes to the best shotgun mics for cameras. For your vlogging needs, the supercardioid pattern picks up everything you want and nothing you don’t.

But beyond that, there are also several more ‘subtle’ nuances to this awesome piece of gear that aren’t apparent at first glance.

First off, it contains a rechargeable, built-in battery, giving you the ability to shoot on site without external power. It’s actually a newer addition to the Rode line, and was designed specifically with camcorders and DSLR cameras in mind.

It also tends to work really well with portable recorders.

Rycote Lyre suspension helps to ‘acoustically decouple’ the microphone from the camera, thereby reducing handling noise and other unwanted vibrations.

Complete with automatic power and plug in power, this mic is easy to use and easy to set up with any camera. It comes with its own power supply in the form of batteries, a USB cable and a filter.  This is one of the best mics for any camera on the market.

It’s ready to go whenever you are, thanks to all its included features!

Rode VideoMic Pro Plus Key Features:

• Max SPL: 134db
• 80hz High pass filter
• 0.5″ / 12.70 mm diaphragm
• Supercardioid Polar Pattern
• Electret Condenser Microphone
• Sensitivity: -32 dBV/Pa at 1 kHz
• Frequency Response: 40 – 20k Hz
• Gain, High-Pass Filter, On/Off controls
• Equivalent Noise Level: 14 dB A (Weighted)

Best DSLR Under $200: Shure VP83

Shure VP83

The Shure name has done it again with this DSLR mic made for mounting on cameras and taking on the go. With its battery life and directional supercardioid sound, you can’t go wrong.

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The Shure VP83 mic is just what you’d expect from the Shure name. Durable, long-lasting (in form and battery life) and very versatile, you can do anything with this mic.

As an ultra-compact mic, portability is super-high with the VP83. You can store this in a camera case without a problem. It doesn’t weigh much and it doesn’t take up much room.

But it is also rated as a ‘high sensitivity’ mic with low self noise. In other words, you can count on this thing to capture very subtle nuance in your recordings. But it won’t ‘hiss’ when you record in low-volume environments.

As a highly directional supercardioid, it will pick up what you’re pointing at while rejecting sounds coming from behind and from the sides. This is important, as you want to be able to focus on the source of the sound, not the environment around it.

And finally, the Shure VP83 has a built-in low cut filter. This helps to give mid and high range frequencies and extra boost, while dialing back the low end. In other words, this helps the audio to come out clear and crisp… instead of it being rumbly clunky-sounding.

Shure VP83 Key Features:

• DSLR mic
• 125 hours of battery life
• Supercardioid/lobar pattern
• Sensitivity: minus 36.5 dbv per pa
• Integrated shock mounting system
• No flash or Integrated flash options
• Frequency response: 50 to 20,000 hz

Best DSLR Under $50: TAKSTAR SGC-598

TAKSTAR SGC 598

The TAKSTAR is the best shotgun microphone that you can take anywhere with you and will trump your smartphone’s mic any day!

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If you’re rocking a DSLR camera, and you’re on a tight budget, check out the TAKSTAR SGC-598. This super-affordable shotgun microphone is far superior to those built-in microphones, and it can even hold its own with the other products on our list today.

If you’re a YouTuber or you otherwise record in locations that tend to be quiet, the TAKSTAR might be the best shotgun microphone for you. You can’t beat the price — it costs less than $50 for a quality shotgun mic that’ll get you far.

Let’s talk about the specs. This mic is specifically designed for use with a camera. It’s a high-sensitivity condenser mic that is literally designed to be an upgrade to the built-in camera your mic ships with as a standard feature.

The mic has a heart-shaped pickup range, giving you the power to hone-in on your subject while rejecting noises from the sides. It is also designed to minimize handling and mechanical noise, so you can be sure that those sounds won’t translate through to your final audio track.

Reviews on this mic are awesome. In fact, there are many people who swear by it, saying that it is even better than the more expensive Rode options.

Needless to say, this mic certainly deserves a top-spot on our list.

TAKSTAR SGC-589 features:

• Windscreen included
• High sensitivity condenser microphone
• Designed from alloy materials to help protect against interference
• Heart-shaped single-point polar pattern designed to eliminate background noise

Best lavalier microphone (wireless): RODE Wireless Go

RODE Wireless GO

If you need a lav microphone for mobility, the Rode Wireless Go is the way to go. Discreet, compact, and capable of capturing clear audio, this is definitely worth checking out.

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The Wireless Go is called “the world’s smallest, most versatile wireless microphone system…” and it’s actually not an exaggeration!

If you’re a dancer, skater, or crafter, chances are that a lavalier microphone — the kind that attaches discreetly to your clothing — is exactly what you’re looking for.

Capture crystal clear audio as you use the included windscreen to block out background noise when you get this RODE Wireless Go. Lavalier microphones are great for mobility

This compact, lightweight lapel mic is ideal for vlogging on-the-go.

It comes with all the adaptors you’re going to need. Whether you want to connect this mic to a smartphone, a DSLR, or another camera, as long as you have a mic input, it is going to work.

You will be amazed at the quality of sound you can get out of this thing… all for less than $200!

Mounting it to your camera is also easy. Of course, the dual-mount clip makes it easy to attach it to your clothing or camera strap… but this makes it just as easy to secure it to your camera’s cold shoe.

This is literally the ‘on the go mic’ if you need portability at the highest possible level.

RODE Wireless Go features:

• Output: -6dB and -12dB
• A clip-on microphone or belt pack transmitter
• Use up to eight of these systems in one location
• Built-in omnidirectional lapel mic with broadcast quality sound
• Optimized for short-range operation but works up to 70 meters
• Built-in USB-C rechargeable batteries last up to 7 hours per charge
• Super-fast connection speed — transmitter and receiver pair in just three seconds
• Includes SC2 right-angle 3.5mm TRS coiled cable, two USB-C to USB-A cables, two fur windshields, and a carry pouch

Other Mics We Reviewed

There are a lot of great mics we’ve covered here, but if you don’t see one you like, fear not. In our search for the best mics for vloggers, we found a lot that just didn’t quite make the list but are worth checking out. Whether you need a different price point or a different mic altogether, check these out!

Fifine K669B

Fifine K669B

Check out the Fifine K669B if you’re looking for a budget-friendly USB mic that will get you far. Its cardioid polar pattern is easy to plug and play and comes with a long cord for mobility.

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It’s compatible with game consoles, Mac and PC products, and is extremely versatile and easy to use. For those of you who are drawn to anaesthetics, you can get this sleek little mic in pink or a classic black.

There’s no need for phantom power with this handy mic, and it has a volume knob on the unit for better control.

Fifine K669B Key Features: 

• Volume knob
• Max SPL: 30db
• Cardioid polar pattern
• USB condenser microphone
• OSX and Windows Compatible

Audio-Technica 8024 

Audio-Technica 8024

The Audio Technica 8024 will really come in handy when you’re trying to mic your camera. It’s easy to use, lightweight, and has different cardioid or stereo recording options for optimum control and versatility.

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Complete with its own camera shoe mount and a three position adjustable attenuator, this mic is ideal for on-the-go projects to amp up your camera’s own recording abilities.

Audio Technica 8024 Key Features: 

• Max SPL: 128db
• Weight: 114 g (4.0 oz)
• Frequency Response: 40 – 15k Hz
• Sensitivity: –37 dB (14.1 mV) re 1V at 1 Pa
• Line Cardioid and LR Stereo Polar Patterns
• Permanent Polarized Condenser Microphone

Rode Procaster 

Rode Procaster

If you’re looking for an XLR mic, you don’t have to look any further than this Rode Procaster. As you can tell from this list’s intense inclusion of Rode products, their mics are quality products.

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This one is no exception. With a cardioid polar pattern, a wide frequency response range, and low handling noise, this is a great mic for anyone.

Rode Procaster Key Features: 

• Dynamic Microphone
• Polar pattern: Cardioid
• Sensitivity: -56 dB at 1 kHz
• Frequency Response: 75 – 18k Hz

Samson C01

Samson C01

The Samson C01 is a budget-friendly XLR mic – a great condenser mic in and out of a soundproof room.

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This multipurpose mic complete with cardioid pickup pattern, and off-axis rejection makes it perfect for vlogging on the go and on a budget.

Samson C01 Key Features: 

• Off-axis rejection
• Max SPL: 136db
• Cardioid polar pattern
• Back Condenser microphone
• Frequency Response: 40 – 18k Hz

Rode NT-USB 

Rode NT-USB

The Rode NT-USB is a handy USB mic to have around. Complete with a cardioid polar pattern and a wide frequency range, you can’t go wrong with this one.

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Rode has made it easy to use and easy to control with both gain and volume control too!

Rode NT USB Key Features: 

• Cardioid Polar Pattern
• 0.5″ / 12.70 mm Diaphragm
• 1/8″ / 3.5 mm monitor output
• Frequency Range: 20 – 20k Hz
• Gain and monitor volume knobs

HyperX QuadCast

HyperX QuadCast

The HyperX QuadCast has lots of bells and whistles, like an included shock mount… plus the internal pop filter, gain control, and the mute sensor that allows you to stop and start your recording whenever you want!

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But the best thing about it is that it has four selectable polar patterns! This mic is awesome for streaming, YouTubing, etc.

HyperX QuadCast Key Features:

• 48kHz/16-bit Sample/Bit rate
• Frequency response: 20 – 20k Hz
• Tap Mute sensor with LED status indicator
• Gain control to control microphone sensitivity
• Switchable polar pattern (Cardioid, bidirectional, Omnidirectional and Stereo)

Frequently Asked Questions

Shure MV88+

The Shure MV88+ is the best way to level up your smartphone’s latent recording abilities. With its bells and whistles and a brand like Shure backing it, it’s our number one pick for the best microphone!

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We just threw a lot of information at you, you may be reeling, you may even be super pumped to get started! Chances are you may still have some questions! Here are some pretty common ones!

Do You Need a Microphone for Vlogging?

If you are a vlogger and you want your content to make the cut, you absolutely need a mic. Yes, a camera for vlogging does come with a built-in microphone. However, there’s only so much those tiny little things can do, and those built-in mics tend to pick up all the wrong things, including ambient noise and wind.

Fun fact: Every single minute, creatives around the globe upload 400 hours of video content to YouTube— yes, we said every minute.

We guarantee you the content you’re posting is similar to something someone else already posted. If the audio isn’t on point, the audience will choose another link. If you want to grow your numbers and increase your traffic online, it’s crucial that your videos sound as good as they look.

What MIC do Vloggers Use?

A vlogging microphone is a microphone that easily attaches to your recording equipment to capture sound. The best vlogging microphone will capture the person (or people) in front of it while blocking out the ambient sound from surrounding sources.

There are four different types of mics that people use for vlogging:

• USB: plug-and-play attaches directly to your computer
• DSLR: mounts on and plugs into a DSLR (digital single-lens reflex camera)
• Lavalier: available in both wired and wireless and clips discreetly onto your clothing (like the ones you see television hosts using)
• Smartphone: microphones designed to plug into a smartphone

What Kind of Microphone do YouTubers Use?

If you want to get a microphone for YouTube, which one you select depends on the type of work you’re doing. For example, a USB microphone is ideal for someone who stays in-studio. However, if you do yoga, paint, or otherwise stay on-the-move, you’re going to need a DSLR, lavalier, or smartphone mic.

Which microphone you choose depends on what type of vlog camera you have, what type of work you’re doing, and how much you have to spend.

What is the Fluffy Thing on a Microphone?

The fluffy thing that you often see on a microphone is called a wind-attenuating cover — aka a “blimp,” or “mic-blimp.” Some blimps are made from foam and others are made from fuzzy material, and those are nicknamed, “dead cats,” or “windmuffs.” The more fuzz there is on your wind muff, the more protection you will have from ambient noises like the wind.

So, if you like to do your vlogging outside, a blimp will be absolutely necessary. However, if you live somewhere that often experiences high wind, it’s probably time to think about upgrading to a fluffy “dead cat.”

Now Get Out There and Get Creative

Shure MV88+

The Shure MV88+ is the best way to level up your smartphone’s latent recording abilities. With its bells and whistles and a brand like Shure backing it, it’s our number one pick for the best microphone!

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As you can see, no matter what type of vlogging camera you use, one of the vlogging microphones on this list is going to work with it. And if you’re serious about vlogging, you already know that no one is going to watch your stuff until it sounds as good as it looks.