The built-in Audio quality is pretty decent on iPhone.But if you are regularly making youtube videos or taking podcast interviews, you are definitely willing to invest in an external iPhone microphone.
This post will focus on the best iPhone mics in 2026 that use lightning ports. You will also find some of the microphones that use the headphone jack. let’s start-
My #1 pick for iPhone mic is Shure MV88.
What is the Best iPhone Microphones?
Shure MV88
The Shure MV88 is my #1 pick for an iPhone microphone. The build quality of this microphone is extremely solid and made by all-metal bodies. It is an apple certified mic comfortable with all IOS devices equipped with a lightning connector. Shure MV88 automatically adjusts EQ, compression limiting for optimal audio results. what’s really make this microphone great is that it rotates and pivots according to your needs to position it correctly
The free ShurePlus MOTIV app available in Appstore is pretty impressive. This apps allows you to record your audio, adjust gain levels and modify EQ settings. If you want to learn more about this microphone, just check out my full MV88/A review.
MV88/A comes with a windscreen, headphone adapter, and a carrying case. However, Shure AMV88-FUR Rycote Windjammer for MV88 does a better job recording when you are using this outdoors.
Zoom iQ6 X/Y
The Zoom iQ6 X/Y mic uses the same condenser mic found as the world-famous Zoom H4n Pro Digital Multi-Track Recorder -Handheld audio recorder. It allows you to pick up sounds and adjusts them from 90 to 120 degrees. You can use this mic for both with a case and without a case. This microphone is compatible with iPhone 7, 7 Plus, 8, 8 Plus, X to iPhone 12 pro max.
Zoom iQ7 Mid-Side
The Zoom iQ7 Mid-Side is kind of similar to the iQ6 X/Y; The only difference is it uses a mid-side microphone configuration, which eventually gives you more flexibility. One of the most common issues found in Q6 X/Y is that you get stuck on what’s recorded. But Zoom iQ7 Mid-Side allows you to make adjustments in the post-production process.B&H has a detailed explanation about a mid-side recording if you want to know more.
It comes with an extended Lightning connector and removable spacer. It works great Works with any Lightning-equipped iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch.
Rode VideoMic Me-L
The Rode VideoMic Me-L is just an updated version of the popular external iPhone microphone Vediomic Me. Once you are shooting mobile IOS video and want better audio quality than what your phone provides, then Rode VideoMic Me-L is totally worth your consideration.
It has a directional polar pattern and a 3.5 mm TRS headphone jack to monitor, which you can use for monitoring the recording or backup recording. Rode VideoMic Me-L comes with a built-in windscreen, which is always nice.
Rode SC6-L
Rode just recently launched its Rode SC6-L Mobile Interview Kit. It comes with 2 Lavalier Microphones and Ultracompact Lightning Interface, two windshields, and a small carry pouch. It helps you take and record interviews anywhere you go.
Rode SC6-L is an impressive Mobile KIT and highly recommended.
If you want additional cord length, then Rode offers you SC1 TRRS Extension Cable specially designed for SmartLav+ Microphone.
Blue Raspberry
The Blue Raspberry is the ultimate mobile microphone for voice and instruments. This microphone works best in a single speaker setup. It’s an ideal microphone for podcasters and home pro studios. It’s a desktop-style microphone that comes with a lightning cable and USB cable.
Sennheiser ClipMic
The Sennheiser ClipMic is one of the most popular lavalier microphone options that is specifically designed for the iPhone.It comes with a lightning cable that is Apple MFi Certified. It has an Omni-directional capsule that produces superb audio clarity and speech intelligibility. Sennheiser ClipMic comes with a built-in metal windscreen and a carrying pouch.
Rode i-XLR
The Rode i-XLR is basically an XLR Adapter for Apple iOS Devices. Having this device with you means now you can use any professional microphone with your iPhone.This adapter makes your microphone options endless. If you have any XLR microphones and want to maintain broadcast quality sound while you are traveling, This is your answer.
Rode VideoMic Me
The Rode VideoMic Me is a compact and directional microphone that can be used in any smartphone. It has a 3.5mm TRRS output to plug directly into your smartphone.VideoMic Me is compatible with both iPhone and Android-based mobile phones.
Comica CVM-VS08
The Comica CVM-VS08 is a shotgun-type microphone that produces s excellent sound quality for a smartphone. CVM-VS08 is designed to plug directly into the headphone jack. It comes with a creative clamp so that you can fix the position of your smartphone and make more clearer and better audio recordings.
Rode IXY-L
Rode always makes excellent quality audio equipment, and Rode IXY-L is no different. It was built in a metal casing and Records stereo audio at 24-bit, 48kHz* and included a windshield, zip case.
The Rode IXY-L is compatible with iPhone 8, iPhone X, and later.Lastly, Its Comes with 24 months warranty when you buy it.
Final Thoughts & Recommendations
No matter what iPhone microphone you choose, I highly recommend you get a quality smartphone tripod mount. It will give more flexibility and better audio sound quality. With the latest iPhone models, you will get excellent video recording with a microphone without spending any money on a DSLR camera or shotgun mics.If you want to record something professional for video, just look at those mics for Youtube.