5 Best Clip on Microphones for YouTube in 2024

Are you venturing into the dynamic world of YouTube content creation or looking to upgrade your audio game? Crisp, clear sound quality is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity for keeping your audience engaged. Whether you’re filming on-the-go vlogs, insightful tutorials, or engaging interviews, a reliable clip-on microphone is a game-changer. These discreet yet powerful gadgets promise to enhance your audio, making your videos sound as professional as they look. In this review, we’ll introduce you to the best clip-on microphones perfect for YouTubers like you, ensuring your message isn’t just heard, but resonates with crystal clarity.

Selecting the best clip-on microphone for YouTube requires understanding several important criteria that ensure high-quality audio for your videos. Here are the factors to consider:

1. Sound Quality: Aim for a microphone that provides clear, crisp sound with minimal background noise. Look for mics with a wide frequency range and the ability to handle different sound levels without distortion.
2. Compatibility: Make sure the microphone is compatible with the devices you plan to use, whether it’s a smartphone, camera, or computer. Some mics require adapters, so it’s important to know what connections are necessary.
3. Ease of Use: The microphone should be easy to attach and remove without causing damage to your clothing. Also, consider if it’s plug-and-play or if it requires additional setup.
4. Durability: Because you’ll be clipping it on and off frequently, it should be robust enough to handle regular use without degradation in performance.
5. Battery Life: If the microphone is battery-powered, it should have a long battery life or be easily rechargeable to avoid interruptions during recording sessions.
6. Size and Weight: It should be unobtrusive and lightweight so that it doesn’t interfere with the wearer’s comfort or the video’s visual appeal.
7. Additional Features: Look for extra features that might be useful, like noise cancellation, omnidirectional recording, or a built-in windscreen for outdoor shoots.

By keeping these criteria in mind, you can find a clip-on microphone that will meet the demands of YouTube content creation effectively.

Microphone Model	Approx. Price	Type	Pickup Pattern	Frequency Response	Connectivity	Compatibility	Additional Features
Rode smartLav+ Lavalier Microphone	$60-80	Condenser	Omnidirectional	60Hz – 18kHz	TRRS jack	Smartphone, Tablet	Comes with a foam pop shield, durable mounting clip
Shure MVL Omnidirectional Lavalier	$50-70	Condenser	Omnidirectional	45Hz – 20kHz	TRRS jack	Smartphone, Tablet, PC	RF/GSM interference shielded, includes windscreen
PowerDeWise Lavalier Lapel Microphone	$30-50	Condenser	Omnidirectional	50Hz – 16kHz	TRRS jack	Smartphone, Camera, PC	Comes with an extension cord, wind muff, and adapter
Boya BY-M1 Lavalier Microphone	$15-30	Condenser	Omnidirectional	65Hz – 18kHz	TRRS jack	Smartphone, Camera, PC	Battery-powered, includes a lapel clip and foam windscreen
Audio-Technica ATR3350xiS Lavalier Mic	$20-40	Condenser	Omnidirectional	50Hz – 18kHz	TRS and TRRS	Smartphone, Camera, PC	Comes with an adaptor, battery, and windscreen

*Prices are estimates and may vary based on the seller and location. Be sure to check current prices from retailers.

Before purchasing, it’s suggested to check the latest user reviews and videos demonstrating the microphone usage, as they can provide valuable real-world insights into their performance, especially for things like sound quality and ease of use.

Rode smartLav+ Lavalier Microphone

Overview:
The Rode smartLav+ is a premium clip-on microphone that has won the hearts of many YouTubers, podcasters, and interviewers alike for its superior audio quality and ease of use. Designed to serve those who demand crisp and clear vocal reproduction, this microphone is a game-changer for anyone looking to upgrade their audio setup without going through the complexity of professional equipment. Whether you’re filming in a quiet studio or out in the bustling streets, the smartLav+ ensures your voice is captured with exceptional clarity.

Specs:

• Acoustic Principle: Pressure Gradient
• Active Electronics: JFET
• Capsule: 0.10″
• Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional
• Frequency Range: 20Hz – 20kHz
• Connector: TRRS (The newer version uses a 3.5mm TRS connection.)
• Cable Length: 1.2m / 47”

Pros & Cons:

Pros:

• Excellent sound quality that captures natural and detailed voice, making it perfect for vocal content.
• A discreet profile that easily clips onto your clothing, making it visually unobtrusive for video content.
• Features a broadcast-grade condenser capsule that deals exceptionally well with a wide range of frequencies.
• Its foam pop shield minimizes wind noise and vocal plosives (those pesky ‘P’ and ‘B’ sounds), adding to the professional quality of the recordings.
• The smartLav+ boasts compatibility with a vast array of devices, particularly smartphones, through its TRRS connector, which is a massive convenience.

Cons:

• The need for an adapter for devices that do not support the TRRS connection or for connecting to a camera’s standard microphone input.
• It might pick up more ambient noise compared to a highly directional mic as it has an omnidirectional pickup pattern.
• Due to its high quality, it comes with a price tag that may be a bit steep for those on a tight budget.

Price:
The Rode smartLav+ can generally be found for around $60-$80, which, considering its premium design and sound quality, presents a good value for those serious about their audio performance on YouTube.

In conclusion, my opinion is that the Rode smartLav+ stands out for anyone looking to seriously elevate their YouTube video production value. Yes, it might be on the pricier side for a lavalier mic, but the audio quality speaks for itself. You’re not just paying for a microphone; you’re investing in sound clarity that can distinctly propel your content’s professionalism. It’s also incredibly user-friendly, which makes it ideal for content creators who want premium sound without getting tangled in the technicalities of audio engineering.

Shure MVL Omnidirectional Condenser Lavalier Microphone

Overview:
The Shure MVL is an impressive tool for the aspiring YouTuber seeking an upgrade to their audio quality without diving into a professional studio setup. Right off the bat, the microphone’s discreet profile is ideal if you’re looking to maintain a clean visual frame with no bulky equipment in sight. During my testing, I quickly came to appreciate its simplicity and the overall sound fidelity it provided, especially when I compared it to the onboard microphones found on most smartphones and cameras.

Its omnidirectional pickup pattern means that it captures sound equally well from all directions, which is excellent when you’re not always speaking directly into the mic, or if you’re recording more than one person. In terms of construction, it’s quite robust for its size—a merit Shure microphones are often known for.

Specs:

• Microphone Type: Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional
• Frequency Response: 45 Hz to 20 kHz
• Connector Type: 3.5mm TRRS connector
• Additional Features: Includes windscreen, carrying pouch, and tie-clip

Pros & Cons:
Pros:

• The audio quality is crisp and clear, with plenty of detail—a big step up from stock camera or phone mics.
• The plug-and-play capability makes it very user-friendly, which is a major plus for content creators who don’t want to get bogged down in technical setup.
• It’s exceedingly portable and pairs well with mobile devices, making it a versatile tool for vloggers on the move.

Cons:

• It lacks some of the advanced features that tech enthusiasts might seek, such as adjustable gain or onboard monitoring.
• Omnidirectional mics can pick up unwanted ambient noise, so it might not be ideal in noisy settings.

Price:
Prices vary depending on where you shop, but as of my last check, the Shure MVL typically hovers around the $69 to $99 range. Considering the quality you get, it’s a reasonable middle-ground price point that won’t break the bank.

In conclusion, the Shure MVL is a solid choice for anyone needing an uncomplicated, reliable, and portable mic that delivers clear audio. If you’re not recording in particularly noisy environments often and don’t require the bells and whistles of higher-priced mics, this little powerhouse could very well be the best investment you make for your YouTube channel’s audio quality.

PowerDeWise Professional Grade Lavalier Lapel Microphone

Overview

The PowerDeWise Professional Grade Lavalier Lapel Microphone is a surprisingly decent choice for YouTubers who are after clear audio without breaking the bank. Upon trying it out, the first thing that struck me was its simplicity; it’s a plug-and-play device with no batteries required, which is perfect for quickly getting set up for a shoot. It’s designed for compatibility with smartphones, but with the included adapter, you can also connect it to your DSLR, camcorder, or audio recorder.

In my tests, this lavalier mic offered a rich and clear sound quality well above its price range. It managed to pick up less ambient noise compared to other mics in a similar budget, likely due to the included wind muff and its focus on voice frequencies. The cable is impressively long, giving you a lot of freedom of movement, which is invaluable if you’re filming sit-down interviews or vlogs.

Specs

• Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional
• Frequency Range: 50Hz-18kHz
• Sensitivity: -46±2dB
• Cable Length: Approximately 6.5 feet long (including extension cable)
• Connector: 3.5mm TRRS jack
• Extras: Comes with extension cord, wind muff, and an adapter for devices with a 3.5mm socket

Pros:

1. Excellent value for money, offering professional-grade sound quality at an affordable price.
2. Extremely easy to use with its plug-and-play functionality, making it approachable for beginners.
3. Long cable length provides flexibility in recording situations.
4. Low handling noise, which is essential when the subject is moving.
5. Comes with a sturdy storage case, making it easy to pack and protect when on the move.

Cons:

1. May require an additional adapter to work with some newer smartphones that lack a headphone jack.
2. It lacks more advanced features like gain control or a high-pass filter, which isn’t unexpected at this price point but would be a nice addition.

Price

The PowerDeWise Lavalier Mic is pretty competitive, often priced around $30-$40. Considering the clean sound quality and the package contents, I find it a steal for aspiring YouTubers who need something reliable yet budget-friendly.

Opinion

After taking the PowerDeWise lapel mic through its paces, I’m quite impressed with how it holds up against the competition, particularly for those just getting into video production. While it may not have the bells and whistles of some more expensive microphones, its performance is robust where it counts. It delivers crisp, clear audio that will immediately elevate any YouTube video’s production value. Plus, the added accessories are a thoughtful touch, ensuring you have almost everything you need straight out of the box.

In conclusion, if you’re stepping into the YouTube space and want your viewers to hang onto every word without having to spend too much, the PowerDeWise Professional Grade Lavalier Mic is undoubtedly worth considering. It’s a shining example of ‘affordable quality’ in the realm of audio equipment.

Boya BY-M1 Omnidirectional Lavalier Microphone

Overview

The Boya BY-M1 is an incredibly accessible and versatile clip-on microphone ideal for YouTubers who are just starting out or those operating on a budget. It stands out for its simplicity and ease of use. Despite its lower price point, the Boya BY-M1 delivers a satisfactory audio quality that can rival some of the more expensive lavalier mics in the market, making it a smart choice for cost-conscious content creators who do not want to compromise on sound.

After using this mic for a series of vlogs and tutorials, I can attest to its ability to elevate audio quality dramatically compared to built-in camera or smartphone microphones. It’s perfect for interviews, product reviews, or any content format that requires crisp and clear speech. The mic also includes a lengthy cable, which offers flexibility in terms of movement and camera placement.

Specs

• Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional
• Frequency Response: 65Hz-18kHz
• Signal/Noise: 74dB SPL
• Cable Length: 6 meters (20 feet)
• Power Requirement: LR44 battery (included for use with cameras and audio recorders)

Pros:

• Cost-effective, offering great value for money.
• The long cable length is a blessing for dynamic shooting setups.
• Includes a lapel clip, LR44 battery, foam windscreen, and a 1/4″ adapter.
• Compatible with smartphones, DSLRs, camcorders, and audio recorders, making it highly versatile.

Cons:

• The battery compartment can be a bit cumbersome, and you have to remember to switch it off to conserve battery life.
• The included foam windscreen is relatively basic and might not be effective in all outdoor situations.
• Not as durable as some higher-end models, so handle with care.

Price

When I purchased the Boya BY-M1, it was around $19.95, which is incredibly affordable given its performance. The price can vary slightly depending on the retailer, but it generally remains under the $25 mark.

In summation, the Boya BY-M1 is a gem for those who need to improve their audio on a tight budget. Its versatility in compatibility and the generous cable length makes it stand out in its price range. While it might not boast the durability or advanced features of its pricier peers, it’s an intelligent choice for those making their initial foray into creating professional-sounding videos.

Audio-Technica ATR3350xiS Omnidirectional Condenser Lavalier Mic

Overview

The Audio-Technica ATR3350xiS is a discreet clip-on microphone designed to offer clear and accurate sound reproduction for content creators who need to record speech for YouTube videos. This microphone is for those looking to step up their audio game without breaking the bank or getting tangled up in complicated tech.

My impressions of the ATR3350xiS are that it’s a workhorse that balances performance with user-friendliness. The omnidirectional pickup pattern captures sound from all directions, which means you don’t have to worry too much about how it’s positioned – a real bonus for those constant on-the-go recordings or for people new to audio equipment. The microphone also includes an adapter for compatibility with smartphones, which is a fantastic addition considering many creators use their phone for both filming and audio.

Specs

• Transducer Type: Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional
• Frequency Response: 50 – 18,000 Hz
• Signal to Noise Ratio: Not specified by the manufacturer, but based on use, it’s adequate for spoken word
• Power Requirements: LR44 battery
• Cable Length: 6 m (20′)

Pros:

• Long cable provides flexibility and movement.
• Includes adapter for smartphone use, making it versatile.
• No-fuss setup: Clip it on, insert the battery, and you’re ready to roll.
• Good sound quality for spoken word content at this price point.

Cons:

• Battery life can be limited, requiring frequent checks or changes, which isn’t ideal for prolonged sessions.
• The build quality feels a bit lightweight which might raise concerns about durability in the long run.
• It doesn’t have features like gain control or a battery level indicator, so you have less on-the-fly control and monitoring.

Price

In terms of pricing, the Audio-Technica ATR3350xiS falls into a very accessible category. While it varies depending on the retailer and region, you can generally expect to pick it up for anywhere between $20 to $30. This price point makes it a reasonable investment for those who are just entering the world of online video content or for creators looking for a solid backup microphone.

Overall, the ATR3350xiS is a viable option for YouTubers who want enhanced audio quality at an affordable price and can live without high-end professional features. This little guy won’t make you feel like you’re recording in a studio, but it will substantially improve the sound of your videos, which your viewers will definitely appreciate.

Conclusion

To wrap up, pinpointing the best clip-on microphone for YouTube hinges on your specific needs, including sound quality, compatibility, ease of use, and budget. Those listed in the review offer a spectrum of features suitable for beginners to seasoned vloggers. Remember, excellent audio can significantly elevate your content, engaging your audience more effectively. Invest in one of these remarkable microphones and witness your YouTube audio quality transform brilliantly.

FAQs

Q1: Can clip-on microphones be used with any camera or smartphone?

A1: Most clip-on microphones are designed with universal compatibility in mind, often including adapters for different devices. However, always check the specifications to ensure compatibility with your particular camera or smartphone.

Q2: Do I need special software to use a clip-on microphone with my computer?

A2: No, most clip-on microphones work with standard audio input jacks or via USB, and they are typically plug-and-play with computers. Some may come with optional software for enhanced features.

Q3: How does a clip-on microphone improve my YouTube videos?

A3: A clip-on microphone improves the audio quality of your YouTube videos by providing clearer, more consistent sound. It minimizes background noise and focuses on your voice, which is essential for professional-level content.