Crystal-clear audio quality plays a great role in the lives of content creators. A tiny clip on microphone with crisp and clear sound can be a positive turning point for vloggers, podcasters, TikTokers, YouTubers, live performers, and presenters.
So, in this article, you will find the 5 best clip on mini microphones, which are best-sellers in 2024, to make sure your voice is heard with sheer clarity. From advanced noise-canceling traits to compact design and wired to wireless devices, you will learn all the positive and negative sides of these microphones to make a better decision.
Comparison Table – 5 Best Clip On Mini Microphones in 2024
| Product | Price | Wired or Wireless | Clip On System | Weight (grams) | Cable Length | Polar Pattern |
| Hollyland Lark M2 | $139.00 USB-C $149.00 Lightning $179.00 Combo | Wireless (2.4Ghz) | Magnetic Attachment | TX = 9 RX = 14.8 | – | Omnidirectional |
| Rode Lavalier GO | $99.00 | Wired | Lapel Clip | 16 | 3.9ft | Omnidirectional |
| Shure MVL | $69.00 | Wired | Lapel Clip | 8 | 4.3ft | Omnidirectional |
| Sony ECM-LV1 | $29.00 | Wired | 360-degree rotatable clip | 12 | 3.3ft | Omnidirectional |
| IIQ | $29.99 | Wireless (2.4Ghz) | Lapel Clip | TX = 10 RX = N/A | – | Omnidirectional |
5 Best Clip On Mini Microphones in 2024
Mini clip on microphones can be divided into wired and wireless mics. So, here’s the list of 5 renowned clip on lavalier microphones that are portable and deliver excellent sound quality.
1. Hollyland Lark M2 Wireless Clip On Microphone
The Hollyland Lark M2 is a top choice when it comes to mini clip on mics in the wireless category. You can use this compact wireless mic kit with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, mirrorless cameras, and computers. What makes this microphone unique from the rest of the brands in this list is its shape and size. The 2x transmitters are shaped roundly, just like a coin. You can clip the transmitter to your clothes through a magnetic function or wear it like a necklace. In both scenarios, this mic looks stunning and modern on your body.
The receiver weighs around 14.8 grams, while each transmitter weighs only 9 grams. Apart from its lightweight characteristics, Lark M2’s receiver connects your camera hotshoe without putting an extra load with a 3.5mm connector. Likewise, the smartphone version of Hollyland Lark M2 can fit both lightning and Type-C ports. The same USB Type-C connector can be attached to your laptop or PC for direct audio recording.
One of the common issues found in most clip on wireless microphones is a low volume of videos when recorded on smartphones. But Hollyland Lark M2 breaks this ice by delivering impressively loud audio. The battery life is also outstanding, giving up to 10 hours of operating time on fully charged RX and TX. The sturdy case weighing around 111 grams, acts as a charging hub for both units.
This wireless clip on microphone system also offers a one-touch pairing and noise-canceling functionality. Each transmitter comes with an LED indicator that changes from blue color to green when the noise cancellation feature is active. But the most important thing is the audio quality. The Hollyland Lark M2 is a star in delivering clean and clear voice recordings with non-hollow sound. Whether you capture audio indoors or outdoors, this microphone always performs more than you can imagine.
Key Specifications of Hollyland Lark M2
- Magnetic clipping system
- Max SPL 115dB
- 24-bit bit depth
- 48kHz sample rate
- 20Hz to 20kHz frequency response
- Omnidirectional polar pattern
- Battery life up to 10 hours
- Charging time 1.5 hours (max)
- 2.4GHz transmission technology
- 1000ft (300m) remote wireless range
- -37dbV +/- 2dB @ 1kHz sensitivity
- 1” x 0.4” transmitter dimensions
- 1.6” x 0.6” x 0.4” receiver dimensions
Pros of Hollyland Lark M2
- Small and easy to wear the entire day
- Outstanding battery life for all-day shooting
- The magnetic attachment adds more convenience
- It provides superb audio quality with noise cancellation
Cons of Lark M2
- None reported from the clipping perspective
Price
- $149.00 for the lightning variant (As seen on Amazon)
- $139.00 for the USB-C variant (As seen on Amazon)
- $179.00 for the como variant (As seen on Amazon)
2. Rode Lavalier GO
The Rode Lavalier GO is a wired clip on microphone. There are two ways to use this mic. Since it comes with a 3.5mm gold-plated TRS connector, you can directly plug it into your recording device, such as a PC, smartphone, or camera. Or, you can attach it to your Rode Wireless GO system (if you have one) for wireless operations. The clipping mechanism is quite comfortable and convenient. That is one of the reasons why videographers and journalists widely use this lapel microphone.
However, the Rode Lavalier GO is no ordinary body mic with a clip on feature. It is a robust and heavy-duty microphone with a Kevlar-reinforced wire. The combination of a 3.9ft cable and gold-plated connector makes this mic more conducive to the audio waves, providing crystal-clear sound.
The Lavalier Go has a 4.5mm mic capsule instilled in its design. Although miniature, it ensures high-quality audio reproduction, especially when recording voice. You also don’t have to worry about the plosive sounds while recording voiceovers. The microphone comes with a pop shield (included in the package) to make pesky words sound clean. This small clip on microphone can pick sound from 360-degree surroundings due to its omnidirectional polar pattern.
Furthermore, the Rode Lavalier GO also favors content creators by all means. It can handle SPL levels up to 110dB and capture audio frequencies from 20Hz to 20kHz, making this discreet clip on microphone suitable for all needs.
Key Specifications of Rode Lavalier GO
- 110dB SPL
- Plug-in power
- 16 grams weight
- Mono sound field
- -37 dB sensitivity
- 3.9ft cable length
- 83dB dynamic range
- Omnidirectional polar pattern
- 0.2” (diameter) x 0.94” (length)
- 20Hz to 20kHz frequency response
- 3.5mm (male/gold plated) TRS connector
Pros of Rode Lavalier GO
- It is a lightweight and compact wired microphone
- Despite a delicate appearance, it has a solid build quality
- You can also use this clip on mic with a 48V phantom power supply
Cons of Rode Lavalier GO
- Some users complain about the cable length being short
Price
- $99.00 (As seen on Amazon)
3. Shure MVL
Like Rode GO, the Shure MVL is a small clip on microphone that is easy to use and carry around your busy schedule. It is a wired microphone with a TRRS jack specifically designed for smartphones. But it can be used with other devices having a 3.5mm TRRS connector. It may look tiny when you clip it on your clothes, but it offers broadcast-quality audio.
The Shure MVL has a quick setup without any complicated steps. Just clip this microphone on yourself or the person you want to record and plug the other end into your phone, and you are all set to record the audio. So whether you are into mobile news reporting, vlogging, or any other type of content creation, you can rely on this mic’s features.
Well, talking about the features, the notable thing in this mic is the omnidirectional pickup pattern that even records clean sound in moving situations. In other words, this microphone works excellently whether you are standing in a static position and recording audio or running and jumping to make an adventurous vlog.
Another attractive trait of Shure MVL is its additional functionality through the MOTIV mobile app. You can download the app and use this microphone to enjoy incredible audio-enhancing options, such as audio editing, mixing, mic gain adjustment, fine-tuning, and more.
However, due to its connector type, the microphone may only work with Android smartphones and tablets. And you may need to use an adapter to connect it to your latest iPhones. But that won’t guarantee its functionality with iOS devices.
Key Specifications of Shure MVL
- 65db SNR
- 8-gram weight
- Mono sound field
- 124dB Max SPL
- 52” cable length
- 95dB dynamic range
- Omnidirectional polar pattern
- 3.5mm (male) TRRS connector
- -44dBFS/Pa @ 1kHz sensitivity
- 0.22” (diameter) x 0.6” (length)
- 45Hz to 20kHz frequency response
Pros of Shure MVL
- This microphone delivers crisp audio recordings
- The 3.5mm TRRS jack makes it compatible with most tablets and smartphones
Cons of Shure MVL
- Most third-party adapters don’t work with this microphone
- The wire quality is not up to the mark – raising concerns among users about durability
Price
- $69.00 (As seen on Amazon)
4. Sony ECM-LV1
The Sony ECM-LV1 is a stereo lavalier microphone with a wired clip on mechanism. This mic serves YouTubers, vloggers, TikTokers, and journalists on their content creation journey. Its mini size and sleek black design attract most users, as this microphone is convenient to wear for continuous recording. With a 3.5mm TRS connector and a 3.3-foot long cable, this microphone is compatible with all devices with a 3.5mm jack input. So whether you want to use it with your mobile, camera, or wireless transmitters, you have many possibilities.
The Sony ECM-LV1 comes with dual omnidirectional capsules fixed on the right and left sides of the mic. Each capsule can pick sounds from 360-degree angles, ensuring an excellent audio experience for your audience. But that’s not everything this microphone offers. The Sony ECM-LV1 is also one of the discreet mics available. Measuring only 11mm in diameter and 32mm in length, it is a great example of mics that don’t grab too much eye attention.
Also, with the Sony ECM-LV1, you don’t have to worry about recharging the batteries for every recording or live performance. This microphone uses your smartphone, voice recorder, transmitter, or camera’s power to remain functional. So long as your secondary device is charged, the microphone will keep the show running. Another boon of this microphone is its usability for outdoor shoots. Unlike ordinary wired mics, the Sony ECM-LV1 includes a robust foam windscreen to keep your recordings free from unwanted wind sounds.
Key Specifications of Sony ECM-LV1
- 3.3ft cable
- Stereo sound field
- 12-gram weight
- 360-degree rotatable clip
- 2x electret condenser mics (left and right)
- Omnidirectional polar pattern
- 3.5mm (male) TRS connector
- 0.43” (diameter) x 1.2” (length)
- 50Hz to 50kHz frequency response
Pros of Sony ECM-LV1
- Users admire the balanced, clean, and crisp audio quality with minimal ambient sound it delivers
- The addition of the rotating clip permits for flexible positioning of this mini mic on clothing
Cons of Sony ECM-LV1
- It has a thin cable
- A few customers find the separate right and left channels unnecessary
Price
- $29.00 (As seen on Amazon)
5. IIQ Wireless Clip On Mic Kit
The IIQ wireless microphone can be your companion for worryless, high-quality audio recording. Designed for creators who adore clip on microphone experience, this set of 2x transmitters and 1x receiver falls under affordable wireless systems. If you fear the compatibility issue of this microphone, you will be glad to know that it works with both Android smartphones and iPhones (from iPhone 7 to iPhone 14).
If you look at the design, the receiver comes with an integrated Type-C connector. However, you also get a USB-C to a lightning adapter in the charging case, making this IIQ microphone connectable with most iPhone models.
Instilled with the DSP chip and working on the 2.4G wireless technology, the IIQ is also excellent at reducing unwanted noises. According to the manufacturers, this microphone has a 360-degree HD omnidirectional sound pickup with AI Environment Noise Reduction functionality. Both transmitters have 800mAh batteries, while the receiver includes a 110mAh battery. The overall battery life, as per the makers, is around 20 hours.
At the same time, this clip on microphone can send wireless signals up to 70ft. That’s a significant number, especially if you are into indoor recordings. If talking about the size, the transmitter is 2.6 inches long and 0.8 inches wide. In contrast, the receiver is 1.7 inches long and 0.6 inches broad. Meanwhile, the charging case measures approx. 4.5 inches x 2.5 inches x 1.25 inches, with an overall weight of around 165 grams.
Key Specifications of IIQ Wireless Clip On Mic Kit
- USB-C connectivity
- TX dimensions 4.5” x 2.5” x 1.25”
- TX weighs approx. 10 grams
- 70ft maximum wireless range
- 1.5 hours required charging time
- Omnidirectional polar pattern
- Max 10 hours operating time
- Approx. 20 hours battery time with charging case
Pros of IIQ Wireless Clip On Mic Kit
- Good sound quality
- You can connect it with Android and iPhone
Cons of IIQ Wireless Clip On Mic Kit
- Official website unavailable
- The clipping mechanism is of low quality
Price
- $29.99 (As seen on Amazon)
Factors to Consider when Choosing the Best Clip On Mini Microphones in 2024
Here are a few tips that will help you make the right choice when selecting a mini clip on microphone.
a. Wired or Wireless
One of the most important considerations when choosing a clip on mic is whether to get a wired or wireless microphone. If you dig deep, you will find some great benefits of a wired mini microphone, such as you don’t have to rely on the battery. On the other hand, wireless clip-on mics provide increased flexibility and mobility. Most essentially, they save you from the worries of cables. Nevertheless, the choice depends on your preference and usability.
b. Clip On Mechanism
The type of clip system of a mini microphone plays a key role in providing comfort to the user. You should know there are different clip on mechanisms, including lapel clips, 360-degree rotating clips, and magnetic attachment.
Lapel clips are commonly found in most microphones and are a great way to wear a mic discreetly. Conversely, mics with a 360-degree clipping system allow you to position themselves in any direction. As a result, they are more suitable for capturing optimal audio. Other than these two clipping types, the magnetic attachment secures the mic and gives it a firmer grip over clothing. Besides, microphones with magnetic attachments are mostly wireless devices with advanced features.
c. Weight
When looking for a clip on microphone, consider its weight as it is a vital factor that provides comfort during extended use. A lightweight mini mic is more suitable for prolonged wear and lots of movement, such as interviews, presentations, or live performances. If the mic is heavy, it won’t stay attached to your clothes for a long time.
That is why a lightweight mic contributes more towards a hassle-free and enjoyable experience. But that doesn’t mean you should ignore the build quality. Try your best to pick a lightweight mini microphone with a strong body. You can find out which microphone has both qualities by reading user reviews and the pros and cons of that specific model.
d. Cable Length
If you have decided to go for a wireless mini microphone with a clip on mechanism, feel free to avoid this factor. On the contrary, if you think you might end up getting a wired device, make sure you know its cable length since it gives you freedom of movement. You should determine the distance between the recording device and the required microphone.
For instance, if you want a clip on mic for stage performances, you will need a longer cable. But if you’re going to use the clip on microphone for calling activities, shorter cables will work fine. It is wise to avoid longer wires if you don’t need one. Otherwise, you may experience tangling issues.
e. Polar Pattern
In clip on microphones, the most common polar pattern is omnidirectional. Other than that, you may also find some models with cardioid polar patterns. But, since omnidirectional mics can pick sound from all directions, users prefer this directionality.
f. Budget
Mini clip on microphones are usually available at a budget-friendly cost. The minimum price of a good quality mini microphone can range between $25 and $70. But they may not have rich features compared to medium-priced microphones. For instance, Rode Lavalier GO is a great pick when you need a wired clip on microphone in a tiny size, and it also falls under the range of $100. But, if you seek advanced noise cancellation with excellent features and a miniature-size wireless microphone, you should keep a budget of around $130 to $200.
Conclusion
Your content creation journey needs convenience. The 5 best clip on mini microphones discussed in this article are great examples of comfort and ease. That is one of the reasons why they are top-selling products on Amazon.
If you’re a beginner and your budget is under $50, check out the Shure MVL, Sony ECM-LV1, or IIQ. If a mini microphone under $100 is affordable to you at the moment, the Rode Lavalier GO is a nice option. However, if you increase the range around $150 or $200, you can get the Hollyland Lark M2. It is professional, superior, stylish, and as tiny as a coin clip on microphone with many admirers.
FAQs
Q1. What are clip on mics called?
Mini clip-on microphones are also known as body mics, neck mics, lapel mics, or lavaliers.
Q2. How do clip on microphones work?
Once the mic’s connector is connected to a recording device like a computer or smartphone. Press the clip, place it in your shirt or collar, and release it. The mic gets fixed on your clothes, allowing you to communicate freely without holding a mic.
Q3. Are mini clip on microphones good?
Mini clip on microphones are excellent when you need to record or deliver sound with high audio quality but discreetly.
