Podcasts are booming, and having the right equipment is crucial for delivering high-quality content. One of podcasters’ biggest hassles is dealing with tangled wires and limited mobility.
This is where wireless podcast microphones come into play. They provide freedom of movement and eliminate the clutter of cables, enhancing both your recording experience and the overall production quality.
In this guide, we’ll examine the top wireless microphones available, their costs, and the unique features they offer. Ready to upgrade your podcasting game? Let’s explore the best wireless microphones you can invest in today.
Top Choices Upfront
- Rode SmartLav+ Lavalier Microphone for Smartphones: 🎖️ Our Pick
- Audio-Technica PRO 88W-R35 VHF Wireless Lavalier System: 💪 Most Durable
- Sennheiser Pro Audio EW 112P G4: 💼 Best for Professional Use
- Samson Go Mic: 💡 Best Features
- Rode Wireless Go: 💰 Budget-Friendly
Rode SmartLav+ Lavalier Microphone For Smartphones
This first microphone has an omnidirectional function, which is great if you want something that will pick up all the noise in the surrounding environment.
This microphone has been specially tailored for smartphones, so you can easily set it up to record without downloading too much software.
The SmartLav+ is a broadcast-quality microphone that delivers amazing sound no matter where you are. It is also great for outdoor recording.
This comes with a Kevlar-enforced cable, so you won’t have to worry about it breaking when you take it out and about.
As mentioned above, this microphone picks up sound from all directions. However, it is particularly sensitive to sound coming from a certain direction.
This is a small unit, which makes it great for carrying between podcast studios. You can also keep it in your carry case for when you need to take it out.
Features
- 🎙️ Omnidirectional Function: Picks up sound from all directions.
- 📱 Smartphone Compatibility: Easily connects to your smartphone.
- 🔧 Broadcast Quality: Delivers exceptional sound quality.
- 💪 Kevlar-Enforced Cable: Durable and resistant to breaking.
- 📦 Portable Size: Small and easy to carry.
Pros
- Very portable – this is one of the most portable mics that you can get on this list, ideal for carrying between podcast studios.
- This mic is great for outdoor recording. You can take it outside, which is great if you are doing interviews.
- Durable – despite being so small, this microphone will last, as it is made from particularly strong materials.
- Clips – You can attach this to any part of your body, allowing you to move around while you record.
Cons
- It is too compact, and this might not offer the dynamic range of sound that some of the more professional podcasters are looking for.
Sennheiser Pro Audio EW 112P G4
Next up, we have another set of handy portable recording devices (see also ‘Best Podcast Recorder‘) that can be plugged into your smartphone.
These were very easy to use and can be set up very quickly. You won’t have to devote long hours to finding the right software to ensure that your microphones are compatible.
These can operate at a range of 100 to 300 feet, which makes them great microphones for use in a large room or even outside.
This comes with 8 hours of operation time, which is perfect for recording most podcasts.
You can use this with a broadcast microphone or switch up the recording output to ensure that you have the best sound quality.
These units are very compact, and you can blend them with any part of your clothing. You won’t have to worry about them getting damaged, as you can put them easily in your pocket.
Features
- 📶 100-300 Feet Range: Excellent for large areas and outdoor use.
- ⏳ 8 Hours Operation Time: Suitable for long recording sessions.
- 🎛️ Broadcast Quality: Superior sound quality.
- 👕 Compact and Blends with Clothing: Discreet and easy to wear.
- 🔗 Strong and Consistent Connection: Reliable performance.
Pros
- 8 hours of operation – this will run for triple the amount of time that you will need to record a standard podcast.
- Compact – this is easy to clip onto any type of clothing, making it great for hands-free recording and transportation.
- Great sound quality – if you are looking for the optimum level of sound, then we would certainly recommend this microphone.
- Reliable – you can be certain that the connection between the receiver and the transmitter will be very strong and consistent.
Cons
- Expensive – this is not a cheap option, although a decent sound quality comes at a high price.
Audio-Technica PRO 88W-R35 VHF Wireless Lavalier System
Next, we have a dynamic wireless microphone that can record from all directions. This one is sensitive to certain noises and will pick them up clearly.
This comes with a large transmitter that can record high-quality sound without any stuttering or audio dropout.
This comes with a handheld mic that allows you to record either close to your subject or at a decent distance between them.
This can operate between 100 and 300 meters, which is perfect if you are looking for a flexible microphone that you can move around with.
This is powered by a single 9v battery, making it perfect if you are recording anything under 5 hours.
You can easily monitor the quality and consistency of your sound with an earphone jack built into the microphone.
Features
- 📡 100-300 Meter Operating Range: Great flexibility and mobility.
- 🔊 High-Quality Transmitter: Clear sound without dropouts.
- 🤳 Handheld Mic Option: Versatile recording options.
- 🔋 9V Battery Powered: Convenient for shorter sessions.
- 🎧 Built-in Earphone Jack: Monitor sound quality in real-time.
Pros
- Sturdy construction – you can be sure that you’ll be able to handle this one quite roughly, the single-piece construction is designed to withstand a lot of knocks and bumps.
- Camera mounting capabilities – you can easily attach this one to the housing of a DLSR camera or similar. This is ideal for filming combinations.
- Monitor your sound with earbuds – if you are wanting to keep track of the quality of your audio, especially when you are out in windy conditions, then plug in some decent headphones.
- Antenna – with a decent antenna comes good-quality reception, which is perfect for high-quality sound.
Cons
- Pricey – this is another very pricey unit, so you will want to record high-quality sound over many sessions.
Samson Go Mic
Next, we have a portable wireless microphone with its own mini-soundboard, which allows you to change the mic’s frequency settings to whatever you need.
This comes with a very clever receiver system that you can clip onto the back of your smartphone or tablet. This device is one of the most flexible we’ve found for recording.
You can even mount this one on a tripod, which is great if you want to record that highly stable sound in windy conditions.
This is one of the best microphones for battery life. It can run for a whopping 13 hours on one charge.
This one can operate up to 100 meters, which makes it a solid wireless podcast recorder. However, there are other podcast mics on this list that work further away.
This comes with a great selection of cables, from mini-USB to regular USB and 3.5 mm cables.
Features
- 🔄 Omnidirectional Recording: Captures sound from multiple directions.
- 🔋 13 Hours Battery Life: Extended recording time.
- 📱 Mini Soundboard: Adjustable frequency settings.
- 🎛️ Versatile Mounting Options: Clips to devices or mounts on tripods.
- 📏 100 Meter Operating Range: Good for various recording environments.
Pros
- Omnidirectional recording – you can pick up numerous sound sources from numerous directions. This microphone is very sensitive to sound.
- 13 hours of battery life – you can record this one for long periods of time, which is great if you are nowhere near a power point.
- Great portable soundboard – if you are looking for something that can easily integrate with your phone or tablet, then this is the unit for you.
- Many recording options – despite its smaller size, this one can be operated with many different types of external microphones.
Cons
- Interference – Some users have reported this microphone having interference issues, especially when recording outside.
Rode Wireless Go
Next, we have a belt receiver and transmitter that will help you pick up the crystal-clear sound. This is great if you are doing field recordings.
This is very lightweight and portable, which is great if you are recording a large group of people outdoors and want a separate microphone for each one.
This comes with 7 hours of battery charge, which is perfect if you are recording a short podcast.
This wireless microphone system’s recording options can be switched. This is great if you want to record a targeted area or pick up a wide range of sound from a larger area.
You can even put this one on battery-saving mode, which is great if you are looking for something you can use for long periods.
Features
- 🔋 7 Hours Battery Life: Long-lasting recording capability.
- 🔄 Switchable Recording Options: Allows targeted or wide-range sound pickup.
- 🏃♂️ Lightweight and Portable: Easy to carry and move around.
- 💰 Affordable Price: Great value for the cost.
- ♻️ Rechargeable: Convenient and eco-friendly.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight – this microphone pack is easy to carry around and perfect for shipping between podcast studios.
- Great price – this comes at a great price point, which is ideal if you are looking for something that you can buy in bulk for relatively cheap.
- Rechargeable – this is better than having a battery set that requires you to load up on batteries.
- Durable – just because these battery packs are small doesn’t mean that they will break easily.
Cons
- This product does not transmit to an external mic – you can only use the onboard mic with it, which might limit your options.
Buyer’s Guide
When shopping for wireless microphones for your podcasting needs, consider a range of features to ensure you select the best option for your requirements.
Range and Consistency
🔍 How Many Meters Does It Function At? Ensure the microphone has a reliable range that suits your movement needs. A consistent connection without dropouts is crucial for seamless recording.
Ease of Setup
⚙️ How Easy Is It To Set Up? Look for microphones that offer straightforward setup procedures. Many modern options can be easily plugged into your phone or tablet, minimizing setup time and complexity, especially useful for beginners or field recordings.
Battery Life and Rechargeability
🔋 Is It Rechargeable? Opt for microphones with long battery life and quick recharge capabilities. This feature is particularly important for extended recording sessions and outdoor use where access to replacement batteries might be limited.
Innovative Technologies
🌟 Innovative Technologies. Consider microphones that incorporate innovative technologies to enhance sound quality and recording flexibility.
Features like noise cancellation, multi-device connectivity, and app integration can significantly improve your podcasting experience.
Additional Features
Consider microphones that provide additional functionalities, such as:
- 🎙️ Omnidirectional or Directional Pickup Patterns: Depending on your recording environment and needs.
- 📱 Device Compatibility: Ensure the microphone is compatible with your recording device, be it a smartphone, tablet, or camera.
- 💪 Durability: Look for robust construction, especially if you plan to record in various environments.
By focusing on these key features, you’ll be better equipped to choose a wireless microphone that enhances your podcasting experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Will I Have To Pay For A Wireless Microphone For My Podcast?
Most of the microphones on this list are priced under $100. However, the more you invest in a microphone, the more features and reliability it is likely to offer.
Are Wireless Microphones The Best Kind For Podcasting?
Most podcasts use wired microphones for their stability and superior sound quality. However, a wireless mic can be ideal if you are recording in various locations or conducting outdoor interviews.
Can Wireless Microphones Work With Any Recording Device?
Not all wireless microphones are universally compatible. Ensure the microphone you choose is compatible with your specific recording device, whether it’s a smartphone, tablet, or computer.
How Do I Minimize Interference With Wireless Microphones?
To reduce interference, use microphones that operate on a frequency that is less likely to overlap with other devices. Maintaining a clear line of sight between the microphone and the receiver can also help ensure a strong signal.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right wireless microphone can transform your podcasting experience by eliminating the hassle of tangled wires and providing greater mobility. As we’ve explored, each microphone comes with its own set of features, from omnidirectional recording to long battery life and easy setup.
Investing in a high-quality wireless microphone enhances sound quality and offers the flexibility needed for dynamic and engaging recordings. With the right audio equipment, you can focus more on content creation and less on technical issues, ensuring your podcast stands out in a competitive market.
Stay ahead by upgrading to a wireless microphone that fits your specific needs and enjoy the freedom and improved production quality it brings.
