Best Microphones in 2025 - Selection Guide

A microphone is connected to a device that can process the sound, such as an audio interface, mixer, recorder, camera, smartphone or computer. The connection you need depends on the type of microphone. For example, XLR microphones usually connect to a mixer or interface, while USB microphones can be plugged directly into a computer. Wireless microphones work a little differently: they first send their signal to a receiver, which you then connect to the sound device. Microphones for smartphones often use a TRRS, Lightning or USB-C connection, and you simply plug these directly into your phone.

Then there is the power. This indicates how quickly the power bank can charge your phone. Most power banks deliver a power between 15 and 22.5W (Watt). It is good to know that most modern phones often need at least 20W to charge quickly. Therefore, make sure you buy a power bank with at least 20W. For laptops, you need at least 30W, but for a MacBook Pro, for example, you need 96W.

A wireless microphone works via radio frequencies, such as UHF or VHF, and sends the sound to a separate receiver. This ensures a stable connection with a large range of 30 to 100 meters, and with hardly any delay. A Bluetooth microphone connects directly to a smartphone, for example, via Bluetooth. However, the range is then more limited – usually up to about 10 meters – and there may be some delay. Wireless microphones are perfect for professional use and live performances, while Bluetooth microphones are mainly useful for quick, informal recordings with your phone.

There are several ways to use your phone as a microphone. One of the easiest ways is through an app that turns your phone into an external microphone for your computer, camera or other device. Think of apps like WO Mic or Microphone Live. These send the audio signal via wifi, bluetooth or a USB cable.

You can also use a recording app to record sound directly on your phone, and transfer the audio to your computer later. And some smartphones with good built-in microphones are even used for podcasts or interviews. Especially in combination with an external microphone that you connect to your phone via a TRRS, Lightning or USB-C connection, for example.

Not every wireless microphone will work with every receiver. They both need to be on the same frequency band and use the same transmission protocol. Many wireless systems are proprietary and designed as closed sets, which means that they often only work with receivers of the same brand or even the same model. Especially with digital systems – think of brands such as RØDE , DJI or Sennheiser – exchange between different brands is usually not possible. Even if the frequencies match, there may still be differences in how the signal is coupled and processed. Therefore, always check carefully whether the microphone and receiver are officially compatible.

A transmitter of a wireless microphone picks up the sound via the microphone and converts it into an electrical signal. Then that signal is amplified and converted into a radio signal, usually via UHF or 2.4GHz frequencies. The transmitter sends this wirelessly to a receiver, which converts it back into audible sound. The transmitter is often built into a hand-held microphone or in a compact belt pack that you can wear on your belt, for example. This allows you to move freely without being hindered by cables.