10 Best 3.5mm Lavalier Microphones For Every Budget

What are the best 3.5mm lavalier microphones for every budget?

The video and media market has exploded within the past 5-10 years. Nearly every business, musical artist, brand, and personality use videos in one form or another to market themselves or products. You can have thousands of dollars of video gear and lights for flawless visual video, but your video is a waste without good audio.

While getting good audio for your videos substantially increases the production value, there is good news! Boosting the sound to your video is not that expensive at all in comparison to video equipment. That’s where lavalier microphones come in.

What is a lavalier microphone, you ask? A lavalier microphone (aka lapel or lav) is essentially a miniature mic with an attachable clip that’s usually clipped on to a person’s clothing. In most cases, people often hide the clip-on mic for an added layer of professionalism.

There are numerous examples of people hiding their lavalier microphones, such as TV news anchors, professional interviews, documentaries, most YouTubers, etc. An example of using a lavalier lapel microphone system for an interview could be found in this video here.

So why do people want a lavalier (Lapel) microphone with a 3.5mm jack?

Rather than purchasing a full lavalier system with both a receiver and transmitter for wireless abilities, many people would rather plug the lavalier directly into their 3.5mm camera or phone jack. It’s a much easier and cheaper solution to supply great audio to your videos. 

Generally, 3.5 mm lavalier microphones are perfect for phones with an aux jack. Most cameras have a 3.5mm jack, as well. In the case where your phone does not have a 3.5mm jack, adapters are available to eradicate the issue. Now keep in mind, you will not be able to walk around freely with wireless abilities unless you have a full system lavalier mic with a receiver and transmitter.

If you have a couple of extra bucks to spend and want a complete dual lavalier system, see our top 7 systems here.

Without further ado, my team and I put together a list of the 10 best 3.5mm lavalier lapel microphones for every budget. Regardless of your situation, level, and needs, you will surely find a system that is best suited for you.

These lavalier microphones can be used for the following

• Interviews  
• Webinars  
• Gaming  
• Vlogging
• Podcasts  
• Skype  
• Youtube Videos
• Filmmaking
• Etc

In Short, Here Are The Best 3.5mm Lapel Microphones For The Money

• Countryman B6W4FF05BSR B6
• AZDEN EX503
• Sennheiser ME 2
• BOYA BY-M1
• PowerDeWise
• Purple Panda Lavalier Lapel 
• PoP voice Upgraded
• SLINT 
• Paladou
• PoP voice Professional

 1. Countryman B6W4FF05BSR B6

First up, the professional lavalier Countryman B6W4FF05BSR B6 mic is a popular pick amongst sound engineers, and rightfully so. It’s compatible with various bodypack transmitters from Sennheiser, such as the EW500 G2, EW500 G3, EW300 G2, EW300 G3, EW100 G2, EW100 G3, and the SK 1093.

If you’re looking for a lapel that will last, this mic is built incredibly tough. It can withstand the vigors of consistent traveling for years on end. The 3.5-mm has locking connectors that won’t allow any accidents. One of the things I find very beneficial is the petite microphone size at only 2.5 millimeters. You would be shocked by how great the audio is produced with such a small and convenient lapel mic.  

The sound quality is phenomenal for just about any application. It’s bright and clear without any distortion or buzz. It produces the full frequency spectrum that is picked up from the human ear at 20Hz – 20kHz. One of the reasons sound engineers consistently rave about the Countryman B6W4FF05BSR B6 is its incredibly low handling noise. Overall, I highly recommend the Countryman B6W4FF05BSR B6 lavalier microphone for just about any professional application.

Details & Tech Specs

• Omnidirectional polar pattern
• Professional grade (able to be used for live television)
• Diameter: 2.5 millimeters
• Standard sensitive
• Compatible with the following Sennheiser transmitters; EW500 G2, EW500 G3, EW300 G2, EW300 G3, EW100 G2, EW100 G3, and the SK 1093.
• +0dB sensitivity
• Tough build quality
• Low handling noise
• 3.5-mm locking connector  
• Frequency response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz

2. AZDEN EX503

The AZDEN EX503 is an affordable lavalier microphone that records in mono. It’s a great choice for anyone who needs a simple lavalier with a mono recording device. The sound quality is decent, as it’s relatively clear. Make sure the gain level is not too loud, considering its extreme sensitivity.

However, many people love the sensitivity of the AZDEN EX503. I would also like to note its enhanced feedback rejection capabilities. While testing this mic, we have never had any feedback issues.

Like many lavaliers, the EX503 has an Omni-directional polar pattern that picks up sound in every direction. These microphones are great for filming situations where you must pick up audio from two people at the same time with only one mic. Some examples may include low-budget films, documentaries, Youtubers for various reasons, etc. Overall, the AZDEN EX503 lapel microphone is a good low-budget mic that records in mono.

Details & Tech Specs

• Mono microphone
• Electret Condenser
• Included In All Vhf Body Packs
• Omni-directional microphone
• Does not come with a bodypack

3. Sennheiser ME 2

Next up, the mono Sennheiser ME 2 is a mid to pro-level lavalier microphone that does not come with a bodypack. It too has an Omni-directional polar pattern that’s great for picking up audio from all sides.

Something I like about the ME 2 is its small size mixed with the robust build. This microphone can easily be hidden. It is also great at reducing background noise and only picking up the voice.

The sound quality is pretty good. For my taste, this microphone could use more high-end. However, after post eq, I boosted the highs and slightly increased the mids for the perfect audio. The naturally rich low-end is very beneficial.

Overall, the Sennheiser ME 2 is a high-quality lavalier microphone at a competitive price. The compatible transmitter by Sennheiser, EW500 G2, EW500 G3, EW300 G2, EW300 G3, EW100 G2, EW100 G3, is sold separately.

Details & Tech Specs

• Equivalent noise level: 36 dB
• Comes with a clip
• Mono microphone
• Sennheiser EW500 G2, EW500 G3, EW300 G2, EW300 G3, EW100 G2, EW100 G3

 4. BOYA BY-M1

If you’re looking for a simple lavalier microphone to plug directly into your smartphone or DSLR camera, the extremely affordable BOYA BY-M1 is an excellent choice for you. While the first two lavalier microphones carry a bodypack, this unit plugs directly into your camera or smartphone via a 3.5-millimeter jack.

The cable is 20 feet long, giving you an adequate amount of room. While this lavalier mic is primarily designed for video, we do not recommend this for live speeches. On the bright side, it produces great sound quality with its condenser microphone.

The center compartment holds the AA battery that powers the microphone. You only need to turn the power switch on if you’re using a DSLR camera. However, you do not need to use the battery if it’s connected to a smartphone nor turn the switch on. To preserve the decent battery life for DSLRs, make sure to shut the battery switch off when you’re not using it.

The sound quality is pretty good for the low price. It most definitely boosts the audio of your video. However, be careful not to touch this mic while recording since it can get a bit noisy. Coming with the mic is a windscreen, travel case, clip-on, and quarter-in jack. This quarter-inch jack clips directly onto the 3.5 mm aux, allowing you to plug into a PA system if needed.

Overall, the BOYA BY-M1 is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a cheap lavalier mic for their smartphone or DSLR. It will inevitably produce higher-quality audio for your video.

Details & Tech Specs

• Great for Smartphones, DSLR cameras, anything with a 3.5 mm aux
• 20-foot cord
• Condenser microphone
• Omni-directional polar pattern
• 3.5mm auxiliary cord

5. PowerDeWise

Next up, the extremely popular PowerDeWise lavalier lapel microphone with a 3.5mm jack is a great buy. Not to forget, it’s very affordable placed below $25. Between the lavalier microphone, rotating clip, two windscreens, extension cable of 79″, 4 to 3-pin adapter, and carry case; All of the units are separated out.

While Some people prefer 1 cord all tied together, others prefer a set that is separated. They both have their benefits and downsides, but it primarily comes down to personal preference. For those who are consistently switching distance, a lavalier microphone with a separate extension cord may be a more convenient choice for you.

In terms of sound quality, it is very good. Just make sure your gain isn’t clipping! In my experience, this mic is best placed around the nipple line for optimal quality. Most of us making videos or shooting interviews prefer not to mess around with setting audio gear up.

What I really like about the PowerDeWise is the easy plug-and-play. The wires and mic have a good build and weight to them, as well. Overall, the PowerDeWise lavalier lapel microphone is a great choice. 

Details & Tech Specs

• Condenser mic
• 1-year warranty
• 1 clip-on lavalier microphones, 1 extension cords, 2 windscreens, and 1 mono adapter for PC
• Highly sensitive mic

6. Purple Panda Lavalier Lapel 

If you’re looking for a multi-purpose lavalier microphone, the Purple Panda may be the one for you. It’s compatible with iPhone, iPad, Android/Galaxy phones, GoPro hero 2, hero 3, hero 3 plus, hero 4, (hero 5, hero 6, hero 7) (GoPro mic adapter required)], DSLR cameras, ps4 controllers, and Tascam recorders. However, it is not compatible with Nexus phones.

Those who want to vlog with a GoPro will tremendously benefit from this lapel mic. In my eyes, one of the most beneficial parts of purchasing this lavalier microphone is the free Ebook. The book is all about filmmaking for beginners. Not to forget, the instructions are straightforward for anyone confused about which adapter to use for a specific device. 

The build quality is pretty good. I would say it’s durable enough for consistent travel and will last. While the lavalier cord is 4.9 feet, the extension cord itself offers an additional 9.8 feet of cable length. This gives you a total of 14.7 feet of cor length.

Regardless of your device, it’s easy to use the plug-in and play lavalier mic. You will not need any additional drivers, Apps, or batteries to use it. Designed to record in stereo, this mic produces clear and crisp audio.

It’s pickups the entire vocal frequency spectrum very well and is phenomenal at rejecting background noise of any sort. However, I like to decrease the lows in post slightly. Overall, the Purple Panda is a fantastic multi-purpose lav mic at an affordable price. I highly recommend this one. 

Details & Tech Specs

• Stereo recording
• TRS adapter
• 9.8 feet of cable length
• Great customer service
• Mini USB adapter
• 60-day money-back guarantee
• Comes with a free Ebooks for film making
• Compatible with the following: iPhone, iPad, Android/Galaxy phones, GoPro hero 2, hero 3, hero 3 plus, hero 4, (hero 5, hero 6, hero 7) (GoPro mic adapter required)], DSLR cameras, ps4 controllers, and Tascam recorders
• Not Compatible with Nexus phones

7. PoP voice Upgraded

Not only one of the cheapest on the market, but it’s also one of the highest-rated lavalier microphones as well. The PoP voice Upgraded is the best choice to enhance your videoes audio at an extremely tight budget. It has a 3.5mm jack connector at the end of the cord. Speaking of the cable, it provides a fair amount of space at 6.5 feet in length.

With the purchase, you receive three colored windscreens for those with a preference. The extra windscreens will undoubtedly come in handy in the future as well. Some more good news to keep in mind about purchasing this mic is Pop Voice offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. 

With its condenser microphone, the PoP voice Upgraded provides a good sound quality you wouldn’t expect from its low price. In my experience, however, it’s best to attach the mic near your nipple line and adjust the gain a bit higher before it clips. I recommend this mic for at-home videos with a nice audio boost.

However, with a $10 mic, don’t expect professional quality. The build quality is surprisingly good for a mic below $10 as well. I was expecting much less for a mic this cheap. With the PoP voice Upgraded, you don’t need any drivers or extra Apps to begin. It’s a simple plugin-and-play setup. 

Details & Tech Specs

• Compatible with iPhone 7 and above, iPod Touch, Retina Macbook Pro Air, Sony, iPad LG, Blackberry & Windows Smartphones, and other Android devices.
• Not Compatible with the following: Motorola Droid Turbo, Nexus 5, Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy J7
• Cord length- 6.5 feet
• Made of polished steel parts
• No Apps or drivers needed
• 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEED from Pop Voice

8. SLINT 

Here it is, one of the highest-rated lavalier lapel microphones on the market. The SLINT is way too good of a mic for its affordable price range. To our ears, we couldn’t tell the difference in audio quality between the SLINT and many lapels double its price range. Considering the affordable price, the chances of anyone being unsatisfied with this mic are slim. 

Many microphones at this low of a price range tend to have noticeable self-noise. Yet another incredible feature of this mic is its very low self-noise due. However, it slightly distorts at higher volumes. The microphone has an omnidirectional polar pattern that picks up audio 360 degrees around the mic.

It has a clear and consistent sound without any crackles, buzzes, or pops. Coming with the purchase are two lavalier microphones, an x y-connector, 2 wind muffs, 2 extension cables, a carry bag for portability, and an adapter. 

Something else I love is that it comes with two windproof muffs that work better than expected. After testing it with the wind muff, I can confidently say it reduces wind noise by a substantial amount. I highly recommend it for anyone on a budget who makes videos in windy environments. In our opinion, the SLINT is overall the best bang for the buck low-budget microphone on the market. 

Details & Tech Specs

• Comes with a Y connector and adapter 
• Compatible with IOS and Android
• Comes with 2 extension cords
• 3.5mm jack
• Omni-directional polar pattern

9. Paladou

Next up, the affordable Paladou 3.5mm jack lavalier lapel microphone is another reliable choice. It comes with a lavalier mic, metal clip, extension cord, two windscreens, 3.5mm adapter, and travel case. This microphone has noise-reducing capabilities as well for making a cleaner audio sound.

A straightforward setup, it does not require any special drivers or apps to get started. Something I really like is the convenient and compact travel case coming with the purchase. It’s not too big or too small.

In terms of sound quality, it’s clear and a stable connection. The best part about microphones like the Paladou is the low self-noise adds the headroom to manipulate the EQ in post-editing later. Even if you’re not too fond of the audio quality at first, it can easily be adjusted later on.

For those who prefer more low-end in their voice, the Paladou will be a good fit. A downside I noticed at times was a few issues with playback. At first, I thought it was a faulty mic. After further review, we realized we weren’t the only people with a few playback issues. It still, however, uploads pretty well without any troubles. Overall, the Paladou is a good low-budget lavalier microphone with a 3.5mm jack.

Details & Tech Specs

• Shielded wire for quality noise-reduction

10. PoP voice Professional

Last but not least is the PoP voice Professional lavalier lapel microphone with a 3.5mm jack. One of the thing s that makes this microphone stand out from the crowd is its astounding cord length of 26 feet. This amount of range can be extremely beneficial for many scenarios. Better yet, this mic is incredibly affordable as well. The metal battery compartment located has two different switches; Camera or smartphone. It holds a single LR44 battery. However, the battery is only needed for DSLR or camera use. A battery is not needed for smartphones. 

Coming with the purchase is also a 6.5mm adapter, which can be very useful if you want to connect to an amp or mixer. In comparison to its previous PoP voice Upgraded version, this mic produces better sound quality. For only 5 dollars more, the PoP voice Professional provides better audio and much longer cable length.

If you were initially considering the previous PoP voice Upgraded, I recommend spending an extra $5 for better audio quality and range. It produces a solid frequency response of 50Hz-15kHz with its omnidirectional polar pattern mic. The condenser microphone is highly sensitive but does a decent job of blocking out ambient noise. Overall, the PoP voice Professional lavalier mic is an affordable and reliable choice for those who need 26 feet of cord length. 

Details & Tech Specs

• Cord- 26 feet
• Frequency response: 50Hz-15kHz
• Camera or phone switch
• Comes with a 6.5mm adapter

Our Winners

We have 2 winners; One for the best professional lavalier microphone and the other for the best low-priced lava microphone. The Best professional-grade 3.5mm lavalier mic is the Countryman B6W4FF05BSR B6 for a multitude of reasons. The build quality, sound quality, reliability, stable connection, 3.5mm locking connector, and miniature size are unbeatable in comparison to the rest. This mic is used for live television and the most professional of settings. It won’t in any way let you down. The Best bang for the buck 3.5mm lavalier mic is the SLINT for many reasons. We highly recommend this lavalier lapel mic for anyone on a budget. 

What’s a lavalier microphone? 

A lavalier microphone is basically a mini mic that attaches to the clothing of the speaker. 

What are lavalier microphones used for? 

Lavalier microphones are primarily used to capture audio for videos. 

What are other names lavalier microphones are called? 

Lavalier microphones are also called lava microphones, body mic, lapel microphones, or clip mic. 

How much does a lavalier microphone cost? 

With a few exceptions, lavalier microphones come in a vast price range as you can get them in where between $13-$200’s. However, they’re more expensive if you purchase them with a receiver and transmitter for wireless capabilities. 

Quick Recap

Here Are The 9 Best 3.5mm Lavalier Microphones For Every Budget

• Countryman B6W4FF05BSR B6
• AZDEN EX503
• Sennheiser ME 2
• BOYA BY-M1
• PowerDeWise
• Purple Panda Lavalier Lapel 
• PoP voice Upgraded
• SLINT
• Paladou
• PoP voice Professional

If you’re interested in the best lavalier microphone full systems, view our top 8 here.