Your phone's microphone is fine. Until it isn't.
Let's be honest. For a quick voice note or a chat with your sister, the microphone built into your phone does the job. The trouble starts when you film something and the sound is awful: wind, traffic, an echoey kitchen, or a voice that sounds like it's coming from the next room.
Here's the thing most people don't realize. Viewers will put up with a slightly grainy video, but they'll switch off a video with bad sound almost immediately. A €20 microphone clipped to your collar is one of the cheapest ways to make your videos, calls, and recordings sound better.
We stock few microphones, from €14.99 to €29.99. This guide will help you pick the right one and tell you where a cheap microphone has its limits.
The short version
The cheapest way to try a clip-on mic
Hoco Lavalier Microphone with 3.5mm JackA cheap wireless mic for TikTok or Reels
Hoco L21 Magnetic Wireless Lavalier (USB-C)A wireless mic for an iPhone with a Lightning port
Hoco Wireless Lavalier Microphones, Lightning & USB-C
All eight microphones at a glance
| Microphone | Price | Type | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hoco Lavalier Microphone with 3.5mm Jack & Clip | €14.99 | Wired lavalier, 3.5mm jack | The lowest price, for devices with a 3.5mm input |
| Hoco L21 Magnetic Wireless Lavalier, USB-C | €19.99 | Wireless lavalier, magnetic clip, USB-C | A low-priced wireless mic for Android and USB-C iPhones |
| Marvo Scorpion MIC-01 RGB USB Gaming Microphone | €19.99 | USB desktop mic with RGB lighting | Gaming and chat on a PC |
| Hoco Wireless Lavalier Microphones, Lightning & USB-C | €24.99 | Wireless lavalier, lightning, and USB-C | iPhones with a Lightning port and USB-C phones |
| Jmary MC-PW8 USB Microphone | €24.99 | USB desktop mic | Calls, lessons, and recording at a desk |
| Hoco L27 Wireless Lavalier, USB-C | €29.99 | Two wireless mics and a USB-C receiver | Interviews and two-person videos |
| Remax Ryusic K09 One-to-One Live-Stream Wireless Microphone, Type-C | €29.99 | Wireless mic, Type-C | Live streaming from a phone |
| Jmary MC-PW13 USB Gaming Microphone for PC | €29.99 | USB desktop mic | Gaming and streaming on a PC |
See the whole range on the microphone page.
First, work out what you're plugging it into
This is where most people go wrong, so check this before anything else. Microphones connect in different ways, and it has to match your device.
That's most Android phones, the iPhone 15 and newer, and recent iPads. Pick a USB-C mic.
That's the iPhone 14 and older. Pick a Lightning mic, like the Hoco Lightning and USB-C set.
Very few modern phones still have one. A 3.5mm mic is mainly for laptops, cameras, and older devices, so check yours has the socket.
A USB desktop mic, like the Jmary or Marvo, plugs straight in.
Look at the charging port on your phone. Wide and flat is USB-C, and narrow with a small tab is Lightning. Or pop into a shop and we'll look at it with you.
Which type is right for you?
Honest advice: what a budget mic can and can't do
A €20 to €30 microphone is a huge upgrade on your phone's built-in mic, especially in a noisy place. But it isn't a studio setup. If you're recording a professional podcast or a serious music track, you'll eventually want to spend more.
For most people, though, the extra clarity is exactly what's missing. And because they're so affordable, it's an easy way to find out whether you enjoy making videos before you invest more.
Five tips to sound better, whichever you pick
Around 15 to 20cm from your mouth is a good starting point. Higher on the collar is better than lower on the chest.
Record ten seconds, play it back with headphones, and adjust.
Rustling clothes get picked up.
Outdoors, even a light breeze can ruin a recording. Face away from it, or use a foam cover if there's one.
Wireless mics and receivers need power, so check them first.
These are general tips, so check each product page for what's included in the box.
What you get when you buy
- Brand new, in original packaging.
- A warranty: the Hoco L27 comes with a 1-month warranty. Check the product page of the mic you choose, because the length can differ.
- Free 15-day returns for items that are unopened and in their original sealed packaging. Your warranty and your rights if it's faulty aren't affected. See the returns policy.
- Delivery: free over €100; otherwise €4.99 (2 to 3 working days with An Post). Or collect for free from Bray, Ballina, or Sligo.
- Klarna and Humm at checkout to spread the cost. Both are run by separate companies, so check their terms.
- 10% off accessories for students in any shop with a current student card. It's in store only, with one discount per purchase, and it can't be combined with other offers. See the student discount page.
Buying for a creative friend? A clip-on mic makes a great, inexpensive Christmas gift. See our Christmas tech gift guide for more ideas, and our best earbuds, headphones, and smartwatches under €100 for a good pair to go with it.
Come in and ask us.
Not sure what'll work with your phone? Bring it in, and we'll help you choose:
We're open Monday to Saturday 9:30am to 6:30pm and Sunday 12pm to 6pm. If you'd like us to check if a mic is in stock first, message us on WhatsApp.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best microphone for TikTok or Reels?
A clip-on wireless lavalier mic. The Hoco L21 at €19.99 is the lowest priced, and the Hoco L27 at €29.99 gives you two mics.
What is a lavalier microphone?
A small clip-on microphone that you attach to your collar. It sits close to your mouth, so it picks up your voice and less of the room.
Will a USB-C microphone work with my iPhone?
Only if your iPhone has a USB-C port, which means the iPhone 15 and newer. For older iPhones, choose a Lightning microphone.
Do wireless microphones need an app or pairing?
The Hoco L27 is plug and play: you connect the receiver to your USB-C phone and record. Check each product page for the others.
What is the cheapest microphone you sell?
The Hoco Lavalier Microphone with 3.5mm jack at €14.99.
Which microphone is best for gaming?
The Marvo Scorpion MIC-01 (€19.99) and the Jmary MC-PW13 (€29.99) are both USB gaming mics for PC.
Can I use a lavalier mic for Zoom or Teams calls?
Yes, if it connects to your device. A USB desktop mic is usually easier for calls on a computer.
Can I pay in installments?
Yes. Klarna and Humm are available at checkout.
Ready to choose?
Browse the microphone range, or the wider audio range. Stock changes all the time, so check the website for what's available today, or visit your nearest shop in Bray, Ballina, or Sligo.
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