Buyer guide to small microphones for recording

Small microphones for recording are quickly becoming a favorite on social media platforms, allowing professionals to capture precise sounds with minimal effort. As this trend continues to grow, one important question arises: which one is the best for my recording needs? That’s where this buyer’s guide comes in. In this article, we’ll review the top 8 mini recording mics from SYNCO and share tips on how to choose and use them. Let’s dive in!

Small microphones for recording comparison

Models/Specs	Size	Weight	Frequency response	Polar pattern	Connectivity mode	Battery life	Price
P2X	TX: 49x19x19mm; RX: 49x30x9mm	TX: 10g; RX: 5g	20Hz-20KHz	Omnidirectional	2.4GHz wireless	5h	$49.00
P1S	TX: 49x19x19mm; RX: 49x30x9mm	TX: 10g; RX: 5g;  Charging case:58g	20Hz-20KHz	Omnidirectional	2.4GHz wireless	5h	$49.00
G1 Pro	TX/RX: 52X42X16mm	TX/RX: 35g;  Charging case: 227g	50Hz-20KHz	Omnidirectional	2.4GHz wireless	8h	$79.20
G2 Max	TX/RX: 52X42X17mm	TX/RX: 39g	50Hz-20KHz	Omnidirectional	2.4GHz wireless	8h	$135.20
G3 Pro	TX: 62X22X20mm; RX: 64X62X28mm	TX: 15g; RX: 74g	50Hz-20KHz	Omnidirectional	2.4GHz wireless	TX: 5h; RX: 10h	$129.00
U3	116x53x46mm	67g	50Hz-12KHz	Cardioid	Type-C to TRRS wired connectivity	40h	$79.00
M1S	Φ21.5x 72mm	35g	100Hz-20KHz	Cardioid	3.5mm TRS/3.5mm TRRS wired connectivity	Plug-in power	$29.00
U1	/	20g	40Hz-20KHz	Cardioid	3.5mm TRRS/ Type-C/ Lightning	Plug-in power	U1P: $29.00; U1L: $45.00

NOTE: All prices are sourced from the Moman Store. The manufacturers and retailers of the listed products may adjust prices based on discounts, promotions, or other factors.

8 best small microphones for recording reviewed at SYNCO

These are the top picks currently available at SYNCO. Each model has its own pros and cons, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.

SYNCO P2X: Small microphone for recording on phone featuring plug-and-play design and two Type-C/Lightning receivers

For creators using their phones to record, this wireless mini microphone system is packed with great features. It consists of two Type-C or Lightning receivers, which can be directly plugged into your phone. Each receiver offers an impressive 5-hour battery life. One of its standout features is the impressive 150-meter operating range. Additionally, its smart noise reduction technology minimizes unwanted background noise. Mobile content creators love the P2X because it allows for quick muting with a single button during shoots or live streams, while the four-level volume control ensures optimal recording quality. The built-in cool lighting effects are also a favorite among users.

Specs:

• Size: 49x19x19mm(TX); 49x30x9mm (RX)
• Weight: 10g (TX); 5g (RX)
• Polar pattern: Omnidirectional
• Frequency response: 20Hz-20KHz
• Transmission range: 492ft/150m(LOS area); 164ft/50m(NLOS area)
• Battery life: 5h
• Sensitivity: -36dB
• SNR: >75dB

Pros:

• Plug-and-play design with automatic pairing
• Choice of Type-C or Lightning connection
• Excellent 150m wireless transmission range
• Durable ABS material
• Extremely lightweight

Cons:

• No charging case

Price: $49.00

SYNCO P1S: Budget mini audio device for phones with wireless charging case

Beginners on a budget will love this small microphone for video recording. It consists of a transmitter and a receiver, with a battery life of up to 5 hours. In addition, the included wireless charging case provides an extra 10 hours of recording time. The receiver plugs directly into your phone and pairs automatically, making it incredibly easy to use. For beginners, its 150-meter transmission range, 5-level volume control, and 20Hz-20KHz frequency response are more than sufficient for most solo recording needs. It is also one of the few blue and white models from SYNCO, catering to the personalized preferences of different creators.

Specs:

• Size: 49x19x19mm(TX); 49x30x9mm (RX)
• Weight: 10g (TX); 5g (RX); 58g (Charging case)
• Polar pattern: Omnidirectional
• Frequency response: 20Hz-20KHz
• Transmission range: 492ft/150m(LOS area); 164ft/50m(NLOS area)
• Battery life: 5h
• Sensitivity: -36dB
• SNR: >75dB

Pros:

• Affordable price
• Easy to use
• Included charging case
• Available in blue/white
• Reliable 150m wireless transmission range
• Extremely lightweight

Cons:

• The receiver occupies the phone's charging port
• Suitable only for solo recording

Price: $49.00

SYNCO G1 Pro: Small microphone for recording with indicator lights and charging case

With its compact square design, the SYNCO G1 Pro has become a favorite among many creators. The sleek black casing paired with the blue indicator light gives users a stylish and professional look during recordings. It offers up to 8 hours of continuous use, and the charging case provides two additional charges, extending the total recording time to 24 hours. The advanced 2.4GHz wireless technology ensures stable and clear audio transmission within a 200-meter range. Additionally, it features a safety channel mode and four-level gain control, which prevent audio distortion and allow for precise volume adjustments, reducing the need for post-production editing and enhancing recording efficiency.

Specs:

• Size: 52X42X16mm(TX/RX)
• Weight: 35g (TX/RX); 227g (Charging case)
• Polar pattern: Omnidirectional
• Frequency response: 50Hz-20KHz
• Transmission range: 656ft/200m(LOS area); 164ft/50m(NLOS area)
• Battery life: 8h
• Sensitivity: -40dB

Pros:

• Compact and elegant design
• Excellent 200m transmission range
• Safety channel mode prevents audio distortion
• Included charging case
• 24 hours of recording time

Cons:

• Slightly heavier than normal mini microphones

Price: $79.20 (Sale price)

SYNCO G2 Max: Mini wireless lavaliere with onboard recording and TFT screen

The SYNCO G2Max is a small microphone for YouTube videos, offering advanced features for capturing high-quality audio. Its standout feature is the built-in recording function. The transmitter has 8GB of storage, capable of holding up to 5 hours of audio. This is especially useful for YouTubers who often record outdoors, as it ensures the recording won’t be interrupted in any situation. It also features a clear TFT display and a 3.5mm headphone jack for real-time audio monitoring and easy control of audio levels, allowing users to independently adjust the volume and levels of each channel. With its compact lapel design and impressive 200-meter wireless range, you can move freely and capture high-quality audio without the hassle of wires.

Specs:

• Size: 52X42X17mm(TX/RX)
• Weight: 39g (TX/RX)
• Polar pattern: Omnidirectional
• Frequency response: 50Hz-20KHz
• Transmission range: 656ft/200m(LOS area); 164ft/50m(NLOS area)
• Battery life: 8h
• Built-In memory: 8GB
• Sensitivity: -35dB
• Display: TFT screen

Pros:

• 8GB recording memory
• Clear TFT display
• 3.5mm monitoring jack
• Excellent 200m transmission range

Cons:

• No charging case

Price: $135.20 (Sale price)

SYNCO G3 Pro: Small mic for recording wireless of three channels with touchscreen

The SYNCO G3 Pro is a highly powerful recording device for 1-3 people. Both its receiver and two transmitters feature built-in omnidirectional microphones, allowing you to record audio from three channels. Another standout feature is its 2-inch color touchscreen, which makes managing various recording settings effortless. Additionally, its receiver has a longer battery life than other choices, lasting up to 10 hours and also offering charging functionality, a rarity among wireless lapel mics. It uses 2.4GHz RF wireless technology and provides an impressive transmission range of up to 250 meters. Overall, this is a reliable and versatile choice that’s sure to meet a wide range of recording needs.

Specs:

• Size: 62X22X20mm(TX); 64X62X28mm(RX)
• Weight: 15g (TX); 74g (RX)
• Polar pattern: Omnidirectional
• Frequency response: 50Hz-20KHz
• Transmission range: 820ft/250m (LOS area)
• Battery life: 5h (TX); 10h (RX)
• SNR: >75dB
• Sensitivity: -35dB
• Display: 2-inch touch color screen

Pros:

• 2-inch touch color screen
• Three-channel recording
• 3-10 hours of recording time
• Excellent 250m transmission range
• The receiver has charging functionality

Cons:

• Inconsistent battery life between transmitter and receiver

Price: $129.00

SYNCO U3: Mini shotgun audio gear with optional low cut for phone, computer, and camera recording

The SYNCO U3 is a small microphone for vlogging. It features a cardioid pickup pattern, effectively reducing background noise and ensuring that sounds in front of the microphone are captured clearly. It also offers selectable low-cut filters at 75Hz and 150Hz, along with a high-density windscreen to minimize unnecessary low-frequency noise. It can be securely attached to the back of a phone with its magnetic mount or connected to a camera via a 1/4-inch screw thread. The included Type-C to 3.5mm TRRS cable further enhances its compatibility. With medium-volume monitoring, it provides up to 40 hours of recording time, making it ideal for long outdoor shoots.

Specs:

• Size: 116x53x46mm
• Weight: 67g
• Polar pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency response: 50Hz-12KHz
• Battery life: About 40 hours (Monitor at medium volume)
• Sensitivity: -26.5dB

Pros:

• Wide compatibility
• 75/150Hz low-cut filter
• The Cardioid pickup pattern focuses on sound
• 40 hours of recording time
• Magnetic mounting design

Cons:

• Not suitable for recording distant sounds

Price: $79.00

SYNCO M1S: Small microphone for recording with shock mount and Cardioid pick up pattern

The SYNCO M1S is one of the smallest and lightest models, measuring just 72mm in length and weighing only 35 grams. It is also a shotgun microphone with a cardioid pickup pattern, effectively highlighting the target sound. The included shock mount helps reduce noise caused by movement, easing the pressure during filming. It's very easy to use—simply connect it to your device using the included 3.5mm TRS/TRRS cable to start recording, with no additional setup required.

Specs:

• Size: Φ21.5x 72mm
• Weight: 35g
• Polar pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency response: 100Hz-20KHz
• SNR: >60dB

Pros:

• Super compact size
• Built-in shock mount
• Lightweight
• Easy to use
• The Cardioid pickup pattern focuses on sound

Cons:

• Not suitable for recording distant sounds
• Powered by the recording device

Price: $29.00

SYNCO U1: 90-degree rotatable plug-in small shotgun for recording on smartphone and tablet

SYNCO U1 is a small microphone for recording on iPhone, Android, and tablet. It offers three selectable connectors, including 3.5mm TRRS, Type-C, and Lightning, providing broad compatibility with various devices. Once plugged in, its 90-degree rotatable connector allows the cardioid condenser to focus on recording the target sound while reducing background noise. With its ultra-mini size and light weight of just 20g, it can easily fit in your pocket, making it highly portable. The sturdy metal construction is built to withstand various harsh weather conditions, making it adaptable to different shooting environments.

Specs:

• Weight: 20g
• Polar pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency response: 40Hz-20KHz
• SNR: 66dB
• Sensitivity: -35dB
• Material: Metal

Pros:

• Easy to carry
• Wide compatibility
• Extremely lightweight
• 90-degree rotatable connector
• The Cardioid pickup pattern focuses on sound

Cons:

• Not suitable for recording distant sounds
• Powered by the recording device

Price: $29.00 (U1P); $45 (U1L)

How to decide which one is best for you?

When selecting small microphones for recording, you need to consider several aspects. Below are some key factors to help you choose the ideal one from these 8 options.

Portability: It should be both compact and lightweight for easy handling and transport. All 8 models in the list meet the requirements. However, if you're looking for the ultimate in compactness and lightness, the SYNCO U1 and M1S are the perfect choices.

Connectivity: Some users prefer the convenience of wireless microphones, while others stick to plug-in convenience. Our selection of the top 8 options includes models offering a variety of connectivity options to suit both preferences. For example, the SYNCO P2X plugs directly into the phone, while the G2 Max connects wirelessly.

Durability: Mini microphones for recording contain many small, delicate components, and damage to even one part can affect performance. Therefore, you should choose models with durable casings that protect internal parts effectively. The U1 in the list is made of metal, making it the most durable. The other options are made of sturdy ABS material, which is also highly durable.

Frequency range: This factor is important as it affects the microphone's ability to capture a full range of sounds. It’s best to choose models like the P1S, which offer a broad 20Hz-20KHz range, capturing all sounds audible to the human ear.

Price & value: You should strike a balance between budget and performance. The high-quality recording small microphones like the SYNCO G3 Pro are more expensive but offer professional features such as a touch screen and three-channel recording. However, for beginners, the affordable P1S is a better option as it meets basic recording needs.

Pickup patterns: This determines the directional focus of the recorded sound. You can choose based on your needs. For example, the SYNCO G1 Pro features an omnidirectional pickup pattern, ideal for capturing sound from all directions, while the U3 has a cardioid pattern, perfect for close-range recording.

Versatility: Our recommendations are versatile enough for a wide range of applications, including vlogging, photography, journalism, podcasting, extreme sports, and more.

Ease of use: The small recording microphones on our list are easy to use, from plug-in and clip-on mics to compact, wireless models. Even if you’re a complete beginner, you can quickly start using these options right out of the box. If you’re looking for the simplest model, the M1S is the best choice—it plugs in and starts recording with no buttons to press.

Battery life: You should choose a model that matches your recording time needs. For example, the 5-hour P2X is suitable for short shoots, the 8-hour G2 Max is great for extended sessions, and the 10-hour G3 Pro is ideal for long recordings. Additionally, charging cases can provide extra recording time. If you prefer not to worry about power, you can opt for models like the M1S or U1, which draw power directly from the device.

Five tips to use small microphones for recording

Here are some key tips to ensure optimal audio quality when using small microphones:

Properly place the microphone: Position it 6–8 inches below the speaker’s mouth, centered on the chest, to capture clear voice while minimizing plosives.

Use windshields to avoid unwanted noise: Most of the 8 recommended models in our list come equipped with windshields. To reduce wind noise during outdoor recordings, use these accessories or a professional-grade fuzzy wind jammer to achieve clear recording.

Mind your movement: If the speaker is mobile, secure the mic and cable with a shock mount or tape to prevent handling noise and ensure a stable connection.
Avoid clothing noise: When using a small lapel mic like SYNCO G1 Pro, opt for fabrics that don’t rub or create friction noise. Test clothing for any rustling sounds before recording.

Monitor audio levels: Always check and adjust your input levels before starting to record to ensure clean, distortion-free audio. The displays or 3.5mm headphone jacks included in the recommended models on our list can help you monitor audio quality in real time.

For more connection and usage tips, you can click on this article Why and How to Use Small Wireless Microphone? to learn more.

Conclusion

Small microphones for recording are a great option for professionals in various fields, but they are especially popular among social media influencers and creators who are always on the move. As long as you take the factors we discussed into account, choosing the right model for your needs should be straightforward. If you’re still uncertain, we hope our list of the top 8 picks at SYNCO will guide you to the perfect choice.

FAQ

Why do you need small microphones for recording?

These small audio recording gear offer convenience in situations where larger models would be cumbersome and hard to handle. Here are its key benefits:

Improved audio quality: It can significantly enhance sound clarity, providing a better experience for viewers. No one wants to watch a video with poor, echoey audio, especially in short-form content like TikTok clips.

Enhanced aesthetics: Many people use earbud mics for recording, holding them up to their faces while talking or singing, which can appear casual. However, using a small microphone can elevate the visual quality of your videos, creating a cleaner frame and potentially increasing viewer engagement.

Portability: These small devices are typically lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry. Whether you’re recording an outdoor vlog with your smartphone or shooting for an extended period, the small size ensures you won’t feel weighed down.

Are small microphones quieter than normal ones?

The size of the diaphragm, which is the recording surface, can influence their overall volume. However, professional small microphones for recording are typically equipped with specialized hardware that allows them to achieve volume levels similar to those of standard-sized models. Some of the models we recommend, like the SYNCO G2 Max, also feature adjustable gain control, allowing you to modify the volume according to your needs.

How do these wireless small audio devices work?

These compact audio devices work by wirelessly connecting to a receiver using advanced technology. The process involves converting the audio signal captured by the microphone into a radio signal, which is transmitted to the receiver. The receiver then decodes the signal back into its original form, allowing it to be sent to the speakers in the sound system.