The Best Lavalier (Lapel) Microphones

A lavalier microphone (also called a lapel mic) is a small clip-on mic that sits on a speaker’s clothing, keeping the mic out of the camera frame while capturing close, consistent speech. They’re the standard for video interviews, presentations, vlogging and theatre, available in both wired and wireless forms.

Violet Recording is reader-supported — we may earn a commission from links on this page, at no extra cost to you.

Quick answer: For most creators, a wireless system like the Rode Wireless GO II or DJI Mic is the easiest, most flexible pick. For broadcast-quality wired lavs, look at Rode, Sennheiser and DPA.

What to look for in a lavalier microphone

• Wired vs wireless: Wired lavs are cheaper and rock-solid but tether the speaker; wireless lavs free movement at a higher cost. Choose by how much your subject moves.
• Polar pattern: Omnidirectional lavs are most common and forgiving of head movement; directional lavs reject more room noise but need careful placement. See polar patterns explained.
• Connector and compatibility: TRS, TRRS, locking 3.5 mm or proprietary — match it to your camera, recorder or transmitter.
• Power: Many lavs are condensers needing plug-in power or phantom power — see what phantom power is.

Best wireless lavalier systems

Wireless is what most video creators reach for today because it’s quick to deploy and lets subjects move.

• Rode Wireless GO II: Tiny, dual-channel and hugely popular; the transmitters double as clip-on mics or take an external lav.
• DJI Mic / DJI Mic 2: Compact wireless kits with onboard recording and easy pairing, great for run-and-gun video.
• Sennheiser EW series: Professional UHF wireless lav systems for broadcast and event work.

Best wired lavalier mics

Wired lavs are affordable, reliable and ideal for fixed setups like seated interviews or podcasting.

• Rode Lavalier II / smartLav+: Clean, compact lavs; the smartLav+ plugs into phones for mobile recording.
• Sennheiser ME 2: A long-standing omnidirectional lav used widely with wireless packs.
• DPA 4060 / 4061: Premium broadcast and film lavs known for natural, detailed sound.

Placement and noise tips

• Clip the mic about 15–20 cm below the chin, centred, for even level.
• Use the supplied windscreen outdoors and tuck cables to avoid clothing rustle.
• Keep the capsule clear of stiff fabric, zips and jewellery that tap or scratch.
• Record each speaker on a separate channel for easy editing.
• Compare with other formats in our microphones hub and the guide to condenser vs dynamic microphones.

Frequently asked questions

Are lavalier microphones good quality?

Yes. While the tiny capsule isn’t as full-range as a studio mic, good lavs deliver clear, broadcast-usable speech, and their consistent close placement often beats a distant mic in real-world video.

Wired or wireless lavalier — which should I get?

Choose wireless if your subject moves or you film on location; it’s flexible but pricier. Choose wired for fixed, seated setups where reliability and lower cost matter more than mobility.

Why does my lav mic pick up clothing rustle?

Rustle comes from fabric brushing the capsule or cable. Mount the mic away from stiff or moving clothing, use a clip and loop the cable for strain relief, and add a fuzzy windscreen outdoors.