The Rode SmartLav+ is a well-established clip-on lavalier built specifically for phones and tablets rather than a camera or standalone recorder, which makes it a dependable pick for anyone recording interviews or presentations with a smartphone. It clips just below the collarbone so it stays close to the mouth without appearing in frame, connecting via a TRRS plug straight into a phone’s headset jack or adapter.
Because it sits below the mouth rather than in front of it, expect a slightly thinner sound than a mic positioned closer — a trade-off of staying out of shot, and one that’s typical of the whole lavalier category rather than specific to this mic. Its omnidirectional capsule tolerates head turns without volume dropping in and out, and the included foam windscreen and clip cut down on handling noise and mild wind.
- Omnidirectional capsule that stays consistent as the speaker turns their head
- TRRS connector built for phones and tablets, with adapters available for cameras
- A compact clip and windscreen to reduce clothing rustle and handling noise
- Wired connection, simpler than wireless but tethers the speaker to the recording device
It suits interviews, presenting and any setup where the subject moves and a boom operator isn’t practical. Anyone recording to a camera or field recorder rather than a phone should check connector compatibility first.
See the shop category for other options.
