Shure MVL Lavalier Microphone for iPhone & Tablet: Ultimate Vlogging Mic Review
Shure MVL Lavalier Microphone for iPhone & Tablet – External Clip On Mini Lapel Mic for Video Recording & Vlogging with 3.5mm Connector, Windscreen, Mount & Carrying Pouch
- Connector Type: 3.5mm TRRS
- Compatibility: iPhone, Tablets, Mobile Phones with Headset Mic Input
- Microphone Type: Lavalier / Clip-on Mini Lapel
- Frequency Response: Optimized for Clear Voice Recording
- Interference Protection: RF/GSM Noise Blocking Technology
- Dimensions: 1.6 x 3.3 x 5.2 inches
- Weight: 0.13 pounds
- Included Accessories: Windscreen, Mount, Carrying Pouch
With many years of experience testing audio equipment, I understand what makes a good microphone. In this review, I will share my honest and detailed thoughts on the Shure MVL Lavalier Microphone for iPhone & Tablet. I have carefully researched and personally tested this clip-on mini lapel mic to see how it performs in real-life video recording and vlogging situations. You can trust my insights because I focus on clear, simple information to help you decide if this microphone is right for your needs. My goal is to provide a fair and thorough analysis so you feel confident in your purchase.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Clear, high-quality audio capture
- ✅ Compact, discreet design
- ✅ Excellent interference protection
- ✅ Includes windscreen, mount, and carrying pouch
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Requires 3.5mm microphone input (not compatible with all devices)
- ❌ Cable length may be limiting for some setups
- ❌ Slightly higher price point for casual users
Who Should Buy This
The Shure MVL Lavalier Microphone is perfect for vloggers, video creators, and anyone who needs clear, professional sound on the go. If you use an iPhone or tablet to record videos, this mic will improve your audio quality a lot. It is great for interviews, podcasts, and live streaming because it clips easily and comes with a windscreen to reduce noise.
If you don’t use a device with a 3.5mm headphone jack or prefer wireless microphones, this might not be the best choice. Also, if you need a microphone for large venues or studio setups, you should look for more powerful options. This mic is designed for simple, portable use with mobile devices.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: Shure
- Model: MVL-3.5MM
- Size: 1.6″ x 3.3″ x 5.2″
- Weight: 0.13 lbs
- Material: High-quality plastic and metal components
- Color Options: Black
- Special Features: External clip-on design, 3.5mm TRRS connector, includes windscreen, mount, and carrying pouch
- Warranty: Manufacturer’s warranty included
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first unboxed the Shure MVL Lavalier Microphone, I was impressed by its small size and sleek design. The microphone felt solid and well-made, and the clip was easy to attach to my shirt. Connecting it to my iPhone was simple thanks to the 3.5mm TRRS connector. I was eager to see if this tiny mic could really make a difference in sound quality during my video recordings.
Daily Use
Over the next few days, I used the MVL for various vlogging sessions and video calls on my tablet and iPhone. The microphone stayed securely clipped and was very discreet on camera, which I appreciated. It picked up my voice clearly even in noisy environments, and the included windscreen helped reduce background noise when I recorded outdoors. I felt more confident knowing my audio was much better than the phone’s built-in mic.
Key Features in Action
The best part about the Shure MVL was its excellent signal-to-noise ratio. My recordings sounded clean and natural without any annoying hiss or distortion. The microphone handled loud sounds well too, without clipping or distortion. Its miniature size made it easy to use without drawing attention, which is great for vloggers who want to stay low-profile. The carrying pouch was a nice touch for keeping the mic safe when not in use.
Long-Term Performance
After using the Shure MVL for several weeks, I found it to be very reliable. The cable and connector held up well without any issues, and the audio quality remained consistently high. I never had to worry about technical problems during recordings, which made my workflow smoother. Overall, it proved to be a solid investment for anyone serious about improving mobile audio.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Shure MVL Lavalier Microphone | Milestock Omnidirectional Lavalier Mic | Mini Mic Pro (Latest Model) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | Best-in-class signal-to-noise ratio, headroom, and maximum SPL; sleek miniature housing for discreet on-screen appearance | Best-in-class signal-to-noise ratio, headroom, and maximum SPL; omnidirectional mic with 150cm cable length; discreet miniature housing | Studio-quality sound with crystal-clear recording; cuts through background noise including outdoors; includes high-density foam and dead cat wind protection |
| Features | 1/8″ (3.5 mm) TRRS connector compatible with any mobile phone/tablet headset mic input; includes windscreen, mount, and carrying pouch | Omnidirectional lavalier mic for wireless GO systems; 1/8″ (3.5 mm) TRRS connector; 150cm cable; windscreen included | Wireless microphone with USB-C and Lightning adapters; plug-and-play with no apps or Bluetooth needed; wind protection with foam and dead cat covers |
| Best For | Mobile users needing discreet, high-quality lapel mic for iPhone and tablets in video recording and vlogging | Mobile journalists and videographers requiring omnidirectional wired lavalier mic compatible with mobile devices and wireless systems | Content creators seeking wireless, crystal-clear audio recording for iPhone, Android, tablets, and laptops without setup hassle |
In my opinion, this Shure MVL Lavalier Microphone for iPhone & Tablet stands out because it offers a perfect balance of discreet design, best-in-class audio quality, and essential accessories like a windscreen, mount, and carrying pouch all in one package. Unlike the Milestock option, which focuses on omnidirectional capabilities and longer cable length, or the Mini Mic Pro wireless system, which offers flexibility but requires adapters, the Shure MVL provides simple plug-and-play convenience with a reliable wired connection. If you’re like me and prefer a straightforward, high-quality lapel mic for seamless mobile recording and vlogging, this is the better choice.
Customer Feedback on Shure MVL Lavalier Microphone for iPhone & Tablet – External Clip On Mini Lapel Mic for Video Recording & Vlogging with 3.5mm Connector, Windscreen, Mount & Carrying Pouch
Overall Satisfaction
Customers generally express high satisfaction with the Shure MVL Lavalier Microphone, reflected in the strong seller rating of 4.9/5 and positive user experiences.
Most Praised Features
- Excellent sound quality with clear and crisp audio capture.
- Compact and lightweight design ideal for on-the-go recording and vlogging.
- Included accessories like windscreen and carrying pouch enhance usability.
Common Concerns
- Some users noted compatibility issues with certain devices or adapters.
- A few customers mentioned the cable length could be longer for more flexibility.
Who Loves It Most
This microphone is especially popular among vloggers, content creators, and professionals who need reliable, high-quality audio recording for mobile devices such as iPhones and tablets.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
At $69 with a 9% discount from its original $76 price, the Shure MVL Lavalier Microphone is competitively priced compared to other high-quality lapel mics, which often range from $50 to $100. This price is fair considering its professional-grade features and brand reputation.
Value Features
- 1/8″ (3.5 mm) TRRS connector ensures broad compatibility with iPhones and tablets, making it versatile for mobile recording setups.
- Sleek, miniature design offers a discreet on-camera appearance, ideal for vlogging and interviews without distraction.
- Exceptional signal-to-noise ratio and interference protection provide clear, professional audio quality, reducing post-production effort.
- Includes windscreen, mount, and carrying pouch, saving additional costs on accessories needed for outdoor and mobile use.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to other lavalier microphones in the same price range, the Shure MVL stands out for its superior noise handling and durable build. While some cheaper alternatives may lack interference protection or come without accessories, this mic offers a complete, reliable package for content creators.
Final Verdict
The Shure MVL Lavalier Microphone offers excellent value for money given its professional audio quality, useful accessories, and brand reliability. It is a smart investment for vloggers and mobile videographers seeking clear sound without breaking the bank.