The fastest way depends on what kind of microphone you have
Most microphones connect to an iPhone through the headphone jack (on older models), the Lightning port, or Bluetooth wireless. The method you use depends on which iPhone model you own and what type of microphone you're trying to connect. If your microphone came with a cable, check what connector is on the end — that tells you which route to take. If it's wireless, you'll use Bluetooth on any recent iPhone.
Before you plug anything in, close any apps that use audio, like Voice Memos or a music player. This prevents conflicts and makes the connection smoother. You should also make sure your iPhone is unlocked and the screen is on while you're setting up the connection.
Key Takeaways
- iPhones with a headphone jack (iPhone 6s and earlier) connect wired microphones directly to the jack; newer models need a Lightning adapter or Bluetooth.
- A Lightning-to-3.5mm adapter lets you use older wired microphones on iPhone 7 and newer models, but you cannot charge while using it.
- Bluetooth microphones pair through Settings > Bluetooth and work with any iPhone model made in the last ten years.
- After connecting, open the app you want to use the microphone with and check its audio input settings to confirm the microphone is selected.
- If the microphone does not appear after pairing, restart your iPhone and try pairing again.
Connecting a wired microphone with a headphone jack
If your iPhone has a headphone jack (iPhone 6s, 6s Plus, or earlier), plug the microphone cable directly into the jack on the bottom of the phone. The jack is a small circular opening about the size of a pencil eraser. Push the connector in firmly until you feel it click or seat fully — a loose connection will cause crackling or no sound at all.
Once plugged in, open the app where you want to use the microphone. Go to the app's settings or audio preferences and look for an input option. Select the microphone from the list. If you don't see an input menu, the app may automatically detect the microphone once it's plugged in. Test by recording a short clip to confirm sound is coming through.
Using a Lightning adapter for newer iPhones
iPhone 7 and newer models do not have a headphone jack. To use a wired microphone with these phones, you need a Lightning-to-3.5mm adapter. This small adapter plugs into the Lightning port (the rectangular connector on the bottom of your phone) and has a headphone jack on the other end where you plug in the microphone cable.
Apple sells an official adapter, but third-party versions work as well. Plug the adapter into your iPhone's Lightning port, then plug the microphone cable into the adapter's jack. Open your recording app and check its audio input settings to confirm the microphone is selected. Keep in mind that while the adapter is in use, you cannot charge your phone through the Lightning port — you would need to use wireless charging or wait until you disconnect the microphone.
Pairing a Bluetooth microphone
Wireless Bluetooth microphones pair like any other Bluetooth device. First, turn on the microphone and put it in pairing mode. The method varies by brand, but usually involves holding a button for three to five seconds until a light flashes or you hear a tone. Check your microphone's manual if you're not sure which button to hold.
On your iPhone, go to Settings, then tap Bluetooth. Make sure Bluetooth is turned on (the toggle should be blue). Wait a few seconds for your iPhone to scan for nearby devices. Your microphone should appear in the list under "Other Devices." Tap its name to pair. Once paired, it will move to the "My Devices" section and connect automatically the next time you turn it on.
After pairing, open the app you want to use the microphone with and check its audio input settings. Select the Bluetooth microphone from the list of available inputs. Some apps detect it automatically, but others require you to select it manually.
What to do if the microphone does not appear
If you plugged in a wired microphone and it does not show up in your app's audio settings, try unplugging and replugging it. Make sure the connector is pushed in all the way — a partially inserted cable will not work. If you're using an adapter, try a different adapter if you have one available, since adapters can fail.
For Bluetooth microphones that do not appear after pairing, restart your iPhone. Go to Settings > General > Shut Down, slide to power off, wait ten seconds, then press the power button to turn it back on. Once your iPhone restarts, turn the microphone back on and it should reconnect automatically. If it still does not appear, unpair it and try pairing again: go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the information icon next to the microphone name, and select "Forget This Device," then repeat the pairing steps.
Testing your microphone in a recording app
The best way to confirm your microphone is working is to record a short test clip. Open Voice Memos (the built-in recording app on every iPhone) and tap the red record button. Speak into the microphone for a few seconds, then tap the stop button. Play back the recording — if you hear your voice clearly, the microphone is connected and working.
If you hear nothing or very quiet audio, the microphone may not be selected as the input device. Go back to Voice Memos, look for a settings or input option (this varies by app version), and make sure your microphone is chosen. If the app does not have an input menu, try closing and reopening the app after the microphone is connected. Some apps only detect audio inputs when they first launch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any microphone with an iPhone?
Most microphones work with iPhones if they have the right connector or Bluetooth. Wired microphones need either a headphone jack (older iPhones) or a Lightning adapter (newer models). Bluetooth microphones work with any iPhone from the last ten years. USB microphones do not work directly with iPhones without special adapters that are not widely available.
Why is my microphone so quiet?
Check the volume level in your recording app — many apps have their own volume slider separate from your iPhone's physical volume buttons. Also confirm the microphone is selected as the input device in the app's settings. If the cable is loose or the adapter is not fully seated, the connection may be weak and cause low audio. Try unplugging and replugging to ensure a firm connection.
Can I charge my iPhone while using a wired microphone with an adapter?
No. The Lightning adapter uses the only charging port on newer iPhones, so you cannot charge and use a wired microphone at the same time. If you need to record for a long time, use a Bluetooth microphone instead, which lets you charge wirelessly or through the Lightning port while recording.
Do I have to pair my Bluetooth microphone every time I use it?
No. Once paired, your Bluetooth microphone will reconnect automatically when you turn it on and your iPhone's Bluetooth is enabled. You only need to pair it once. If it stops connecting, restart your iPhone and the microphone, then try again.
What if my microphone worked before but stopped working?
For wired microphones, check that the cable is not damaged and the connector is fully inserted. For Bluetooth, restart both your iPhone and the microphone. If that does not work, unpair the microphone and pair it again. If you're using an adapter, try a different one to rule out a faulty adapter.