The 10 Best Wireless Microphones (2024)
Wireless microphones allow performers to do their best, free from the constraints of getting tangled up or tripping over wires. However, noise and dropouts can be issues with inferior wireless microphones. Luckily, there are battle-tested options on the market.
Many high-quality wireless microphones on the market right now will give you freedom of movement along with failsafe reliability and performance.
My top recommended wireless microphone is the Shure BLX288/PG58. This mic offers exemplary performance, along with simple operation and rugged build quality.
My second recommended wireless microphone is the TONOR TW-820. Perfect for those on a limited budget, this system includes two microphones and provides great sound.
Contents
- The Best Wireless Microphones (2024) – At A Glance
- 1. Shure BLX288/PG58
- 2. TONOR TW-820
- 3. Shure BLX24R/SM58
- 4. Gemini Sound UHF-6200M
- 5. VocoPro UHF580510
- 6. AKG Pro Audio DMS100
- 7. Sennheiser Pro Audio XSW 1-825 DUAL-A
- 8. Shure SLX2/SM58
- 9. Audio-Technica System 10 ATW-1102
- 10. Phenyx Pro PTU-5000A
- How does a Wireless Microphone work?
- What are the benefits of Wireless Microphones?
- What is the difference between Wireless and Wired Microphones?
- What are the different types of Wireless Microphones?
- What to look for in a Wireless Microphone when buying?
- Summary
The Best Wireless Microphones (2024) – At A Glance
And now onto the full list:
1. Shure BLX288/PG58
The Shure BLX288/PG58 wireless system is designed to be an all-inclusive system that offers plug-and-play convenience. Despite being an entry-level system, it is precision built to the highest standards and offers great performance and reliability.
Pros
- All-inclusive system
- Two high-quality microphones with pop filter
- Great operating range
- QuickScan frequency selection
Cons
- High gain may generate noise
- Issues with signal cutouts
This system includes two PG58 microphones, BLX88 dual-channel receivers, two microphone clips, and a power supply. With even the required AA batteries included, this system is a breeze to set up. The one-touch QuickScan function allows you to quickly find the best open frequency while the 300-foot operating range provides plenty of freedom of movement.
The microphones boast professional-quality construction for superior results. They have in-built transmitters as well as integrated cardioid dynamic microphone capsules that can handle extreme volume levels and have been tuned specially for smooth, extended vocal reproduction. The integral pop filter even takes care of wind noise and plosive sounds.
| Connectivity | 2 x XLR, 2 x 1/4″ |
| Polar Pattern | Unidirectional |
| Microphones included | 2 |
| Receiver Included | Yes |
The BLX288 receiver has a simple interface and a variety of controls to deliver good-quality sound. The adjustable gain controls let you tailor the performance to your taste, while XLR and aux output connectors provide plenty of connectivity options. Backed by the rugged and reliable build quality, this is a system that can withstand plenty of travel.
2. TONOR TW-820
Despite being one of the most affordable options on this list, the TONOR TW-820 offers good performance. Two handheld microphones, a receiver, mic covers, and an audio cable are included, so you have all you need to get going.
Pros
- Great value for money
- Good performance and build quality
- Solid wireless range
Cons
- Only compatible with mic input
- Frequency response is a bit on the lower-end
The TONOR system is exceptionally easy to operate. All you have to do is turn on the receiver and mics for them to automatically connect. The receiver has a range of 200 feet in open space so performers have ample room to move around without worrying about the signal dropping.
The microphones are ruggedly built, with an all-metal construction. The steel metal grilles mean that you don’t have to worry about corrosion or damage caused by dropping the mics.
With a smooth, warm sound, these microphones will delight vocalists at parties, musical events, and weddings. The integral professional cardioid capsule effectively filters out unwanted ambient and off-axis noise.
| Connectivity | 2 x XLR, 2 x 1/4″ |
| Polar Pattern | Unidirectional |
| Microphones included | 2 |
| Receiver Included | Yes |
The receiver can accept up to 15 microphones simultaneously and has an LCD display for easy operation. There are separate volume controls for the two different mics, allowing greater customization of the sound. The receiver also provides 15 adjustable frequencies to choose from per UHF mic, so you are bound to find an interference-free frequency in any setting.
3. Shure BLX24R/SM58
This is a wireless microphone system to pick if you want professional results is the Shure BLX24R/SM58 as it delivers superlative vocal performance. The system includes all the equipment you need to achieve industry-standard results.
Pros
- Professional vocal reproduction
- Exceptional build quality and reliability
- Ease of operation
Cons
- Pricey
The single-channel wireless receiver can be conveniently rack mounted with the included kit while two 1.4 wave antennas ensure wide and stable coverage. The SM58 microphone has a built-in handheld transmitter that provides a range of 300 feet, so you can use this setup in the largest venues.
The SM58 boasts Shure’s legendary build quality and is used for professional live performances and studio recording. Its reproduction of vocals meets the highest standards for singing and speech.
A built-in spherical filter reduces wind and ‘plosive’ sounds. The mic also has a unidirectional (Cardioid) polar pattern to filter out extraneous background noise. With a steel mesh grille, shock-mount system, and rugged build, the SM58 delivers reliable results in any situation.
| Connectivity | 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4″ |
| Polar Pattern | Unidirectional |
| Microphones included | 1 |
| Receiver Included | Yes |
This system’s plug-and-play convenience makes it easy to set up. The One-touch Quick Scan function makes syncing the microphone and receiver a breeze, while the two microprocessor-controlled antennas ensure that you have a stable and secure connection. A power supply, batteries, and transmitter bag are also supplied, giving you everything that you need for a great performance.
4. Gemini Sound UHF-6200M
The Gemini Sound UHF-6200M offers high-quality sound from an affordable wireless microphone system. Two wireless microphones are included along with a state-of-the-art UHF receiver. The quality on offer makes this system ideal for DJs, churches, bands, and anyone else looking for good sound at a reasonable price. Its sturdy construction makes the Gemini a reliable system that you can depend on.
Pros
- Value for money
- Clear sound with noise-reducing tech
- Reliable frequency stability
Cons
- No pop filter
- Not the best for professional use
The advanced receiver has a high-frequency bandwidth, offering a stable and clear connection with the microphones. An operating range of up to 240 feet means that you don’t have to worry about the signal dropping as you move about the stage.
An LCD screen gives you easy access to all the important information such as channel number and battery power. Both XLR and 1/4-inch mic inputs are provided, making it easy to connect the receiver to an audio mixer or PA system.
| Connectivity | 2 x XLR, 1 x 1/4” |
| Polar Pattern | Unidirectional |
| Microphones included | 2 |
| Receiver Included | Yes |
The wireless microphones have been carefully designed to provide incredible vocal clarity. Helping this system deliver stellar sonic performance is a special noise-reducing circuit that minimizes feedback. The transmitter setup is simple and hassle-free as it can be easily achieved by simply pressing the sync button.
5. VocoPro UHF580510
The VocoPro UHF580510 is a professional wireless microphone system that is ideal if you need to use several microphones at once. With four microphones included in the package, this system is ideal for bands or events where there are several singers or speakers. The VocoPro is not cheap but delivers exceptional performance while offering a durable and solid construction.
Pros
- High-quality performance and build
- Four microphones included
- Rechargeable battery
Cons
- Additional mics could possibly result in crosstalk
- Pricey
The microphones are very well built and have a reassuring heft to them. They contain rechargeable Li-ion batteries, so you don’t have to find new batteries when the charge runs out. They also recharge quickly.
Besides providing accurate sound reproduction, the microphones include mic clips and are sturdy enough to be taken to different venues. Their unidirectional polar pattern helps them minimize unwanted ambient noise and wind noise.
| Connectivity | 4 x XLR, 1 x 1/4” |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid |
| Microphones included | 4 |
| Receiver Included | Yes |
The advanced receiver has four channels, making it extremely easy to run all four microphones. XLR outputs for up to 4 channels and a mic output are included, allowing it to be conveniently connected to an amplifier, audio mixer, or PA system.
6. AKG Pro Audio DMS100
The AKG Pro Audio DMS100 wireless microphone system offers secure digital wireless connectivity and superior ease of use. A handheld microphone is included while the receiver provides four channels of operation, allowing up to four microphones to be connected.
Pros
- Studio-quality sound
- Encoded, digital sound transmission
- Adaptive channel selection
Cons
- Possibly some static sound when close to a speaker
AKG has been building microphones for over 70 years and these mics reflect their heritage. They are very well-built and offer accurate, high-fidelity reproduction of the human voice with a linear frequency response and studio-quality sound.
The DMS100 operates in the 2.4GHz band, a global license-free space. Being digital, it offers superior low-latency sound with none of the noise that plagues analog systems. The sound is delivered with 24-bit/48 kHz uncompressed audio coding for superior fidelity.
This AKG system is perfect for confidential meetings as it boasts advanced AES 256-bit encryption ensuring that your wireless communications are secure and any sensitive information is protected.
| Connectivity | 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4” |
| Polar Pattern | Unidirectional |
| Microphones included | 1 |
| Receiver Included | Yes |
The DMS100 is extremely easy to use. The microphone and receiver can be paired easily and even color coding is provided for convenient identification. Unlike other systems, you don’t have to search for a free frequency as the adaptive channel selection function automatically selects an available frequency.
7. Sennheiser Pro Audio XSW 1-825 DUAL-A
The Sennheiser Pro Audio XSW 1-825 DUAL-A is a sleek, attractive system that comes with two microphones. Befitting Sennheiser’s 75 years of experience as a famous audio manufacturer, this system delivers smooth, clear, high-fidelity sound.
Pros
- Smooth, warm sound
- Sleek, attractive look
- Can link with 10 systems simultaneously
Cons
- Battery life is slightly limited
The two battery-powered microphones are easy to hold and are well-built, making them perfect for professionals and serious amateur singers and instrumentalists.
The mics employ 825 cardioid capsules with a unidirectional polar pattern for a warm, studio-quality sound with excellent rejection of spurious noises such as wind noise and audio feedback. The mics’ attractive appearance is mirrored by the sleek receiver which has in-built antennas for a cleaner look.
| Connectivity | 2 x XLR, 2 x 1/4″ |
| Polar Pattern | Unidirectional |
| Microphones included | 2 |
| Receiver Included | Yes |
The Sennheiser system is a breeze to operate. Scanning and synchronizing the mics and receiver can be done by pressing one button while icon-based indicators make operation a simple, intuitive affair. The system is also very flexible, as you can use up to 10 simultaneously for extremely large groups.
8. Shure SLX2/SM58
The Shure SLX2/SM58 is an excellent option if you already have a receiver and are just looking for a compatible wireless microphone. Shure is a reputed manufacturer of microphones and while this mic is not expensive, you get clear, crisp, high quality audio. It is also sturdily built and can withstand being taken around or even occasionally dropped.
Pros
- Value for money
- Voice-activated recording and mute button
- Replaceable microphone cartridge
Cons
- Must have a compatible receiver
Besides offering pristine vocal reproduction, the mic has a range of features that make using it extremely easy. This includes a mute function, and you also get voice-activated recording – handy if you want to record an important speech or preserve your vocal exploits for posterity.
This mic has an SM58 microphone cartridge with a unidirectional polar pattern, allowing it to filter out extraneous noise. The cartridge is also interchangeable, so you can swap it to change the sound signature. Usefully, the cartridge can also be easily replaced if it is broken, so you don’t have to foot a costly repair bill.
| Connectivity | Wireless |
| Polar Pattern | Unidirectional |
| Microphones included | 1 |
| Receiver Included | No |
Naturally, before buying this mic you should make sure that both the transmitter and receiver output match frequencies. This mic works well with Shure’s SLX wireless systems but is also compatible with other receivers as long as they are capable of receiving the signal. Shure sells this model in a range of frequency bands, so you should be able to find one that matches your system.
9. Audio-Technica System 10 ATW-1102
With the advanced 24-bit digital operation, the Audio-Technica System 10 ATW-1102 is an excellent choice for presenters and musicians looking for a clear, natural-sounding wireless handheld microphone system at an affordable price.
Pros
- Clear, natural sound
- Noise-free digital transmission
- Can use 8 systems together
- Good signal strength
Cons
- Heavy battery use
Unlike analog systems, the Audio-Technica system offers noise-free, dependable transmission of sound. System 10 operates in the 2.4 GHz range, so it doesn’t have to contend with interference from TV and DTV signals.
You won’t run the risk of the signal dropping out on you with this Audio Technica. Uninterrupted communication is assured as the signal is sent on two dynamically allocated frequencies as well as multiple time slots to avoid multipath interference. In addition, two antennas are used on each transmitter and receiver, ensuring that signal integrity is preserved.
| Connectivity | 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4″ |
| Polar Pattern | Unidirectional |
| Microphones included | 1 |
| Receiver Included | Yes |
The stackable design of the receiver means that several units can be conveniently used, with up to eight systems being able to be used together. The digital receiver includes a volume control and LCD display for intuitive operation. Frequency selection is done automatically and instantaneous synchronization and setup between transmitter and receiver ensures hassle-free operation.
10. Phenyx Pro PTU-5000A
The Phenyx Pro PTU-5000A offers phenomenal value for money and is ideal for those looking for a wireless microphone system on a tight budget. Despite its low price, it comes with four wireless microphones, making it perfect for situations where there are multiple performers or speakers.
Pros
- Low-priced, four-mic system
- Individually adjustable volume level
- Plug-and-play convenience
Cons
- Fixed frequency, so the system can be unusable
- Can’t be used close to speakers
The Phenyx system boasts plug-and-play convenience. As the receiver has a fixed frequency design with four preselected frequencies, the four mics and receiver connect instantaneously, making setup a cinch. However, if you do have interference on those frequencies, it does mean that you have limited options.
Besides delivering clear, high-fidelity true sound, the four microphones have a rugged all-metal construction, making them durable devices that can withstand heavy use and even the occasional drop. The integral high-quality cartridges are engineered for optimal vocal reproduction while filtering out interference and feedback.
| Connectivity | 4 x XLR, 1 x 1/4” |
| Polar Pattern | Unidirectional |
| Microphones included | 4 |
| Receiver Included | Yes |
The professional receiver has an LCD display for convenient operation. Each microphone has its own volume control, making it easy to achieve an optimal balance. With a 260-foot range, the system provides plenty of freedom of movement.
How does a Wireless Microphone work?
A wireless microphone has an in-built radio transmitter that transmits the audio signal as radio waves to a nearby receiver. The receiver then decodes the signal and passes it on to the other audio components, such as PA speakers.
Wireless microphones are battery-operated with the transmitter and battery located within the body of the microphone. The signal is usually transmitted on VHF or UHF frequency bands as it can be done via a small antenna. These microphones typically use FM modulation, but some models use digital transmission in order to prevent unauthorized parties from accessing the signal.
What are the benefits of Wireless Microphones?
The main benefit of wireless microphones is that they are far less obtrusive than wired microphones. The absence of a wire gives a performer or speaker much greater freedom of movement while reducing the risk of anyone tripping over wires. Since most wireless microphones have considerable range, a performer can move freely around the stage without having to manage a trailing wire.
Wireless microphones provide the stage with a much cleaner look. The use of a bodypack, which contains the transmitter, means that some wireless microphones can be discreetly attached to a person’s clothing, making it unnecessary to even hold the microphone.
What is the difference between Wireless and Wired Microphones?
Wireless microphones are cordless, with the audio signal being transmitted to a receiver while wired microphones are connected to an audio system via a cable. Naturally, wired microphones have a more stable and clear connection and audio quality than wireless mics.
What are the different types of Wireless Microphones?
There are three types of wireless microphones. The main type is the handheld microphone, which looks like a normal wired microphone, but doesn’t have a cable to the audio system. Instead, it has a wireless transmitter and battery, which may make the body of the microphone somewhat larger than a wired one.
Another ubiquitous type of wireless microphone is the ‘bodypack’ style. The transmitter and battery are usually separate from the mic and contained in a bodypack, which is then attached to the person’s clothing. A wire is then connected to the mic which can take the form of a headset. It could also be a lavalier microphone. For those of you who don’t know, a lavalier mic (or lav mic) is a small microphone that is attached to the speaker’s lapel.
Wireless microphones can also take the form of a plug-in, where a transmitter is attached to the bottom of a standard microphone, converting it to a wireless one.
What to look for in a Wireless Microphone when buying?
When selecting a wireless microphone, you should consider the sound quality that you are looking for. If you are a member of a serious amateur or professional band, you may want to consider high-end options that offer studio-quality reproduction. However, if you are going to use it in a classroom or small club, you should consider cheaper alternatives.
The wireless range of many microphones also varies, so you should check that it meets your requirements. If the microphones will typically be used in large auditoriums, ensure that the transmitters have a sufficient wireless range for your requirements. On the other hand, if they are going to be used in classrooms and other smaller spaces, the wireless range is less of an issue.
You should check if the microphone has variable frequency transmission so that it can find a noise-free frequency to transmit the signal to the receiver. Systems with fixed-frequency transmission are cheaper and easier to set up, but may not work in certain environments. In such cases, you should check beforehand if they will work correctly before buying these microphones.
If multiple speakers or performers will be using wireless mics at the same time, you should also make sure that the wireless mic system can accommodate this. Some receivers can accommodate multiple microphones and have several receivers running in tandem, while others cannot. If sensitive information is going to be transmitted over the mics, you also have the option of selecting a system that offers encoded digital transmission for extra protection.
While professional-quality wireless microphones are quite expensive, there are several affordable options for those who want good sound quality but don’t need high-end features.
Summary
Wireless microphones have become a very popular option in a variety of settings due to their convenience, ease of use, and excellent performance. While expensive wireless mics will deliver a stellar performance, there are several budget options with excellent sound that you can also purchase if funds happen to be limited.
My top pick is the Shure BLX288/PG58, which delivers professional-level sound, combined with plug-and-play convenience and sturdy construction.
My budget pick is the Tonor TW-820. This mic offers great value for money and includes two great-sounding mics with a large operating range and plenty of options.
