The Best Voice Recorders
Whether you’re a podcaster, a journalist, a skit-making spitballer, or someone who just loves the sound of your own voice, a voice recorder can serve as an invaluable tool. And while you may think your phone's built-in mic can handle all of your recording needs, that assumption would be just as wise as thinking that the internet can double as your doctor. For those serious about capturing high-fidelity recordings in the field, rehearsal room, or anywhere else, we've done our research, checked it twice, and vetted the market for the best options out there today.
Evistr Digital Voice Recorder
Sound and fury
In the world of audio recorders, it can be hard to find a model that combines great features with a compact, ergonomic design. But that’s exactly what this voice recorder from Evistr does, making it one of the best options for most people. Whether you’re at a work meeting, in a classroom lecture, or even at some larger event, the built-in mic captures sound cleanly and efficiently, with none of the static of similar models in this price range. It’s also easy to operate, thanks to a simple control pad that includes a record, stop, play, and menu access button. Best of all, it manages to combine all of these features into a surprisingly sleek form factor that slips smoothly into a bag, purse, or even pocket.
Pros:
- Very intuitive user interface
- Supports WAV and MP3
- Has voice activation function
Cons:
- File management system could be improved
Aomago 8GB Audio Recorder
At your command
One of the most frustrating things about voice recording involves having to wade through minutes (and sometimes hours) of silent pauses after you’ve captured an important lecture or speech. Luckily, Aomago’s digital audio recorder solves that issue by incorporating a voice activation function that captures sound only when someone is speaking. And while many models on the market today boast that feature, this one works more consistently and reliably than most, ensuring you don’t miss any important information. On top of that, it also has a nifty A-B feature that allows you to set a start and end point while reviewing a recording, so you don’t have to slog through the whole thing.
Pros:
- Compact, ergonomic size
- Also works as an MP3 player
- 12-hour battery rating
Cons:
- Controls are more limited than similar models
TileRec Voice Activated Recorder
Premium sound in your pocket
Most of the recorders we reviewed for this list can be described as “compact,” but nothing comes close to the sheer itty-bittiness of this TileRec offering. It’s billed as the “world’s thinnest voice activated recorder,” and just by looking at the thing, we’re inclined to believe it. At 2.48 square inches, and weighing just half an ounce, it’s roughly the size of a piece of chocolate bar, so you can stick it in a bag, purse, or even in that small change pocket on your favorite pair of jeans without realizing it’s even there. But don’t let its size fool you: this pint-sized piece of tech captures sound just as well as its bigger competitors, with 145 hours of recording capacity and even a voice activation function.
Pros:
- 24 hours of battery life
- LED light indicates device is recording
- Works with most operating systems
Cons:
- Physical controls are limited
Sony ICDUX560
In tandem
As far as out-of-the-box sound quality goes, Sony does not lead the pack here; however, utilize its software and find a treasure trove of features to aid you in your sound-editing attempts. The software’s most useful feature is its transcription capability, which saves you the trouble of having to manually do it yourself. Also, its DPC (Digital Pitch Control) feature allows you to tweak the speed and pitch of the recording. And all of this is not to say that the hardware on this thing is a slouch; no, its variety of recording settings, its crisp mics, and its tiny footprint make this one a force to be reckoned with as well.
Pros:
- Handsome design with matte finish
- Extremely lightweight
- Ultra-portable build
Cons:
- Built-in speakers’ output is lacking
Zoom H6
Zoom in on your sound
If you’re a musician, an audio engineer, or simply an audiophile with uncompromising quality standards, have a look at the Zoom H6, which is billed as the “most advanced portable recorder ever.” Included with the mic are two capsules, each with different microphones, which can be interchangeably used to suit the context you’re recording in. The XYH-6 capsule has two diaphragm mics facing in opposite directions to allow for an X/Y recording pattern, while the MSH-6 capsule contains a front-facing unidirectional mic with an auxiliary side mic. Put the mic’s versatility aside and gaze at its specs and you’ll see the writing on the wall: this mic can do it all, and reliably, to boot.
Pros:
- Slow playback mode is great for practicing musicians
- Can double as a USB mic for your computer
- Great value despite the high price
Cons:
- Sensitivity makes it prone to distortion
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need to buy a voice recorder when I can download an app on my phone to do the same thing?
Sure, you can use an app, but if you’re in any way serious about the recordings you’re making, it’s best not to rely on it for a few reasons. First, your phone’s built-in microphone is by no means a high-fidelity one, so don’t expect the recordings to sound crisp or clear (especially not if you’re recording music). Second, recording apps utilize software written by who knows who, and can crash or accidentally delete files at any time, so they’re not as reliable as a higher-tech voice recorder. And finally, apps usually don’t tout the same extensive litany of features that the devices on our list do, some of which are unnecessary, but many of which are incredibly useful.
Why do voice recorders have so many built-in microphones?
By jamming multiple microphones into a single unit, a modern voice recorder is capable of emulating a tiny little recording studio in a handheld device – think stereo or surround sound. Each multidirectional mic provides an input source that captures the sound slightly differently, and by noodling with the unit’s settings, you can select direct polar patterns. This affects the recording’s outcome. For example, if you’re recording two folks having a conversation, each mic will pick up a slightly different signal depending on where each speaker is sitting, where each mic is pointing, and which polar input pattern you’re using. Different patterns are better for different situations, and having the choice between many of them allows you to tailor the recorder’s settings to your needs.
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.