In this article, I’m going to recommend the ten best wireless microphones in 2023. Even though microphones are fairly straightforward audio equipment, each model has its pros and cons, which could determine your experience.
Let’s go straight to our recommendations.
Table of Contents - Best Wireless Microphone - Shure GLXD24R/SM58 - Audio Technica System 10 ATW-1102 - Sennheiser EW 500 G4-935 - Shure BLX288/PG58 - Line 6 XD V75 - Rode RODELink Performer Kit - AKG DMS100 - Electro-Voice RE3-ND96 - Sony ECMAW4 - Shure PGXD24/SM58-X8 - Price Comparison - Buyer's Guide - What is a Wireless Microphone? - Wired VS Wireless Microphone - What’s important to know when buying a microphone?
Best Wireless Microphone
These are the ten best wireless microphones you can get in 2023.
Shure GLXD24R/SM58
The Shure GLXD24R/SM58 offers the legendary sound from SM58 with top-notch digital transmission. It’s a part of Shure’s more complex GLX-D ecosystem, where the company gets serious with its wireless product line.
As one of the most iconic live microphones, the SM58 will deliver one of the best sound qualities you can get at this price range.
This kit can work flawlessly up to 30 meters with a battery life rated for 16 hours active time.
While its ABS housing is not the top-of-the-line, it will hold up just fine with appropriate handling.
The mic’s overall understated look adds a more sophisticated appearance, making it suitable for most occasions.
Key Specifications
| Wireless Transmission | Digital 2.4 GHz |
| Max Operating Range | 200′ / 61 m (Line of Sight) |
| Latency | 4 to 7.3 ms |
| Receiver Audio I/O | 1 x XLR 3-Pin Male Balanced Output 1 x 1/4″ TRS Female Balanced/Unbalanced Output |
| Receiver Audio Output Level | XLR Output: +18 dBV (Line Level) XLR Output: -12 dBV (Mic Level) 1/4″ Output: +12 dBV |
| Receiver Impedance | XLR Output: 100 Ohms (Balanced) 1/4″ Output: 100 Ohms (Balanced) 50 Ohms (Unbalanced) |
| Microphone Frequency Range | 50 Hz to 15 kHz |
| Microphone Maximum SPL | 146 dB SPL |
| Microphone Sensitivity | -54.5 dBV/Pa |
| Transmitter USB/Lightning Connectivity | 1 x Micro-USB (Charging) |
| Transmitter Approx. Battery Life | 16 Hours (Lithium Rechargeable) |
Audio Technica System 10 ATW-1102
The next top wireless mic choice comes from Audio-Technica with its System 10 ATW-1102.
This kit offers a reliable high digital fidelity that provides a 24bit/48KHz sound frequency.
Despite its advanced features, the System 10 ATW-1102 is surprisingly intuitive to use. It has an instantaneous channel selection feature that allows you to configure the sound output easily.
The Audio-Technica System 10 ATW-1102 is available as a complete system at an affordable price.
If you’re looking to get everything from one box, this one might be the right choice for you.
Key Specifications
| Wireless Transmission | Digital 2.4 GHz |
| Max Operating Range | 100′ / 30.5 m (Line of Sight) |
| Receiver Audio I/O | 1 x XLR 3-Pin Male Balanced Output (Lockable) 1 x 1/4″ TS Female Unbalanced Output |
| Receiver Audio Output Level | XLR Output: 0 dBV (Balanced) 1/4″ Output: +6 dBV (Unbalanced) |
| Microphone Frequency Range | 20 Hz to 20 kHz |
| Transmitter Battery Type | 2 x AA (Not Included) |
| Transmitter Approx. Battery Life | 7 Hours (Alkaline) |
Sennheiser EW 500 G4-935
The Sennheiser EW 500 is probably one of the more high-end selections from our list, but it’s definitely worth the premium price tag.
The kit has a top-notch build that you can feel from just touching it.
Coming from one of the most trusted and highly-regarded audio brands, you can expect excellent sound quality from the EW 500 G4-935. It supports up to 88MHz bandwidth with about 3,520 different frequencies to choose from.
This kit comes with SKM 500 G4 handheld mic with MMD 935-1 capsule, which you can swap with any other Sennheiser’s G4 line product.
You’ll also get the EM 300-500 G4 rack-mountable receiver with a gorgeous OLED display for a better user interface.
Key Specifications
| Wireless Transmission | Analog UHF |
| Max Operating Range | 330′ / 100.6 m (Line of Sight) |
| Receiver Audio I/O | 1 x XLR 3-Pin Male Balanced Output 1 x 1/4″ TRS Female Unbalanced Output |
| Receiver Audio Output Level | XLR Output: +18 dBu (Balanced) 1/4″ Output: +12 dBu (Unbalanced) |
| Microphone Maximum SPL | 154 dB SPL |
| Microphone Sensitivity | 2.8 mV/Pa at 1 Hz |
| Transmitter Battery Type | 2 x AA (Included) 1 x Sennheiser Accupack (Not Included, Replaceable) |
| Transmitter Approx. Battery Life | 8 Hours (Alkaline) |
Shure BLX288/PG58
The Shure BLX288/PG58 offers a package of two mics and a receiver with a UHF analog transmission. Since everything comes in a bundle, the receiver can handle two microphones simultaneously without any issue.
Even though this kit operates on the UHF range, the setup process is surprisingly effortless.
The receiver has an active auto-scan that could detect the best channel the best reception.
But since the BLX288/PG58 is a bundle of two microphones, it costs relatively more than single-mic bundles.
The dual-mic setup makes this product an excellent choice for a small music band or ensemble group.
If you don’t see yourself using the dual mic setup, you can get your hands on the BLX24/PG58 bundle, which costs a little more than half of the BLX288/PG58.
Key Specifications
| Wireless Transmission | Analog UHF |
| Max Operating Range | 300′ / 91.4 m (Line of Sight) |
| Receiver Audio I/O | 2 x XLR 3-Pin Male Balanced Output 2 x 1/4″ TS Female Unbalanced Output |
| Receiver Audio Output Level | XLR Outputs: -27 dBV (Mic Level) 1/4″ Outputs: -13 dBV (Instrument Level) |
| Receiver Impedance | XLR Outputs: 200 Ohms 1/4″ Outputs: 50 Ohms |
| Microphone Frequency Range | 50 Hz to 16 kHz |
| Microphone Sensitivity | -55 dBV/Pa at 1 kHz |
| Transmitter Battery Type | 2 x AA (Included) |
| Transmitter Approx. Battery Life | 14 Hours (Alkaline) |
Line 6 XD V75
The Line 6 XD V75 is another digital transmission kit with a mic out of the box. But this kit has a unique selling point that can handle up to ten other famous mic models.
This feature is aptly named the ten mic models.
If you’re planning to work with multiple vocalists, chances are they have their mic preferences.
The Line 6 XD V75 solves this problem by offering compatibility with famous mic models like SM58 and AKG D5.
The receiver from this kit has a 300ft range (line of sight) and 14 channel selections. The receiver is also rack-mountable, making for an easy and portable rig.
Key Specifications
| Wireless Transmission | Digital 2.4GHz |
| Max Operating Range | 300 ft. Line-of-sight |
| Receiver Audio Output Level | 1 x XLR, 1 x 1/4″, 1 x USB |
| Microphone Frequency Range | 2.4GHz |
| Transmitter Battery Type | 2 x AA |
| Transmitter Approx. Battery Life | 8 hours |
Rode RODELink Performer Kit
The RODELink Performer Kit bundle comes with TX-M2 condenser mic and RX-DESK receiver, which is quite the steal at the sub $500 price point. The TX-M2 condenser mic has one of the best sound quality in its class, with pristine and transparent audio reproduction.
It has a metal casing, which makes it feel robust to the touch.
Despite the metal casing, the TX-M2 suppresses handling noise excellently with its internal shock mount and super-cardioid pattern.
It also has a reliable 10-hour lithium-ion battery, which you can replace with two AA batteries should it die mid-use.
The RX-DESK receiver runs on an encrypted 2.4GHz signal with two simultaneously running channels, but it automatically prefers the one with the best reception signal.
It also has an impressive range of up to 300ft and a one-touch pairing system. There’s also a tiny digital display with everything you need to know about signal status, peak warnings, and battery life.
Key Specifications
| Wireless Transmission | 2.4 GHz fixed frequency agile system |
| Max Operating Range | Up to 328′ / 100 m |
| Latency | 4 ms (maximum) |
| Receiver Audio Output Level | 1 x XLR 3-pin male (balanced) 1 x 1/4″ TS (unbalanced) |
| Microphone Frequency Range | 35 Hz to 20 kHz |
| Transmitter Battery Type | 2 x AA 1.5 V batteries (available separately) RODE LB-1 4.2 V lithium-ion rechargeable battery USB (5 V) |
| Transmitter Approx. Battery Life | Up to 10 hours (LB-1 lithium-ion rechargeable battery) Up to 6 hours (AA batteries) |
AKG DMS100
The AKG DMS100 is an inexpensive wireless kit that should be everyone’s go-to choice for an easy plug-and-play microphone setup. Its affordable price and effortless setup process make it one of the best options for home karaoke and other non-professional setups.
The kit operates with a 2.4GHz encrypted connection which will work just fine in most environments. Plus, the pairing process is as easy as touching a button.
Although this kit will serve non-professional users just nicely, it’s not expandable beyond four DMS100s microphones at once.
Key Specifications
| Wireless Transmission | Digital 2.4 GHz |
| Max Operating Range | 100′ / 30 m |
| Latency | <=2.9 ms |
| Transmitter Battery Type | 2 x AA Alkaline |
| Transmitter Approx. Battery Life | 12 hours |
Electro-Voice RE3-ND96
The Electro-Voice RE3-ND96 is a $650 digital transmission mic with multiple capsule choices and diverse receiver compatibility that perform well on loud stages.
The company itself focuses on studio and stage sound systems, which is why they have dozens of top-notch kits that cater to professionals.
Electro-Voice’s RE3 product line uses the relatively old-school UHF over 2.4GHz connection because they believe it’s more reliable and scalable.
The bundle comes with a large-diaphragm ND96 capsule that excels on large stages and can handle high gain before resulting in feedback.
But you can also choose from four other capsules if the ND96 is not suitable for you.
Key Specifications
| Wireless Transmission | Digital UHF |
| Receiver Audio I/O | 1 x XLR 3-Pin Male Balanced Line Output 1 x 1/4″ TS Male Unbalanced Line Output |
| Microphone Frequency Range | 30 Hz to 15 kHz |
| Microphone Maximum SPL | 136.5 dB SPL Peak |
| Transmitter Battery Type | 2 x AA (Included, Replaceable) |
Sony ECMAW4
The Sony ECMAW4 is a set of clip-on communication set which consists of a mic and receiver. It’s an ideal option for outdoor use that involves video recording.
Despite its compact size, the ECMAW4 can provide interference-free high-quality communication up to 150 feet away.
If you’re going to record interviews, documentaries, and other vocal-oriented content, the Sony ECMAW4 could be the best choice for you. It’s also great for field teams.
Key Specifications
| Wireless Interface | Bluetooth |
| Max Operating Range | Up to 150′ (46 m) line-of-sight |
| Connectors | Transmitter (Microphone): 1 x 3.5 mm microphone input (supports Plugin Power) 1 x 3.5 mm mono headphone out Receiver: 1 x 3.5 mm microphone input (for talk-back; supports Plugin Power) 1 x 3.5 mm mono headphone/audio out |
| Power Requirements | Transmitter (Microphone): 1 x AAA battery Receiver: 1 x AAA battery Note: Alkaline and Ni-MH rechargeable batteries supported |
Shure PGXD24/SM58-X8
The Shure PGXD24 comes with the industry-leading SM58 microphone, which offers top-notch audio quality.
It features one of the most bleeding-edge 24bit/48KHz receivers with a crystal clear RF signal that can capture signals from up to 270 feet away.
The SM58 handheld microphone is also exceptionally well-tuned for vocals with excellent mid-range frequency.
It also has a built-in pop filter which could prevent intrusive frequencies from getting into the microphone.
Key Specifications
| Wireless Transmission | Digital 900 MHz |
| Max Operating Range | 196.9′ / 60 m (Line of Sight) |
| Receiver Audio I/O | 1 x XLR 3-Pin Male Balanced Output (Lockable) 1 x 1/4″ Female Balanced/Unbalanced Output |
| Receiver Audio Output Level | XLR Output: -2.5 dBV (Mic Level) 1/4″ Output: +10 dBV (Instrument Level) |
| Receiver Impedance | XLR Output: 50 Ohms (Balanced) 1/4″ Output: 50 Ohms (Balanced) |
| Microphone Frequency Range | 50 Hz to 15 kHz |
| Microphone Sensitivity | -54.5 dBV/Pa |
| Transmitter Battery Type | 2 x AA (Included) |
| Transmitter Approx. Battery Life | 9 Hours |
Price Comparison
| Shure GLXD24R/SM58 | Audio Technica System 10 ATW-1102 | Sennheiser EW 500 G4-935 | Shure BLX288/PG58 | Line 6 XD V75 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $599 | $349.95 | $899 | $549 | $549.99 |
| Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
| Rode RODELink Performer Kit | AKG DMS100 | Electro-Voice RE3-ND96 | Sony ECMAW4 | Shure PGXD24/SM58-X8 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $499 | $209.99 | $649 | $198 | $379 |
| Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Buyer’s Guide
If you’re new to the wireless microphone scene, here are some pointers that will get you up to speed and help pick the best kit for you.
What is a Wireless Microphone?
A wired microphone works by converting an audio signal into an electrical signal. The same works with a wireless microphone, except that the sound signal transfer process is done via radio waves – similar to a radio.
There are many ways that a wireless mic can operate – but two of the most popular operating methods are UHF bands and Bluetooth.
Wired VS Wireless Microphone
As with any type of latency-oriented technology, a wired microphone typically delivers better and more reliable sound quality as long as it has a high-quality cable to transfer the signal.
Since the signal moves from one end to the other through a solid medium, there’s no way to interfere with it as long as the cable is intact.
On the other hand, a wireless microphone offers better convenience and mobility since there’s no need to worry about tangled cords or accidental tugs on the audio jack.
However, wireless microphones essentially transfer audio through the air – which could interfere with other magnetic waves.
What’s important to know when buying a microphone?
There are several main factors to consider when buying a microphone. Let’s go over them:
- Use case: singing or speaking?
There are many types of audio pickup patterns on microphones – and each one can perform specific tasks better than the other.
Most models listed here are uni-directional, which means they can only pick up sound directly in front of them. - Wireless or wired?
Wireless systems rely on battery power and non-interrupted signal transmission to work well – but you’ll get to move around more freely as you use them.
Wired systems have better reliability and more negligible risk of interference, but you’ll have lower mobility while using them. - Personal or professional use?
There are several types of microphone kits, some are expandable, and others have more restricting limitations.
If you plan to use it for personal purposes, inexpensive kits with no expandability should be an excellent investment.
But if you are a content creator or plan on growing your system in the future, it’s best to pick expandable models that can handle 10+ microphones at once.
Conclusions
The advancement of wireless technology, especially within the audio industry, has allowed high-quality wireless microphones to be more accessible for more people. Features that were once only available in high-end microphone kits can be found in mid-range bundles.
Despite all the drawbacks that come with wireless microphones, it’s come to a point where they are pretty insignificant compared to the benefits of having no cord attached to your microphone.
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