How to Turn Your Phone into a Dedicated Microphone on Windows 10/11
Turning your smartphone into a dedicated microphone for your Windows 10 or 11 PC is a practical solution, especially when you don’t have a standalone microphone or if your laptop’s built-in mic isn’t providing the quality you need. In this guide, we’ll explore how to use both Android and iPhone devices as microphones for your Windows computer, providing clear steps and visual aids to help you set up quickly.
1. Why Use Your Phone as a Microphone for Windows?
Using your smartphone as a microphone for your PC comes with several advantages:
- Improved Audio Quality: Smartphones often have superior microphones compared to many built-in laptop mics.
- Cost-Effective Solution: Save money by using a device you already own instead of purchasing an external microphone.
- Portability: Your smartphone is portable and easy to position for optimal sound quality.
- Versatility: Works well for video calls, voice recordings, gaming, and streaming without needing extra equipment.
Understanding these benefits helps you decide when and why to use your phone as a dedicated mic.
2. Setting Up Your Phone as a Microphone Using WO Mic
WO Mic is a popular app that allows you to use your smartphone as a microphone for your Windows PC. It supports connections via USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Download and Install WO Mic on Your Phone:
- For Android: Download WO Mic from the Google Play Store.
- For iPhone: Download WO Mic from the Apple App Store.
- Install WO Mic Client and Driver on Your PC:
- Visit the WO Mic website and download the WO Mic Client and WO Mic device driver for Windows.
- Install both the client and the driver on your PC.
- Open WO Mic App on Your Phone:
- Launch the WO Mic app and select the connection type (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or USB).
- Configure WO Mic Client on Your PC:
- Open WO Mic Client on your Windows computer.
- Go to “Connection” > “Connect” and choose the same connection type as selected on your phone.
- Establish the Connection:
- Wi-Fi: Enter the IP address shown on your phone in the WO Mic Client on your PC.
- Bluetooth: Pair your phone with your PC via Bluetooth settings.
- USB: Connect your phone to your PC using a USB cable and enable USB debugging (for Android).
- Click ‘OK’ to Connect:
- Once the settings are configured, click “OK” to connect. Your phone should now be recognized as a microphone by your PC.
- Test the Microphone:
- Open the Sound settings on your Windows PC to ensure your phone is set as the default input device.
3. Using DroidCam for Android Devices
DroidCam is another versatile app that not only allows you to use your Android phone as a microphone but also as a webcam.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Download and Install DroidCam on Your Android Phone:
- Download DroidCam from the Google Play Store.
- Install DroidCam Client on Your PC:
- Visit the DroidCam website and download the DroidCam Client for Windows.
- Install the client on your PC.
- Launch DroidCam on Both Devices:
- Open DroidCam on your Android phone and PC.
- Choose Connection Type (Wi-Fi or USB):
- Wi-Fi: Enter the IP address displayed on your phone into the DroidCam Client on your PC.
- USB: Connect your phone to your PC with a USB cable and enable USB debugging.
- Enable ‘Audio’ Option:
- Ensure the “Audio” checkbox is selected in the DroidCam Client to use your phone as a microphone.
- Click ‘Start’:
- Click “Start” to establish the connection and use your phone as a microphone.
- Test the Setup:
- Go to your Windows sound settings to confirm that “DroidCam Virtual Audio” is set as the default input device.
4. Using iPhone as a Microphone with EZ Mic
EZ Mic is an excellent option for iPhone users to turn their device into a microphone for a Windows PC.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Download EZ Mic on Your iPhone:
- Install EZ Mic from the Apple App Store.
- Install EZ Mic Client on Your PC:
- Download the EZ Mic Client from the EZ Mic website and install it on your PC.
- Launch EZ Mic on Both Devices:
- Open the EZ Mic app on your iPhone and the client on your PC.
- Select Your iPhone in the PC Client:
- Your PC will automatically detect the iPhone. Click on your iPhone’s name in the EZ Mic Client.
- Confirm the Connection:
- Ensure the connection is established, and your iPhone is now functioning as a microphone.
- Set EZ Mic as the Default Input Device:
- Open the Sound settings on your PC and set EZ Mic as the default input device.
5. Best Practices for Using Your Phone as a Microphone
To ensure the best audio quality and functionality when using your phone as a microphone, follow these best practices:
- Use a Stable Connection: Prefer USB or Wi-Fi connections for stability and better sound quality.
- Position Your Phone Properly: Place your phone at an appropriate distance and angle to capture clear audio without distortion.
- Reduce Background Noise: Choose a quiet environment to minimize background noise.
- Test Audio Levels: Adjust audio levels in your Windows sound settings to avoid clipping or low volume issues.
Conclusion
Using your smartphone as a dedicated microphone for your Windows 10 or 11 PC is a cost-effective and practical solution, especially when you don’t have access to a standalone microphone. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily set up your phone as a microphone using apps like WO Mic, DroidCam, or EZ Mic.
With these methods, you can enjoy improved audio quality for your calls, recordings, gaming sessions, and more. Always remember to follow best practices for optimal sound quality and reliability. If you need further assistance or want to explore more advanced features, consider consulting the official support resources of the apps mentioned.