Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; you can learn more about our review process here. We may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links.
The Rundown
Best Audio Recorder For Macbook
We tested 10 voice recording applications spanning a wide price range and a multitude of audio input sources to single out the best ones. Our overall winner is WavePad.It has a clean and highly intuitive interface that’s approachable for users of any experience level. Easy Hi-Q Recorder is one of the most cost effective software on our list of best audio recording software. This music recording software has several audio-in options, which makes it easy for the users to make variety of audio recordings. To record high-quality audio from Mac, you need a really professional audio recorder for Mac. And Streaming Audio Recorder just belongs to one of them. Aside from recording all sound on your Mac, it has other extra features, for example, convert audio format, edit audio with your own style, burn CD, tune in online radio station and extract.
- Best Overall: Sony ICDUX560BLK at Amazon, “Capable of recording in MP3 format with a highly sensitive s-microphone.”
- Best Value: Zoom H1n Handy Recorder at Amazon, 'Perfect to take on the go, whether you’re recording class lectures or even starting your own podcast.'
- Best Splurge: Sony PCM-A10 at Amazon, “Outstanding features for the price, including adjustable microphones.”
- Runner-Up, Best Overall:Zoom H2n at Amazon, “Auto gain, auto-record and pre-record features work along with theplay' key is the only other button or toggle that is available on the front. All other functions — including volume, menu, fast forward, and rewind — are all hidden on the side.
When it comes to function, its minimal design doesn’t mean it’s short on features. Inside the Sungluber is a welcome 16GB of storage. That’s enough space for up to 16 hours of recordings at 1536Kbps. The 300mAh battery is capable of recording up to 16 hours of audio and if you’re short on battery life, the recorder can also record while charging. The device is voice activated so recording will only begin when someone speaks, this means any silences are omitted in order to reduce the amount of consumed memory.
Best Microphone: Zoom H1
When it comes to the ideal combination of great microphone, size, and design, the Zoom H1 is a favorite choice for our list. Roughly the size of a candy bar, the Zoom H1 is more than meets the eye. Courtesy of the X/Y microphone arrangement, the H1 enables a wide area of voice reception that also minimizes sound, which allows for high-quality sound to come in and record. Powered by a single AA battery, you’re offered around 10 hours of life before recharging.
The included 2GB microSD card is in place of onboard storage and, while expandable, we’d prefer to have at least some onboard memory to start. There is an included SD card so you easily transfer data from the microSD card to a PC or Mac alongside plugging into your computer via the USB 2.0 slot. The tripod mount on the back offers expandability and additional functionality and could be perfect for attaching to the hot shoe on your DSLR or onto a tripod. Mounting the unit on a tripod? It sounds a little strange but it would, in fact, give you additional control over the direction of the microphones and eliminates any additional noise that emanates from hand-held recording.
If you’re looking for even more control over removing external wind noise, you can purchase a windscreen separately to utilize in less-than-ideal windy conditions. Overall, the highlight of the H1 is the microphone and it does not disappoint with good stereo image, high sensitivity and automatic recording levels that sound great for interviews, meetings and the like.
Tested by
How We Tested
We bought three top-rated voice recorders that our reviewers tested for 144 hours. We asked our testers to consider the most important features when using these voice recorders, including their recording quality, portability, and battery life. We’ve outlined the key takeaways here so that you, too, know what to look for when shopping.
What to Look for in a Voice Recorder
Recording quality - What will you be using your voice recorder for? If it’s just for personal memos and notes, you probably don’t need top-tier recording quality. But if you’re using it to do interviews or keep track of conversations in noisy places, then the quality of the recording is very important. For superior quality, you may want to look into a model that has built-in noise reduction.
Connection and battery life - Like any other portable device, battery life is important when it comes to voice recorders — especially if you’ll be using it often during the day. Some of these devices use batteries, while others recharge via USB. Others even have a built-in USB port so you don’t have to carry an extra cord. Think about what’s most convenient for you when it comes to these two factors.
Size - A voice recorder is something you want to be able to tuck into a pocket or purse with ease. Often, there's a tradeoff between size and recording quality (due to the microphone), so you want to make sure you find a device that’s a perfect balance of the two.
Test Results: Sony ICDUX560BLK (Best Overall)
What We Like
-
Small form factor Best gaming mouse for mac os x.
-
4GB internal storage
-
USB data transfer directly from device Best free program for cleaning mac.
What We Don't Like
-
Maximum of 16-bit audio recording
-
No tripod screw mount
-
Basic microphones
“This product is worth buying for students and people that need to transcribe audio,” our tester reported. He particularly liked the “compact and straightforward design, internal storage capacity, and rechargeable lithium-ion battery. In terms of negatives, our reviewer wished for the ability to record 24-bit audio files. However, he concluded, “This fits the needs of people that have a small budget and have specific needs in a digital audio recording device.”
Test Results: Zoom H1n Handy Recorder (2018 Model) (Best Value)
What We Like
-
24-bit/96 kHz WAV format recording
-
Excellent microphones
-
Advanced audio controls
-
USB power capabilities
What We Don't Like
-
Feels flimsy
-
Only 32GB of storage
“The H1n has the capability to record high-quality audio at a great price point,” our tester said of this recorder. Pluses, according to our reviewer, include the microphones—which he called “the star of the show”—the ability to record 24-bit audio, and the “clean and clear” display. The biggest downside, according to our tester, is the plastic build, “which makes the product feel less substantial.” Overall? “The ability to have more control over sound recording and the ability to use external mics through the input jack makes this valuable to content creators,” he said.
Test Results: Sony PCM-A10 (Best Splurge)
Best Streaming Audio Recorder For Mac
What We Like
-
Bluetooth capabilities
-
24-bit/96 kHz WAV format recording
-
Adjustable microphones
-
Beautiful design
Best Audio Recorder For Macbook Air
While this voice recorder is definitely a splurge, “its internal storage, mic design, and Bluetooth capabilities make the expensive price tag worth it,” according to our tester. He went on to say, “The Bluetooth connectivity is a game-changer, allowing you to monitor the audio and control the device wirelessly.” In terms of negatives, our reviewer didn’t like that it’s made of plastic but said that was by no means a deal breaker. “This device is worth buying because it offers new technology in a compact device,” he raved.