Best (Affordable) Microphones for Vet AI Scribes
Built-in Works Fine — But Here’s How to Upgrade
Your computer, tablet, or mobile phone’s built-in microphone usually works just fine for PawfectNotes AI Scribe. But if you want to up your game, especially when you or your clients are speaking farther away from the device, an area (conference) microphone or a simple clip-on lav can make audio clearer and boost transcription accuracy.
🎤 Recommended Budget-Friendly Mics
1. TONOR G11 / TM20 USB Conference Mics (~$29–$33)
Omnidirectional capture up to 11 ft, perfect for exam rooms where multiple people are speaking. Plug-and-play USB setup, with mute button and LED indicator. Great for group conversations.
2. BOYA BY-M1 Lavalier Mic (~$15)
The internet’s favorite budget lavalier. Clips on, omnidirectional pickup, long 20 ft cable. Ideal for vets who want the mic close for crisp speech—even when moving around. Requires 3.5mm jack or adapter.
3. Amazon Basics USB Condenser (~$26)
Simple desktop USB mic with cardioid pickup—great if you sit at a workstation and speak toward the screen. Affordable, reliable, and easy to use.
📊 Quick Comparison
| Use Case | Best Pick | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Exam room voices, multiple speakers | TONOR G11 / TM20 | Omnidirectional pickup up to ~11 ft |
| Hands-free, sharp voice capture | BOYA BY-M1 Lavalier | Close to mouth, reduces room noise |
| Desktop workstation, seated vet | Amazon Basics USB Condenser | Clear, directional capture at low cost |
🛠 Setup Tips
- Place conference mics centrally on the desk for balanced audio.
- Clip lavalier mics ~6–8 inches from your mouth, and use the foam windscreen.
- Test levels briefly before the first appointment to ensure clarity.
- If your computer doesn’t have a built-in mic, you can buy a USB mic for cheap. See our microphone guide.
🚀 Bottom Line
For most clinics, built-in microphones are enough. But if you want clearer audio or need to capture multiple voices in an exam room, these budget picks can make a real difference:
- 🌐 TONOR G11/TM20: Affordable room coverage.
- 🎤 BOYA BY-M1: Crisp hands-free speech.
- 💻 Amazon Basics USB: Cheap, desktop reliability.