It's challenging to create quality video and audio with a basic computer -- which isn't surprising once you look at the built-in cameras and mic specs on most laptops.
If you need to ramp up your video efforts and increase the quality, all while working from home during the COVID-19 outbreak[1], whether it's because you create YouTube videos for a living or do a lot of video conferencing, you should consider getting additional hardware.
Here are several budget-friendly options to help enhance your filming experience, from recording on your phone to using an external webcam or improving the lighting in your home studio.
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Best lavalier mic for iOS and Android devices[2]
This omnidirectional lavalier model works well with both iOS and Android smartphones. Because it's omnidirectional, clipping the mic on the subject's shirt collar will allow the sound to be picked up in any direction. Rode made this portable, convenient mic so that it'd be an ideal fit for individuals recording interviews at conferences or filming videos of their own. Simply plug the mic into the correct adapter (if necessary) for your mobile device, launch the Rode Rec application, and you're ready to go.
$67 at Amazon [3]Another great lavalier mic for iOS and Android devices[4]
Here's another omnidirectional lavalier mic, but this particular device has two ports available, allowing you to plug in a pair of headphones to monitor the subject's levels, or to conduct a two-person interview. The five-foot cable allows you to have enough distance between you and your interviewee so you can stand