5 best personal voice recorders

Personal voice recorders, also known as digital voice recorders, are portable electronic devices designed for capturing and storing audio recordings. These devices have a wide range of applications, from recording meetings, lectures, and interviews to capturing personal notes and ideas. Here are some key features and aspects related to personal voice recorders:

  1. Audio Quality: Personal voice recorders vary in audio quality, with some offering high-definition recording capabilities. The audio quality is often measured in bit depth and sample rate, with higher values generally indicating better sound quality.

  2. Storage Capacity: These devices come with various storage capacities, often measured in gigabytes (GB). The storage capacity determines how much audio content you can record and store on the device.

  3. Battery Life: Battery life is crucial, especially if you need to use the recorder for extended periods. Most personal voice recorders have rechargeable batteries that can last for several hours on a single charge.

  4. Built-in Microphones: Many voice recorders come with built-in microphones that vary in quality.Some models have multiple microphones for stereo or surround sound recording, while others may have noise-canceling features.

  5. External Microphone Support: Some recorders allow you to connect external microphones for improved audio quality or specific recording needs, such as lavalier microphones for interviews.

  6. File Formats: Voice recorders typically save audio recordings in various file formats, such as WAV, MP3, or WMA. The choice of format affects both audio quality and file size.

  7. Playback Features: Most personal voice recorders allow you to listen to your recordings directly on the device. Some may also include features like fast-forward, rewind, and adjustable playback speed.

  8. USB Connectivity: These devices often have USB ports for transferring recordings to a computer for storage or editing. Some models may also support wireless connectivity options like Bluetooth.

  9. Accessories: Accessories like protective cases, headphones, and USB cables are commonly available for personal voice recorders to enhance their usability.

  10. User Interface: The user interface and controls can vary significantly between models. Some have simple button layouts, while others feature touchscreen displays for easy navigation.

  11. Recording Modes: Voice recorders may offer different recording modes, such as voice-activated recording (VAR) to save storage space by only recording when sound is detected.

  12. File Organization: Many personal voice recorders allow you to organize your recordings into folders or categories, making it easier to manage and locate specific files.

  13. Transcription Features: Some advanced models may have transcription features that can automatically convert spoken words into text, although the accuracy of this feature can vary.

  14. Security: Some voice recorders offer password protection or encryption to keep your recorded content secure.

  15. Size and Portability: These devices are designed to be portable and come in various sizes and shapes to suit different needs.

Personal voice recorders are versatile tools with a wide range of applications, from business and education to personal use. When choosing a recorder, consider your specific recording needs, audio quality requirements, and the features that will best serve your purposes.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best personal voice recorders on the market
  

Sony ICD-PX370 Mono Digital Voice Recorder with Built-In USB Voice Recorder,black

Sony

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Easily record meetings, lectures and more in high-quality audio with this digital voice recorder featuring up to 57 hours of battery life and a built-in, direct USB connection for easy file transfer. Enjoy 4GB of built-in memory, Plus auto voice recording that reduces background noise so you can always hear what's being said.

  • Record MP3 Audio quickly and easily
  • Up to 57 hours of battery life for extended recording (MP3 128Kbps stereo)
  • Built in, direct USB Connection for quick file transfer to your PC
  • In the box: IC Recorder, size AAA alkaline batteries , Operating Instructions, Warranty card

User questions & answers

Question: I can use with ear buds
Answer: Yes. Good sound quality with earbuds.
Question: does it have a memory card slot as it doesn't mention it in the description
Answer: It does 'mention' the card sizes in the description: " Expand your memory with the micro SD card slot The ICD-PX470 comes with 4 GB of memory built-in, which gives you a max recording time up to 59h 35m when recording in stereo at MP3 128 kbps. You can expand your memory capacity with a micro SD card for up to 32 GB of additional memory—equivalent to over 536 hours (Micro SD 32 GB, MP3 128 kbps) of recording time. "
Question: Do the recordings delete when the batteries die
Answer: I think what happens is that the recording is still resident but just ends with the *beep beep* of the battery dying. I've not paid attention lately to it, though.
Question: Does this unit have a lighted display
Answer: Hi Matthew, yes, this recorder has a lighted display which can be turned off and on. You may refer to this link for the recorder's manual: https://docs.sony.com/release//Help_4595548311.pdf Thanks, -Mark

Product features

Record MP3 audio quickly and simply

Record in MP3 audio quickly and easily. MP3 files are compressed but require less memory, making them better for recording long lectures or meetings.

Long battery life enables up to 57hrs recording (MP3 128kbps stereo)

Record up to 57 hrs of audio (MP3 128 kbps) with exceptional battery life that makes it possible to record for long periods of time.

Built-in USB connector lets you plug in to your PC.

Transferring files to or from your computer is fast and convenient. Just plug the ICD-PX370 straight into a free USB port for an immediate connection—no USB cable needed.

Auto Voice Rec reduces ambient noise for clearer recordings

Want to record someone talking? Turn on Auto Voice Recording and the ICD-PX370 will optimize audio capture settings for vocal frequencies. The result is a purer recording with reduced background noise. And when you listen back to the recording, Clear Voice technology cleans up the signal even more for improved clarity.

The 4GB memory stores up to 59hrs35m of recording (MP3 128kbps stereo)

The 4GB2 memory stores up to 59hrs35m of recording (MP3 128kbps stereo).

Scene Select lets you optimize settings for music, meetings, and more

Choose from four 'scene' pre-sets (music, meeting, interview, dictation) to optimize the audio settings.

Expand your memory with the micro SD card slot

The ICD-PX370 comes with 4 GB of memory built-in, which gives you a max recording time of 59hrs 35m when recording in stereo at MP3 128 kbps. You can expand your memory capacity with a micro SD card for up to 32 GB2 of additional memory —equivalent to over 536 hours (Micro SD 32 GB, MP3 128 kbps) of recording time.

Sony ICD-UX570 Digital Voice Recorder, ICDUX570BLK

Sony

Based on 779 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Record audio precisely with excellent sound quality and three recording modes. Normal, Focus, and Wide-stereo recording modes give you the ability to record the audio that you need to capture, no matter the setting. An even more compact design allows for storage in tight spaces, and the simplified UI makes file retrieval easier than ever.

  • Enhanced sound quality
  • Newly updated slimmer design
  • Built-in stereo microphone and voice operated recording
  • Three recording options: wide/stereo, narrow/focus and normal
  • Quick charge; up to 1-hour recording time, with 3-minute charge

User questions & answers

Question: What size sd card will this unit support
Answer: Hello Lonza, You can use the following memory cards with your IC recorder. microSDHC cards (4 GB to 32 GB) microSDXC cards (64 GB or larger) Due to the specifications of this IC recorder, the file size that you can store on the microSD card for playback is limited as follows: LPCM files: less than 4 GB per file MP3/WMA/AAC-LC files: less than 1 GB per file Note Successful operations with all types of supported microSD cards are not guaranteed. Thanks! - Romeo
Question: If you are listening to a recording, pause it, and turn off the device, when you turn it back on, does it return to where you left off
Answer: Hi shoeholic, Thanks for your inquiry. No, Turning off the recorder will cancel the recording even if you press pause. Hope this helps! -Sam
Question: Tiene altavoz? ¿En pesos mexicanos cuanto me cuesta
Answer: Yes, it has a small speaker; also a headphone jack.
Question: how difficult is it to replace the rechargeable lithium battery, if needed? is this possible to do so without sending the unit in for service
Answer: Hi there, Thanks for your inquiry. This unit has a built-in battery. You will have to send it for service for the battery to be replaced by qualified personnel. -Sam

Product features

ICD-UX570 Digital Voice Recorder

Record audio precisely with excellent sound quality and three recording modes. Normal, Focus, and Wide-stereo recording modes give you the ability to record the audio that you need to capture, no matter the setting.

Enhanced sound quality

The UX570 Digital Voice Recorder features improved sound quality over previous versions, making everything you record more flexible and clearly distinguishable.

Three different audio recording functions

Normal, focus recording, and Wide stereo recording allows you to record sound naturally.

New slimmer, more compact design

Easy to put it into small spaces to take anywhere, such as small pockets or handbags.

Built-in stereo microphone

Voice operated recording makes it simple to start and stop recording at any time.

27 Hour Battery

The built-in rechargeable battery can last up to 27 hours.

USB Direct Connection

Built-in USB allows for direct connection charging to your laptop or other devices with USB ports.

Quick Charge

Get up to 1 hour of recording time with just 3 minutes on the charger.

MicroSD memory card slot, headphone jack & mic input

The inclusion of a MicroSD card slot allows for expandable storage in addition to the 4 GB of included memory, while the inclusion of a headphone jack enables you to easily listen to your recording, and the mic input provides an easy connection for an external microphone.

Digital Pitch Control

Playback speed control allows you to control the rate of speed during file playback.

4GB built-in memory.

Record for up to 159 hours with 4GB of internal memory storage.

Linear PCM & MP3 recording and playback

Up to 5 hours & 20 minutes of high quality Linear PCM recording or up to 159 hours of MP3 recording.

Simplified user-interface and recording level indicator

A simplified UI makes it easier than ever to navigate through and search for different recordings by date and time. The recording level meter makes it easy to know the exact level of volume the left and right channel are recording.

Sony ICD-BX140 4GB Digital Voice Recorder

Sony

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Easy to use, the iced-bx140 delivers. Combining simplicity and capability the iced-bx140 offers: extra-long recording time, add and overwrite functions for corrections and additions to your recordings, and digital pitch control for powerful playback and recording capability in the palm of your hand. Input Output Terminals: Headphone Jack, Microphone In

  • Built-in 4 GB flash memory. Automatic record level settings
  • Up to 4,175 Hours of maximum recording time. Low Cut Filter for reduced wind effect
  • Mono microphone for 75 Hz–15 kHz audio response
  • Features built in monaural microphone. Battery life for recording mp3 128 kbps is 28 hours. Battery life for recording mp3 192 kbps is 26 hours
  • Voice Activated Recording for hands-free recording. Noise Cut mode helps provide clear speech playback
  • In the box: IC Recorder, LR03 (size AAA) alkaline batteries , Quick Start Guide

User questions & answers

Question: Does this recorder have a jack for external input
Answer: can I play this recorder without batteries I accidentally inserted the wrong size batteries and my recorder will not power up.
Question: This recorder use batteries
Answer: Yes it does. When you purchase it, it comes with two AAA batteries included.
Question: What is the difference between this model and the ICD PX333 Digital Voice Recorder
Answer: Built-in 4GB flash memory, up to 1,073 hours of maximum recording time, easy-to-use file transfer capability to PC/Mac®, memory card expansion slot, Scene Select, Intelligent Noise Cut for noise-free recordings
Question: I thought I asked whether this came with a way to hook up to computer, it does not, only has places for external microphone and headphones
Answer: See the following website by Sony - "Transfer Recording from an Integrated Chip (IC) Recorder with No USB Port to Your Computer" - https://www.sony.com/electronics/support/articles/00008643 - Connect one end of the mini plug cable to the Headphone jack Headphone_jack1on your IC recorder and then Connect the other end of the cable into the Microphone jack on your computer.

Product features

HVXC/MP3 Recording

Record clear audio in versatile HVXC/MP3 format. Voice Operated Recording Noise Cut, play back through a built-in 300mW speaker.

Up to 45 hours battery life

Maximum battery life of 45 hours (MP3 8kbps) or 30 hours (HVXC 2kbps) Powered by 2x AAA batteries (included).

4GB Internal memory

4GB of memory lets you store up to 1043hrs (MP3 8kbps).

Philips Speech VoiceTracer DVT2110 Audio Recorder with Dragon Speech Recognition Software DVT2805 (DVT2810 Bundle)

PHILIPS

Based on 329 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Turn your recordings into text quickly, easily and accurately. Record documents and notes on the move in high quality. Back at your desk, simply connect the recorder to your computer, transfer your files and Let the included software automatically turn your speech into text. The two high-fidelity stereo microphones are designed to deliver clear voice recordings and reduce background noise, even in noisy environments. High-quality recording is essential for clear playback and accurate speech recognition results. The high-capacity li-ion polymer battery can be easily charged through a standard micro USB jack. This guarantees extended battery life for extra-long recording up to 50 hours, ensuring that your recorder will always be ready to work when you are. Voice-activated recording is a convenient feature for hands-free recording. When enabled, recording will start automatically when you begin speaking. Recording pauses when you stop and resumes automatically when you begin speaking again. Capture your recordings in stereo PCM or MP3 format. The popular MP3 file format allows you to play back your files virtually anywhere and simply share them with others. The large color display offers sharp images, making it easier to see and read everything at first glance. The clear user interface supports seven languages and is optimized for easy, intuitive operation. One of the main advantages of using an audio recorder instead of a smartphone for capturing audio, is that you can record for even extended periods of time without being interrupted by any incoming text messages or calls. It also means your smartphone is not blocked during this time and you can use it simultaneously. With the 8 GB of built-in memory, your recorder is able to capture multiple days of continuous recording. The Philips voicetracer comes with preinstalled scenes which automatically adjust the recorder audio settings depending on what you want to record, whether it is notes, audio for speech recognition, interviews, lecutres, music or meetings. Put an end to tedious typing and create text documents directly from recorded audio files. The speech recognition software automatically converts your recordings into a text file. Using the speech recognition software is at least three times quicker than typing Up the document yourself. Simply record your documents and notes, connect the recorder to the computer, click the ‘transcribe’ button and the software does the typing for you. The speech recognition software provides an astounding accuracy rate of up to 99 %. It also never misspells a word, so typos are a thing of the past. The smart algorithm learns from corrections you make To the transcribed text. This means the more you use the software, The more accurate your results become. The software also memorizes patterns, and commonly grouped words when you speak, to product which words are most likely to occur. This acts as an extra boost to your speech recognition accuracy.

  • 2 high-fidelity microphones
  • Stereo recording in MP3 and Pcm format
  • 8 GB Built-in memory and memory card slot
  • Recognition software for automatic transcription
  • Up to 99% recognition accuracy
  • DVT2810 bundle includes DVT2110 audio recorder plus DVT2805 Dragon Speech Recognition software

User questions & answers

Question: I bought the dvt2810 3 times & each time received a dvt2110 in a sealed dvt2810 box; has this problem been resolved yet? i'd like to get a real
Answer: I haven't used this on carpet to carpet.
Question: Does the recorder have different folders you save things to where you can go back and forth between them? for example can i have a to do list and ano
Answer: I don't know what the glue is made of. It didn't discolor my laminate floor.
Question: Do you have to pay extra for the dragon software? or does it come with a registeration key? do you have to pay to renew the dragon software? thanks
Answer: I would expect it to work as long as the tile was cleaned with isopropyl alcohol and dry when patch is applied.
Question: How do you use the dragon software? Do you have to download it on your computer first
Answer: Don’t see a hook or loop it is flat sticky on both sides I put it on my rug and floor it still moved and when I took it up it didn’t stick to the rug and when I pulled it up from floor it took the finish off the tile I have Mexican tile... I don’t like this product.

Product features

Philips VoiceTracer Audio Recorder

Turn your recordings into text quickly, easily and accurately. Record documents and notes on the move in high quality. Back at your desk, simply connect the recorder to your computer, transfer your files and let the included software automatically turn your speech into text.

Two high-fidelity microphones

The two high-fidelity stereo microphones are designed to deliver clear voice recordings and reduce background noise, even in noisy environments. High-quality recording is essential for clear playback and accurate speech recognition results.

Speech recognition software

Put an end to tedious typing and create text documents directly from recorded audio files. The speech recognition software automatically converts your recordings into a text file.

Large high-res color display

The large color display offers sharp images, making it easier to see and read everything at first glance. The clear user interface supports seven languages and is optimized for easy, intuitive operation.

Voice-activated recording

Voice-activated recording is a convenient feature for hands-free recording. When enabled, recording will start automatically when you begin speaking. Recording pauses when you stop and resumes automatically when you begin speaking again.

Tascam DR-05X Stereo Handheld Digital Recorder and USB Audio Interface, DR-05X (DR-05X)

Tascam

Based on 957 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The dr-05x is the new standard in stereo hand held recorders with its high value, powerful features, simple interface and excellent sound quality, It is first choice for recording meetings, music, audio-for-video, dictation, and more.Nominal Input Level : -20dBV

  • Ensure you buy genuine Tascam products! Products from sellers which say ‘fulfilled by ’ under the price might not be an Authorized Tascam reseller, and might not be selling genuine Tascam products which would forfeit any manufacturer warranties
  • The dual internal condenser microphones can handle anything from subtle to loud, with sensitivity to capture every detail
  • A revamped layout means operations like recording, adjusting levels, deleting bad takes and adding Markers are quick and easy
  • Uses only two AA batteries, but can record for an outstanding 17. 5 hours; It can also be powered by a USB mobile battery
  • Connect to a PC using USB Audio Interface Mode for voiceover work, live streaming, podcasting and songwriting with studio-quality audio

User questions & answers

Question: Anyone use this for recording bird songs
Answer: I have recorded tree frogs and crickets. Works very well recording outdoors. Confident it would work exceedingly well with birds.
Question: What are the differences between dr-05x, dr-05x model 2019 and dr-05 version 2? i enjoy playing my sax and recording myself over playalong cd's
Answer: There's no difference between the DR-05X and 2019 model as the 05X was only introduced in 2019. Version 2 was an older version. The display on the newer one is brighter and easier to read. This model will accept more SD card styles and a larger sd card size.
Question: Is this at all water or weather resistant? I'd like to make some recordings outside
Answer: No, need protection against the elements.
Question: Do you notice any RF interference when an electrical device is near, like a cellphonne or streaming device? The previous versions have that problem
Answer: I haven't noticed that

Product features

Tascam DR-05X

The DR-05X is the standard in stereo hand held recorders with its high value, powerful features, simple interface and excellent sound quality, It is the first choice for recording meetings, music, audio-for-video, dictation, and more.

Recording Media: microSD card (64MB to 3GB), microSDHC card (4GB to 32GB), microSDXC card (up to 128GB)

Record clean and clear audio anywhere

DR-05X allows high-quality recording utilizing an easy-to-use interface, and is portable and powerful but with a size and cost that anyone can handle. Dual internal condenser microphones can handle anything from subtle to loud to 125dB SPL, with sensitivity to capture every detail.

Simple to operate.

The layout of the DR-05X has been revamped to be quick and easy to work with one thumb. Operations like recording, adjusting levels, deleting bad takes and adding markers are just a button press away.

Turning your room into a studio – in a minute.

Connect to a PC using USB Audio interface mode, and DR-X becomes a tool for voiceover work, live streaming, podcasting and songwriting with studio-quality audio. Built-in microphones work as USB microphones without complicated driver installs.

Upgrade your movie

Auto tone function provides easy-adjustments for on-site movie editing, ideal for DSLR filmmaking. The internal slate tone generator produces various tones for easy track making and recognition. Please use the dedicated accessory kit (AK-DR11C) for connecting.

Back up your transcription work: record and play with one unit

Writing down what you hear – easier said than done, but it is actually easy with DR-X. In addition to its capability to capture crisp voice recording, DR-X can help you with its Jump back function, variable Speed function and equalizer preset for human voice.

Choose your language

Menu display of DR-05X supports 10 languages: English/ Spanish/ French/ Italian/ German/ Russian/ Chinese/ Korean/ Japanese/ Portuguese.

Extended Battery Life

DR-05X uses only two AA batteries and has ultra-long battery capability. When using built-in microphones, recording lasts 17.5 hours when recording with standard 2ch WAV, 44.1kHz/ 16bit format using alkaline batteries.

Also DR-05X can be powered by a USB mobile battery as well for super long extended use.

Never Miss the Timing

Auto recording function can detect the sound input signal level and automatically start recording. Also, Pre-recording function with up to 2 seconds pre-record provides fail-safe protection even when you are a bit late to hit the record button.

Nondestructive Overdubbing

The overdubbing function allows for Overdub Recording while playing a previously recorded file. This allows you to record other parts such as a guitar solo over a recording previously made such as at a rehearsal studio. Overdubbing creates a separate file, leaving the original file unaffected, making it easy to re-record.

192 Hours

192 Hours. This is how long you can record CD-quality sound with one single microSDXC card. DR-05X supports a microSDXC card, which can record longer with larger data capacity. If you record a stereo file at 44.1kHz/ 16bit CD quality, a128GB card holds 192 hours maximum. In MP3/ 320kbps mode, it can record up to 896 hours.

Latest Reviews

View all