INMP441 MEMS I2S Omnidirectional Microphone Module for ESP32
INMP441 MEMS I2S Omnidirectional Microphone Module for ESP32
INMP441 MEMS I2S Omnidirectional Microphone Module for ESP32
Capture clear, wide-field audio with the INMP441 MEMS Omnidirectional Microphone Module. Featuring a high-precision 24-bit digital I2S interface, this ultra-compact module is engineered for makers, hobbyists, and engineers who need reliable, high-fidelity audio capture in IoT projects, voice-recognition systems, and embedded applications — especially those built around the ESP32 platform.
Made in Mainland China.
Why Choose the INMP441 Microphone Module?
The INMP441 integrates a MEMS sensor, signal conditioning, analog-to-digital conversion, anti-aliasing filter, and power management all in one tiny footprint. Its industry-standard I2S interface lets you connect directly to DSPs and microcontrollers — no external audio codec required.
Key Features
- 24-Bit High-Precision I2S Interface — Clean, high-resolution digital audio output
- High Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 61 dBA — Excellent clarity even in ambient environments
- High Sensitivity: -26 dBFS — Picks up audio from multiple directions with ease
- Flat Wideband Frequency Response: 60 Hz – 15 kHz — Natural, true-to-life sound reproduction
- Ultra-Low Power Consumption: 1.4 mA — Ideal for battery-powered and energy-efficient designs
- High Power Supply Rejection: -75 dBFS — Minimizes noise from power supply interference
- Omnidirectional Pickup Pattern — Captures audio from all angles, perfect for meetings, remote collaboration, and multi-user scenarios
- Ultra-Compact Form Factor — Easy to integrate into space-constrained enclosures
Interface Pin Definitions
| Pin | Description |
|---|---|
| SCK | Serial data clock for I2S interface |
| WS | Word selection (left/right channel) for I2S interface |
| L/R | Channel selection — LOW = left channel, HIGH = right channel |
| SD | Serial data output of the I2S interface |
| VCC | Input power: 1.8V to 3.3V |
| GND | Power ground |
ESP32 Wiring Guide
Connect the INMP441 to your ESP32 using the following pin mapping:
| INMP441 Pin | ESP32 GPIO |
|---|---|
| SCK | GPIO14 |
| SD | GPIO32 |
| WS | GPIO15 |
| L/R | GND |
| GND | GND |
| VDD | 3.3V |
Omnidirectional vs. Directional Microphones — Which Is Right for You?
Directional microphones are designed for single-user, close-range pickup (typically within 30 cm). They excel at isolating one voice and delivering very focused audio quality — great for personal recording or broadcasting.
Omnidirectional microphones like the INMP441 offer a much wider pickup radius (1–5+ meters), making them ideal for group settings such as small meetings, remote discussions, ad-hoc conferences, or IoT environments where multiple sound sources are present. The tradeoff is increased ambient noise pickup, which is why proper noise-reduction algorithms are recommended in critical applications.
Technical Specifications
- Interface: Digital I2S (24-bit)
- SNR: 61 dBA
- Sensitivity: -26 dBFS
- Frequency Response: 60 Hz – 15 kHz
- Current Consumption: 1.4 mA
- Power Supply Rejection: -75 dBFS
- Supply Voltage: 1.8V – 3.3V
- Compatible With: ESP32, DSPs, and other I2S-capable microcontrollers
- Origin: Made in Mainland China
Learn more: ENERGY STAR product efficiency guidance
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the INMP441 MEMS microphone module compatible with the ESP32?
A: Yes, the INMP441 is fully compatible with the ESP32's I2S peripheral. Simply connect SCK to GPIO14, SD to GPIO32, WS to GPIO15, L/R to GND, GND to GND, and VDD to the 3.3V pin on your ESP32 board. Tutorials are available for getting started quickly.
Q: What supply voltage does the INMP441 microphone module require?
A: The INMP441 operates on a supply voltage between 1.8V and 3.3V, making it directly compatible with 3.3V logic microcontrollers like the ESP32 without any additional level-shifting circuitry.
Q: What is the difference between the INMP441 omnidirectional microphone and a standard directional microphone?
A: An omnidirectional microphone like the INMP441 captures audio from all directions across a wide pickup radius (1–5+ meters), making it excellent for group conversations, IoT voice interfaces, and meeting applications. A directional microphone focuses on a single source at close range. The choice depends on your use case — omnidirectional for wide-area capture, directional for single-voice isolation.
Q: Does this module require an external audio codec to work?
A: No. The INMP441 integrates MEMS sensing, signal conditioning, analog-to-digital conversion, and an I2S digital output all on one module. It connects directly to any I2S-capable processor — no external audio codec is needed.
Production & Packaging Notice
To maintain high stock availability and fast shipping times, our items are sourced from multiple verified manufacturing facilities. While the core quality, materials, and product specifications remain identical, you may notice slight variations in the packaging design, manufacturing origin, or the wording of the printed instructions.