MEMS microphones are widely used in modern consumer electronics such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, wearables, smart home devices, and IoT gadgets. Their compact size, low power consumption, and robust performance make them ideal for portable and space-constrained applications.
MEMS microphones are classified as digital or analog based on their output signals. Analog MEMS microphones output raw analog signals that require external analog-to-digital conversion, while digital MEMS microphones include an integrated ADC chip that outputs digital signals directly. This distinction helps meet different design requirements and system integration needs.
MEMS microphones use silicon-based microelectromechanical systems and integrated electronics, offering advantages such as smaller size, higher durability, and better resistance to environmental factors like moisture and temperature. Electret condenser microphones (ECM) use a permanently charged diaphragm and separate preamplifier circuitry, providing reliable audio quality but typically larger size and greater sensitivity to environmental changes. MEMS microphones are preferred for compact, modern electronic devices due to their miniaturization and robustness.