Comparison
Reel vs Zoom F3
Zoom's ultra-portable 2-channel 32-bit float recorder with dual AD converters.
Visit the Zoom F3 site ↗The short answer
The Zoom F3 and Reel both stand on a 32-bit float foundation, but they sit at opposite ends of the workflow. The F3 is a tiny two-input recorder with pro dual-AD converters and almost no menus. You point it at external XLR mics, capture pristine sound and never think about levels. It has no built-in mics of its own. Reel is an iPhone multitrack recorder for layering ideas with overdub, looping and a jog wheel. The two can also team up. The F3 doubles as a 32-bit float USB interface, so you can plug it into your iPhone and record its inputs straight into Reel.
Feature comparison
| Feature | Reel | Zoom F3 |
|---|---|---|
| Simultaneous tracks | 4 | 2 |
| Bit depth | 32-bit float | 32-bit float |
| Max sample rate | 96kHz | 192kHz |
| Overdub | ||
| Punch-in recording | ||
| Looping | ||
| Variable-speed playback | ||
| Tactile transport (jog wheel or scrub) | ||
| Built-in microphones | iPhone mic | |
| XLR inputs with phantom power | ||
| Records from a USB audio interface | ||
| Works as a USB audio interface | ||
| Runs standalone, no phone or computer | ||
| Price | $14.99 one-time | ~$329 |
| Platform | iOS 18+ | Standalone device |
Every value is researched per product against manufacturer sources and may change over time. Verify current details with each maker.
Where Reel wins
- +4 tracks with overdub and looping, versus 2-channel capture
- +Jog-wheel scrubbing and tape transport
- +Built-in capture using the iPhone microphone (the F3 has no mics)
- +Records hardware instruments and grooveboxes over USB
Where Zoom F3 wins
- +Dual-AD-converter 32-bit float for extreme dynamic range
- +Pro XLR/TRS inputs for external microphones
- +Pocket-sized and runs standalone
- +Can double as a 32-bit float USB interface for the iPhone
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the Zoom F3 with Reel?
Yes. The F3 can act as a USB audio interface, so you can connect it to your iPhone and record its 32-bit float inputs directly into Reel, combining pro converters with multitrack recording.
Does the Zoom F3 have built-in microphones?
No. The F3 records from external XLR/TRS microphones only. Reel can capture with the built-in iPhone microphone or from a connected interface such as the F3.
Try Reel on your iPhone
A portable 4-track recorder with 32-bit float audio and a hardware-inspired workflow.
Download on the App Store