10 Best GoPro Microphones for Great Audio Quality
GoPro is no longer the only serious action camera maker in town, but it’s still a world leader. Now anyone can produce movie-like action footage with cinematic excellence. Sometimes, though, the audio quality doesn’t match that of the video. The way to resolve this discrepancy is to use an external, third-party GoPro microphone. Here we review 10 of the current favorites.
| Budget |
|---|
 |
| Solid Lavalier Lapel Mic Set |
| 4.6/5.0 |
| Weight: 2.4 oz. |
| Power: Plug-in |
| Simple to use, extra-long cable, multiple adapters, 2 lapel mics, storage bag. |
| Check Amazon |
| Best Value |
|---|
 |
| EDUTIGE ETM-001 Mic |
| 4.7/5.0 |
| Weight: 0.32 oz. |
| Power: Plug-in |
| Low-profile, omnidirectional, boosts recording volume. |
| Check Amazon |
| Top Pick |
|---|
 |
| EACHSHOT Vid Mic |
| 4.8/5.0 |
| Weight: 1.2 oz. |
| Power: Plug-in |
| Small and compact, cardioid, eliminates wind noise. |
| Check Amazon |
The Problem with Built-in Mics
Built-in microphones serve a purpose, but they can never produce award-winning audio. Protective GoPro cases tend to distort the sound, and stock waterproof cases block access to mic ports. The so-called self-noise that integrated mics suffer can spoil an otherwise excellent piece of filming. The annoying hiss is one such interference, but there are all kinds of other unwanted sound intrusions.
The only way to appreciate the difference between internal and external mics is to test. Even a low-cost external mic is going to render the built-in one redundant. It makes perfect sense, all things considered. A GoPro is a camera first and a recording tool second. An independent microphone, however, is all about the sound and nothing else. That’s why the results are so stark.
Understanding Mic Sales Jargon
There are lots of commonly used words found on the sales pages of external mics. You need a basic understanding of these so that you can make better-informed buying decisions.
- Lavalier mic: small, and lightweight, typically worn around the neck
- Shotgun. highly-directional mics ideal for recording sound from far away
- Lapel mic: small recording devices that clip to clothing, especially lapels and neckties
- Wireless: self-contained mics that don’t use cables
- Condenser mic: high-quality product with a diaphragm, backplate, and capacitor
- Cardioid: Unidirectional mic that picks up sound in a heart-shaped curve pattern
- Omnidirectional: mics that can pick up sounds from all directions
- Bi-directional: mics that pick up sounds from both the front and rear of a subject
- Handheld mic: self-explanatory
- Noise: refers to unwanted sounds or static interference
- decibel (dB): a logarithmic unit that measures sound level
- Preamp: a small electronic device used to magnify the low-signal output
- Max SPL: the maximum Sound Pressure Level a mic can handle without distorting
There are others, but the terms above cover most things related to action camera mics. The two types of microphones typically used for GoPros are of the lavalier and shotgun variety.
Lavalier Vs. Shotgun Mics
Which kind you choose depends on needs and expectations. These products both have their strengths and weaknesses. I have highlighted the pros and cons of each type below.
The pros of a lavalier mic include:
- Can place close to the subject for clear sound and less interference
- Wireless lavalier mics give you the freedom to walk and talk as you record
The cons of a lavalier mic include:
- Omnidirectional lavalier mics may pick up unwanted, surrounding sounds
- Wireless lavalier mics are vulnerable to wireless interference
The pros of a shotgun mic include:
- Precise pick-up pattern produces exceptional sound recording
- No need to wire speakers up due to the above
The cons of a shotgun mic include:
- Need to place close to subject yet keep mic out of shot
- Less forgiving, so precise mic placement is essential
- Cost more than lavalier microphones
Summing Up GoPro External Mics
GoPro users with YouTube and Social Media channels need to perfect their sound. Think about where you shoot, how you film, and the type of mic that best suits your audio needs. Microphones aren’t as exciting as the cameras they support, but they’re equally vital. Perfect video with crappy sound won’t make you stand out from the competition. Answer the points below to help narrow down your choices.
You need high-quality audio to:
- Make extreme, high-paced GoPro action films
- Record events in real-time
- Produce outstanding podcasts
- Present product reviews or how-to vids
- Others
People who take their sound (audio) seriously are far more likely to attract a serious audience. Those who neglect it—and only focus on the picture (visual) element—will always come second. Thus, the success of any video depends on its audiovisual appeal. Clear, lifelike sound can compensate for average quality video, but the reverse isn’t true. That’s according to industry experts.
About My ‘GoPro Microphone’ Guide
I have reviewed dozens of the best-selling GoPro microphones and come up with a top 10 list. I considered real user feedback as well as personal thoughts during the review process. The first three products are my choice for Best Budget, Best Value, and the Top Pick. The GoPro compatible mics below those are in price order—lowest to high—for convenience.
Use the table below to navigate to the products that interest you.
GoPro Microphones Comparison Table
| Make and Model | Weight | Power | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solid Lavalier Lapel Microphone Set for GoPro | 2.4 oz. | Plug-in | Check Price |
| EDUTIGE ETM-001 Omnidirectional Mic for GoPro | 0.32 oz. | Plug-in | Check Price |
| EACHSHOT Video Microphone for GoPro | 1.2 oz. | Plug-in | Check Price |
| Movo GM100 Lavalier Clip-on Microphone for GoPro | 1.6 oz. | Plug-in | Check Price |
| Purple Panda Lavalier Lapel Microphone Kit for GoPro | 2.56 oz. | Plug-in | Check Price |
| Saramonic G-Mic Stereo Ball Mic for GoPro HEROs | 0.42 oz. | Plug-in | Check Price |
| Comica CVM-VM10II Mini Shotgun Mic for Gopro | 1.2 oz. | Plug-in | Check Price |
| BOYA WM2G Lavalier Wireless Microphone for GoPro | 10.4 0z | 1.5V DC AA | Check Price |
| Sennheiser MKE 2 Elements Action Mic for GoPro | 1.5 oz. | Plug-in | Check Price |
| Rode VideoMic GO Lightweight On-Camera Mic | 2.57 oz. | Plug-in | Check Price |
1. Lavalier Lapel Mic Set for GoPro | Best Budget
Editor’s Rating: 4.6/5
Full product compatibility: GoPro action cameras, desktop PC and Mac computers, Android/Apple smartphones, DSLR cameras, camcorders, and other mobile recording devices.
- Best feature 1: VoiceIQ technology reduces static interference
- Best feature 2: Interview accessories included
- Plus points: Simple to use, extra-long cable, multiple adapters, 2 lapel mics, storage bag
- Minus points: Weak clips
Lavalier Lapel Mic Set Highlights
The Solid Lavalier Lapel Set is an omnidirectional mic that’s exceptional value for money. The sound quality is incredible for a budget-end product. Its VoiceIQ technology helps to keep the sound crisp and clean. It does that by blocking out unwanted static interference, buzzing, and echo.
This product is super-easy to set up and use, and it comes with an extra-long 6.5ft (2m) cable. That’s in addition to the standard 4.7ft cable. You get a 2-mic interview set in the box and a whole host of useful accessories to boot.
Consider this multi-purpose mic if you’re experimenting with YouTube presentations or vlogging. The entire kit comes with a smart soft storage bag to keep things organized and easy to transport.
The Not So Good
There’s little to gripe about considering the price of this interview mic set. The clips are quite weak, but they should hold out if you stay mindful of their fragility. Also, this is an omnidirectional mic, and that makes it easy to record with. But it may also pick up unwanted background noise in some situations.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: Solid |
| Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional |
| Cable: 79” (2 meters) |
| Connector: 3.5mm TRRS to TRS Adapter |
| Power Supply: Plug-in |
| Package Dimensions: 6 x 6 x 1” |
| Product Weight: 2.4 oz. |
| Warranty: 90 days guarantee |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Includes 2 lapel mics |
| Little static interference |
| Interview accessories included |
| Simple to use |
| Extra-long cables |
| Multiple adapters |
| Storage pouch |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Weak clips |
2. EDUTIGE Omnidirectional Mic for GoPro | Best Value
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5
Full product compatibility: GoPro HERO2, 3, 3+, 4, Silver, and Black. DSLR, mirrorless cameras, PC, or any laptop w/ dedicated mic input. Also, digital voice recorders, e.g., Tascam and Zoom, etc.
- Best feature 1: Small, lightweight, plug-n-play mic
- Best feature 2: High-quality materials,
- Plus points: Low-profile, omnidirectional, boosts recording volume, crystal clear,
- Minus points: Not ideal if there’s a lot of background noise
EDUTIGE Dual Mic ETM-001 Highlights
The Best Value pick goes to the low-profile EDUTIGE Dual Microphone ETM-001. It uses high-quality materials in its build, i.e., a metallic body and a gold-plated 3-pole plug. They call this the ‘Do Everything Mic.’ It’s omnidirectional, which means it catches sound from all directions. It’s small and ultra-compact, yet boosts recording volume like you wouldn’t believe.
Check out the maker’s video for a sound comparison with the mic IN and OUT of various devices. It’s an excellent tool to boost the sound and audio quality of your GoPro.
The Not So Good
It’s an omnidirectional mic, so it picks up sound in all directions. That’s usually ideal for GoPro users who want to capture the atmosphere of their recording. But it can also pick up some unwelcome nearby audio distractions. Crowded or loud areas may compete with your voice, for example. Another con is that the product doesn’t include the mini-USB mic adaptor needed for GoPro.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: EDUTIGE |
| Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional |
| Cable: Mini-USB adaptor (not included) |
| Connector: 3.5 mm 3-pole gold-plated |
| Power Supply: Plug-in |
| Package Dimensions: 0.8 x 0.4 x 1.2” |
| Product Weight: 0.32 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Small and lightweight design |
| Plug-n-play mic |
| High-quality materials |
| Boosts recording volume |
| Crystal clear sound |
| Low-profile, discrete |
| Omnidirectional |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Omnidirectional not ideal for crowds or loud areas |
| Cable not included |
3. EACHSHOT Video Microphone for GoPro | Top Pick
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5
Full product compatibility: GoPro Hero 5 Black, 6 Black, 7 Black, GoPro Hero 3, 3+, and 4, modern smartphones, and DSLR cameras (not Canon Rebel T6, or Sony A6000).
- Best feature 1: Affordable, high-quality GoPro microphone
- Best feature 2: Includes many accessories
- Plus points: Small and compact, cardioid, eliminates wind noise, excellent entry-level mic
- Minus points: Dead-cat windscreen muffles audio
EACHSHOT Professional Mini Mic Highlights
The Top Pick is still an affordable GoPro compatible microphone. The EACHSHOT Professional Mini is a capable video cardioid product. The sound quality is a remarkable improvement over GoPro’s built-in mics. It’s an all-aluminum product that boasts excellent anti-interference function.
There are lots of mic accessories in the box too. They include a windscreen, wind muff, a couple of audio cables, and a carry case to boot. The small, compact design makes this a perfect travel mic.
The sound is better focused than the previous two picks due to it being a cardioid mic. That means it picks up sound from the front and ignores the noise from the rear. And its dead cat windscreen does a brilliant job at eliminating wind noise. Consider the EACHSHOT Professional Mini mic if you’re at the entry-level but keen to experiment with more pro-level audio.
The Not So Good
The dead-cat windscreen is incredible, but its effectiveness comes at a price. That is, it tends to muffle the sound slightly, though only the most critical ears will notice. Still, it’s light years ahead of the GoPro built-in mics even with the fluffy windscreen in place.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: EACHSHOT |
| Polar Pattern: Super cardioid |
| Cable: TRS to TRS Cable |
| Maximum SPL: 100 dB |
| Power Supply: Plug-in |
| Signal / Noise: ≥58 dB |
| Package Dimensions: 3.34 x 0.82” |
| Product Weight: 1.2 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Affordable, high-quality mic |
| Ideal for rising entry-level users |
| Includes many accessories |
| Small and compact design |
| Cardioid polar pattern |
| Eliminates wind noise |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Windscreen slightly muffles audio |
4. Movo GM100 Lavalier Clip-on Mic for GoPro
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.4/5
Full product compatibility: GoPro HERO3 & HERO3+
- Best feature 1: Hands-free lavalier lapel clip-on mic
- Best feature 2: True voice reproduction
- Plus points: Plug-n-play, newscaster style, two of everything, USB adapter, affordable
- Minus points: Short wire restrictions, picks up bodily noises
Movo GM100 Mic Highlights
The Movo GM100 is an excellent alternative to the built-in mic of your GoPro. It’s a hands-free lavalier lapel clip-on type newscaster style microphone. It comes with two mics, two durable tie clips, two windscreens, and a mini USB adapter. It’s also plug-n-play. That means you plug it into your compatible GoPro and you’re good to go—no batteries required.
The result is crisp audio that’s free from common interference such as static and unwanted buzz. The mic uses an omni-directional polar pattern, so it picks up sounds equally from all directions. It has an entry-level price tag yet produces results that far exceed its class.
The Not So Good
The mic’s wire is short, which restricts where you can put it. That’s not a major negative, but it is a little frustrating at times. Also, this mic is sensitive, which is good and bad. Be careful what you wear as it picks up the noises made from materials that rustle when you move.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: Movo |
| Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional |
| Transducer: Electret condenser |
| Signal/Noise Ratio: 74dB SPL |
| Cable Length: 47” (1.2 meters) |
| Connector: 3.5mm male |
| Power Supply: Plug-in |
| Package Dimensions: 4.5 x 3.5 x 1.1” |
| Product Weight: 1.6 oz. |
| Warranty: 1 year |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Excellent alternative to GoPro mic |
| Hands-free lavalier clip-on mic |
| True voice reproduction |
| Plug-n-play |
| Newscaster design |
| Two of everything |
| Quality USB adapter |
| Affordable price tag |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Short wire restrictions |
| Picks up bodily noises |
5. Purple Panda Lavalier Lapel Mic Kit for GoPro
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.5/5
Full product compatibility: GoPro HERO 2, 3, 3+, 4, 5, 6, 7, iPad, iPhone, Android/Galaxy smartphones, DSLRs, camcorders, laptops, PC, ps4 controllers, Tascam, Zoom recorders, and much more.
- Best feature 1: Wide compatibility
- Best feature 2: Durable, lightweight, and discreet,
- Plus points: Plug-n-play, HQ stereo audio, long extension cord, extras, eBook for filmmakers
- Minus points: Needs TRRS to TRS adaptor to work with GoPros
Purple Panda Lavalier Mic Highlights
This mic kit is lightweight, discreet, and durable, making it perfect for folks on the go. The dead-cat furry windshield is worth half the cost alone, but there are plenty of other goodies too.
The Purple Panda lavalier omnidirectional condenser microphone kit is incredible value. It takes your GoPro away from amateur-sounding audio. And its broad compatibility means you can use the same mic with many other smart devices. It’s plug-n-play too, so set up and use is quick and easy. There are no app downloads, batteries to charge, or configuration to fuss over.
Broad Appeal
Purple Panda’s lavalier microphone boasts clear HQ stereo audio and thus has broad appeal. It’s ideal for GoPro adventurers, but that’s not all. Vloggers, amateur filmmakers, interviewers, podcasters, and many others can benefit too. It even comes with a free “Film Directing for Newbies” eBook. Other highlights include the strong gator clip, universal stereo jack, and a tight-fitting wind guard.
The Not So Good
The mics default cable is a TRRS which plugs directly into most smartphones. For GoPro action cameras, though, you must use a TRRS to TRS adaptor (included). Why does that matter? Well, it makes using the GoPro on helmets and other mounts more awkward and untidy. There are also more points for potential failure when using adapters. Always check model compatibility before buying.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: Purple Panda |
| Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional |
| Cable Length: 58.8” (1.49 meters) |
| Connector: Universal 3.5mm stereo jack |
| Power Supply: Plug-in |
| Adapter: Mini USB/TRS |
| Package Dimensions: 5.5 x 1.5 x 4” |
| Product Weight: 2.56 oz. |
| Warranty: 60 days |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Wide compatibility |
| Durable, lightweight design |
| Discreet, easy to conceal |
| Plug-n-play |
| HQ stereo audio |
| Long extension cord |
| Extra accessories |
| Free eBook for filmmakers |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Needs TRRS to TRS adaptor to work with GoPros (included) |
6. Saramonic G-Mic Stereo Ball Mic for GoPro HEROs
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.3/5
Full product compatibility: GoPro HERO3, HERO3+, and HERO4 (no adapters needed)
- Best feature 1: No converter cables needed for GoPro
- Best feature 2: Dual X/Y stereo condenser capsules
- Plus points: Plug-n-play, ultra-lightweight, effective windjammer, affordable
- Minus points: Doesn’t work with all GoPros, windjammer issues
Saramonic’s G-Mic Highlights
Saramonic’s G-Mic is a versatile, go-anywhere product that can handle most recording situations. The audio quality is a massive improvement on built-in mics. Best of all is that it plugs directly into GoPro action cameras, so no adapters as with other models. The kit includes a tight-fitting dead cat windjammer to reduce wind noise. It’s effective up to 40dB and with very little high-frequency loss.
Small Mic Big Results
The mic’s sensitivity and clarity are impressive considering its price. That’s thanks to its dual X/Y stereo condenser capsules. It might be tiny, but it’s big on results. This puppy only weighs 0.3 ounces and is less than 1” tall, so it’s totally unobtrusive. It’s also simple, portable, and powerful for its size.
The Not So Good
This mic does not work with GoPro HERO 5 Black or HERO 7. The sales page shows compatibility with only HERO 3s and 4. A lot of people still buy it for other models by accident going by the reviews. ALWAYS check a mics compatibility list before buying. The furry windjammer does a great job, but it’s bigger than it looks, and its fur can drift into the frame. It’s fragile too, so treat it with care.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: Saramonic |
| Polar Pattern: Electret Condenser |
| Cable: None (USB) |
| Connector: GoPro USB |
| Power Supply: Plug-in |
| Signal to Noise Ratio: 80dB SPL |
| Package Dimensions: 4 x 1 x 1” |
| Product Weight: 0.42 oz. |
| Warranty: 1 year |
| The Pros |
|---|
| No converter needed for GoPro |
| Dual X/Y stereo condenser capsules |
| Plug-n-play |
| Ultra-lightweight |
| Effective windjammer |
| Affordable |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Doesn’t work with all GoPros |
| Windjammer can get into the frame. It’s also fragile |
7. Comica CVM-VM10II Mini Shotgun Mic for GoPro
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.6/5
Full product compatibility: GoPro action cams, DSLR cameras, various camcorders, DJI Osmo stabilizer, iPhone, and Android-powered smartphones.
- Best feature 1: Wide compatibility
- Best feature 2: Cardioid polar pattern
- Plus points: Mini shotgun design, shock mount, super anti-interference, choice of cables, case
- Minus points: Needs cage with cold-shoe to mount GoPros
Comica CVM-VM10II Mic Highlights
The Comica CVM-VM10II is a mini shotgun-style video mic with broad compatibility, including GoPros. It boasts a 100% aluminum cardioid directional pro-level condenser and super anti-interference technology. Add the included windscreen and wind muff, and it’s a capable mic with ultra-clear sound. And its professional silica gel shock mount prevents any operational shakes or unwanted noise.
This worry-free mic doesn’t need batteries to function. Nor do you have to turn it on to record once it’s mounted. The product has a couple of different audio cables and a clamp for smartphones. Comica’s CVM-VM10II Mini Shotgun Mic also comes with a smart protective carry case.
The Not So Good
You must buy a cage with a cold shoe to use GoPro cameras with this product.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: Comica |
| Polar Pattern: Cardioid |
| Cable: 2 x audio |
| Max. SPL: 100dB |
| Power Supply: Plug-in |
| Signal to noise ratio: ≥58dB |
| Dynamic Range: 100dB |
| Package Dimensions: 7.5 x 3.9 x 2.4” |
| Product Weight: 1.2 oz. |
| Warranty: 12 months |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Wide compatibility |
| Low consumption (non-battery) |
| Accurate, lightweight |
| Cardioid polar pattern |
| Mini shotgun design |
| Shock mount |
| Super anti-interference function |
| Choice of cables |
| Smart carrying case |
| Includes windscreen & wind muff |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Needs cage with cold-shoe to mount GoPros |
8. BOYA WM2G Lavalier Wireless Mic for GoPro
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.2/5
Full product compatibility: GoPro HERO3, 3+, 4, smartphones, PCs, DSLR cameras, camcorders, iPhone X 8 8 Plus, and iPad tablets, etc.
- Best feature 1: GoPro adapter included
- Best feature 2: Lightweight and compact wireless design
- Plus points: Wide compatibility, clear recording, standard camera shoe, hard carrying case
- Minus points: Needs PRO 3.5mm mic adapter for GoPros 5 and above, exaggerated range
Product Name Highlights
The BOYA WM2G is an omnidirectional lavalier wireless mic that’s compact and lightweight. It includes a special GoPro cable adapter for HERO 3’s and 4s. The difference in sound quality between this one and GoPros built-in mic is night and day. This mic is also compatible with a plethora of other mobile devices (see compatibility above). The kit comes with a smart semi-hard carrying case.
BOYA’s WM2G Lavalier microphone uses a standard camera shoe mount. There’s also a lapel clip in the box for comfortable, hands-free operation. And the operating range is up to 48ft (15m).
The Not So Good
It’s great that the mic kit includes a GoPro adapter because most products don’t. However, anything over a GoPro 4 needs a PRO 3.5mm Mic Adapter (not included). The official accessory is likely to cost twice the price of this wireless mic kit. It’s bulky too. The specified operating range is overly optimistic, at least for quality sound anyway. I’d say 30ft is nearer the mark.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: BOYA |
| Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional |
| Connector: 3.5mm mini-jack |
| Power Supply: 1.5V DC (AA battery) |
| Signal to noise ratio: 76dB or more |
| Battery life: Transmitter: Approx. 3 hrs. |
| Battery life: Receiver: Approx. 3 hrs. |
| Package Dimensions: 6.5 x 4.7 x 2.3” |
| Product Weight: 10.4 oz. |
| Warranty: One Year BOYA |
| The Pros |
|---|
| GoPro adapter included |
| Lightweight & compact design |
| Made from durable PU plastic |
| Foam protectors |
| Wide compatibility |
| Clear recording sound |
| Standard camera shoe |
| Semi-hard carrying case |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Needs PRO 3.5mm Mic Adapter for GoPros 5 and above |
| Exaggerated range |
9. Sennheiser MKE 2 Elements GoPro Action Mic
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.4/5
Full product compatibility: GoPro HERO 4 action camera only.
- Best feature 1: Omnidirectional microphone capsule
- Best feature 2: Resistant to unwanted noise
- Plus points: Discounted, easy to install and use, rugged design, waterproof, element proof
- Minus points: Only works with HERO 4
Sennheiser MKE 2 Highlights
When the Sennheiser MKE 2 elements first came out, it cost over 200 dollars. Now you can pick one up for $70 or less. It’s still the same exceptional product. It’s cheaper because of the fall in demand caused by newer products and technologies. It’s well worth considering for anyone who owns a GoPro HERO4 action camera. Let’s go over some of its standout features.
The first thing to notice is how easy this mic is to install and use. It connects straight onto a HERO 4 with zero compromises to its sealed protection. That brings us to the next point. This mic is as tough as they come. You can take it out and use it in wind, rain, or even underwater up to 3.2ft (1m) for 30 minutes. Wherever you use it, the pro-grade sound is always consistent.
Noise Resistant Innovation
Structure borne noise is an enemy of outdoor recording. It’s the sound that occurs from heavy impact on surfaces. Footsteps is a prime example. Well, the Sennheiser MKE 2 combats structure-borne noise too. It uses elastic suspension covered with a replaceable water-resistant windscreen. Innovations like this are how the mic captures consistent, high-quality audio in any given situation.
The Not So Good
Unfortunately, this excellent GoPro-approved mic doesn’t have broad compatibility. It only works with the GoPro HERO4 Black and HERO4 Silver action cameras.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: Sennheiser |
| Polar Pattern: Omnidirectional |
| Cable: N/A |
| Connector: GoPro audio connection |
| Power Supply: Plug-in |
| Dimensions: 5 x 3 x 2.4” (includes wind stopper) |
| Product Weight: 1.5 oz. |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Heavily discounted |
| Easy to install and use |
| Crystal clear, dynamic sound |
| GoPro Approved external mic |
| Omnidirectional mic capsule |
| Resistant to unwanted noise |
| Rugged design |
| Works underwater |
| Element proof |
| Combats structure-borne noise |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Only works with HERO 4 Black and Silver action cameras |
10. Rode VideoMic GO Lightweight On-Camera Mic
View on AmazonEditor’s Rating: 4.3/5
Full product compatibility: GoPro HERO4 (check full compatibility with the seller), camcorders, point & shoot cameras, entry-level DSLRs (not the Nikon D7000).
- Best feature 1: Directional audio (supercardioid)
- Best feature 2: Rycote Lyre shock mount
- Plus points: Broad compatibility, rugged construction, lightweight, foam windshield
- Minus points: Needs adapter for GoPro, overpriced
Rode VideoMic GO Highlights
The last review is for the Rode VideoMic GO. It’s a compact, lightweight on-camera mic that delivers clear, directional audio. It has a tight pickup area that focuses in front of the mic, and thus reduces surrounding noise. You want a super-cardioid pickup for GoPro footage, or you don’t. Think carefully before you buy. The mic has a rugged ABS construction, and that makes it ideal for outdoor use.
The integrated Rycote Lyre shock mounting is another welcome feature. It works by isolating the mic from vibrations and bumps. You also get a foam wind sleeve, but a dead cat wind muff is bound to be more effective (not included).
The Not So Good
GoPro action cameras are no listed as compatible devices in the maker’s suggestions. However, many buyers of this mic have bought and used it with GoPro HERO3 and 4. You need to get an extra adapter, though. This product is a definite improvement over built-in mics, but its sound is good rather than superb. For that reason, my verdict is that it’s a tad overpriced, but you may disagree.
| Tech Specs |
|---|
| Brand: Rode |
| Polar Pattern: Supercardioid |
| Cable: 3.5mm TRS patch |
| Power Supply: Plug-in |
| Maximum SPL: 120dBSPL |
| Output: 3.5mm minijack |
| Package Dimensions: 9.5 x 5 x 2.8” |
| Product Weight: 2.57 oz. |
| Warranty: 1 year |
| The Pros |
|---|
| Directional audio (supercardioid) |
| Rycote Lyre shock mount |
| Integrated cold-shoe mount |
| No batteries needed |
| Broad compatibility |
| Rugged ABS construction |
| Compact and lightweight |
| Foam windshield |
| The Cons |
|---|
| Needs adapter for GoPro |
| Good sound but not exceptional |
| Overpriced |
Contents
- The Problem with Built-in Mics
- Understanding Mic Sales Jargon
- Lavalier Vs. Shotgun Mics
- Summing Up GoPro External Mics
- About My ‘GoPro Microphone’ Guide
- GoPro Microphones Comparison Table
- 1. Lavalier Lapel Mic Set for GoPro | Best Budget
- Lavalier Lapel Mic Set Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 2. EDUTIGE Omnidirectional Mic for GoPro | Best Value
- EDUTIGE Dual Mic ETM-001 Highlights
- The Not So Good
- 3. EACHSHOT Video Microphone for GoPro | Top Pick
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