Today most of the best action cameras come with good sound quality. However, usually, the sound quality of the video is lower than what is desired for professional use. That’s where an action camera microphone attachment comes in handy! This handy little device attaches to your camera and helps capture clear, crisp sound without any distortion.
There are a number of different types of microphones available on the market. You can either go for a shotgun mic or a Lavalier mic. Both types have their own uses, advantages, and disadvantages. So it’s important to do some research before making a purchase. In this blog post, we will review some of the best external mics for camera. We’ll also discuss the features to look for when buying the best action camera microphone attachment, and provide some tips on how to choose the right one for your needs.
What is the best action camera microphone attachment?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best action camera microphone attachment will vary depending on your individual needs. For instance, the compatibility of the external camera microphone with your action camera and the type of activity you’ll be using your camera for.
If you’re planning to use your action camera for activities like skiing or snowboarding, you’ll need a microphone for cameras that is both durable and lightweight. On the other hand, if you’re primarily using your camera for video blogging, or field interviewing you may want to consider a more expensive model that offers better sound quality.
There are action camera models that accept external mics, and there are some that don’t. However, there are some models that would require an external mic adapter in order to use an external microphone. For instance, most GoPro high-end models like GoPro Hero5 Black and GoPro Hero7 black accept external mic, while 360 GoPro models like GoPro Max or GoPro Fusion and lower-end models like GoPro Hero Session, and GoPro Hero7 Silver don’t. While latest GoPro models like GoPro9 Black and GoPro10 Black would require you to use Media Mod or adapter in order to use an external mic attachment.
Moreover, some cameras like SJcam and SooCoo have their own mini USB microphones. These mics are plug-and-play and work great with these brands. However, other cameras that come with a mini USB port or micro USB Type-C port require a 3.5mm female jack converter in order to connect an external mic that comes with a 3.5 mm male jack.
There are many advantages of using the best action camera microphone attachment, including Improved sound quality, increased versatility, and Reduced noise. However, they are hard to use with camera protective cases and are usually not for underwater use. But despite all the advantages and disadvantages of an action camera external microphone attachment, it is usually a great investment if you are serious about the sound quality of your footage.
Top 12 Best External Microphone Attachments In 2023
1. Sennheiser MKE 400 Shotgun Microphone
Compatibility: GoPro Hero 5 onwards, Osmo Action, Action 2, Insta360 ONE R & Insta360 ONE X2 (with Adapter).
Best uses: Interviews and Sporting Events.
- Key Specifications:
- Frequency: 50 Hz to 20 kHz
- Connector: 3.5mm jack
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Batteries: 1x Lithium-ion battery
- Dimensions: 0.83 x 5.12 x 2.44 inches
- Weight: 2.08 ounces
Looking to take your video recording to the next level? Then you need to check out the Sennheiser MKE 400 Shotgun Microphone! This miniature shotgun microphone is perfect for capturing clear and accurate sound, no matter where you are shooting. Plus, its all-metal housing ensures durability and reliability, while the integral shock mount prevents handling noise from interfering with your recordings. It is the best microphone for gopro. And with adjustable sensitivity, it ensures absolute precision, when used for both long and short distances whether you are interviewing someone or shooting wildlife. Moreover, its energy-efficient by giving you 800 hours of operation time with a single AAA battery. Best of all, it fits all cameras with a standard hot shoe mount and external mic for camera. It has a great first-person head mount for POVs wearable with single or double strap options. Moreover, its slip- and water-proof which ensures it works in all weather conditions. It is the best action camera microphone attachment for water surfing.
2. Vidpro XM-L Lavalier Condenser Microphone
Compatibility: GoPro HD Hero, Hero4 Black, Hero4 Silver, Hero Plus, Hero3 (no need for an Adapter).
Best uses: Interviews or Voice Recording.
- Key Specifications:
- Frequency: 65 Hz – 18 kHz
- Connector: 3.5 mm Jack
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Batteries: No battery
- Dimensions: 5.5 x 4 x 1.4 inches
- Weight: 3.84 ounces
Vidpro’s XM-L Lavalier Microphone is a perfect choice for when you need to capture high-quality audio with your Go Pro camera! This microphone features an incredible sensitivity of -30dB +/- 3 dB, meaning it will work great no matter what type of noise level the environment may be around. It includes 20 feet of cabling, so you are never too far away from your subject. It also includes some extra goodies like a foam windscreen and lapel clips so viewers can hear everything crystal clear without any interference from outside sounds whatsoever. Plus mic connects with a 3.5mm plug through 4 feet long cable making the connection super easy. Thus, it is the best action camera microphone attachment for those who want comfortable and easy microphone attachment.
3. Rode VideoMic Pro VMP Shotgun Microphone
Compatibility: GoPro Hero5 onwards, DJI Osmo Action, DJI Osmo Action 2, DJI Osmo pocket, Insta360 ONE R & Insta360 ONE X2 (with Adapter).
Best uses: Interviews and Sporting Events & Dialogue to Camera.
- Key Specifications:
- Frequency: 40Hz – 20kHz (selected HPF @80)
- Connector: 3.5 mm Jack
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Batteries: 1x 9 volt alkaline battery
- Dimensions: 10.5 x 2.25 x 5.2 inches
- Weight: 3.03 ounces
You can capture your audio with unparalleled clarity and precision with the VideoMic Pro Compact VMP Shotgun Microphone. This rode mic for GoPro is also the best mic for dji osmo. Being top-of-the-line broadcast recording microphone, it is also perfect for DSLRs, camcorders, and other video recording devices. It can be used in two modes, without a filter using its native response or with a high pass filter to cut frequencies below 80Hz. A high pass filter is great to cut off noises like air conditioners and traffic noise. It also features a 3-way control switch for ambient noise reduction. Plus, it features integrated shock mounting for reduced handling noise. It delivers stunning sound quality no matter what the situation.
With its compact design and ultra-lightweight construction, the VideoMic Pro Compact VMP Shotgun Microphone is easy to take with you wherever you go. And thanks to its 9-volt battery power and long battery life, you can rest assured that this microphone will be ready to capture amazing sound whenever you need it. With this best action camera microphone attachment, you not need to hurry when you have a battery that goes the distance.
4. Rode VideoMicro Microphone
Compatibility: GoPro Hero 5 onwards, Osmo Action, Action 2, Insta360 ONE R & Insta360 ONE X2 (with Adapter).
Best uses: Dialogue to Camera, Interview, Sports, Music.
- Key Specifications:
- Frequency: 100 Hz to 20 kHz
- Connector: 3.5 mm Jack
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Batteries: No battery
- Dimensions: 3.15 x 0.83 x 0.83 inches
- Weight: 1.48 ounces
The VideoMicro is a compact microphone designed to improve the audio quality of your videos. It’s 80 millimeters long and only 42 grams, so it’s easy to carry with you wherever you go. And since it doesn’t require a battery, you can use it with any camera that has plug-in power (min 3v). It works great with GoPro models like GoPro Hero5 Black and onward models like GoPro Hero6 Black and GoPro Hero7 Black. Thus, it is the gopro rode mic. Plus, it comes with a Rycote lyre shock mount and deluxe furry windshield which ensures that your audio remains clear and consistent, even during windy and intense filming sessions. So if you’re looking for better audio quality in your videos and vlog, the Rode VideoMicro is the best vlog microphone attachment for you.
5. Edutige ETM-008 Microphone
Best uses: Outdoors, Independent Film, inside the car, and Interviews.
Compatibility: GoPro Hero3, Hero3, laptops, PCs (Skype calls), DSLR cameras, Camcorders, Digital Voice recorders, and MP3 players.
- Key Specifications:
- Frequency: 100 – 12000Hz
- Connector: 3.5mm jack
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Batteries: No battery
- Dimensions: 1.1 x 0.35 x 0.35 inches
- Weight: 1.4 ounces
The EDUTIGE ETM-008 Microphone is a unidirectional 3-pole (TRS) microphone that’s perfect for DSLR cameras, Mirrorless Cameras, GoPros, Action Cams, and Digital Voice Recorders. With its excellent signal-to-noise ratio of 69dB+, the ETM-008 provides high-quality audio for your recordings. It is the best action camera microphone attachment for journalists recording interviews or vloggers recording random videos since it discards the surrounding sounds and records that are in front. And because it’s plug-and-play, there’s no need for batteries – making it easy to use wherever you go. Plus, the ETM-008 comes with a cable and clip so you can use it as a lavalier microphone when needed. Moreover, it’s small and durable with a gold-plated jack and metallic body.
6. Movo GM100 Clip-on Lavalier Microphone
Best uses: Travel vlogs, Moto vlogs, Field interviews.
Compatibility: GoPro HERO3, HERO3+, and HERO4 Black, White, and Silver Editions.
- Key Specifications:
- Frequency: 35 Hz to 18 kHz
- Connector: 3.5mm jack and USB
- Connectivity Technology: USB
- Batteries: No battery
- Dimensions: 5.05 x 3.54 x 0.94 inches
- Weight: 1.6 ounces
This mic has an omnidirectional pickup pattern, meaning it will capture sound from all directions, making it a better alternative to your built-in HERO microphone. It’s also very portable and comfortable to wear – the components fit inside many standard camera cases. Plus, the mic windscreen keeps out wind and other noise, giving your recordings a clean and crisp sound. This clip-on lavalier microphone is compatible with GoPro mic adapters, so you can easily connect it to your GoPro. It is one of the best action camera microphone attachments. It’s compatible with GoPro HERO3, HERO3+, and HERO4 Black, White, and Silver Editions. And since it doesn’t require batteries to work, you’ll never have to worry about missing a crucial shot because your microphone ran out of juice. All this makes it a perfect choice for field interviews, travel vlogging, moto vlogging, and more.
8. AKASO External Microphone
Best uses: Field interviews, Travel-vlogs, Moto-vlogs.
Compatibility: AKASO Brave 7/ Brave 6 Plus/ V50 Pro.
- Key Specifications:
- Frequency: 15 kHz
- Connector: 3.5 mm Jack
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Batteries: 1x Lithium-ion battery
- Dimensions: 3.2 x 2.3 x 0.7 inches
- Weight: 1.58 ounces
This external microphone is specifically designed to work with the AKASO Brave 7/ Brave 6 Plus/ V50 Pro action camera. It features a 57-inch long cable, a clip to attach it to your shirt or jacket, and a removable foam pad to reduce wind noise. This allows you to use the mic for clearer audio recordings during your adventures like travel vlogs, moto-vlogs, hiking adventures, and even field interviews. Moreover, it’s plug-and-play, and the camera auto-detects it when you plug it in. This means you can plug it into your helmet camera, clip it onto your shirt and you are ready for your quick motorcycle adventure commentary. So, if you need a quick solution for your Akaso camera then Akaso external microphone is one of the best action camera microphone attachments to go with.
9. SoLID Lavalier Lapel Mic (Omnidirectional)
Best uses: Cooking vlogs, Nature vlogs, Documentaries, Pank videos.
Compatibility: iPhone iOS 6, 7, 7 Plus, 8, 8 Plus, X, XR, XS, XS Max, Android phones, PC, Mac, Tablets, Chromebook, DSLR Video Camera.
- Key Specifications:
- Connector: 3.5 mm Jack
- Connectivity Technology:
- Batteries: No battery
- Dimensions: 6.18 x 5.67 x 2.09 inches
- Weight: 2.89 ounces
Make your next video production look like a professional studio shoot with the Clip-On Lavalier Lapel Microphone! This set comes with everything you need to get great sound quality, including extension cords, wind muffs, a y-connector, an adapter, and a storage pouch. Dual recording capability means you can use two lavalier mics simultaneously for even better audio results in your footage. You’ll need a mic adopter to use it on your GoPro. But the dual recording capability makes it a great choice for activities like cooking vlogs and nature vlogs where you want to use one mic for your vocals and another one for natural sounds.
Moreover, it is compatible with most iPhones (that come with the headphone jack) and Android gadgets. So, if you are looking for a versatile microphone attachment option, this one can be the best action camera microphone attachment. You can use it with your action camera via an adopter, smartphone, and multiple other devices like laptops and tablets.
10. Removu RM-M1+A1 Wireless Microphone
Best uses: Sporting events and other long-distance recording applications.
Compatibility: GoPro Hero4, Hero3, and Hero3+.
- Key Specifications:
- Frequency: 44.1 kHz
- Connector: USB
- Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth and USB
- Batteries: 2x Lithium Polymer
- Dimensions: 5.91 x 7.87 x 5.91 inches
- Weight: 5 ounces
The Removu waterproof Bluetooth Microphone and receiver is the best action camera microphone attachment for your GoPro HERO3, HERO3+, or HERO4 camera. This wireless mic for cameras lets you capture clear, professional-quality audio from up to 40 yards away, making it ideal for recording outdoor activities, interviews, and more. You can use this wireless microphone for gopro models. The included Lithium battery provides more than six hours of run time and fits perfectly into the standard GoPro BacPac housing – so there’s no need to invest in additional equipment. The bluetooth microphone for camera is the perfect accompaniment to your GoPro camera. It comes in a perfect accessories package. The included M1 mic and A1 receiver ensure clear, professional audio, while the waterproof housing lets you take your recordings anywhere.The wind guard helps reduce noise and interference, while the clip and connector let you mount the microphone easily. Plus, the USB charging cable keeps you powered up for all-day shooting.
11. Sony ECMCS3 Clip Style Omni Directional Stereo Microphone
Best uses: Recording VO, Lectures, MotoVlogging, Vlogging, and indoor close proximity usage.
Compatibility: GoPro Hero4, Hero3, and Hero3+, Camcorders, DSLRs.
- Key Specifications:
- Frequency: 50 – 15,000 Hz
- Connector: 3.5 mm Jack
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Batteries: No battery
- Dimensions: 6.3 x 3.82 x 1.69 inches
- Weight: 0.422 ounces
Sony ECMCS3 is a clip-style stereo microphone from Sony that comes under 100 $. And despite being affordable, it gives excellent omnidirectional audio quality. It comes with a 360-degree rotation. The clip provides with simple attachment mechanism and can be easily attached to shirts or mounted on the helmet. It is one of the best action camera microphone attachments for your motorcycle helmet camera and despite the blowing wind, you’ll hear your voice clearly in your recordings. It can also be a great option for recording voiceovers and video streaming. It’s 3 segmented and connects directly to the GoPro adapter. It doesn’t require batteries. Moreover, it also works great with camcorders and DSLR models like Nikon D7000. It is the best camera mic for vlogging.
12. PolarPro Promic Microphone Kit
Best uses: Concerts, Motorsports, and Interviews.
Compatibility: GoPro Hero3+, Hero3, Hero4, and Hero2.
- Key Specifications:
- Connector: 3.5 mm mini-jack (mini-USB adapter included for GoPro)
- Connectivity: Directly plugs in
- Batteries: No battery
- Dimensions: 2.76 x 1.97 x 0.39 inches
- Weight: 2.4 ounces
With the Polar Pro Promic Microphone Kit, you can take the sound quality of your GoPros to the next level. This kit includes a ProMic, right-angle adaptor, windscreen, and wired Lavalier microphone. The ProMic plugs directly into your Hero2, Hero3, Hero3 plus, or Hero4 camera, and makes it easy to improve the sound levels and quality of your GoPro audio. And when you need to use a wired Lavalier microphone while your wifi is on, the included right-angle adaptor will come in handy. Finally, the windscreen will help reduce unwanted noise and buzzing from wind interference. It doesn’t require batteries and plugs directly into the camera. So, if you’re a beginner looking for a plug-and-play mic, the Polar Pro Promic Microphone kit is a great option to consider.
What features to look for when buying the best action camera microphone attachment?
When it comes to choosing the best action camera microphone attachment, there are a number of factors you’ll need to consider. By thinking about what you’ll be using your camera for, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect microphone for your needs. Here are a few of the most important factors to consider:
Sound quality:
This is obviously the most important factor to consider when choosing the best microphone. The sound quality of the microphone should be clear and distortion-free. Make sure to read reviews and compare different models to find one that offers the best sound quality for your needs.
Compatibility:
Make sure that your action cam accepts the external mic input and that the microphone is also compatible with your camera model.
Connector type:
The most common connector types are 3.5mm, micro USB, and XLR. Make sure the connector type on the microphone matches the connector type on your camera. However, you can consider buying the adapter even if it doesn’t match.
Durability:
If you’re using your microphone for outdoor activities, you’ll want to make sure it’s durable enough to withstand the elements. For an action camera, you’d need a mic that’s waterproof and can stay put during your adventure.
Size and weight:
You’ll also want to consider the size and weight of the microphone, as these factors can be important considerations when choosing a model that is compatible with your action camera. The size and weight of your external microphone should not limit the portability of your action cam by adding too much size and weight to your initial setup. It should be comfortable to carry when clipped to your collar or mounted on your camera.
Price:
Finally, don’t forget to consider your budget when making your purchase. Mics for cameras range in price from around $20 to $200 or more, so make sure to find one that fits your budget.
How to choose the right action camera microphone attachment?
As we mentioned earlier, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. However, here are some tips on how to choose the best action camera microphone attachment:
• Consider your needs – The first thing you need to do is consider what you’ll be using your action camera for. If you’ll be using it for activities like skiing or snowboarding, you’ll need a microphone that is both durable and lightweight. On the other hand, if you’re primarily using your camera for video blogging, you may want to consider a more expensive model that offers better sound quality.
• Read reviews – Once you’ve narrowed down your options, be sure to read reviews from other consumers. This will help you get a better idea of what the microphone is like in real life, and whether it’s a good fit for your needs.
• Contact the manufacturer – If you’re still having trouble deciding which microphone to buy, don’t hesitate to contact the manufacturer’s customer service department. They’ll be able to help you choose the right attachment for your camera and answer any questions you may have.
People Also Ask
Why do I need an action camera microphone attachment?
While most action cameras have built-in microphones, the sound quality may not always meet professional standards.Therefore, the best action camera microphone attachments help capture clear and distortion-free sound, improving the overall audio quality of your videos.
What types of microphones are available for action cameras?
There are two common types: shotgun microphones and lavalier (lapel) microphones. Shotgun camera mics are ideal for capturing audio from a distance, such as interviews or sporting events. Lavalier is a compact microphone that attaches to shirt, making it suitable for close-up recording or voiceovers.
Are action camera microphone attachments waterproof?
Most action camera microphone attachments are not designed for underwater use. They are typically not waterproof, so it’s important to protect them from water exposure. However, there are certain models that are slip- and water-proof, making them suitable for various weather conditions
Can I use an action camera microphone attachment with a camera protective case?
The best action camera microphone attachments can be challenging to use with camera protective cases. The case may interfere with the microphone’s connectivity or affect the sound quality. It’s recommended to remove the protective case when using an external microphone for optimal performance.
Are there any affordable options for action camera with mic attachments?
Yes, there are budget-friendly options available. For example, the Rode VideoMicro Microphone offers good sound quality at an affordable price. It’s a compact and lightweight option that doesn’t require a separate battery.
Final Words:
An action cam with external mic can be a valuable addition to your filming arsenal. By helping to capture clear, crisp sound without any distortion, they can help improve the overall quality of your videos. By considering the factors listed above, you can find the right model for your needs and enjoy crisp, clear audio while capturing impressive footage of all of your outdoor adventures.
