Hey vloggers! If you’re looking for the best GoPro microphones, you’ve come to the right place.
In this blog post, we’ll be sharing our top 8 picks for the best GoPro mics. So if you’re ready, let’s get started!
GoPros have poor audio quality because they are not designed to be used as professional-grade video cameras. They are smaller, portable, and rugged options for people who want to capture their memories in a creative way.
While GoPros do have an external mic input, the built-in microphones are not always best for capturing quality sound.
If you’re looking to improve the audio quality of your GoPro videos, then we recommend investing in a good external microphone.
Key takeaways
- To be able to make the correct choice for you, the microphone should easily connect to your camera, it should be able to cut out background noises, and it should have the kind of recording quality you need.
- Other features such as weight, battery, warranty, which budget it falls into, other assorted pros, etc can be looked into according to your needs.
MOVO VXR-10
- Shotgun style
- Clean audio
- Filters out wind noise
RODE VideoMic Pro
- Shotgun style
- Extremely light
- Great quality audio
Purple Panda Lavalier
- Corded lavalier
- No external power
- Great for desk use
Top 8 Best Microphones For GoPro Cameras
1. Movo VXR10 Universal Video Microphone
- Connectivity Technology: Auxiliary
- Connector Type: 3.5 mm Jack
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
- Audio Sensitivity: 76 dB
- Microphone Form Factor: Shotgun
- Power Source: Battery Powered
The Movo VXR10 Universal Video Microphone is a great option for improving the sound quality of your GoPro videos. It’s made with durable aluminum construction and has a battery-free design, which makes it a great choice for those who want a shotgun mic that is easy to use and reliable.
It also includes a sturdy integrated shock mount to minimize handling noise, making it an ideal choice for vloggers and bloggers who want to capture high-quality sound while on the go.
The Movo VXR10 comes with a furry “Deadcat” windscreen, soft carrying case, 3.5mm TRS output cable (for DSLR cameras, camcorders, and recorders), and 3.5mm TRRS output cable (for smartphones, tablets, and Mac).
It’s also backed by a 1-year warranty, making it a great choice for those who want a quality microphone that they can rely on.
Who it’s good for
The Movo VXR10 is a shotgun microphone that is designed to be used with GoPro cameras. It is a compact and lightweight mic that can be easily attached to your camera.
The VXR10 is perfect for recording YouTube vlogs, interviews, family vacation trips, live music, outdoor events, and tutorials.
It delivers clear and accurate sound quality, and its directional pickup pattern ensures that you will capture the audio from your subject without any background noise.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight
- Easy to attach to your camera
- Clear and accurate sound quality
- Directional pickup pattern eliminates background noise
- Effectively cancels out wind noise
Cons
- Vibration mount is plastic, not too great
Shabbir’s verdict
If you’re looking for a top-quality microphone to use with your GoPro, the Movo VXR10 is definitely worth considering.
The only downside is that the mount could be more stable, but overall it’s a great mic that will give your videos a professional edge.
2. Rode VideoMic Pro Shotgun Microphone
- Connectivity Technology: Auxiliary
- Polar Pattern: Unidirectional
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Audio sensitivity: 14db
The Rode Videomic Go is a great shotgun microphone for the GoPro. It’s lightweight and easy to use, with a tight pickup area that reduces surrounding sounds and ensures your subject is isolated from background noise.
The tight pickup area is a good feature in a microphone because it ensures your subject is isolated from background noise. This is important for capturing clear audio while filming or vlogging.
The integrated Rycote Lyre shock mount also helps to isolate the mic from bumps and vibrations. And best of all, it requires no batteries to operate, so you never miss a great shot.
The Rode Videomic Go is shockingly lightweight given its construction quality. Despite its light weight, the shotgun mic feels durable and hard-wearing. I never had any issues with it while using it on my GoPro, and it never felt like it would break or fall apart.
The Rode Videomic Go is powered by your camera’s external microphone input, so there are no batteries necessary. This makes it easy to use and eliminates the need to worry about running out of power in the middle of a shoot.
Who it’s good for
The Rode Videomic go is a great shotgun mic for the GoPro because it’s so light. It weighs only 2.5 ounces, which makes it easy to carry around and easy to use. The light weight also means that it’s less likely to cause camera shake, which can degrade the audio quality of your recordings.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Tight pickup area eliminates background noise
- No batteries necessary
Cons
- Not as sensitive as some other shotgun mics
Shabbir’s Verdict
Overall, we think the Rode Videomic go is a great product for anyone looking for an easy-to-use, light weight microphone.
The sound quality is good and it’s really easy to set up and use. We would definitely recommend this mic to anyone shooting video on the go!
3. EDUTIGE ETM-001 Microphone – Omnidirectional 3.5mm 3-Pole(TRS) Microphone
- Connectivity: auxiliary
- Polar pattern: omnidirection
- Audio sensitivity: 23db
- Signal-to-noise ratio: 58db
The EDUTIGE ETM-001 is a great lightweight microphone because it is highly sensitive and captures sound in all directions. This makes it perfect for vlogging, filming, interviewing, and sharing content on YouTube and Instagram.
The omni-directional design also boosts the volume of your audio recordings, making them louder and clearer. Plus, it’s a 3-pole mic originally designed for PCs and digital voice recorders, so it’s great for DSLR or mirrorless cameras too!
The small size of the EDUTIGE ETM-001 is perfect for outdoor vlogging. Since it is lightweight and highly sensitive, it will not distract from or interfere with your filming.
To use the EDUTIGE ETM-001 with a GoPro Hero3 or Hero4 camera, you will need the Mini USB to 3.5mm Microphone Adapter Cable for GoPro or the 3.5mm Mic Adapter from GoPro.
The adapter cables allow you to connect the mic to your camera’s USB port or audio input jack. Once connected, you can start recording high quality audio with your GoPro!
Who it’s good for
If you’re traveling light and want to take your GoPro camera with you, the EDUTIGE ETM-001 is a great option.
The mic is lightweight and highly sensitive, so it won’t add extra weight or bulk to your gear. It’s also easy to use – just connect it to your GoPro camera with the included adapter cables and start recording high quality audio!
Pros
- Very compact
- Hardly noticeable
- Good recording quality
Cons
- Is not angled at 90 degrees
- Omnidirectional sensitivity is a double-edged sword
Shabbir’s verdict
If you’re in the market for a new travel mic, I definitely recommend checking out the EDUTIGE ETM-001. It’s really tiny and unobtrusive, making it great for traveling ultra-light. Just be sure to keep an eye on it, because it’s that much easier to lose! Thanks for reading.
4. Purple Panda Lavalier Lapel Microphone Kit
- Connectivity: USB and 3.5mm
- Polar pattern: omnidirectional
- Microphone type: lavalier
The best way to get great audio for your GoPro videos is with the Purple Panda Lavalier Lapel Microphone. This mic is designed for use with DSLR cameras, GoPros, and other video recording devices.
It’s durable, lightweight, and discreet, so you can capture high-quality audio with ease. The kit includes the microphone, a 9.8ft extension cord, a mini USB adapter, a TRS (2 ring) adapter, a fuzzy windscreen, and an ebook.
With this many accessories and the 1-year warranty, you can rest assured that you’re getting great value for your money.
This mic is perfect for vlogging, motovlogging, filmmaking, or gaming. If you want to transform your films and YouTube videos, the Purple Panda Lavalier Lapel Microphone is the best way to get great audio.
The Purple Panda Lavalier Lapel Microphone is compatible with a variety of devices, including iPhones, Android/Galaxy phones, DSLR cameras, GoPros, Zoom and Tascam recorders, and PS4 controllers.
However, it is not compatible with camcorders, PC/computers/laptops, GoPro Sessions, Nexus phones, or the Galaxy J series.
Who it’s good for
Lavalier microphones, also known as lapel microphones, are typically better suited to you if you’re using it for desk, studio, and interview settings.
This is because they are smaller and more discreet than other types of microphones. They can be easily hidden underneath clothing, which is why they are often used for interviews.
Lavalier microphones also have a higher quality of audio than most other types of microphones. This is because they are closer to the mouth, which results in less distortion. They are also less likely to pick up background noise.
Pros
- Very budget friendly
- Decent audio for the price
Cons
- Quality leaves a little to be desired for professional use
Shabbir’s verdict
The Purple Panda lavalier mic is a great way to get started with capturing high quality audio from your GoPro. It’s ideal for interviews, and it can really help you improve the sound quality of your videos.
If you’re looking for an affordable way to improve the audio in your GoPro videos, then the purple panda lavalier mic is definitely worth considering.
5. Rode Wireless Go II Microphone
- Microphone type: wireless lavalier
- Polar pattern: omnidirectional
- Power: battery powered
The Rode Wireless Go II microphone is a great choice for GoPro users who want to vlog, film, interview, and share their content on YouTube and Instagram. Some of its key features and benefits include:
- Universal compatibility with cameras, mobile devices, and computers
- Extended range (200m line of sight)
- Improved transmission stability
- On-board recording capabilities
Overall, the Rode Wireless Go II microphone is a high-quality and versatile option that is perfect for a wide range of content creation applications.
Who it’s good for
If you are an amateur filmmaker or blogger, the Rode Wireless Go II microphone is a great option for capturing high-quality audio content.
This mic is compatible with a wide range of devices, and it offers an extended range and improved transmission stability. With this mic, it is easy to capture and share your content on YouTube and Instagram.
Pros
- The Rode Wireless Go II microphone also features encrypted transmission, which ensures your audio content remains confidential.
- Long life battery
Cons
- No charger cable included
Shabbir’s Verdict
If you’re in the market for a new microphone, and you want the best of the best, then Rode is the brand for you.
With years of experience in audio technology, Rode has become synonymous with quality microphones that always deliver great sound. So if you’re looking to buy a mic, don’t even bother considering any other brands – just go straight for a Rode.
6. Removu RM-M1+A1 Wireless Mic
- Connectivity: Bluetooth
- Polar pattern: omnidirectional
- Power: lithium battery
The Removu RM-M1+A1 Wireless Mic is a great choice for GoPro users who want to improve the quality of their videos. This mic fits snugly into the standard BacPac housing, so there is no additional investment required if you already have that housing.
The mic runs on a included Lithium battery and provides up to 6 hours of use. It has a maximum distance of 40 yards, depending on your environment.
The mic is compatible with the following GoPro models: HERO3, HERO3 plus and HERO4.
Who it’s good for
When you need to capture high-quality audio, a wireless mic is the best option. GoPro users often need to capture audio during interviews or while giving sports instruction. In these situations, a wireless mic will ensure that the audio is clear and crisp.
Wired mics and shotgun mics are not good for GoPro users who need to capture high-quality audio in uncontrolled environments, such as in the great outdoors or in a busy city street, the sound quality will be poor.
This is because wired mics and shotgun mics are not able to filter out ambient noise like a wireless mic can, because the wireless mic is much closer to the source of the sound.
Pros
- Great sound quality
- Easily fits onto the GoPro
Cons
- Very limited compatibility
Shabbir’s Verdict
If you’re looking for a wireless mic that works specifically with the GoPro Hero 3 and Hero 4, the Removu RM-M1+A1 is a great option. The sound quality is excellent, and it’s very easy to attach to your GoPro.
However, it’s only compatible with those two models of GoPro, so if you have a different model camera, you’ll need to look at another model like the Rode Wireless Go(see above).
7. BOYA BY-MM1 Video Microphone
- Connectivity: Auxiliary
- Connectivity jack: 3.5mm
- Polar pattern: 42 dB
The BOYA BY-MM1 Video Microphone is a great choice for YouTubers and vloggers who need to capture high-quality audio. This unidirectional microphone has a wide frequency response range, so it can pick up the full sound range.
It also offers a mid-range of sensitivity, making it perfect for capturing clear audio in a variety of environments. The BOYA BY-MM1 is built with durability in mind, featuring an aluminum construction and integrated shock mount.
It also comes with several cables and a furry windscreen to keep your audio recordings sounding great.
The Boya BY-MM1 Video Microphone comes with a built-in shock mount, which is an important feature for any GoPro mic. The shock mount helps to minimize handling noise, which can often ruin an audio recording.
By minimizing handling noise, the Boya BY-MM1 ensures that your recordings will sound clear and crisp, no matter what the environment.
Who it’s good for
If you’re a YouTuber, vlogger, or filmmaker who wants a really inexpensive mic to capture audio from their GoPro, the BOYA BY-MM1 Video Microphone is a great option.
It’s also a good choice if you’re looking for a durable mic that can withstand some wear and tear.
Pros
- Unidirectional microphone captures clear audio
- Wide frequency response range ensures you capture the full sound
- Furry windscreen included
- Affordable
Cons
- Not as sensitive as some other mics
- Some users reported issues with build quality
Shabbir’s verdict
If you’re on a shoestring budget but need a mic for your GoPro, the Boya is a suitable choice that will get the job done. However, if you’re looking for something that’s truly worth every penny, consider something like the Rode VideoMic.
8. Kiwifotos Shotgun Mic
This shotgun mic is a versatile tool that can be used for podcasts, vlogs and interviews.
It has an omnidirectional polar pattern which means it will pick up sound from all directions equally as well so you don’t need to worry about background noise getting into your footage when recording someone talking right next door or behind them!
The cardioid design focuses on audio in front while blocking anything coming off-axis ensuring only what’s directly ahead gets recorded – making this perfect if they’re going standup with their voice close enough not too much distance away but still want isolation during editing.
Improve the audio quality of your videos on YouTube, vlogging and more with this mic! It’s great for interviews or family vacation trips.
You can also use it when you are shooting music podcasts in Facebook Live mode as well Run-and Gun shoots outdoor events like marathons without having to worry about carrying around extra equipment because everything needs is right here.
The packaging for this lightweight mic includes 1x aluminum construction cardioid mostly-cantilever design, which is perfect if you need omnidirectional coverage.
It also comes with a shock mount and deadcat windscreen so your voice will sound clear no matter how far away from the speaker! The storage case makes it easy to take wherever life takes you.
Who it’s good for
The Kiwifotos shotgun mic is great to use with phones, cameras, and of course, GoPros. The best part about this mic is that it’s versatile and can be used for podcasts, vlogs, interviews, and even music recordings.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Omnidirectional polar pattern picks up sound from all directions
- Cardioid design focuses on audio in front
- Shock mount and deadcat windscreen included
- Storage case included
Cons
- Shock mount is made from plastic
Shabbir’s Verdict
The Kiwifotos shotgun mic is a great, versatile mic that can be used for a variety of purposes.
While it’s a respectable sounding microphone, it’s not the best sounding mic on this list, so it’s a great option for those who need a lightweight and easy-to-use mic for their GoPro.
How to get the best GoPro microphone
Before you go out and buy the best GoPro microphone, there are a few things you need to consider.
First, what type of content will you be filming? If you’re just vlogging or shooting casual footage, then any microphone will do. However, if you plan on doing interviews or capturing more professional-grade content, then you’ll need a mic that can handle higher levels of sound pressure.
Also, consider where you’ll be using the mic. If you’re going to be filming outdoors or in windy conditions, then you’ll need a mic with a directional pickup pattern that can cancel out ambient noise.
On the other hand, if you’re mostly shooting indoors or in quiet environments, then an omnidirectional mic will work best.
Compatibility and adapters
Whichever mic you choose has to be compatible with your GoPro. There are a few external microphones that are compatible with GoPro cameras. They are as follows:
- Hero10 Black
- Hero9 Black
- Hero8 Black
- Hero7 Black
- Hero6 Black
- Hero5 Black
- Hero5 Session
- Hero4 Black/Silver
- Hero3+Black
- Hero3 Black
The external microphones that are not compatible with GoPro cameras are as follows:
- Hero7 Silver/White
- Hero (2018) / (2014)
- Hero+LCD
- Hero4 Session
- Hero Session
Since there are not many options for external microphones that are actually compatible, most GoPro users prefer to have another option on standby, the adapter. Most GoPros offer mic support with the help of a 3.5mm adapter.
Now you could also go for the official microphone adapter from GoPro, but some might find that too expensive. However, there are many third-party microphones available online which are pocket friendly.
Before you purchase a third-party microphone, you will need to check if they are indeed compatible with your device. Most of them are not compatible at all and you might experience problems like a slight hissing sound while filming or audio recording to only one channel.
The main rule when choosing an external mic is to check out whether your GoPro model is compatible or not and then choose the most compact one that suits you better.
Warranty
GoPro microphones have a warranty of one year from the date it was purchased. If during the warranty period you experience any kind of damage to the microphone, GoPro will replace the damaged part with another comparable part.
The replacement is only when there is a fault in the mechanism of the product. Wear and tear of the product resulting from daily usage will not be covered by the warranty.
Along with the warranty period, GoPro also offers a return policy. One thing you have to note is that you cannot return any GoPro product if the latest firmware is not installed in it.
Rode VideoMic Pro+ offers the best warranty period which is 10 years once you have registered. If you haven’t registered that the warranty period might be less. Other manufacturers who offer a shorter warranty period with a 30-day refund policy.
Polar pattern
The polar pattern indicates how the microphone will pick up sound. Cardioid, Super Cardioid or Shotgun, Bidirectional and Omnidirectional are the polar patterns you want to look for.
Cardioid is the most favoured polar pattern amongst GoPro users because of its high sensitivity to sound coming in from the front of the microphone, no sensitivity to sound coming from behind and reduced sensitivity to sound coming in from the sides.
Super Cardioid or Shotgun helps reduce the background noise that is drowning out the main audio.
Audio sensitivity
Audio sensitivity is measured in decibels relative to one volt. Also represented as dBV. That is basically the signal strength of the microphone.
The sensitivity you should be looking for is approximately around -20 dBV. If the sensitivity number goes to -60 dBV then that mic is not considered sensitive.
-23 dBV is said to be the most sensitive microphone.
Frequency response
Frequency response is how the microphone picks up different frequencies. If you want your microphone to pick up a male voice, a frequency range of around 100 HZ will cover the lower part of the male vocal range.
There are different frequency responses for different external microphones. There are some microphones which will give you the frequency response of 40 HZ to 20 HZ and some might give you 40 HZ to 16 HZ, etc.
Signal-to-noise ratio
The signal-to-noise ratio or SNR tells you how much-unwanted noise is passing through the mic. You might come across a lot of static noise in the recordings in microphones that are cheaper and not well accounted for. This could lead to poor audio quality.
If a microphone has a 75-decibel rating then that is considered a good rating and a safe choice. When determining the correct signal-to-noise ratio it is important to note the environment you’re going to be recording in.
You can choose a lower SNR rating if you are going to record in noisy environments as the signal noise will not be noticed as much. For quiet environments, you might need a higher SNR.
Dimensions and weight
The weight and dimensions of the microphone are also important to factor to consider before purchasing. Some mics are heavier than others so you have to narrow down your options keeping in mind your comfort and need.
So if you are looking to film extended sessions, a lighter mic may appeal to you more than the heavier ones.
The size of the microphone is an important aspect as it determines how easily you can plug and unplug it from your GoPro and use it on other appliances. Also, compact size is convenient as it wouldn’t be secure to pick a huge mic that can drop anytime in an unexpected way.
What else can be useful?
You have a wide array of accessories that can be paired with external microphones to give you a much better experience. These accessories include windscreens or fuzzy windscreens – which help to block the winds; a shock mount – which allows you to attach the camera and the microphone to your device.
Some companies also offer extension cords that you may need in certain situations.
You can also opt to have the media mod, however only the versions Hero 8, 9 and 10 feature this. The media mod includes the directional mic that is meant to decrease the ambience noise and helps you record clearer videos, vlogs or interviews along with the external microphone.
A few other things that you should keep in mind while purchasing a GoPro microphone is that aside from its amazing audio quality, its build should also be sturdy and light to undergo any weather conditions and is easy to handle while travelling.
Battery power is also a well-determined aspect to look into. With sufficient battery power like 9V or even 1 AAA type, you can go up to long hours of recording without any hitch.
Some microphones also have an LED indicator to let you know how much battery is left.
Conclusion
It can be difficult to determine which GoPro microphone is best for you, as there are a variety of factors to consider.
However, the three best microphones we’ve found are the Movo VXR10 Universal Video Microphone, the Rode VideoMic Pro Shotgun Microphone, and the EDUTIGE ETM-001 Omnidirectional 3.5mm 3-Pole(TRS) Microphone.
Each of these mics has its own set of strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to choose one that will best suit your specific needs. For example, if you plan on filming outdoors or in windy conditions, then you’ll need a mic with a directional pickup pattern.
On the other hand, if you’re mostly shooting indoors or in quiet environments, then an omnidirectional mic will work best.
So choose your mic wisely as you will not have many opportunities to change again and again. If you are not sure which mic to choose, you can always try a few out before purchasing!