The primary purpose of attaching an external microphone. A Rode wireless lav mic, is to enhance the sound output of the camera. An action camera microphone attachment helps content creators and filmmakers capture detailed sound levels.
Compared to built-in mics of action cams, these external microphone attachments help content creators record high-quality audio without any hassle.
These external microphones can be mounted on top of these action cams. Most of these cams have a cold shoe mount located on top of the action cam.
Introduction
To get the best quality audio out of action cam videos, many people opt for an action camera microphone attachment.
Microphone attachments allow action cameras to pick up sound from farther away and with greater clarity than the built-in microphones. Action camera microphones are designed to be small and light so they don’t interfere with the camera’s portability.
They usually attach to either the side or the top of an action camera and come in both wired and wireless varieties.
By attaching a microphone to an action camera, you can capture the clear, high-quality sound that perfectly complements your videos. This can be especially helpful for outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and skateboarding.
Now, there are many types of action camera microphone attachments available. For your convenience, we have selected the best ones. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at some of the best action camera microphone mounts. So, let us get started!
8 Best Microphone Attachments for Action Cameras
IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
---|---|---|---|---|
Best Comica Shotgun
|
Comica Shotgun Microphone
|
Comica Shotgun Microphone
|
|
View on Amazon |
Best in Value
|
Movo VXR10 Universal Video Microphone
|
Movo VXR10 Universal Video Microphone
|
|
View on Amazon |
Best for Metal Cutting
|
External Microphone Brave 7
|
External Microphone Brave 7
|
|
View on Amazon |
Best for Resawing
|
DJI Mic Wireless Lavalier Microphone
|
DJI Mic Wireless Lavalier Microphone
|
|
View on Amazon |
Rode Wireless Go
|
Rode Wireless Go
|
|
View on Amazon | |
LUCKYBIRD Omnidirectional Microphone
|
LUCKYBIRD Omnidirectional Microphone
|
|
View on Amazon | |
Drift Ghost 3.5mm External Microphone
|
Drift Ghost 3.5mm External Microphone
|
|
View on Amazon | |
Best Comic Shotgun
|
Purple Panda Lavalier Lapel Microphone Kit
|
Purple Panda Lavalier Lapel Microphone Kit
|
|
View on Amazon |
1: Comica Shotgun Microphone-Action camera microphone attachment
The Comica Shotgun Microphone is a versatile and powerful mic for capturing audio. It features a directional design that focuses on the sound you want to capture while reducing annoying background noise. The shotgun microphone also has adjustable gain.
Mic & Sound Output
This action camera microphone attachment features a unidirectional polar pattern that focuses its sensitivity on Sound Sources in front of the mic, reducing ambient noise and background interference. This makes it ideal for capturing voices and instruments with clarity and details.
This mic also has a low-noise preamp, allowing for greater dynamic range and improved sound quality. Additionally, its rugged construction ensures reliable performance and durability.
Key Features
- Professional grade lavalier microphone
- Comes with a removable windscreen and lapel clip to
- Includes an adapter cable that works with both iOS and Android devices.
- Compatible with DSLR cameras, camcorders, audio recorders, smartphones, and tablets
- Requires no batteries or drivers
- Durable metal construction.
Pros
- Adjustable Gain
- Low Cut Filters
- Quality Sound Output
Cons
- Price Range
Price Range
The Comica Shotgun Microphone Kit costs around $60. For latest pricing, you can check it out on Amazon.
2: Purple Panda Lavalier Lapel Microphone Kit-Action camera microphone attachment
The Purple Panda Lavalier Lapel Microphone Kit is a great choice for anyone looking for high-quality audio recording. This kit includes a lavalier microphone and all the necessary accessories to make sure you get the best sound possible.
Mic & Sound Output
The microphone uses a sensitive condenser capsule and is designed with an internal windscreen to reduce noise from wind or movement. It has a wide range of frequency responses, allowing it to accurately capture high-pitched and low-frequency sounds.
The kit also includes an adjustable clip, making attaching the microphone to clothing easy. This allows you to move freely while still recording crystal-clear audio. The kit also comes with a 3-meter-long cable and an adapter, allowing you to connect it to different devices easily.
Key Features
- Professional grade lavalier microphone
- Comes with a removable windscreen and lapel clip to
- Includes an adapter cable that works with both iOS and Android devices.
- Compatible with DSLR cameras, camcorders, audio recorders, smartphones, and tablets >
- Requires no batteries or drivers
- Durable metal construction
- High static contrast ratio of 3,000:1
Pros
- Excellent Sound Output for the Price
- Easy to attach to any clothing
- Good noise cancellation
Cons
- Long Wire Can Be a Hassle to Manage
Price Range
The Purple Panda Lavalier Lapel Microphone Kit costs around $32. For latest pricing, you can check it out on Amazon.
3: Movo VXR10 Universal Video Microphone–Action camera microphone attachment
The Movo VXR10 Universal Video microphone is the perfect mic for recording high-quality sound with your smartphone, DSLR camera, or camcorder.
Mic & Sound Output
The Movo VXR10 Universal Video Microphone is equipped with a professional-grade condenser capsule that delivers crystal-clear sound quality.
Its cardioid polar pattern reduces background noise and focuses on the desired sound source, making it an ideal choice for interviews, vlogs, and more.
The microphone has a 3.5mm output jack to easily connect to most digital cameras, smartphones, and recorders and adjustable audio levels for greater control over the recording process.
The mic also features a shock mount system to reduce handling noise from vibrations or bumps. With its high-quality components, the Movo VXR10 Universal Video Microphone is an excellent choice for capturing pristine audio clarity in any situation. Because of all these features, it is ranked among the best camera microphones.
Key Features
- Low noise preamp
- 35 Hz to 18 kHz Frequency Range
- Includes furry windscreen, foam windscreen, and camera shoe mount
- Compatible with DSLR cameras, smartphones, tablets & camcorders
- 42 dB at 1 kHz Sensitivity
Pros
- Blocks Maximum Background Noise
- Cardioid Polar Pattern Mic
- Blocks Maximum Background Noise
Cons
- None
Price Range
The Movo VXR10 Universal Video Microphone costs around $40. For the latest pricing for action camera microphone attachment , you can check it out on Amazon.
4: External Microphone Brave 7-Action camera microphone attachment
The Brave 7 is also one of the best microphones for camera. It can be used to record audio for music, podcasts, and videos. It comes with an adjustable tripod, windscreen, shock mount, and cables to connect the microphone to your device.
Mic & Sound Output
The Brave 7-Mic has an external microphone designed to provide users with superior sound quality. It features two capsules optimized for capturing high-quality audio and a low-noise preamp circuit that helps reduce background noise.
The mic also has two different recording modes. One is mono, and one is stereo. This way, you can choose the most suitable sound for your recording. Further, the mic is designed with a rugged construction and a durable carrying case to withstand harsh conditions.
Key Features
- Omnidirectional Polar pattern
- Frequency response of 20 Hz to 18 kHz
- Plug and Play USB connection
- Easy setup without any drivers required
- Compatible with PCs, Macs and mobile devices
- Integrated headphone jack for real time monitoring.
Pros
- Great Audio Output
- Easy to Use
- A Versatile Microphone
Cons
- May not perform the same in extreme conditions
Price Range
The Brave 7 microphone costs around $50. For the latest pricing, you can check it out on Amazon
5: DJI Mic Wireless Lavalier Microphone–Action camera microphone attachment
The DJI Mic Wireless Lavalier Microphone is an ideal choice for recording audio in a variety of situations. It’s small and lightweight, allowing you to move freely without worrying about cables getting in the way.
Mic & Sound Output
The DJI Mic Wireless Lavalier Microphone is an incredibly powerful microphone that offers excellent sound quality. It has a sensitive and accurate diaphragm, so it can pick up small details in audio recordings. It also has a low-noise floor, meaning that you won’t hear any background noise or distortion when using the mic.
Plus, the wireless feature of action camera microphone attachment makes for easy portability so you can take it wherever your recording needs. Whether capturing audio on stage, in the studio or outdoors, this mic will always provide top-notch sound quality. With its reliable performance and clear audio capture, the DJI Mic is a great choice for any recording setup!
Key Features
- 50 Hz to 20 kHz Frequency Response
- High Pass Filter Included
- Up to 5 hours of battery life
- Omnidirectional Microphone for superior audio output
Pros
- Picks up even the tiniest audio details
- Wireless functionality
- Ideal for recording setup
Cons
- Only records mono on smartphones
Price Range
The DJI wireless microphone is quite costly. It costs a little over $200. For the latest pricing, you can check it out on Amazon.
6: Rode Wireless Go–Action camera microphone attachment
Next up, we have the Rode wireless Go microphone. Now, Rode microphones are known for their exceptional audio output. The same is the case with Rode Wireless Go.
Mic & Sound Output
The Rode Wireless Go Mic is an excellent choice if you are looking for a wireless microphone that delivers great sound quality. In addition, it has a range of up to 30 meters, so you can capture audio in larger spaces.
The Rode wireless microphone utilizes a high-quality condenser capsule and boasts low-noise circuitry, ensuring clear recordings without distortion or interference. Further, the built-in headphone jack also allows you to monitor your recordings as they happen.
In short, the Rode Wireless Go is designed to deliver crystal-clear sound quality. Its dual-transmitter design ensures that there’s no interference and the signal is strong and reliable.
Key Features
- Dual Channel Mic for Dual Purpose Recording
- Type C digital Audio Output
- Up to 7 Hours of Battery Life
- Convenient LED Display That Indicates Battery and Recording Status
Pros
- 3 Stage Gain Control
- Lightweight can compact design
- Can record in multiple channels
Cons
- No physical menu is provided in the box
Price Range
The Rode Wireless Go stand above other action camera microphone attachments. It cost around $269. For the latest pricing, you can check it out at Amazon.
7: LUCKYBIRD Omnidirectional Microphone–Action camera microphone attachment
The LUCKYBIRD Omnidirectional Microphone is also an excellent choice for capturing audio in any environment. It features an omnidirectional pickup pattern that allows it to capture sound from all directions. This makes it a great option for recording dialog and interviews.
Mic & Sound Output
The microphone has a dual-layer diaphragm design that helps reduce background noise and produces a clear sound with minimal distortion. Its wide frequency response range ensures you get the most out of your recordings.
The microphone also has a low sensitivity setting which makes it ideal for recording in noisy environments. The superior noise isolation technology also eliminates background noise and interference, resulting in higher-quality sound recordings. Whether you are recording vocals or instruments, the LUCKYBIRD Omnidirectional Microphone will give you great sound every time.
Key Features
- Universal Compatibility
- Plug and Play functionality
- 50 dB Signal to noise ratio
- Decent Shotgun microphone for starters
- Wide Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 KHz
Pros
- Supports low-sensitivity recording
- Good noise insulation performance
- Easy to use
Cons
- None
Price Range
For the latest pricing of LUCKYBIRD omnidirectional microphone, check it out on Amazon.
8: Drift Ghost 3.5mm External Microphone
The Drift Ghost 3.5mm action camera microphone attachment is perfect for anyone who needs to record crisp and clear audio. Like some other microphone attachments, you can also use it to record crystal clear sound on various action cams.
Mic & Sound Quality
This microphone plugs directly into your camera’s external mic port. With this microphone, you can capture sound without the need of any additional equipment or wires. The external mic has a directional pick-up pattern, so you can point it toward the source of sound in order to get optimal recordings.
It also comes with an adjustable shock mount, windscreen, and foam ball to help reduce ambience noise and ensure clean recordings. Plus, its compact size makes it easy to take along wherever you go.
Key Features
- Compatible with Drift Ghost 4K, HD and X action cameras.
- Its omnidirectional design picks up sound from all direction
- Offers plug-and-play functionality (No battery needed)
- Comes with an extension cable for easy access
- Lightweight and portable
Pros
- Wireless compatibility
- Adjustable shock amount
- Quite a versatile microphone
Cons
- The gain setting could have been better adjusted
Price Range
For the latest Drift Ghost 3.5mm external microphone pricing, check it out on Amazon.
How to Choose the Right Action Camera Microphone Attachment for Your Action Camera?
Now, let us find out what it takes to choose the best microphone attachment for the action camera. In reality, it is quite easy as you just have to consider a few factors before finalizing your decision. Here are a few tips in this regard.
1: Type of Content to Be Recorded
First, you should define the type of content you want to record. That’s because different types of content require different microphone qualities. For example, if you are recording a podcast or a video call, you need to make sure that the microphone has good noise cancellation features.
So that background sound is not recorded. Whereas if you are recording music, then the microphone should have greater sensitivity and frequency response range.
Similarly, if you are doing voice-overs, then look for a condenser microphone with wide dynamic range which will helpcapture detailed vocal richness. Depending on your purpose, choose the right type of microphone camera attachment accordingly.
2: Sound Quality
Sound quality is an obvious factor here to consider. That’s because, the quality of the mic will affect how clear and crisp your audio recordings are. Poor sound quality can ruin a video.
Therefore, it is worth investing in a higher-quality microphone if you want great audio results. In this regard, you should look for features like noise cancellation, frequency response range, pick up pattern, and sensitivity when shopping for microphones.
Here, you should also pay attention to your use age pattern. For example, if you want to use an external microphone in outdoor settings, noise cancelation is a feature you can’t miss out on.
Similarly, even a Lavalier mic could work for indoor spaces because of the less noise pollution around. So, you should also know your use age before ordering one.
3: Camera Compatibility
It is also important to ensure that the microphone camera attachment is compatible with your camera model. If not, it may not fit correctly, or in worse case it could cause damage to your device.
To avoid potential damage and ensure compatibility, check what type of cameras the product is designed for and compare this against the make and model of the camera you are using.
Further, you should also double-check any included instructions for installation to make sure you have all the necessary stuff before getting started.
In some cases, content creators can connect a non-compatible microphone through a third-party hack. Similarly, if your camera doesn’t have a headphone jack, you can use another device (be it your smartphone or an audio recording device) to record the sound.
Later on, you can join (Sync) the external audio with the video footage. This whole process is time-consuming. Therefore, it is best to check whether your camera supports your chosen microphone attachment or not.
4: Budget
When considering which microphone camera attachment to buy, keep your budget in mind. Decide how much you are willing to spend and make sure that the one you choose fits within your price range. Do research to compare prices and find out what features different models offer.
You may also want to read reviews from other users who have purchased a particular model, as this can help you make an informed decision about which microphone camera will be right for you.
Types of Action camera microphone attachment
1: External Microphones
External microphones are basically dedicated microphones that you can use to record various sounds. They are referred to as external mics since they are connected externally to a Pc, laptop, or a DSLR camera.
External microphones are useful for capturing clear audio recordings in noisy environments, such as concerts or lectures. They also allow you to adjust the direction and distance of the microphone, making it easier to capture specific sounds. External microphones come in both wired and wireless models, so you can choose the best option for your needs.
2: Directional Microphones
Directional microphones are specialized microphones that pick up sound from a specific direction, while rejecting sound from other directions. These types of microphones can be used to capture audio in noisy environments or from long distances.
They are often used in filmmaking, live recordings and in public address systems. Directional mics can also be helpful for isolating particular sounds within a recording, such as an instrument or voice.
3: Omnidirectional Microphones
Unlike directional microphones, the omnidirectional microphones are designed to capture sound from all directions at once. They have a single diaphragm that picks up sound equally from the front, sides and back of the mic.
The microphone is usually placed in the center of an area where you want to record sound, such as a conference room or outdoor space. This allows it to pick up all the sounds within its range without having to adjust its orientation or move around.
Omnidirectional mics are usually used for interviews, lectures and live recordings because they provide clear, natural-sounding audio without distortions such as echoes or background noise.
4: In-Camera Microphones
In-camera microphones are small microphones that are built into cameras and can be used to record audio. These microphones allow videographers and photographers to easily capture sound while they are shooting video or taking pictures.
In-camera microphones come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles depending on the type of camera you have.
What is the difference between Shotgun vs Lavalier?
When we talk about external microphones, we are greeted with two main types of external microphones. One is the shotgun and the other is the lavalier mic. Shotgun mics have a narrow polar pattern and are typically mounted on top of the camera or phone. This makes them ideal for capturing distant voices or sounds in outdoor environments.
Lavalier mics, clip onto your clothing and pick up sounds from close range such as interviews and vlogging.
Both these microphones are good in their own regard. In the end, it all comes down to your personal preferences.
How to Attach and Use a Microphone with Your Action Camera
Now, let us talk about using the microphone with your action camera. It is not that tough. Here is the brief run-down of the whole process.
Step-by-step guide
Step 1:
Start by finding the appropriate microphone adapter (Such as trs audio jacks) that is compatible with your action camera. There are many models and types available out there, so it’s important to make sure you are getting one that is suitable for your device.
Step 2:
Once you have the adapter, connect the microphone cable and plug it into the port on the adapter. Make sure everything has been securely connected and there’s no loose wires.
Step 3:
Place the microphone at a distance from your action camera where it can pick up sound well but not be too close to it as this may cause distortion of audio quality.
Step 4:
Now turn on your action camera and press record or start filming; make sure to check if audio recording is enabled as well.
Step 5:
Once you’re done recording, make sure to turn off your action camera as well as the microphone and unplug it from the adapter. This will prevent any potential damage in case of a power surge or related issues.
So, that’s how you can attach the microphone with your action camera. See, it’s not that complicated. You just have to ensure that the microphone is compatible with your action camera.
Conclusion
Now you know the best microphone attachments for the action cameras. In this regard, you have a ton of options to choose from. According to our review and testing, it’s the Comica shotgun microphone that is the best microphone attachment for action cameras.
It is a versatile microphone. It features a directional design that focuses on the sound you want to capture while reducing annoying background noise. Here, we should also highlight the various types of microphone options for action cameras.
The most common ones are the shotgun mic and lavalier mic. Shotgun mic is the robust mic as you can use it for a wide variety of purposes. The lavalier mic is ideal for recording close rage sounds such as interviews etc.
All in all, these microphone attachments really help content creators and filmmakers get the most out of their content.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does an action camera microphone attachment improve audio quality?
Ans: An action camera mic attachment improves the audio quality in so many ways. It blocks out unnecessary background noise and lets you record clear sound with ease.
Q: Is it possible to use an external microphone with all action cameras?
Ans: All modern action cameras allow users to use an external microphone. However, some action cams require the users to use a dedicated adapter for connecting an external microphone.
Q: Can in-camera microphones provide good sound quality for action cameras?
Ans: In camera, mics are only good to an extent. If you want to record quality audio, you must opt for an external microphone.
Q: How do I attach an external microphone to my action camera?
Ans: You can attach an external microphone through the 3.5 headphone jack in most action cams. In some cases, you may have to use a dedicated adapter for the same purpose.
Q: What is the difference between directional and omnidirectional microphones?
Ans: Directional mics capture sound from one direction only. Whereas, omnidirectional mics capture sound from all ends. Directional mics are good for blocking maximum ambient noise.