Action cameras have changed how thrilling moments and adventures are captured, providing high-quality video footage in extreme conditions. However, if there’s one area where action cameras often fall short, it’s capturing high-quality audio.
The built-in microphones are usually insufficient to capture clear, immersive sound, especially in noisy or windy environments. That’s where microphone attachments come into play. These handy accessories allow you to enhance your action camera’s audio.
This article lists the top five action camera microphone attachments that will enhance the audio recording experience.
Rode VideoMic Pro
| Connector Type | 3.5mm jack |
| Compatible Devices | Compatible with all cameras that are compatible with a 3.5mm jack. It also works with entry-level DSLRs. |
| Power Source | 19V battery |
| Audio Sensitivity | 14db |
| Polar Pattern | Unidirectional |
The Rode VideoMic Pro is renowned as the top microphone for filmmaking and the DJI Osmo action camera. Its versatility also extends to DSLR cameras, thanks to its impressive features. Equipped with a Rycote Lyre shock mount, this microphone effectively minimizes unwanted background noise.
Its half-inch condenser capsule ensures exceptional sound quality. At the same time, the super-cardioid polar pattern selectively captures sound in front of the microphone, effectively reducing ambient noise from the rear and sides. Additionally, the cold shoe mount features a ⅜ inch thread for easy attachment to a professional boom pole, and a foam windscreen is included for added convenience.
Buy Rode VideoMic Pro here
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Sennheiser Professional MKE 200
| Connector Type | 3.5mm jack |
| Compatible Devices | Compatible with all cameras that are compatible with a 3.5mm jack or USB-C. It also works with DSLR cameras and Smartphones. |
| Power Source | Corded electric |
| Audio Sensitivity | -33db |
| Polar Pattern | Unidirectional |
The Sennheiser Professional MKE 200 is a compact yet powerful microphone that is an excellent choice for GoPros when paired with the appropriate adapter. The Sennheiser Professional MKE 200 delivers directional audio with its internal suspension shock mount while minimizing handling noise.
This microphone unit, which doesn’t require batteries, is highly regarded as the top option for vlogging with action cameras. Despite being a shotgun mic, it excels at capturing sound when positioned at arm’s length, making it ideal for vlogging scenarios.
Buy Sennheiser Professional MKE 200 here
Maono WM821
| Connector Type | 3.5mm jack |
| Compatible Devices | Compatible with all cameras that are compatible with a 3.5mm jack. It also works with Smartphones. |
| Power Source | 4 lithium polymer batteries |
| Audio Sensitivity | 82db |
| Polar Pattern | Omnidirectional |
The Maono WM 821 is a wireless microphone system that offers convenience and flexibility in audio recording. The microphone features a cardioid pickup pattern, effectively capturing clear and focused sound while minimizing background noise.
Its compact and lightweight design makes the Maono WM 821 highly portable, making it suitable for various applications such as interviews, presentations, and live performances.
Get more insight on Maono WM 821 here
Buy Maono WM821 here
Rode Wireless GO II
| Connector Type | USB-C and 3.5mm jack |
| Compatible Devices | Compatible with all cameras that are compatible with a 3.5mm jack or USB-C. It also works with Smartphones. |
| Power Source | Corded electric |
| Audio Sensitivity | -30db |
| Polar Pattern | Unidirectional |
The Rode Wireless GO II, the successor to the highly popular Rode Wireless Go, is my top recommendation as a wireless microphone attachment for action cameras. While maintaining the excellent sound quality of its predecessor, this new version boasts an array of additional features, including the Rode Central app, which allows for remote control of sound settings.
The Rode Wireless GO II comprises two compact transmitters and a dual-channel receiver. The transmitters can be conveniently clipped on or used with Lavalier microphones. With built-in internal storage capable of storing up to 40 hours of audio, it also comes equipped with two small, furry wind muffs to minimize wind noise.
Buy Rode Wireless GO II here
Rode SmartLav+
| Connector Type | 3.5mm jack |
| Compatible Devices | Compatible with all cameras that are compatible with a 3.5mm jack. It also works with Tablets, Smartphones and laptops. |
| Power Source | Corded electric |
| Audio Sensitivity | 67db |
| Polar Pattern | Omnidirectional |
If your primary content creation tool is a smartphone, the Rode SmartLav+ is an excellent option. This Lavalier microphone is specifically designed for mobile devices. For compatibility with certain action cameras, the Rode SmartLav+ can be used with the 6m long SC3 adapter, which is available from Rode.
The Rode SmartLav+ features a compact design, measuring only 4.5mm in diameter. It includes a foam windscreen and a sturdy yet discreet clip mount for easy attachment. This microphone conveniently plugs directly into the smartphone’s headphone jack, and its cable is durable with kevlar reinforcement.
It requires the rode app, which can be downloaded on your smartphone, it has a free version which obviously has limited access to advanced settings and offers fewer file formats for recordings, and the pro version is paid.
Buy Rode SmartLav+ here
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