I have reviewed 7 of the most popular Action Camera Microphone Attachments so you can make a quick and informative choice on which one is ideal for you to purchase.
Your action camera’s built-in audio systems may not record high-quality sound. To ensure that you are providing the finest quality sound for your viewers, you will need an aftermarket microphone attachment for your action camera.
Typically to make sure the Mic is compatible you will need a brand/model-specific microphone attachment.
The problem with this approach is it limits your choice.
So, if you want more choice, the other option is to buy a cage/case with a cold shoe mount to use with other camera/videocam microphone attachments.
Note: depending on the camera, you may also need a suitable cable adapter for this option.
The Four Best Products:
| Best Overall Mic: | Rode VideoMicro Compact On-Camera Microphone with Rycote Lyre Shock Mount |
| Best Budget Mic: | Saramonic LavMicro U3-OP |
| Best Mic for GoPro: | GoPro Media Mod for Hero 9/Hero 10 |
| Premium Choice Mic: | Rode VideoMic Pro Compact VMP Shotgun Microphone |
I have also researched and included in this article cases/cages with cold shoe mounts for GoPro, and cable adapters if you need them to get an outstanding sound experience.
Table of Contents
GoPro Media Mod for HERO9/HERO10
Polsen GPMK-22 GoPro Production Microphone Kit
Saramonic LavMicro U3-OP Omnidirectional Lavalier Microphone for DJI Osmo Pocket
Rode Wireless GO II Dual Channel Wireless Microphone System
Rode VideoMicro Compact On-Camera Microphone with Rycote Lyre Shock Mount
Rode VideoMicPro Compact Directional On-Camera Microphone with Rycote Lyre Shockmount
Best Action Camera Mics
I have researched 7 of the most popular action camera microphone attachments so you don’t have to. I have included the Pros and Cons of each to give you a TLDR rundown of features.
1. GoPro Media Mod for HERO9/HERO10:
Media Mod converts the HERO10 Black ; HERO9 Black into a production behemoth, suited for live streaming, vlogging, and near infinite expansion. It has a built-in directional Action Camera Microphone Attachment which provides high-quality audio while reducing air and surrounding disturbance.
It also contains a 3.5mm microphone connector for adding an external mic for better audio as well as an HDMI-out port for monitoring or replaying your clip. It also includes two cold-shoe mounts for lighting, LCD panels, or extra microphones.
Wind disturbances are no challenges or problems for this weather-resistant and strong mod. Wind gusts of up to 20 mph (32 kph) can be suppressed by the detachable foam microphone cover.
Overall, it has a compact and distinct wraparound layout that offers portable expandability and assures effortless mounting. It is built for compatibility with the GoPro Light Mod and Display Mod, as well as third-party accessories.
Pros
- Guaranteed compatibility with Hero9/Hero10
- Directional Mic
- Designed for outdoor use
- Also compatible with GoPro Light Mod and Display Mod
Cons
- None noted
2. GoPro Media Mod for HERO8:
The mountable Media Mod transforms your HERO8 Black into a production powerhouse. It has an excellent installed directional Action Camera Microphone Attachment that provides high-quality audio while reducing background and wind interference. It also contains a 3.5mm microphone port for connecting an additional microphone for improved audio.
You may also connect the HDMI-out port to your television and utilize the two cold-shoe mounts to add lighting, microphones, or LCD panels. Its compact and distinctive wraparound style provides portable expandability and enables easy installation.
It is usable with third-party accessories and is specifically developed for usage with the Display Mod and Light Mod for HERO8 Black.
Pros
- Guaranteed compatibility with Hero8
- Directional Mic
- designed for outdoor use
- compatible with GoPro Light Mod and Display Mod
Cons
- none noted
3. Polsen GPMK-22 GoPro Production Microphone Kit:
It contains an X/Y stereo mic for broad sonic imaging and authentic stereo sound, as well as a switchable gain selector for different levels of sound pressure. “Shotgun MicSupercardioid” shotgun microphone that delivers clarity and precision while blocking off-axis sound is also included in the kit.
This Action Camera Microphone Attachment requires no additional power because it draws energy straight from your GoPro camera via the Mini-USB cable. Because the mics are small and light, they will not add weight to your setup or stretch into the picture frame.
The device, however, requires the Revo Quick-Release Frame for GoPro. Attach to the GoPro camera using the Revo Quick-Release Frame (sold separately). The kit also includes foam windscreens for both microphones to reduce noise from the surrounding air or wind, as well as adjustable brackets for accurate mic placement.
With the provided gear, the mic holder may easily be attached directly to a GoPro camera mount.
Pros
- compatible with Hero3/Hero4
- Directional Mic and X-Y stereo Mic
- light weight
- foam windscreens included
Cons
- not as compact as the Media Mod
4. Saramonic LavMicro U3-OP Omnidirectional Lavalier Microphone for DJI Osmo Pocket:
This action camera microphone attachment consists of a small lavalier microphone that can be connected with DJI products like the Osmo Pocket or Pocket 2 through USB-C wire to record clean broadcast-quality audio. As a result, it is an excellent choice for vlogging, live event documentation, YouTube videos, interviews, social media postings, and much more.
Its omnidirectional pickup design effortlessly and uniformly catches sounds across all directions, so you don’t have to stress over the angle the microphone is facing whenever you clip it to your subject. It also has a 2-meter cable that allows users freedom to move around and the ability to hide the mic.
Finally, it comes with a foam windscreen to filter ambient noise, an alligator-style microphone clip that attaches firmly to your clothes, a cable strap that’s reusable, and a very handy drawstring pouch that neatly organizes items.
Pros
- Plug & Play for DJI Osmo Pocket
- Omni-Directional Mic
- small and discrete
- foam windscreen included
- budget friendly
Cons
- Wired connection
5. Rode Wireless GO II Dual Channel Wireless Microphone System:
The Wireless GO II is a wireless microphone setup with a dual channel receiver and two transmitters that is ultra-compact and incredibly adaptable. The Wireless GO II is the ideal microphone for a wide range of content production applications, combining the previous Wireless GO’s distinctive form factor and excellent sound output with new, patent-pending tech.
The Wireless GO II sports a variety of strong capabilities, such as a 3.5mm TRS analog output, and USB-C, and iOS digital output, and is therefore universally compatible with mobile devices, PCs, and cameras.
It also includes a series IV 2.4GHz digital transmission and 128-bit encryption that provides high-quality sound at distances of up to 200m (line of sight), all while being optimized for highly stable operation in congested RF settings.
This action camera microphone attachment offers onboard recording including over 40 hours of internal memory and the ability to capture every channel independently or merge them for maximum post-production versatility. It includes a built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery with a battery life of up to 7 hours.
Pros
- Freedom of movement
- works with any device
- small and discrete
- foam windscreens included
- Rechargeable
- Adapter Cables included
Cons
- Premium Price
6. Rode VideoMicro Compact On-Camera Microphone with Rycote Lyre Shock Mount:
The RODE VideoMicro is a small on-camera mic with a cardioid condenser microphone capsule for recording sounds. When combined with a video camera, the lightweight mic may be utilized for purposes such as interviews, weddings, etc.
The VideoMicro eliminates unwanted background noise and concentrates on the sound ahead of the camera. The mic body is composed of aluminum, which provides better RF rejection, and is coated in a ceramic anti-glare black layer. Because the microphone is charged by camera plug-in power (minimum 3V), no battery is needed.
The VideoMicro also features a Lyre shoe-mount, which reduces undesired handling, vibrations, and cable-borne disturbances, and a WS9 synthetic furry windshield with a foam inner cell, which is meant to be utilized in open air scenarios in which air and ambient noise might interfere with recordings.
There is also a 1/8″ TRS patch cable provided in the setup.
Pros
- Compact and Lightweight
- works with any device
- reasonably priced
- furry windscreen included
Cons
- Needs case/cage to work with an action cam
- Cable adapter needed for action cameras
7. Rode VideoMicPro Compact Directional On-Camera Microphone with Rycote Lyre Shockmount:
The VideoMic Pro+ is a high-quality on-camera mic for recording broadcast-quality audio in a variety of filming situations. Key features include a super-cardioid polar pattern and prolonged frequency response for recording warm, directional sound. A high-pass filter, a three-stage gain control, and a high-frequency boost are also included.
It features a rechargeable battery, AA batteries, or USB power, as well as an automated power-on mode and a safety channel. It also has an inbuilt Rycote® Lyre® shock mounting for enhanced isolation of handling noise, as well as an improved windscreen to greatly reduce wind noise.
It is the go-to mic for innumerable content makers, giving the best in performance and flexibility thanks to its extensive set of features and exceptional audio quality. The ultimate action camera microphone attachment.
Pros
- Broadcast Quality Condenser Microphone
- works with any device
- Can be mounted on a boom
- foam windscreen included
- Integrated shock mount
Cons
- Premium Price
- Needs case/cage to work with an action cam
Cases with Cold Shoe Mounts for Gopro:
If you are looking to use a general camera/video microphone with your action camera you will need a case with a cold shoe mount so the microphone can be mounted on the case. Below is my list of recommended cases/cages for your action camera.
1. SmallRig HERO10 Black Cage/HERO9 Cage for GoPro:
SmallRig’s Camera Cage covers your HERO10 or HERO9 Black GoPro camera while also providing numerous mounts including a removable one in the bottom for the audio/mic adapter. This sturdy cage is simple to install with a push of the lid.
While in the cage, accessibility to settings and different ports is retained, and connection to the USB Type-C port is provided by the cage’s detachable side panel. If you want to attach extras such as an onboard light, you can use the second shoe attachment on the cage.
2. ULANZI G9-5 Housing Case for GoPro Hero 10, 9:
Ulanzi’s G9-5 Metal Camera Cage expands your GoPro HERO9 Black for even more sophisticated audio and video recording. The secure four-sided metal cage has a detachable 52mm filter adapter and a mic adapter, and a holder.
The mic adapter support is attached to the cage’s bottom and has a hole for inserting an optional GoPro 3.5mm Mic Adapter. A 2-prong mount that may be mounted to the bottom of the mic adapter holder or straight to the bottom of the cage is also incorporated. The G9-5 has a shoe mount on top for adding extras like a microphone or light.
A shoe mount riser is also supplied, which connects to the shoe mount and elevates it.
3. V2 Housing Case Vlogging Frame with Microphone Cold Shoe Mount Compatible for GoPro Hero 7, 6, 5:
The specially built mic adapter placement solves the 3.5mm Mic Adapter positioning difficulty effectively. The GoPro Hero 7, 6, and 5 Black action cameras are compatible with the V2 Vlog Case. It is movable and may be installed in handracks, bicycles, chest belts, helmets, and so on.
With the cold shoe mount on top, you may attach an extra mic for the improved audio recording of the action camera. It is also possible to mount a video light, locator, flash, and other accessories. The Vlog Case is composed of ABS plastic, which is light but strong. Combined with an action camera protector it will make your camera tough to damage.
Please keep in mind that this item is only compatible with the GoPro Hero 5/6/7 Black. Hero7 Silver or White are not compatible.
Microphone Cable Adapters:
If you are using an off brand microphone with your action camera, please don’t forget to buy your cable adapter along with a case. Check my curated list below to select the compatible mic adapter cable for your camera.
1. GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter for (HERO8 Black/HERO7 Black/HERO6 Black/HERO5 Black) – Official GoPro Accessory
With the GoPro Pro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter, you may capture crystal clear sound from an external device with your GoPro. The HERO8 Black, HERO9 Black, HERO6 Black, HERO7 Black, HERO5 Session, and HERO5 Black are all suitable.
A 3.5mm analog stereo input is usable with both unpowered and powered mics and can take microphone or line-level inputs. The adapter will come in handy if you need to insert in a lavalier or shotgun microphone for talks or capture a signal straight from a music venue’s mixing console.
The inbuilt A/D converter provides 106 dB of headroom, enabling a clear voice file. While the adapter occupies the camera’s USB port, it also has a pass-through USB connector, allowing you to recharge your camera while the adapter is connected.
2. ONE RS Dual Mic Adapter:
The One RS enhances Insta360’s previously impressive camera setup. Its compact and light design lets users take photographs, and films as well as 360-degree recordings. While it does not outperform the premium GoPro versions in terms of image quality, it compensates for it in terms of ease and user-friendliness.
It records high-quality audio using a microphone and your Insta360 camera and is completely undetectable while you film in 360 and publish to the Insta360 application. It also contains USB C-Type coupled with 3.5 mm audio connectors for charging while attached to your microphone, as well as a buckle design for connection and easy assembly/disassembly.
It is compatible with ONE RS (1-Inch 360 not included) and comes with 1x Mic Adapter, 1x Warranty Card, and 1x Manual.
3. BOYA BY-K7 Female 3.5mm TRS to Male USB Type-C Adapter Cable for DJI Osmo Action Camera
The BOYA BY-K7 is a cable converter that lets you use any battery-powered mic with your DJI Osmo Action Camera. The short cable has a female 3.5mm TRS connector for the microphone on one side and a male USB Type-C connector for the camera on the other side.
It has a cable length of 2.4 inches (6 cm) and is portable, easy to use, and really compact. However, it is not compatible with any Type-C devices and DJI other devices. Lastly, it provides a stable and high-speed transmission.
Different Types of Microphones:
Choosing which type of microphone that will suit the task in hand is important. Read these explanations to help you make the right purchase for your Action Camera.
1. Shotgun Mic:
A shotgun microphone is a ‘barrel’ styled mic with a hypercardioid pickup pattern that is frequently employed in television and film production to extract audio from a given direction. Shotguns can be placed on the camera or connected to a telescopic boom pole to concentrate the audio that the lens is focused on.
The boom enables it to get as near to the subject as while maintaining the microphone itself well outside of the frame. The microphone is hung from a shock-absorbing mount, allowing the boom to be manipulated and the microphone to be pointed at the source of the sound without producing unwanted handling noise.
2. Lavalier Mic:
A lavalier microphone is a tiny condenser mic that may be fastened to a lapel to stay near to the subject’s lips.Lavalier mics are currently the main option for interview participants and TV hosts since they are aesthetically inconspicuous and provide an excellent sound experience.
The head-worn microphone is a subgroup of the lavalier mic that can be concealed in the subject’s hairdo or on a short boom that is fastened around the performer’s ears. This keeps the microphone near to the lips even when the head is rotated.
3. Wireless Mic:
A wireless mic transmits sound waves over the air instead of over-mic wires. Wireless microphones were previously cumbersome, loud, and inefficient. However, even at the lower side of the spectrum, the performance is now nearly as excellent with what wired options provide.
The greatest benefit of a wireless mic setup is its mobility. Because a wireless mic is not tied by a line, the consumer is not constrained by a transmission line.
4. Line (Wired Connection) Mic:
If you do not really require movement while using your microphone, a corded mic is a good option. Typically, wired mics are easier to use, work much better, are highly dependable, are substantially less expensive to purchase, and do not require batteries.
FAQs:
Do I need an adapter to connect an external mic?
Yes. As many action cameras lack 3.5mm ports, you will need to purchase an adaptor to attach the microphone to the camera.
Can you connect a microphone to an action camera?
Yes. Based on the camera, you may require a mic adaptor. If the action camera microphone attachment has a 3.5mm audio connection and the mic has a male port of that length, you can immediately insert it in.
Some cameras use alternative ports, such as USB type C, for which an adaptor cord is required. You can utilize the Media Mod on various GoPros, which includes a 3.5 jack for additional microphones as well as an installed mic.
Which GoPro accepts an external mic?
An additional mic may be plugged into the GoPro Hero 10 Black, GoPro Hero 9 Black, GoPro Hero 8 Black, GoPro Hero Session, GoPro Hero 4, GoPro Hero 7 Black, Black and Silver, GoPro Hero 3 Black, and GoPro Hero 3+ Black.
Do action cameras have sound?
To record audio, many 360 cameras and action cameras have an established mic. However, if you wish to increase the audio quality, you should consider adding an external mic.
To Conclude:
In my opinion, the best action camera microphone is the Rode VideoMicro Compact On-Camera Microphone with Rycote Lyre Shock Mount and the best action camera microphone adapter is the GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter.
We hope that information provided here was useful in determining what action camera microphone attachment you would like to purchase in order to create the finest sound quality for your video clip.