Action cam owners are no doubt familiar with wind noise, unwanted background sounds, pops and muffled or inaudible speech captured by the cameras internal mic. These audio issues can be greatly reduced or eliminated by using an external microphone. Before purchasing an external mic for your GoPro or any other action cam, there are a couple important things to note. You are going to have to remove your camera from the waterproof housing and, for GoPro, place it in either the Frame or the Skeleton Housing. Some microphones require a GoPro 3.5mm Mic Adapter. While using any external mic with a GoPro you must turn off WiFi to avoid audio interference. In this article, I will talk about the strengths and limitations of some popular external microphones currently available to help you choose the right microphone for the job.
Sony ECMCS3 Clip style Omnidirectional Stereo Microphone
Best uses:
- Indoor use at close proximity
- Vlogging
- MotoVlogging
- Lectures
- Recording V.O.
The Good:
- Inexpensive
- No Batteries to replace
- Good for mounting in helmets
The Bad:
- Not the best option to use as a lav because of it's non-discreet design and short cable.
- Microphone rotates freely and can rub on clothing, creating unwanted noise.
Rode VideoMic Pro Compact VMP Shotgun Microphone
Best uses:
- Skateboarding videos
- NAT Sound
- Interviews
- Independent Film
The Good:
Versatile
- Adjustable gain
- Long battery life
The Bad:
- Battery cover design makes changing the battery difficult
- Not suited for overly loud environments
- No compatible GoPro mount for this mic, so you either have to use it on a boom or make a DIY mount
- No case
Edutige Uni-Directional Microphone ETM-008
Best uses:
- Interviews
- In the car
- independent film
- Outdoors
The Good:
- Versatile
- Can be used as a lav or onboard mic
- Excellent sound quality
The Bad:
- I could not find anything bad about this mic
Sena (GP10-01) GoPro Bluetooth Pack
Best uses:
- MotoVlogging
- Self-narration
- The Good:
- Firmware upgradeable
- Two-year warranty
The Bad:
- When recording the internal mic and Bluetooth source audio simultaneously, the internal mic drowns out Bluetooth audio
Hopefully this article will help you choose the right microphone for your action cam.
Tim Wuolle is a freelance video professional with more than 15 years of broadcasting experience in live events, sports, news, concerts and awards shows. He has also worked on independent films.