How to Choose the Best Action Camera Microphone: A Comprehensive Guide

Action cameras have come a long way since their inception. Today, they can capture high-quality video footage in almost any environment. However, one area where action cameras still need to improve is their audio quality. The built-in microphones on most action cameras usually need to be better to capture clear and high-quality audio. That is where external microphones come into play. This blog post will discuss the best action camera microphones on the market.

  • Rode VideoMicro Compact On-Camera Microphone

The Rode VideoMicro is a compact, lightweight microphone perfect for action cameras. It comes with a shock mount that helps to reduce handling noise and vibrations, making it ideal for use in outdoor environments. The microphone is directional, meaning it will only pick up sound from the direction it is pointed in. That is great for action shots where you want to capture the sound of the action while blocking out any background noise.

  • Sennheiser MKE 2 Elements Action Mic for GoPro HERO4 Black and Silver

The Sennheiser MKE 2 Elements Action Mic is designed for GoPro HERO4 Black and Silver cameras. It is waterproof and can withstand extreme weather conditions, making it perfect for outdoor activities such as surfing, snowboarding, and skiing. The microphone is omnidirectional, meaning it will pick up sound from all directions. That is great for capturing the sounds of the environment around you.

  • Sony ECM-CS3 Clip Style Omnidirectional Stereo Microphone

The Sony ECM-CS3 is a clip-style microphone that can be attached to clothing, making it perfect for hands-free use. It is omnidirectional, meaning it will pick up sound from all directions. The microphone is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around. It comes with a windscreen that helps to reduce wind noise when recording outdoors.

  • Zoom H1n Handy Recorder

The Zoom H1n Handy Recorder is a portable digital audio recorder with built-in stereo microphones. It is ideal for capturing high-quality audio for video production. The recorder is lightweight and easy to carry around with you. It also has a headphone jack, allowing you to monitor your audio while recording.

  • Tascam DR-05 Portable Handheld Digital Audio Recorder

The Tascam DR-05 is a portable handheld digital audio recorder perfect for capturing high-quality audio for video production. It has built-in stereo microphones and can record in WAV or MP3 format. The recorder is lightweight and easy to carry around with you. It also has a built-in speaker, allowing you to play back your recordings without needing headphones.

Top Action Camera Microphones

Here are some of the best action camera microphones on the market:

  1. Rode VideoMicro: The Rode VideoMicro is a compact shotgun microphone designed for DSLRs and smartphones but can also be used with action cameras. It features a cardioid polar pattern ideal for capturing directional audio and comes with a shock mount that isolates it from handling noise. 
  2. Sennheiser MKE 2 Elements: The Sennheiser MKE 2 Elements is a waterproof lavalier microphone designed specifically for the GoPro HERO4 action camera. It is waterproof up to 1m and features a windscreen that helps to reduce wind noise during outdoor recording. 
  3. Sony ECM-DS70P: The Sony ECM-DS70P is a directional stereo microphone that can be used with various cameras, including action cameras. It features a low-cut filter that helps to reduce wind noise and a switchable sensitivity control that allows you to adjust the microphone’s level according to the sound source. 
  4. Zoom SSH-6: The Zoom SSH-6 is a shotgun microphone designed for Zoom recorders but can also use with action cameras. It features a hyper-directional polar pattern ideal for capturing sound from a specific direction and comes with a hairy windscreen that helps reduce wind noise. 
  5. Shure MV88: The Shure MV88 is a digital stereo condenser microphone designed for iOS devices but can also be used with action cameras. It features a cardioid polar pattern that is ideal for capturing directional audio and comes with a windscreen and a foam wind jammer that help to reduce wind noise.

Types of Action Camera Microphones

When choosing the best action camera microphone, several different types exist. Here are some of the most common types of action camera microphones:

  1. Shotgun Microphones: Shotgun microphones are directional microphones designed to pick up sound from a specific direction. Video production often uses them to capture dialogue and other sounds while minimizing background noise. Shotgun microphones are ideal for action cameras because they can be mounted directly onto the camera. 
  2. Lavalier Microphones: Lavalier microphones are small, lightweight microphones that can be attached to clothing or hidden in a pocket. They are ideal for capturing dialogue and other sounds while allowing the subject to move freely. Lavalier microphones are often used in film and television production but can also be used with action cameras. 
  3. Handheld Microphones: Handheld microphones are designed to be held by the user while recording. They are often used for interviews and other situations where the user needs to be close to the subject. Handheld microphones are less familiar with action cameras but can use them if the user is willing to hold the microphone while recording.
  4. Wireless Microphones: Wireless microphones are ideal for users to move around freely without being tethered to a microphone. They consist of a transmitter and a receiver and can be used with various microphone types, including lavalier and shotgun microphones. Wireless microphones are often used in film and television production but can also be used with action cameras.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Action Camera Microphone

When choosing the best action camera microphone, several factors must be considered. Here are some of the most critical factors:

  1. Directionality : refers to the microphone’s ability to pick up sound from a specific direction. If you are recording action footage, you may want a directional microphone to focus on the action while minimizing background noise. 
  2. Compatibility: It is essential to choose a microphone that is compatible with your camera. Some microphones are designed specifically for specific camera models, while others are more versatile and can be used with a wide range of cameras. 
  3. Durability: Many action cameras are designed to be used in harsh outdoor environments, so it is essential to choose a microphone that is durable and can withstand extreme temperatures, moisture, and vibrations. 
  4. Mounting Options: Choosing a microphone that can be mounted onto your camera or attached to your clothing is essential. Some microphones come with accessories such as windshields, shock mounts, and clips, making capturing clear audio easier in challenging environments.

Conclusion [Best Action Camera Microphone]

In addition to the high-quality microphones, it’s also essential to protect your action camera with a reliable and sturdy camera protector. This will ensure your camera remains safe and functional during various outdoor activities and action-packed shots. Whether you are a professional or amateur videographer, having protective housing for your camera is crucial for capturing high-quality footage without worrying about damage to the device.

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