Action cameras or DSLRs provide great quality video. However, they simply cannot produce good quality audio. This is where action camera microphones attachments are needed.
It is no lie that good audio makes a video stand out and attention-worthy. The video’s footage can be eye-catching and beautiful but if its audio lacks and the sound quality is low, the whole production suffers.
Now, I’ll share with you my favorite pick for the action camera microphone attachment.
My #1 Choice
My personal favorite is the Rode VideoMic GoShotgun Microphone.
It’s my favorite because: It doesn’t require a battery. You can just plug it in and shoot. Moreover, it isn’t heavy on the pocket either with all the specs that it has.
It is a perfect run-and-gun mic!
How To: Choose The Best Action Camera Microphone Attachments?
For me, it’s the primary factors like how defined my target is if I’m filming an interview, how well I can hear them, or how clear their voices sound.
A good microphone has a balanced sound, and how well they neutralize the environmental noises in the back.
For normal users, the built-in microphones in an action camera can do just fine. But, if you run a vlog or a YouTube page and require professional videography experience, you have to take the quality of your content to a next level by getting your hands on one of these action camera microphones.
I am about to discuss that further in this article.
Here are some small and portable microphones that you can connect directly to your cameras and enhance the audio quality of your videos.
A good alternative to Action Camera
The DJI Osmo Pocket is a great alternative to action cameras, that i also enjoy using a lot.
But now, back to the main topic at hand
5 Best Action Camera With Microphone Attachments Compared
| Name | Price | Rating |
| Rode video mic pro | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | |
| Sennheiser MKE | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | |
| Rode video mic Goshotgun | $99.00 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Removu RM | $49.00 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Opteka VM | ⭐⭐⭐ |
Rode VideoMic Pro Compact VMP Shotgun Microphone
Price Range: $$$
Best Sportslounge Rating: 4.5
Verdict: Best Action Camera Microphone Attachment
The Rode VideoMic Pro is a great microphone for many reasons. In my opinion, it can record clean and stunning audio.
Key Features:
- Frequency: 40Hz – 20kHz
- Connector: 1 x 1/8″ / 3.5 mm TRS
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Batteries: 9 V
- Dimensions: ø: 3.94 x L: 6.69″ / ø: 100 x L: 169.93 mm
- Weight: 85 grams
Detailing the Features of Rode VideoMic Pro Compact VMP Shotgun Microphone
Rode VideoMic Pro VMP is a professional shotgun mic that sits on any DSLR or action camera perfectly. This mic is a bit high-end and expensive but it pays off well with its amazing quality and features.
If you are looking for good-quality sound for your vlogs or any of your recordings in general, this mic is a must-have in your collection.
The Rode VideoMic Pro can work for up to 70 hours with its 9V battery, providing a clean and natural sound.
Moreover, Rode VideoMic Pro Compact provides a moderate off-axis cancellation feature that can allow you to capture only what you need.
You won’t have to worry about eliminating the unwanted noises in your videos such as the wind, hissing, or camera handling noises because the Rode VideoMic Pro will eliminate them for you.
The Rode VideoMic Pro Compact has a 3-way dB pad control by which you can select which noise reduction setting you need. It allows you to switch between +20dB, 0dB and -10dB modes.
Rode VideoMic Pro VMP has another control for bass roll-off, which works to reduce the low humming noise or an overblown bass. It also comes with a stock wind silencer made out of rubber foam which is quite handy on a windy day.
| Pros | Cons |
| Clean sound. | Require delicate handling. |
| 10-year warranty. | |
| Handy features. | |
| Very low noise. | |
| Compact & lightweight design. |
- Broadcast recording quality condenser microphone
- Compact design (only 150mm/6 inches length)
- Ultra lightweight (only 85g/3oz)
Last update on 2024-04-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
You might also want to read: The PS5 Equivalent Graphics Card? — (Best Answer Here)
Sennheiser MKE 400 Shotgun Microphone
Price Range: $$$
Best Sportslounge Rating: 4.3
Verdict: Best for Interviews or Podcasts
Sennheiser is a well-known brand for its broadcast quality lavalier and shotgun microphones.
Recently the company launched its product focusing on pleasing the current content creator trend, such as the Sennheiser MKE 400 Shotgun Microphone.
Key Features
- Frequency: 50 Hz to 20 kHz
- Connector: 3.5mm jack
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Batteries: 1x Lithium-ion
- Dimensions: 0.83 x 5.12 x 2.44 inches
- Weight: 2.08 ounces
Detailing the Features of Sennheiser MKE 400 Shotgun Microphone
Sennheiser MKE 400 Shotgun Microphone is by far the perfect solution for people who are travel vloggers or amateur videographers.
This mic has features that are user-friendly which makes it great for users who want to use something that gives them more control.
It’s a compact directional on-camera shotgun microphone that is designed to enhance the audio for your video.
The MKE 400 includes built-in wind protection and an integrated shock absorption feature, to ensure the best possible recordings without unwanted noises.
Its highly directional feature allows it to reject audio from its sides as well as from behind except on the front side. This allows the mic to pick up sound and audio from where it’s aiming, while also canceling out noise from other directions.
This means it is great for getting clear audio from subjects even in outdoor challenging environments.
Like the Rode VideoMic, Sennheiser MKE 400 also offers a 3-way switch feature which allows you to gain sensitivity.
The options include -20dB, 0 and 20db, with 20dB being the maximum, 0dB being the middle and -20dB being the quietest position. These options are useful in a dialogue-focused video that doesn’t need substantial background noises.
If I talk about Sennheiser MKE 400 in terms of how natural the audio is, this microphone is a good condenser mic with a wide frequency range of 50 Hz to 20 kHz.
Overall, Sennheiser MKE 400 is a must-buy if you want to bring true presence and clarity to your recordings.
| Pros | Cons |
| Crisp, clean, directional shotgun signal | The headphone jack only works during active recordings. |
| Onboard headphone jack and volume control | The gain switch has just three positions. |
| Built-in gain and low-cut filters | Requires AAA batteries for power. |
- Highly directional, super-cardioid shotgun microphone for isolated and enhanced in-camera audio for your video
- Integrated wind protection and internal suspension mount to minimize handling noise
- Built-in low-cut filter and 3-step sensitivity switch for added flexibility and control in any environment
Last update on 2024-04-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Check out also: Meike 12mm T2.2 MFT Cine Lens Review | BMPCC Video Example
Rode VideoMic GoShotgun Microphone
Price Range: $$
Best Sportslounge Rating: 4.5
Verdict: Best for run-and-gun Filmmakers
Unlike the high-end and expensive VideoMic Pro, the VideoMic Go Shotgun is Rode’s newly downsized version. This is half the size and can run without a dedicated battery. Sounds perfect for a run-and-gun mic to me!
Key Features:
- Frequency: 100Hz – 16kHz
- Connector: Minijack / 3.5mm TRS
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Batteries: No battery
- Dimensions: 79 (H) x 73 (W) x 167 (D)
- Weight: 73
Detailing the Features of Rode VideoMic GoShotgun Microphone
Rode VideoMic Go Shotgun is lightweight and has a compact design that delivers directional audio with crisp and clear details.
This microphone is built to neutralize the sound coming from each side as well as from the back while absorbing the incoming audio from the front.
Its integrated Rycote Lyre shock mount can protect the microphone from sudden vibrations or trembles that cause sound distortions.
Moreover, its built-in holder and foam also neutralize sounds from the environment such as the wind, which is perfect to use on windy afternoons.
It has a high-quality condenser capsule and tight super-cardioid polar pattern that helps it deliver crisp, clear, and focused sound that records only what it is pointed at as well as reducing the unwanted and distracting background noise.
The Rode VideoMic Go is the perfect microphone for vloggers and run-and-gun filmmakers.
The Rode VideoMic Go does not need additional batteries since it has a 3.5 plug connector that plugs into the microphone input on your camera. Thanks to the 9V battery, it can work up to 70 hours.
The Rode VideoMic Go is perfect for people who want to buy an affordable microphone to add a better sound quality to their videos. It weighs around 73 grams which means it’s easier to carry around and does not weigh your camera down. That makes it ideal for manual recording.
At the end of the day, I would suggest buying a Rode VideoMic Go Shotgun for a price-conscious person. It is user-friendly, convenient, and super affordable.
| Pros | Cons |
| High-quality on-camera condenser microphone. | Not the best in terms of audio quality when compared to much higher-end mics, but you get what you pay for. |
| It has a super-cardioid polar pattern for capturing focused and directional audio. | |
| Comes with an integrated Rycote Lyre shock mount for superior neutralization of handling noises. | |
| A built-in high-quality windshield for recording outdoors | |
| Extremely user-friendly, no battery required. |
- Delivers clear, crisp, directional audio with incredible ease of use
- Rode designed the videomic go with a tight pickup area that focuses directly in front of the mic
- Reduces other surrounding sounds, ensuring that your subject is isolated from background noise
Last update on 2024-04-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Removu RM-M1+A1 Wireless Microphone
Price Range: $$
Best Sportslounge Rating: 3.8
Verdict: Best for YouTubers
The Removu RM-M1+A1 Wireless is an incredible microphone that is not only waterproof but provides clarity in terms of audio for your productions. With its brilliant attributes, you can now record high-quality audio in the most hassle-free way.
Key Features:
- Frequency: 44.1 kHz
- Connector: USB
- Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth and USB
- Batteries: 2x Lithium Polymer
- Dimensions: 5.91 x 7.87 x 5.91 inches
- Weight: 5 ounces
Detailing the Features of Removu RM-M1+A1 Wireless Microphone
It uses wireless technology that enables GoPro users to record high-definition audio at a distance of up to 30 meters, also while offering wireless features so you won’t face any hassle while recording.
This system consists of the M1 microphone and the A1 audio pack. Along with Bluetooth 3.0 technology, the M1 microphone works to record crisp and natural audio. The A1 attaches to the back of your GoPro which enables you to connect to A1 or any other external Bluetooth microphones as well.
The M1 can record clear audio even in rainy or snowy scenarios as it has a waterproof housing with a specialized material over the mic holes.
This allows the mic to let sound in while keeping the water out. Other than that, it also includes a foam windscreen, GoPro mount, and a clip mount for the M1, along with a USB charging cable for both the M1 and A1.
The battery life is also impressive. The A1 and M1 both have rechargeable Li-Po batteries that can last up to 6 hours, and charge in less than 2 hours with an included micro-USB cable.
I recommend the Removu RM-M1+A1 Wireless Microphone for its unique power to record sound wireless as well as in wet conditions, as it is waterproof. This is the ultimate accessory for a GoPro user that enables them to record audio in the most hassle-free way with affordability.
So for those who have a vlog, whether it’s on YouTube or a similar platform, I doubt you’ll need anything beyond this mic. I think this could be the best choice for you.
| Pros | Cons |
| It can wirelessly record audio with a GoPro HERO4, HERO3+, or HERO3. | Delicate to handle |
| It has Bluetooth microphone features. | The fragility of the microphone |
| It has an A1 Bluetooth Audio Pack for GoPro. | |
| Waterproof housing which lets in audio but keeps out water. | |
| It includes a GoPro mount, a Clip Mount, and a foam windscreen for M1. | |
| Includes USB Charging Cable. |
- This device fits GoPro HERO3, HERO3 plus and HERO4 only. NOT for HERO 5 and later models.
- Maximum distance is about 40 Yards depending on environment
- Powered by included Lithium battery, and runs more than 6 hours
Last update on 2024-04-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Check out my SECRET LAB Magnus Desk Review
Opteka VM- 100Shotgun Microphone
Price Range: $
Best Sportslounge Rating: 3.5
Verdict: Most Economical Action Camera Microphone Attachment
Key Features:
- Frequency: 30 Hz to 20 kHz
- Connector: 3.5 mm Jack
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Batteries: 1 x 9 V
- Dimensions: 2.3 x L: 6.5″ / ø: 58.42 x L: 165.1 mm
- Weight: 6.7 oz / 189.95 g
Detailing the Features of Opteka VM- 100Shotgun Microphone
The Opteka 3000 Gold Series Stereo Video Shotgun Microphone is designed to fit your DSLR perfectly and can help you capture sound even in noisy places. It is a highly directional microphone that works to magnify your targeted sounds, while also eliminating background noises from video shoots.
It comes with a detachable coiled cable that terminates with a 3.5mm mini-jack connector. This microphone has a wide frequency response of about 30 to 20kHz, a -10 dB pad switch, and an integrated shock mount holder.
Opteka microphones are built with a noise-reducing suspension system. The VM-3000 is powered by a 9V lithium or alkaline battery which can work up to 100 hours.
As a shotgun microphone, VM-3000 uses the phase canceling feature to neutralize unwanted noises from the surroundings. Opteka VM-3000 can be used while attached to a camcorder, DSLR, or boom pole.
Overall, Opteka VM-3000 is a great microphone for people who want to enhance their audio quality and take their videos up a notch with a pretty affordable microphone.
| Pros | Cons |
| Crisp, clean, and magnified shotgun signal | Not the best audio quality if compared to other high-end mics. However, it is a good option for beginners. |
| Onboard headphone jack and volume control | |
| Durable metal body construction | |
| Noise-reducing suspension system (NRS) shock mount | |
| Affordable | |
| Good for beginners |
- Stereo X/Y Condenser, 3.5mm mini jack
- Durable metal body construction
- Adjustable sound attenuation (-10dB, 0dB)
Last update on 2024-04-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
You might also like: Velbon Ultra Stick Super 8 Monopod Review
Final Thoughts
Whether you are a YouTuber, an aspiring filmmaker, or just a student working on school projects, these microphones will do wonders for your video shoots. The sound quality, directional, and user-friendly features will help you take your videos to new heights in terms of audio. I say it is worth the investment.
You can find huge varieties of attachment microphones in the market but this article was to help you make a fair and careful selection. A high-quality microphone helps your video look impressive.
I hope this article helped you pick any design out of all the discussed features as per your budget and needs. All these products can be directly ordered from Amazon at a decent price.
Like all microphones, it has its challenges. You should choose one which suits your needs.
