Buying Guide for the Best Mic Microphone For Gopros
Choosing a microphone for your GoPro can make a huge difference in the quality of your audio recordings, whether you're vlogging, capturing outdoor adventures, or making professional content. GoPros are known for their ruggedness and video quality, but their built-in microphones often struggle with wind noise, muffled sound, or picking up distant voices. An external microphone can help you get clearer, crisper, and more focused audio. When picking a microphone, it's important to consider how and where you'll use it, as well as how it connects to your GoPro. Understanding the key specifications will help you find a microphone that matches your needs and ensures your audio is as impressive as your video.Microphone TypeThe type of microphone refers to its design and how it picks up sound. The most common types for GoPros are lavalier (clip-on), shotgun (directional), and stereo microphones. Lavalier mics are small and clip onto your clothing, making them great for interviews or vlogging where you want to capture your voice clearly. Shotgun mics are long and narrow, designed to pick up sound from a specific direction, which is useful for focusing on a subject and reducing background noise. Stereo mics capture sound from a wider area, giving a more immersive feel, which is good for capturing ambient sounds. To choose the right type, think about your main use: for talking directly to the camera, a lavalier or shotgun mic is best; for capturing the environment, a stereo mic might be better.
ConnectivityConnectivity describes how the microphone attaches to your GoPro. Most GoPros require a special adapter to connect an external microphone, usually through a 3.5mm audio jack or USB-C port. Some microphones are wireless and use Bluetooth or a dedicated receiver. It's important to check which connections your GoPro supports and whether you'll need an adapter. If you want a simple setup, look for microphones that are compatible with your GoPro model and consider whether you prefer wired or wireless for your activities.
Directionality (Polar Pattern)Directionality, or polar pattern, refers to how a microphone picks up sound from different directions. Common patterns include omnidirectional (captures sound equally from all directions), cardioid (focuses on sound from the front), and supercardioid or shotgun (very focused on sound from a narrow area in front). Omnidirectional mics are good for capturing group conversations or ambient sound, while cardioid and shotgun mics are better for isolating a single voice or sound source. Choose based on whether you want to capture everything around you or focus on a specific subject.
Size and Mounting OptionsThe size of the microphone and how it mounts to your GoPro or gear can affect your recording experience. Smaller mics are less obtrusive and easier to carry, while larger mics may offer better sound quality but can be bulky. Mounting options include clips, cold shoe mounts, or adhesive mounts. Consider how you'll use your GoPro—if you're moving a lot or need to keep things lightweight, a compact mic with a secure mounting option is ideal. For stationary setups, you might be able to use a larger mic.
Wind ProtectionWind protection refers to features or accessories that reduce wind noise, which is a common problem when recording outdoors. Some microphones come with foam covers or furry 'deadcat' windshields. These help keep your audio clear even in breezy conditions. If you plan to record outside, especially at high speeds or in windy places, make sure your microphone includes or supports effective wind protection.
Power SourceSome microphones are powered by the GoPro itself, while others require their own batteries. Battery-powered mics can sometimes offer better performance or features, but you'll need to remember to keep them charged. If you want a hassle-free setup, a mic that draws power from the GoPro may be more convenient. Think about how long you'll be recording and whether you want to manage extra batteries.