Audio quality can make all the difference in the world when it comes to capturing video, whether it’s for a professional production, a vlog, or a simple home video. While built-in microphones on most cameras tend to have mediocre sound quality, an on-camera microphone significantly improves audio recording and ensures the best possible outcome for your footage. On-camera microphones, specifically designed to mount on a camera or camcorder, provide better sound quality and directional capture, making them an essential tool for videographers and content creators at all levels.
There is an overwhelming variety of on-camera microphones available today, with varying features, quality, and price points. A good microphone not only helps record clear and crisp sound but also has a solid build and design that fits seamlessly with your camera setup. Additionally, it should effectively reduce background noise and be adaptable to different environments, whether you are indoors, outdoors, or dealing with unexpected changes in the recording situation.
When choosing the best on-camera microphone, it’s crucial to consider factors such as sound quality, build, compatibility with your camera, and ease of use. Your microphone should be able to handle different sound levels, reject unwanted noise (while capturing clear audio of the subject), and be durable enough to withstand constant use and handling. It’s also important to factor in your budget, as on-camera microphones range in price from affordable to premium models.
After many hours of research, testing, and considering various factors, we have narrowed down the top on-camera microphones in the market to help you make the best choice for your needs, ensuring your recordings have the high-quality sound you desire.
We have compiled a list of the best on-camera microphones for you to improve the audio quality of your videos. Check out our top picks below!
The Sennheiser MKE 400 is a top choice for creators who need high-quality, directional audio for their videos.
Pros
Cons
The Sennheiser Professional MKE 400 offers outstanding audio capture for a variety of video-producing contexts, from DSLR cameras to mobile devices. Thanks to its highly directional, super-cardioid shotgun design, the MKE 400 can isolate and enhance in-camera audio, making it perfect for interview recordings, vlogging, or up-close event coverage.
We appreciate the built-in wind protection and internal suspension mount, as these features effectively minimize handling noise and wind interference. However, we must note that in extremely windy conditions, some users have encountered issues with wind noise even with the included furry windshield.
The MKE 400 comes with a 3-step sensitivity switch, a low-cut filter, and both TRS and TRRS cables, providing added flexibility for various audio environments and compatibility with a wide range of cameras and mobile devices.
On the downside, we did experience some electrical interference when placing the microphone near certain electronic equipment. This can be frustrating when trying to capture audio in tight spaces. Additionally, its size may partially obstruct the camera’s view, so be aware of that before choosing this microphone.
In conclusion, we highly recommend the Sennheiser Professional MKE 400 Shotgun Microphone for those who are looking for a high-quality, versatile on-camera microphone with excellent sound isolation and adaptability.
The Rode VideoMic GO is an excellent choice for those seeking clear and directional audio with a lightweight design; however, its compatibility with some cameras may be a concern.
Pros
Cons
When we first tested the Rode VideoMic GO, we immediately noticed the lightness of the microphone, making it perfect for extended handheld use or mounting onto a camera without adding much bulk. Its integrated Rycote Lyre was efficient in isolating the microphone from mechanical noise and vibrations, resulting in cleaner audio recordings.
The plug-and-play nature of the VideoMic GO made it hassle-free and user-friendly, as it draws power from the camera’s external microphone input, eliminating the need for batteries. We could quickly set it up and start recording without having to worry about battery life or complicated settings.
However, we found that the included DeadCat Wind Cover needed some time to prove its effectiveness in extremely windy conditions. It did a decent job in moderately windy situations but struggled slightly with more chaotic gusts.
While testing, we also discovered that the VideoMic GO may not be universally compatible with all camera models. It is critical to check if your specific camera is compatible with the microphone before purchasing.
Finally, advanced users may find the lack of customization options or settings limiting, but for those seeking a simple and effective solution, this should not be a significant concern.
In conclusion, the Rode VideoMic GO On-Camera Shotgun Microphone and DeadCat Wind Cover Kit are well-suited for those looking for a lightweight and easy-to-use solution to improve their audio recordings. Just be aware of its limitations and check for compatibility with your camera before purchase.
We highly recommend the Sennheiser Professional MKE 200 for its excellent audio quality and versatile connectivity options.
Pros
Cons
Our experience with the Sennheiser MKE 200 has been impressive. Its compact design is perfect for on-the-go content creators, and the sleek finish adds a touch of professionalism to our setup. The integrated wind protection and internal suspension mount help minimize handling noise, which is especially useful for outdoor shooting.
When using the MKE 200 with our DSLR and mirrorless cameras, we found that the interchangeable 3.5mm TRS and TRRS connectors allowed us to switch devices effortlessly. This added versatility makes it an ideal choice for those who frequently use multiple recording devices.
Although we love the audio quality and design of the Sennheiser MKE 200, we must mention a couple of downsides. First, it might not perform as well in capturing audio from subjects further than 20 feet away. Secondly, the price is slightly higher compared to similar models on the market. Additionally, some users reported receiving unsealed packages, which may be a concern for those who prefer purchasing brand-new items.
Despite the few cons, the Sennheiser Professional MKE 200 is a solid on-camera microphone that offers great audio quality and versatility, making it an excellent choice for content creators.
The 7RYMS Minbo Mini Shotgun-Mic is a budget-friendly choice for mobile content creators, perfect for capturing clear audio on cameras and smartphones.
Pros
Cons
We recently tried out the 7RYMS Minbo Mini Shotgun-Mic and were pleasantly surprised by its performance, especially considering its affordable price. The battery-free design is a major selling point, as it pulls power directly from the camera or phone it is connected to, so there’s no need to worry about batteries running out mid-shoot.
The cardioid directional microphone does a good job at eliminating background noise and capturing the primary audio source. However, it might not be as precise as some higher-end shotgun microphones, meaning it can occasionally pick up some unwanted noise from the surroundings.
One of the standout features of the 7RYMS Minbo Mini is its anti-vibration suspension, which helps prevent jitter noise during video recording. This provides a clearer audio experience while filming, giving your videos a professional edge. The microphone’s metal construction also adds to its durability and helps reduce interference from vibrations.
Although the sturdy stand adds stability, it may not be as durable as we would like. It’s made from a nylon TPU material, which, while tough, may not be as long-lasting as some other materials.
Lastly, it’s important to note that the 7RYMS Minbo Mini is only compatible with devices that have a 3.5mm microphone jack. If your device doesn’t have one, you’ll need to purchase an officially certified adapter cable separately.
Overall, the 7RYMS Minbo Mini Shotgun-Mic is a great option for content creators on a budget who need reliable and clear audio for their videos. Its compact design and battery-free operation make it an attractive choice for on-the-go recording, although it might not be the ideal solution for those requiring more professional sound quality and durability.
An affordable and reliable on-camera microphone that significantly enhances audio quality for video creators.
Pros
Cons
The Comica CVM-V30 PRO Camera Microphone is a great choice for videographers who want to upgrade their audio quality without breaking the bank. We found that the low-cut filter and 10dB sensitivity adjustment features were really helpful in tackling noisy environments, allowing us to focus on desired sounds while shooting.
The microphone’s shock-absorbing design effectively reduces vibration noise and prevents the jittery noise from impacting the audio quality during recording. The super-cardioid polar pattern also helps in reducing the noise from the surrounding environment, making this microphone ideal for outdoor videos.
Compatibility-wise, the CVM-V30 PRO supports all cameras with a 3.5mm(TRS) audio input jack, but it is not available for some Canon models, such as the Rebel T5i/T6/T7/HF R800. Also, keep in mind it’s powered by 3A batteries, which are not included in the package.
In conclusion, the Comica CVM-V30 PRO Camera Microphone offers excellent value for its features and performance. It’s not perfect, but its benefits far outweigh its drawbacks, and it’s suitable for a variety of video projects. If you’re looking for an affordable and reliable on-camera microphone, this one is worth considering.
The Comica VM10 PRO is an excellent option for those seeking a versatile and budget-friendly on-camera microphone for various recording needs.
Pros
Cons
We recently used the Comica VM10 PRO Camera Microphone, and we were impressed with its dual-mode output, allowing it to work seamlessly with a variety of devices, including cameras, smartphones, and those with 3.5mm and USB interfaces. This versatility makes it a great choice for different recording situations such as meetings, YouTube videos, podcasts, and vlogs.
The real-time audio monitoring feature of the VM10 PRO was a standout for us, as it allowed us to monitor the recording quality and ensure the microphone was functioning correctly during the recording process. This feature gives you the opportunity to adjust settings on-the-fly, helping you to achieve the perfect sound quality in every recording.
The stepless gain control in digital mode is another feature we found valuable; it provides more control over the volume levels to match our shooting needs. The cardioid directional pattern and the professional shock mount included with the microphone helped reduce unwanted noise and vibrations, ensuring clean and professional sound quality.
However, we noticed that the smaller size of the microphone may impact the audio quality compared to larger models, and the analog mode is lacking in features compared to the digital mode. To access the full range of features, you need to use the USB interface.
In conclusion, the Comica VM10 PRO Camera Microphone is a solid choice for those looking for a budget-friendly and versatile on-camera microphone that offers a range of features in a compact package. Just keep in mind that you’ll need a USB interface to access the full capabilities of this microphone.
Buying the best on-camera microphone for your needs can make a significant difference in the quality of your audio recordings. In this guide, we’ll discuss the key features to look for when choosing a microphone for your camera, without mentioning specific brands or products.
First, consider the polar pattern of the microphone. This will determine the directionality of the microphone, meaning how it picks up sound from different angles. Common polar patterns include cardioid, supercardioid, and omnidirectional. Cardioid microphones are ideal for interviews and vlogging, while omnidirectional microphones are suitable for capturing the overall ambiance of a location.
Next, pay attention to the microphone’s frequency response. This is the range of frequencies a microphone can capture, and it’s essential to ensure that it covers the human voice spectrum, usually from 80 Hz to 15 kHz. Check the specifications to ensure the microphone provides clear and accurate sound reproduction within this range.
Another important factor to consider is the microphone’s sensitivity. This measures how well the microphone converts sound pressure levels into electrical signals. A higher sensitivity microphone is better suited for recording quieter sources, while a lower sensitivity microphone is ideal for louder environments.
Additionally, assess the microphone’s signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). This indicates the difference between the wanted sound signal and the unwanted background noise. A higher SNR means the microphone can better isolate the desired audio from background noise, resulting in cleaner recordings.
Lastly, consider the microphone’s build quality, ease of use, and compatibility with your camera. The ideal microphone should have a robust construction to withstand regular use and transport, and it should be easy to mount and adjust on your camera. Furthermore, ensure that the microphone’s connection type is compatible with your camera’s input.
Here’s a quick summary of the key features to consider:
By taking these factors into account, you can choose the best on-camera microphone to enhance your audio recordings.
