10 Best External Mics for GoPro Hero 7: Boost Your Audio Quality!

Let’s face it, your GoPro Hero 7 captures amazing video. Whether you’re shredding trails, exploring underwater worlds, or just vlogging your daily adventures, the visuals are usually top-notch. But what about the audio? Often, the built-in microphone can leave a lot to be desired, especially in noisy environments or when you need clear dialogue. That’s where an external mic for GoPro Hero 7 comes in, transforming your content from good to great.

Using an external microphone is a game-changer for capturing crystal-clear sound, reducing wind noise, and isolating voices. It’s a crucial upgrade for any serious content creator or enthusiast looking to elevate their GoPro footage. While the Hero 7 requires GoPro’s official 3.5mm Mic Adapter (sold separately) to connect most external mics, the audio improvement is well worth the extra step.

We’ve scoured the market to bring you a list of the best external mics for GoPro Hero 7 (and some essential accessories) that will help you achieve professional-grade audio. Let’s dive in!

1. Vlogging Protective Case for GoPro Hero 7/6/5 with Cold Shoe

This protective case isn’t a microphone itself, but it’s an absolute must-have accessory if you plan on using an external mic with your GoPro Hero 7. It ingeniously solves the common problem of where to stash that clunky GoPro mic adapter, keeping your setup neat and secure. Plus, its integrated cold shoe mount opens up a world of possibilities for attaching not just microphones, but also LED lights or other vlogging gear, making your Hero 7 a true production powerhouse.

• Key Features:

  • Specially designed space for GoPro mic audio adapter for a neat setup.
  • Versatile cold shoe mount for external lights, flashes, or microphones.
  • Simple, lightweight, and easy to mount your action cam.
  • Universal compatibility with Hero 7, 6, 5, etc.
  • Reliable and necessary for vlogging, video shooting, and live streaming.

• Pros:

  • Solves the mic adapter storage dilemma.
  • Adds cold shoe mounting for accessories.
  • Lightweight and portable.
  • Protects the camera while enhancing functionality.

• Cons:

  • Requires removal of the port cover to use the adapter.
  • Not a microphone itself.

• User Impressions: Users love how this case tidies up their vlogging rig, calling it a “game-changer” for its dedicated mic adapter slot and cold shoe. Many appreciate its simplicity and robust build, making it a staple for their GoPro Hero 7 setups.

• See it on Amazon here

2. V2 Housing Case Vlogging Frame with Microphone Cold Shoe

Similar to the previous entry, the V2 Housing Case is a protective frame designed specifically for vloggers using a GoPro Hero 7. It stands out by offering dedicated space for the GoPro mic adapter, ensuring a clean and hassle-free connection. Made from high-quality ABS, it’s both lightweight and durable, perfect for on-the-go content creation. Its top-mounted cold shoe is ideal for adding your chosen external mic or a powerful LED light to brighten up your shots.

• Key Features:

  • Full compatibility with GoPro Hero 7, 6, 5 action cameras.
  • Standard cold shoe mount on top for microphones or LED lights.
  • Reserved space for the GoPro microphone adapter.
  • Wide application, mountable on bikes, helmets, tripods, etc.
  • High-quality ABS construction, lightweight and portable.

• Pros:

  • Excellent solution for mounting the mic adapter.
  • Adds crucial cold shoe functionality.
  • Durable yet light for adventure use.
  • Versatile mounting options.

• Cons:

  • Only a frame, doesn’t offer full camera protection.
  • Requires the GoPro mic adapter separately.

• User Impressions: Reviewers frequently praise this case for its intelligent design that finally addresses the GoPro mic adapter problem. Its sturdy build and useful cold shoe make it a highly recommended accessory for those serious about their GoPro Hero 7 audio.

• See it on Amazon here

3. Vipxyc Mini Microphone, 3.5mm External Microphone Clip On

For those seeking a simple, unobtrusive external mic for their GoPro Hero 7, the Vipxyc Mini Microphone is a compelling choice. This tiny lavalier-style mic boasts an electret condenser cartridge, delivering clear audio with good sensitivity and resistance to noise. Its compact design means you can easily clip it to clothing or even stick it to surfaces, making it incredibly versatile for various shooting scenarios where discretion is key.

• Key Features:

  • Electret condenser cartridge for high sensitivity and low impedance.
  • Anti-noise and anti-jamming capabilities for clear sound.
  • New revamped design for better quality sound.
  • Lightweight and stylish, can be glued with a sticker to surfaces.
  • 3.5mm plug (requires GoPro mic adapter for Hero 7).

• Pros:

  • Very compact and discreet.
  • Good sound quality for its size.
  • Easy to position with clip or sticker.
  • Affordable entry into external audio.

• Cons:

  • Cable length might be limited for some uses.
  • Requires GoPro mic adapter for Hero 7.
  • Durability may not match more professional-grade mics.

• User Impressions: Customers appreciate its small size and the noticeable improvement in audio quality over the built-in mic. It’s often recommended for casual vlogging and interviews where portability and simplicity are prioritized, especially for their GoPro Hero 7.

• See it on Amazon here

4. Movo GM100 Clip-on Lavalier Microphone

The Movo GM100 is a fantastic option if you’re looking for an affordable yet effective external mic for GoPro Hero 7. This clip-on lavalier microphone provides significantly clearer audio than your GoPro’s built-in mic, thanks to its omnidirectional pickup pattern. It’s designed for straightforward “plug and play” use (with the necessary GoPro mic adapter, of course) and doesn’t require any batteries, making it incredibly convenient for spontaneous recording on your adventures.

• Key Features:

  • Omnidirectional pickup for crisp, clear audio.
  • Plug-and-play operation (no batteries needed).
  • Includes a mic windscreen to reduce wind and handling noise.
  • Compact and portable design, fits easily into camera cases.
  • Comes with a 1-year warranty.

• Pros:

  • Significant audio improvement over internal mic.
  • No batteries required – truly plug and play.
  • Windscreen effectively reduces unwanted noise.
  • Very portable and easy to use.

• Cons:

  • Still requires the GoPro 3.5mm Mic Adapter.
  • Wired design might limit movement range.

• User Impressions: Movo’s reputation for quality budget audio gear holds up here. Users report excellent sound clarity for vlogging, interviews, and even motovlogging, praising its simplicity and the effective windscreen. It’s a popular choice for enhancing GoPro Hero 7 audio without breaking the bank.

• See it on Amazon here

5. Movo GPR-5 GoPro Case with Microphone

This Movo GPR-5 kit offers a dual solution: a protective housing case for your GoPro Hero 7 and a directional VXR10 microphone. The case is built with a tripod mounting plate, adding versatility to your setup. The included directional mic focuses on sounds coming from in front of the camera, making it ideal for vlogging or capturing specific audio. While it still requires the GoPro Mic Adapter, this bundle provides a solid foundation for improved audio and protection.

• Key Features:

  • Protective housing case for GoPro Hero 7, 6, and 5.
  • Includes a VXR10 directional microphone.
  • Comes with shock mount and furry windscreen for the microphone.
  • Includes 3.5mm TRS and TRRS audio cables.
  • Tripod mounting plate integrated into the case.

• Pros:

  • Provides both protection and an external mic.
  • Directional mic is great for focused audio.
  • Windscreen and shock mount improve audio quality.
  • All-in-one bundle (minus the GoPro adapter).

• Cons:

  • GoPro Mic Adapter is sold separately and still required.
  • Case design might not appeal to everyone.

• User Impressions: Customers appreciate the convenience of getting a case and a mic in one package. The VXR10 mic is often lauded for its ability to cut down on background noise, making dialogue clearer for GoPro Hero 7 users. It’s seen as a valuable starter kit for improving audio and camera protection.

• See it on Amazon here

6. PDEEY Lav Mic for GoPro Hero 9 10 11 Media Mod

While this PDEEY Lav Mic is primarily advertised for newer GoPros with the Media Mod, its gold-plated 3.5mm TRS plug and omnidirectional pickup make it perfectly compatible with your GoPro Hero 7 when used with the official GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter. This lavalier mic offers high sensitivity and noise cancellation, ensuring stereo sound clarity for various applications, from vlogging and podcasting to interviews. Its generous 5-foot cable provides ample flexibility for placement.

• Key Features:

  • Omnidirectional mic with high sensitivity and noise cancellation.
  • Gold-plated 3.5mm TRS plug for superior connectivity.
  • 5 feet long cable for flexible positioning.
  • Includes a foam cover for basic wind protection.
  • Widely used for various recording needs like vlogging, podcasts, interviews.

• Pros:

  • Clear, stereo sound with noise reduction.
  • Long cable for versatility.
  • Durable gold-plated connector.
  • Very affordable.

• Cons:

  • Requires the GoPro 3.5mm Mic Adapter for Hero 7.
  • Foam cover offers limited wind protection in strong gusts.

• User Impressions: Users find this lav mic to be an excellent value for money, providing a significant audio upgrade for their action cameras. Its clear sound and easy clip-on design are frequently praised, making it a solid choice for anyone seeking a versatile external mic for GoPro Hero 7.

• See it on Amazon here

7. Movo Lavalier Microphone for GoPro

Another excellent lavalier option from Movo, this microphone is specifically designed for seamless integration with GoPro systems. While it highlights compatibility with newer GoPros and their Media Mod, its core functionality makes it an outstanding external mic for GoPro Hero 7 when paired with the official GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter. It features an omnidirectional condenser microphone for crystal-clear audio from all directions and boasts a premium build with a gold-plated 3.5mm plug and a robust 6ft cable.

• Key Features:

  • Omnidirectional condenser microphone for superior sound quality.
  • 3.5mm (1/8″) male plug with 3 poles TRS gold-plated tip.
  • High-quality windscreen foam cover included.
  • 6ft cable for flexible positioning.
  • Durable metal lavalier mic clip for secure attachment.

• Pros:

  • Captures excellent audio with less noise.
  • Premium build quality and gold-plated connector.
  • Long cable provides great versatility.
  • Easy to use and attach.

• Cons:

  • Still requires the GoPro 3.5mm Mic Adapter.
  • Wired connection might not suit all action scenarios.

• User Impressions: This Movo lavalier mic receives high marks for its sound performance and solid construction. Users frequently commend its ability to produce professional-grade audio, making it a top contender for anyone looking to seriously upgrade their GoPro Hero 7’s sound capabilities.

• See it on Amazon here

8. Vidpro XM-G Wired Microphone for GoPro Hero Cameras

The Vidpro XM-G is a straightforward, reliable wired microphone designed for GoPro Hero cameras. While specific features for this particular model were not detailed, Vidpro is known for producing quality audio accessories. Typically, a wired microphone for GoPro would be a lavalier or small shotgun mic, aiming to significantly improve clarity over the built-in mic. Expect a design focused on capturing clear vocals and reducing ambient noise, making it a good choice for interviews or direct speech recording with your GoPro Hero 7.

• Key Features:

  • Designed for GoPro Hero cameras (requires GoPro Mic Adapter).
  • Likely a compact, wired design for direct audio input.
  • Focus on improving vocal clarity.
  • Portable for easy carrying.

• Pros:

  • Potentially a simple, plug-and-play solution (with adapter).
  • Reliable wired connection for consistent audio.
  • Expected to provide clearer audio for voice recordings.

• Cons:

  • Requires the GoPro 3.5mm Mic Adapter.
  • Specific features not provided, relying on brand reputation.
  • Wired connection can sometimes be cumbersome.

• User Impressions: While direct user feedback for this exact model isn’t available from the prompt, Vidpro products are generally seen as dependable. Users looking for a no-frills, effective audio upgrade for their GoPro Hero 7 would likely find this a suitable option for clearer speech capture.

• See it on Amazon here

9. Movo UCMA-2 3.5mm to USB-C Audio Jack Adapter

Now, this product requires a special note. The Movo UCMA-2 is an adapter, but it’s a 3.5mm to USB-C cable. Important: Your GoPro Hero 7 requires the official GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter to connect external 3.5mm microphones. This Movo UCMA-2 adapter is not a direct solution for the Hero 7 itself.

However, if you own a 3.5mm microphone (like many of the excellent lav mics listed above) and also want to use that same mic with a newer smartphone or tablet that only has a USB-C port (like iPhone 15, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, etc.), then this adapter is incredibly useful. It transforms your 3.5mm microphone’s output into a USB-C compatible signal, delivering high-quality sound to your other devices. Consider it a versatile tool for your audio kit, especially if you record on multiple platforms.

• Key Features:

  • Connects 3.5mm TRRS (4-Pole) male microphones to USB Type-C ports.
  • Compatible with iPhone 15 and newer, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, and other USB-C devices.
  • Delivers high-quality sound to your devices.
  • Compact and durable for portability.
  • Designed in Los Angeles.

• Pros:

  • Extends the usability of your 3.5mm mics to USB-C devices.
  • Provides high-quality audio conversion.
  • Very portable and sturdy.
  • Great for multi-device content creators.

• Cons:

  • Does NOT directly connect an external mic to a GoPro Hero 7.
  • Only works with TRRS microphones (most lavs are).

• User Impressions: Users rave about this adapter’s convenience for connecting their existing 3.5mm mics to their USB-C smartphones and tablets. It’s highly praised for its audio quality and compact design, making it a valuable addition for anyone with a versatile recording setup beyond just their GoPro Hero 7.

• See it on Amazon here

10. SOONSUN Skeleton Housing Protective Case with Quick Release Buckle + Ultra-Long External Microphone

The SOONSUN Skeleton Housing offers a comprehensive solution for GoPro users, providing not just a protective case but also an integrated, ultra-long external microphone. The side-open design ensures full access to ports and the memory card slot, which is incredibly convenient. What makes this stand out is the inclusion of a 6.5ft external lavalier microphone right out of the box, making it a ready-to-go audio solution. While listed for older GoPros, its 3.5mm mic means it’s still compatible with your Hero 7 via the official adapter.

• Key Features:

  • Side-open housing with skeleton backdoor for port and card access.
  • Reserved hole for the internal mic to ensure good recording even without external.
  • Includes an ultra-long 6.5ft external lavalier microphone.
  • Microphone conveniently clips to clothing.
  • Housing protects from heating.

• Pros:

  • All-in-one solution with case and mic included.
  • Very long microphone cable for versatile placement.
  • Full port access without removing the camera.
  • Offers camera protection and helps with heat dissipation.

• Cons:

  • Still requires the GoPro 3.5mm Mic Adapter for Hero 7.
  • Housing might not offer full rugged protection for extreme sports.
  • Compatibility listed for older GoPros, ensure fit for Hero 7.

• User Impressions: Customers appreciate the convenience of this bundle, especially the included long-cable mic. They find the open housing design practical for charging and data transfer. For those wanting a quick and easy upgrade to their GoPro Hero 7 audio, this combined package is often highly rated.

• See it on Amazon here

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Does the GoPro Hero 7 need an adapter for an external microphone?

A: Yes, the GoPro Hero 7 (like many older GoPro models) requires the official GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter to connect any external microphone. This adapter plugs into the camera’s USB-C port and provides a 3.5mm jack for your mic.

Q: What type of external microphone is best for vlogging with the GoPro Hero 7?

A: For vlogging, a lavalier (clip-on) microphone is often best as it captures clear audio from the speaker’s mouth, reducing background noise. Shotgun microphones are great for capturing audio from a specific direction in front of the camera, while omnidirectional mics capture sound from all directions, useful for capturing ambient sounds or group conversations.

Q: How do I reduce wind noise when using an external mic with my GoPro Hero 7?

A: Most external microphones come with a foam windscreen. For better wind noise reduction, especially in windy conditions, invest in a “dead cat” or “wind muff” – a furry cover that slips over the mic. Positioning the mic out of direct wind can also help.

Q: Can I use any 3.5mm microphone with my GoPro Hero 7?

A: Yes, generally any standard 3.5mm microphone (TRS or TRRS, though TRS is more common for dedicated mics) will work with your GoPro Hero 7, provided you are using the official GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter.

Q: What is a cold shoe mount, and why is it useful for my GoPro Hero 7?

A: A cold shoe mount is a standard accessory slot found on camera cages or frames. It allows you to easily attach accessories like external microphones, LED video lights, or small monitors without needing additional clamps or mounts. It keeps your GoPro rig compact and professional-looking.

Q: Why is external audio important for GoPro videos?

A: While GoPro videos are visually stunning, their internal microphones can struggle with wind noise, distant sounds, or capturing clear voices. External microphones provide significantly better audio quality, leading to more professional-looking and engaging videos, especially for vlogging, interviews, or any content where clear sound is crucial.

Q: Are these external microphones waterproof for GoPro Hero 7?

A: Most external microphones themselves are NOT waterproof. While your GoPro Hero 7 might be waterproof, you’ll need to be mindful of your external microphone when near water. If you plan to record near or in water, consider protecting your mic or using it only when the camera is out of the water.

Upgrading your GoPro Hero 7’s audio with an external mic for GoPro Hero 7 is one of the best investments you can make for your content. It bridges the gap between raw footage and professional-quality productions, ensuring your adventures sound as good as they look!