10 Top External Mics for GoPro HERO2: Can You Still Get Great Audio?

Are you still rocking your trusty GoPro HERO2 and wondering if you can get professional-grade audio without upgrading your camera? You’re in the right place! While the GoPro HERO2 is a classic, capturing decent audio directly from it can be a real challenge, especially in noisy environments or when you need clear dialogue. That’s where an external microphone comes into play.

However, finding the best external mic for GoPro HERO2 isn’t as straightforward as it is for newer models. The HERO2 has an older mini-USB port for accessories, meaning you’ll almost certainly need a specific mini-USB to 3.5mm microphone adapter for it to connect any external mic. Many modern mics are designed for USB-C or Lightning ports found on newer GoPros and smartphones. But don’t worry, we’ll guide you through some top contenders and discuss their compatibility (or lack thereof) with your beloved HERO2.

Let’s dive into some of the best external microphones on the market, keeping the unique challenges of the GoPro HERO2 in mind.

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Product Reviews: Boosting Your GoPro Audio

1. SmallRig Hero 13 / Hero12 / Hero11 / Hero 10… Cage 3083C

This SmallRig cage is a fantastic accessory for newer GoPro models, designed to provide an all-in-one solution for vlogging and serious filming. It boasts dual cold shoe mounts for attaching microphones and LED lights simultaneously, offering a robust setup. What makes it stand out is its intelligent design that doesn’t block crucial ports or screens, ensuring full camera functionality. It even accommodates the original GoPro audio adapter for newer models, making audio recording while charging a breeze.

• Key Features: Compatible with GoPro Hero13/12/11/10/9 Black, Dual cold shoe mounts, Moulded design for full camera access, Compatible with original GoPro audio adapter (for newer models), Quick installation & removal.
• Pros: Excellent build quality, Versatile mounting options, Keeps camera accessible, Ideal for professional setups on compatible GoPros.
• Cons: Crucially, this cage is NOT compatible with the GoPro HERO2. It’s designed exclusively for GoPro Hero 9 and newer models.
• User Impressions: Users rave about the SmallRig cage’s sturdy construction and thoughtful design for their modern GoPros, appreciating how it streamlines their accessory setup for improved audio and lighting.
• Call-to-Action: This isn’t for your HERO2, but if you have a newer GoPro, See it on Amazon here

2. DJI Mic Mini (2 TX + 1 RX + Charging Case)

The DJI Mic Mini is a marvel of miniaturization, offering impressive audio quality in an incredibly compact package. Weighing just 10g per transmitter, it’s discreet and comfortable to wear, making it perfect for interviews or vlogging where you want the mic to disappear. Its extended 48-hour battery life (with the charging case) is a game-changer for long shoots, and the intelligent noise cancellation ensures your voice comes through crystal clear, even in challenging environments. This system connects directly to newer DJI devices via OsmoAudio.

• Key Features: Ultra-compact (10g per TX), High-quality 48kHz audio, 400m transmission range, 48h battery life with charging case, Dual noise cancellation levels, Automatic limiting to prevent clipping, Includes two transmitters and one receiver.
• Pros: Super portable and lightweight, Excellent sound quality with noise reduction, Long battery life, Reliable wireless transmission.
• Cons: The receiver primarily uses USB-C or Lightning, making it NOT directly compatible with the GoPro HERO2. You would need a HERO2 mini-USB to 3.5mm adapter, and then potentially a 3.5mm adapter for the DJI receiver, creating a cumbersome setup.
• User Impressions: Content creators love the DJI Mic Mini for its portability and audio fidelity, noting its reliability and ease of use for a wide range of content creation.
• Call-to-Action: A fantastic modern wireless mic, but not a direct fit for HERO2: See it on Amazon here

3. GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter for (All HERO Cameras)

This official GoPro adapter is crucial for connecting professional 3.5mm microphones to your GoPro camera. It’s designed to enable high-quality audio capture and features USB-C power and data extension. It allows you to connect a wide range of external 3.5mm mics, supporting both stereo mic and line input from external audio sources like mixers. The built-in 106dB stereo analog-to-digital converter ensures excellent sound conversion.

• Key Features: Enables high-quality audio capture, USB-C power and data extension, Connects wide range of 3.5mm mics, Supports stereo mic and line input, 106dB stereo ADC.
• Pros: Official GoPro quality, Reliable audio conversion, Allows use of various pro 3.5mm mics, Keeps camera powered while recording.
• Cons: Despite saying “All HERO Cameras,” this specific adapter features a USB-C connection and is designed for GoPro HERO5 Black and newer models, NOT the GoPro HERO2. The HERO2 requires an older, specific mini-USB to 3.5mm adapter.
• User Impressions: Users find this adapter essential for getting professional audio with their newer GoPro cameras, praising its reliability and clean audio pass-through.
• Call-to-Action: Essential for newer GoPros, but not your HERO2: See it on Amazon here

4. 2 Pack Professional Wireless Lavalier Microphone for iPhone

This wireless lavalier microphone system is designed for mobile content creators, offering a plug-and-play solution without needing Bluetooth or a dedicated app. It comes with two transmitters and one receiver, making it ideal for interviews or dual-speaker setups. With a transmission distance of up to 65 feet and an 8-hour battery life, it’s practical for on-the-go recording. The omnidirectional mic with built-in noise reduction helps capture clear audio even in bustling environments.

• Key Features: Plug-and-play (no Bluetooth/APP), 65FT transmission range, 8-hour rechargeable battery, Omnidirectional mic with noise reduction, Compatible with iPhone (Lightning) and Android (Type-C), Includes charging case and adapters.
• Pros: Very easy to use, Good range and battery life, Effective noise reduction, Comes with two mics, Affordable.
• Cons: The receiver connects via Lightning or Type-C ports, meaning it is NOT directly compatible with the GoPro HERO2. You’d need a complex chain of adapters (HERO2 mini-USB to 3.5mm, then potentially a 3.5mm to Type-C/Lightning for the receiver, if it even has such an output option for the receiver).
• User Impressions: Mobile content creators praise this system for its simplicity, decent audio quality for the price, and convenience for quick recordings on their phones.
• Call-to-Action: Great for phones, but a tricky fit for HERO2: See it on Amazon here

5. Movo GM100 Clip-on Lavalier Microphone for Compatible with GoPro

The Movo GM100 stands out as one of the few lavalier microphones that specifically mentions compatibility with older GoPros, including the HERO3 and HERO4 (which often use similar adapter types to the HERO2). This wired, omnidirectional lav mic is designed for clear audio without needing batteries, making it a simple, plug-and-play solution. Its compact size and included windscreen make it convenient for travel vlogging, interviews, or any scenario where you need better voice clarity than your GoPro’s built-in mic can provide.

• Key Features: Omnidirectional pickup, Plug-and-play (no batteries), Compatible with GoPro mic adapter for Hero3/Hero4, Includes mic windscreen, Compact and portable.
• Pros: Directly compatible with older GoPro adapters (like the one needed for HERO2), Simple to use, Improves voice clarity, No batteries required.
• Cons: Wired (limits movement), Might still require the specific HERO2 mini-USB to 3.5mm adapter, which isn’t included.
• User Impressions: Users with older GoPros appreciate the Movo GM100 for its straightforward operation and noticeable improvement in audio quality over the camera’s internal mic. It’s often seen as a reliable budget option.
• Call-to-Action: One of the more promising options for your HERO2 (with adapter): See it on Amazon here

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

This PDEEY lavalier microphone is designed to integrate seamlessly with newer GoPro Hero models (9, 10, 11) when used with the GoPro Media Mod or the official Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter (for USB-C GoPros). It’s an omnidirectional mic, meaning it picks up sound from all directions, and boasts high sensitivity with noise cancellation for clear stereo sound. The 5-foot cable and gold-plated 3.5mm TRS plug ensure good connectivity.

• Key Features: Compatible with GoPro Hero11/10/9 Black & Media Mod/Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter, Omnidirectional pickup, High sensitivity with noise cancellation, Gold-plated 3.5mm TRS plug, 5-foot cable.
• Pros: Good audio quality for compatible setups, Simple wired connection, Durable build.
• Cons: Explicitly designed for newer GoPro models and their Media Mod/USB-C adapter, making it NOT directly compatible with the GoPro HERO2.
• User Impressions: Users commend this mic for its clear audio capture when paired with their Media Mod-equipped GoPros, finding it a reliable and affordable option for vlogging.
• Call-to-Action: Ideal for newer GoPros, not directly for HERO2: See it on Amazon here

7. DJI Mic 2 (2 TX + 1 RX + Charging Case)

Building on its predecessor, the DJI Mic 2 offers even more refined crystal-clear audio, making your vocals sound professional for interviews and vlogs. It features intelligent noise cancellation for superior vocal clarity, even in noisy environments. The transmitters double as standalone recorders with up to 14 hours of internal recording (32-bit float for lost audio prevention), providing a reliable backup. With an extended range of 250 meters and up to 18 hours of operation with the charging case, it’s designed for long, demanding shoots.

• Key Features: Crystal-clear audio, Intelligent noise cancellation, 14-hour internal recording (32-bit float), 250-meter range, 18-hour total battery life, Pre-linked transmitters/receiver, USB-C/Lightning adapters, Direct connection to select DJI devices.
• Pros: Top-tier audio quality, Robust features like internal recording, Excellent range and battery life, Advanced noise cancellation.
• Cons: The receiver primarily uses USB-C or Lightning, making it NOT directly compatible with the GoPro HERO2. As with the Mic Mini, a complex adapter chain would be necessary. Higher price point.
• User Impressions: Professionals and serious content creators praise the DJI Mic 2 for its exceptional audio performance, reliability, and advanced features, calling it a significant upgrade for their production quality.
• Call-to-Action: A premium choice for modern setups, not designed for HERO2: See it on Amazon here

8. Movo Lavalier Microphone for GoPro – Compatible with GoPro

This Movo lavalier mic emphasizes compatibility with newer GoPro models (Hero 9, 10, 11, 12) through the Media Mod and the GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter. It features an omnidirectional condenser microphone for superior sound quality, capturing audio from all directions with high sensitivity and less noise. The premium build includes a gold-plated 3.5mm TRS plug and a high-quality windscreen foam cover for durability and clear sound. Its 6ft cable provides flexibility, and the durable metal clip ensures secure attachment.

• Key Features: Compatible with GoPro Media Mod/Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter (for newer GoPros), Omnidirectional condenser mic, Superior sound quality, Gold-plated 3.5mm TRS plug, 6ft cable, Metal lavalier clip.
• Pros: Great for compatible newer GoPros, Good audio clarity, Durable components, Versatile for various recording scenarios.
• Cons: Primarily designed for newer GoPro models with Media Mod/USB-C adapter, making it NOT directly compatible with the GoPro HERO2.
• User Impressions: GoPro users with Hero 9-12 models find this Movo mic to be an excellent, affordable upgrade for their audio, praising its clear sound for vlogging and action shots.
• Call-to-Action: Another solid choice for modern GoPros, but not your HERO2: See it on Amazon here

9. weishan Media Mod Mic for GoPro HERO11 10 9 Black

The weishan Media Mod Mic is another wired lavalier microphone tailored for the GoPro Hero 9, 10, and 11 Black when used with their respective Media Mods or the GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter. It features an omnidirectional condenser microphone for clear voice pickup with less noise and high sensitivity. The 3.5mm / 1/8″ male plug has a gold-plated tip for better connectivity, and it comes with a high-quality windscreen foam cover. Its 1.5-meter (5 feet) cable and durable metal clip make it convenient for various recording situations.

• Key Features: Dedicated compatibility with GoPro Media Mod/Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter (for newer GoPros), Omnidirectional condenser mic, Voice clarity & high sensitivity, Gold-plated 3.5mm TRS plug, 5-foot cable, Metal lavalier clip.
• Pros: Good audio quality for its price point, Reliable wired connection, Decent cable length.
• Cons: Strictly designed for newer GoPro models (Hero 9-11) and their Media Mods/USB-C adapters, making it NOT directly compatible with the GoPro HERO2.
• User Impressions: Users report that this weishan mic provides a clear and noticeable improvement over the built-in microphone of their newer GoPros, especially for voice-overs and interviews.
• Call-to-Action: Great value for newer GoPros, but not for HERO2: See it on Amazon here

10. SPORTKEE 2 Pack Wireless Lavalier Microphone

The SPORTKEE 2 Pack Wireless Lavalier Microphone offers a versatile, plug-and-play solution with dual noise canceling for crystal-clear audio. Its receiver is highly compatible, featuring Lightning, Type-C, 3.5mm, and USB adapters, making it suitable for a wide range of devices from phones to cameras. With a 65ft audio range and over 6 hours of battery life, it’s a flexible option for content creation. The inclusion of two microphones allows for simultaneous recording or stereo sound.

• Key Features: Automatic connection, Plug-and-play design, Dual noise canceling (chip + windscreen), 2.4G signal, Compatible with Camera/iPhone/Android/PC (Lightning/Type-C/3.5mm/USB adapters), 65ft audio range, 6+ hours battery life, Portable storage case, Two transmitters included.
• Pros: Highly versatile receiver with multiple adapters, Good range and battery life, Effective noise reduction, Dual mics for flexibility.
• Cons: While it has a 3.5mm output from the receiver, connecting it to a GoPro HERO2 still requires the specific HERO2 mini-USB to 3.5mm adapter. This adds complexity and another point of failure.
• User Impressions: Users highly rate the SPORTKEE for its broad compatibility and ease of use across different devices, appreciating the clear audio and convenience of the wireless setup for interviews and vlogging.
• Call-to-Action: A versatile wireless option that could work with HERO2 (with adapter): See it on Amazon here

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Understanding the GoPro HERO2’s Mic Challenge

As you’ve seen, most modern external microphones are designed for contemporary devices with USB-C, Lightning, or built-in wireless capabilities. The GoPro HERO2, being an older model, uses a proprietary mini-USB port for accessories.

To connect any 3.5mm external microphone to your GoPro HERO2, you absolutely must have the specific GoPro mini-USB to 3.5mm mic adapter for HERO2/HERO3/HERO3+ cameras. Without this crucial adapter, most of the microphones reviewed above (even those with a 3.5mm output from their receiver) will not work directly with your HERO2. If you can find this original adapter (it’s often rare now), then wired 3.5mm lavalier mics like the Movo GM100 or the 3.5mm output from wireless receivers like the SPORTKEE could be viable options.

FAQs: Getting the Best Audio from Your GoPro HERO2

Q1: Can I really use an external microphone with my GoPro HERO2?

A1: Yes, you absolutely can! However, the GoPro HERO2 requires a specific mini-USB to 3.5mm microphone adapter to connect any external mic. This adapter typically plugs into the camera’s mini-USB port and provides a 3.5mm jack for your microphone.

Q2: What kind of external mic is best suited for the GoPro HERO2?

A2: Once you have the necessary mini-USB to 3.5mm adapter for your HERO2, wired 3.5mm lavalier (lapel) microphones are often the simplest and most reliable choice. They’re great for capturing clear dialogue. Some wireless microphone systems with a 3.5mm output on their receiver can also work, but this adds more components to your setup.

Q3: Why do I need a special adapter for my GoPro HERO2?

A3: The GoPro HERO2 uses an older, proprietary mini-USB port for accessory connections, unlike newer GoPros which use USB-C. This means standard 3.5mm mics or USB-C/Lightning mics won’t plug in directly. The adapter acts as a bridge, converting the mini-USB signal to a standard 3.5mm audio input.

Q4: Will modern wireless microphones (like DJI Mic) work with my GoPro HERO2?

A4: Not directly. Most modern wireless mic systems have receivers that connect via USB-C or Lightning, or directly integrate with newer GoPro Media Mods. To use them with a HERO2, you’d need the HERO2’s mini-USB to 3.5mm adapter, and then the wireless receiver would need a 3.5mm audio output that you can plug into that adapter. This creates a multi-adapter chain that can be clunky and prone to issues.

Q5: How can I reduce wind noise when recording with an external mic on my GoPro HERO2?

A5: A foam windscreen or a “dead cat” (furry wind muff) on your external microphone is highly effective at reducing wind noise. Even with a good mic, strong winds can ruin audio, so these accessories are a must for outdoor recording.

Q6: Is it worth investing in an external mic for such an old camera like the HERO2?

A6: If your GoPro HERO2 is still in good working condition and meets your video quality needs, improving the audio can significantly elevate your content. Great audio makes a huge difference in viewer engagement, often more so than slight improvements in video resolution. However, consider the cost of the mic plus the necessary adapter, and weigh it against the cost of a newer GoPro (which has much easier mic integration).

Q7: Where can I find the GoPro mini-USB to 3.5mm mic adapter for HERO2?

A7: These specific adapters are no longer widely manufactured by GoPro. Your best bet is to look on second-hand marketplaces like eBay, specialty used camera gear stores, or sometimes third-party accessory manufacturers might still produce compatible versions. Be sure to verify compatibility before purchasing.