Ever wondered why your amazing GoPro Hero 9 footage sometimes sounds a bit… flat? Or worse, windy and muffled? You’re not alone! While the GoPro Hero 9 is a powerhouse for video, its built-in microphone can struggle in challenging environments, especially when you’re capturing all that exhilarating action. That’s where an external microphone comes in, transforming your audio from “meh” to “magnificent.”
Adding the best external mic for GoPro Hero 9 can seriously elevate your content, whether you’re vlogging, documenting extreme sports, or just capturing family memories. Clear, crisp audio makes your videos far more engaging and professional. So, if you’re ready to ditch the frustrating wind noise and muffled voices, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve rounded up the top external mic options that’ll make your GoPro Hero 9 sound as good as it looks. Let’s dive in!
How to Connect an External Mic to GoPro Hero 9
Before we jump into the best mics, it’s crucial to understand how to connect them. The GoPro Hero 9 (and Hero 10/11/12) doesn’t have a standard 3.5mm audio jack built-in. To use an external microphone, you’ll need the GoPro Media Mod or a compatible 3.5mm mic adapter. This accessory adds a 3.5mm port, an HDMI output, and two cold-shoe mounts, making your GoPro a true content creation powerhouse. Keep this in mind as you browse our selections!
Product Reviews
PDEEY Lav Mic for GoPro Hero 9 10 11 Media Mod
Looking for an affordable and straightforward way to get better audio on your GoPro? The PDEEY Lav Mic is a fantastic starting point. This tiny but mighty lavalier microphone clips right onto your clothing, making it perfect for vlogging, interviews, or any scenario where you need clear speech. It’s an omnidirectional mic, meaning it picks up sound from all directions, which is super handy for capturing your voice no matter how you move. Plus, with its noise cancellation features and gold-plated plug, you’re getting surprisingly clear stereo sound for your buck.
- Compatible with: GoPro Hero11/10/9 Black, GoPro Media Mod, GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter
- Mic Type: Omnidirectional condenser
- Plug: Gold-plated 3.5mm TRS
- Cable Length: 5 feet
- Features: High sensitivity, noise cancellation, stereo sound, metal clip, foam cover.
- Use Cases: Vlogging, YouTube, TikTok, podcasting, interviews, dictation.
Pros:
– Very affordable and great value.
– Omnidirectional pickup is convenient for vlogging.
– Decent sound clarity for its price point.
– Long 5-foot cable offers good flexibility.
– Easy to use; just plug and play (with Media Mod/adapter).
Cons:
– Requires the GoPro Media Mod or a 3.5mm adapter to connect.
– May not offer the same professional-grade isolation as higher-end mics.
User Impressions:
Users often praise this mic for its excellent performance given the low price. Many vloggers and casual creators find it a significant upgrade over the built-in GoPro mic, appreciating its clear sound for spoken word and ease of use. It’s a popular choice for those just starting out or needing a reliable backup.
SmallRig Hero 13 / Hero12 / Hero11 / Hero 10 / Hero 9 Black Cage 3083C
While not an external mic itself, the SmallRig Cage 3083C is an absolute game-changer for anyone serious about using an external mic for their GoPro Hero 9. Think of it as your GoPro’s ultimate protective and expansion shell. This robust cage provides crucial mounting points (like dual cold shoe mounts) for attaching microphones, LED lights, and other accessories simultaneously. It’s designed to fit your GoPro perfectly without blocking screens, buttons, or ports, and even has a dedicated slot for the official GoPro mic adapter. If you’re building a versatile vlogging or action setup, this cage is practically a necessity.
- Compatibility: GoPro Hero13/12/11/10/9 Black
- Design: All-in-one full cage
- Mounting: Dual cold shoe mounts (top and right side)
- Accessibility: Does not block screen, buttons, or USB-C port.
- Audio Adapter Support: Bottom bracket for original microphone adapter, replaceable side plate for charging during recording.
- Installation: Quick installation and removal.
- GoPro Interface: Dedicated interface at the bottom for GoPro accessories.
Pros:
– Excellent build quality provides robust protection for your GoPro.
– Dual cold shoe mounts allow for versatile accessory attachment (mic + light).
– Smart design ensures full access to all camera functions.
– Specifically designed to accommodate the GoPro Media Mod/mic adapter.
– Essential for creating a professional vlogging or production rig.
Cons:
– It’s a cage, not an external microphone itself – you’ll need to purchase a mic separately.
– Adds a bit of bulk to your GoPro setup.
User Impressions:
GoPro users rave about the SmallRig cage for its sturdy build and thoughtful design. They appreciate the added protection and the ability to mount multiple accessories, especially microphones, which vastly improves their audio and lighting setups. It’s seen as an indispensable accessory for serious content creators.
weishan Media Mod Mic for GoPro HERO11 10 9 Black
The weishan Media Mod Mic is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a dedicated lavalier microphone that works seamlessly with your GoPro Media Mod or 3.5mm mic adapter. This omnidirectional condenser microphone is engineered to deliver clear, sensitive audio with minimal noise, making your voice stand out. Its compact design, durable metal clip, and 5-foot cable make it incredibly versatile for on-the-go recording, whether you’re vlogging, capturing extreme sports, or conducting interviews. It’s a discreet yet powerful little mic that can significantly boost your audio quality.
- Compatibility: GoPro Hero11/10/9 Black (via Media Mod/Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter)
- Mic Type: Omnidirectional condenser
- Plug: 3.5mm / 1/8″ TRS gold-plated (3 poles)
- Cable Length: 1.5 meters / 5 feet
- Features: High sensitivity, voice clarity, low noise, high-quality windscreen foam cover, metal lavalier clip.
- Use Cases: Vlogging, extreme sports, stage, presentations, interviews, fitness instruction.
Pros:
– Designed for direct compatibility with GoPro Media Mod/adapters.
– Provides clear, sensitive, and low-noise audio.
– Durable gold-plated plug and metal clip.
– Discreet design is great for on-camera talent.
– Versatile for a wide range of audio recording needs.
Cons:
– Like many lav mics, it requires the GoPro Media Mod or a separate 3.5mm adapter.
– Might be susceptible to wind noise in very exposed environments without additional wind protection.
User Impressions:
Customers highlight the weishan mic’s clear sound reproduction and its specific compatibility with the GoPro Media Mod as major advantages. It’s frequently recommended for capturing speech in vlogs and interviews, where its omnidirectional pickup and discreet size are highly valued.
Movo Lavalier Microphone for GoPro – Compatible with GoPro, HERO 12 11 10 9
When it comes to professional-grade audio on the go, the Movo Lavalier Microphone for GoPro is a standout performer. Designed for seamless integration with your GoPro Media Mod, this omnidirectional condenser mic captures rich, clear sound from all directions, ensuring you don’t miss a beat. What sets it apart is its superior sound quality and premium build, featuring a gold-plated tip and a robust windscreen foam cover. With a generous 6-foot cable and a durable metal clip, this GoPro external microphone offers excellent flexibility and reliability, making it a top contender for serious content creators.
- Compatibility: GoPro Hero 12/11/10/9 Black (via Media Mod/Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter)
- Mic Type: Omnidirectional condenser
- Plug: 3.5mm (1/8″) TRS gold-plated (3 poles)
- Cable Length: 6 feet
- Features: Superior sound quality, premium build, high sensitivity, windscreen foam cover, durable metal lavalier clip.
- Use Cases: Vlogging, extreme sports, stage performances, presentations, broadcasting, lectures, music, fitness.
Pros:
– Delivers superior, professional-grade audio capture.
– Premium build quality with gold-plated tip for reliable connection.
– Omnidirectional pickup is versatile for various scenarios.
– Long 6-foot cable provides ample reach and flexibility.
– Comes with a high-quality windscreen for better outdoor performance.
Cons:
– Requires the GoPro Media Mod or a 3.5mm adapter for connection.
– As a lavalier, it’s best suited for capturing spoken word from a single source close to the mic.
User Impressions:
Users consistently praise the Movo lavalier for its impressive sound quality, often noting a significant improvement over built-in mics. It’s a popular choice for vloggers and interviewers who need clear audio in a portable, easy-to-use package. The durable build and thoughtful design details are also frequently highlighted.
Bundle: SmallRig Hero 13 / Hero12 / Hero11 / Hero 10 / Hero 9 Black Cage Kit with Microphone
For the ultimate all-in-one audio and mounting solution, this SmallRig Bundle is tough to beat as the best external mic for GoPro Hero 9 in a comprehensive setup. It combines the protective and versatile SmallRig Cage 3083C (which we discussed earlier) with a high-quality built-in microphone solution. This isn’t just any mic; it boasts immersive stereo and surround sound capabilities thanks to dual microphones, plus advanced noise reduction with a cardioid polar pattern. This means pristine, echo-free recordings with minimal background interference. If you’re looking to create professional-level content with enhanced audio and maximum expandability, this bundle provides a robust, integrated solution.
- Compatibility: GoPro Hero13/12/11/10/9 Black
- Bundle Includes: SmallRig Cage 3083C and integrated microphone system.
- Cage Features: Dual cold shoe mounts, unblocked screen/buttons/USB-C, compatible with audio adapter.
- Mic Features: Immersive stereo and surround sound (dual microphones), left-right channel stereo mode, advanced noise reduction (cardioid polar pattern).
- Audio Quality: Eliminates background noise and echoes for precise, pristine recordings.
Pros:
– Comprehensive all-in-one solution for video and audio.
– Integrated microphone offers professional-grade stereo sound and advanced noise reduction.
– Robust cage provides excellent protection and versatile mounting options.
– Eliminates the need to buy and attach a separate mic to the cage’s cold shoe.
– Ideal for serious filmmakers and vloggers seeking high-quality results.
Cons:
– Higher price point compared to standalone lavalier mics.
– Adds more bulk and weight to the GoPro setup.
– Might be overkill for casual users who only need basic audio improvement.
User Impressions:
Users who invest in this bundle are typically thrilled with the complete package. They appreciate the convenience of having an integrated mic within the protective cage, noting a significant leap in audio quality, especially for environmental sound and noise reduction. It’s highly recommended for those building a professional GoPro rig.
Conclusion
Choosing the best external mic for GoPro Hero 9 really boils down to your specific needs and how you plan to use your action camera.
If you’re looking for an affordable, discreet option primarily for spoken word, a lavalier mic like the PDEEY, weishan, or Movo will be a fantastic upgrade, offering clear audio for vlogging and interviews. Remember, these will require the GoPro Media Mod or a separate 3.5mm adapter.
For those serious about building a versatile content creation rig that can handle various accessories and requires premium integrated audio, the SmallRig Bundle with its built-in microphone and protective cage offers an unbeatable all-in-one solution. And if you already have a mic but need the mounting flexibility and protection, the SmallRig Cage 3083C is a must-have accessory.
No matter which you choose, investing in an external mic for your GoPro Hero 9 will undoubtedly elevate your video quality from good to truly great. Happy filming, and enjoy that crisp, clear sound!
FAQ Section
Q1: Why do I need an external mic for my GoPro Hero 9?
A1: While the GoPro Hero 9 has built-in mics, they can struggle with wind noise, background noise, and capturing clear voices, especially in action-packed or outdoor environments. An external mic significantly improves audio quality, clarity, and richness, making your videos sound much more professional and engaging.
Q2: What is the GoPro Media Mod, and do I need it to use an external mic?
A2: The GoPro Media Mod is an official accessory for the GoPro Hero 9, 10, 11, and 12 Black cameras. It provides a 3.5mm microphone port, HDMI-out port, and two cold-shoe mounts. Yes, you generally need either the GoPro Media Mod or a compatible GoPro 3.5mm Mic Adapter to connect most external 3.5mm microphones to your GoPro Hero 9.
Q3: What’s the difference between omnidirectional and cardioid microphones?
A3: An omnidirectional microphone picks up sound equally from all directions. This is great for capturing environmental sounds or when you need to capture a voice even if the speaker moves their head. A cardioid microphone primarily picks up sound from the front, rejecting sound from the sides and rear. This is ideal for focusing on a single sound source (like a speaker’s voice) and minimizing background noise or echoes.
Q4: Can I use any 3.5mm mic with my GoPro Hero 9?
A4: While many 3.5mm mics can technically connect via the Media Mod or adapter, ensure the mic is compatible with a 3-pole (TRS) connection, as this is what the GoPro accessory expects. Some 4-pole (TRRS) smartphone mics might not work properly without a specific adapter cable. Always check the mic’s compatibility with GoPro accessories.
Q5: How do I reduce wind noise on my GoPro recordings?
A5: Using an external microphone with a foam windscreen or a “dead cat” (a furry wind muff) is the most effective way to reduce wind noise. Some external microphones also feature built-in noise reduction technology. Additionally, consider using your GoPro’s Media Mod, which often has directional mics and built-in wind-noise reduction.
Q6: What’s a lavalier mic, and is it good for vlogging with a GoPro?
A6: A lavalier microphone (or “lav mic”) is a small, discreet microphone that typically clips onto clothing near the speaker’s mouth. Yes, they are excellent for vlogging with a GoPro, as they ensure clear, consistent audio of your voice, even when you’re moving or in noisy environments. Their small size also keeps them out of the shot.
Q7: Are there any alternatives to the official GoPro Media Mod for connecting external mics?
A7: Yes, besides the Media Mod, GoPro also offers the official GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter, which is a simpler, smaller dongle specifically for connecting a 3.5mm microphone. There might also be third-party adapters available, but it’s always recommended to stick with official or highly-rated third-party products to ensure reliability and compatibility.
