So, you’ve got your GoPro Hero, ready to capture all your epic adventures, from surfing gnarly waves to shredding mountain trails. But let’s be honest, while GoPro cameras excel at video, their built-in audio can sometimes leave a little to be desired, especially in noisy environments. That’s where an external microphone comes in!
If you’re serious about vlogging, capturing crisp dialogue, or simply want to elevate your overall production quality, investing in the best external mic for GoPro Hero is a game-changer. It’s not just about clearer sound; it’s about making your content more engaging and professional. You wouldn’t want breathtaking visuals to be ruined by muffled audio, would you?
In this guide, we’re diving deep into some of the top contenders that can dramatically improve your GoPro’s audio capabilities. We’ll explore a mix of dedicated microphones and essential accessories that make using an external mic seamless. Let’s find the perfect sound solution for your next big adventure!
1. GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter for (All HERO Cameras)
Before we dive into specific microphones, it’s crucial to understand that for most newer GoPro models (HERO5 Black and up), you’ll need an adapter to connect a standard 3.5mm external microphone. The GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter is the official solution, acting as your gateway to superior sound quality. It’s an essential piece of kit if you plan to use any professional-grade external mic for your GoPro Hero, ensuring compatibility and reliable performance. This isn’t a mic itself, but rather the bridge that allows you to connect the best external mic for GoPro Hero setup.
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Key Features:
- Enables high-quality audio capture when using a pro-level external mic.
- USB-C power and data extension with 90° connector for convenient mounting.
- Connects a wide range of external 3.5mm mics.
- Enables stereo mic and line input for external audio sources like an audio recorder or mixer.
- Features a 106dB stereo analog-to-digital converter for pristine audio conversion.
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Pros:
- Official GoPro product ensures perfect compatibility and reliability.
- Allows use of high-quality professional microphones.
- Provides power pass-through so you can charge your GoPro while recording.
- Supports stereo input for richer soundscapes.
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Cons:
- An additional accessory to carry and connect.
- Can be a bit bulky when attached to the camera.
- Adds to the overall cost of your audio setup.
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User Impressions: Many users consider this adapter a necessary evil but a highly effective one. They praise its seamless integration and the significant improvement in audio quality it facilitates. While some wish it were built-in, they acknowledge its crucial role in unlocking the full potential of external mics.
2. PDEEY Lav Mic for GoPro Hero 9 10 11 Media Mod
If you’re looking for an affordable yet effective lavalier microphone specifically designed to work well with your GoPro Hero (especially with the Media Mod or the 3.5mm adapter), the PDEEY Lav Mic is a fantastic option. This omnidirectional clip-on mic is perfect for capturing clear dialogue for vlogs, interviews, or voiceovers, providing a significant upgrade over your GoPro’s internal microphone. It’s a great entry-point into getting better audio for your action camera footage.
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Key Features:
- Compatible with GoPro Hero11 Black, Hero10 Black, Hero9 Black Action Cameras (requires Media Mod or 3.5mm Mic Adapter).
- Omnidirectional pickup pattern for high sensitivity and clear stereo sound.
- Features noise cancellation for cleaner audio in various environments.
- Gold-plated 3.5mm TRS plug ensures reliable connection.
- Durable metal clip and a generous 5-foot long cable for flexible positioning.
- Comes with a foam cover to help reduce wind noise.
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Pros:
- Very affordable and offers excellent value for money.
- Delivers clear and crisp audio for speech.
- Long cable provides flexibility for mic placement.
- Easy to use, just plug and play (with adapter/Media Mod).
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Cons:
- Requires Media Mod or a separate 3.5mm adapter.
- May pick up some ambient noise due to its omnidirectional nature in very loud environments.
- Not ideal for capturing broader soundscapes.
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User Impressions: Users love the PDEEY lav mic for its simplicity and the remarkable improvement it brings to voice recordings without breaking the bank. It’s often cited as a go-to for budget-conscious vloggers who need clear dialogue.
3. Movo GM100 Clip-on Lavalier Microphone for Compatible with GoPro
The Movo GM100 is another excellent lavalier choice for GoPro users, particularly those with older models (Hero3 to Hero4) that have direct 3.5mm input, or newer models with the necessary adapter. This compact and convenient mic is designed for adventurers and content creators who need crisp, clear audio on the go. Its “plug and play” nature makes it incredibly user-friendly, letting you focus more on your adventure and less on complicated audio setups.
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Key Features:
- CRISP AUDIO: Omnidirectional pickup pattern offers superior clarity over built-in HERO mics.
- PLUG AND PLAY: Compatible with GoPro mic adapter and directly with Hero3/Hero4 (no batteries required).
- CLEAR SOUND: Includes a mic windscreen to effectively reduce wind and ambient noise.
- CONVENIENT: Extremely compact components fit easily into standard camera cases, ideal for travel and vlogging.
- Backed by a 1-year warranty and US-based support.
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Pros:
- Delivers noticeably clearer audio for voice recordings.
- No batteries needed, simplifying operation.
- Windscreen is effective for outdoor use.
- Very portable and easy to carry.
- Excellent customer support and warranty.
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Cons:
- Still requires the GoPro adapter for newer Hero models.
- Primarily designed for voice, not ideal for broad sound capture.
- Cable length might be shorter than some alternatives.
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User Impressions: Reviewers frequently commend the Movo GM100 for its straightforward operation and a significant upgrade in sound quality, especially for motovlogging and field interviews. They appreciate its robust build and the included windscreen’s effectiveness.
4. SmallRig Hero 13 / Hero12 / Hero11 / Hero 10 / Hero 9 Camera Cage 3083C
While not a microphone itself, the SmallRig Camera Cage 3083C is an invaluable accessory if you’re looking to build a more comprehensive audio and lighting setup around your GoPro Hero 9, 10, 11, 12, or even 13 Black. This cage provides multiple mounting points, including cold shoe mounts, allowing you to easily attach your chosen best external mic for GoPro Hero, LED lights, and other accessories. It’s the sturdy foundation that transforms your GoPro into a mini filmmaking rig.
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Key Features:
- Designed specifically for GoPro Hero 9/10/11/12/13 Black cameras, offering a full protective cage.
- Dual Cold Shoe Mounts: Allows simultaneous attachment of a microphone and LED video light.
- Moulded Design: Precision fit ensures full access to screen, buttons, and USB-C port.
- Compatible with Audio Adapter: Features a bottom bracket for mounting the official GoPro microphone adapter.
- Quick Installation & Removal: Easy to attach to GoPro accessories via its dedicated interface.
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Pros:
- Essential for mounting multiple accessories (mic, light, etc.) securely.
- Protects your GoPro from bumps and scratches.
- Maintains access to all camera controls and ports.
- Allows for audio recording while charging (with adapter).
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Cons:
- An additional cost and piece of gear to carry.
- Adds bulk and weight to the GoPro setup.
- Does not include a microphone or adapter, these must be purchased separately.
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User Impressions: Filmmakers and serious content creators absolutely rave about the SmallRig cage. They highlight its robust build, thoughtful design, and how it dramatically expands the GoPro’s versatility, making it much easier to incorporate external audio solutions.
5. Purple Panda Lavalier Lapel Microphone Kit – Clip-on Mic for Smartphones, GoPro, DSLR
The Purple Panda Lavalier Lapel Microphone Kit is a highly versatile and comprehensive solution for anyone looking to upgrade their audio, whether they’re using a GoPro, a smartphone, or a DSLR. This kit offers everything you need to get started with clear, professional-sounding audio, making it a fantastic all-in-one package. It’s widely considered one of the best external mic for GoPro Hero when considering versatility and value.
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Key Features:
- ULTIMATE KIT: Includes lavalier mic, 9.8ft (3m) extension cord, mini USB adapter, TRS (2 ring) adapter, and fuzzy windscreen.
- EASY TO USE: Plug-and-play operation with no batteries required.
- WIDE COMPATIBILITY: Works with iPhone (requires Lightning adapter), Android Smartphones, DSLR cameras, GoPro Hero 12, 11, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3+, 3, 2 (GoPro Media Mod or Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter required for newer models), DJI Osmo Action, Insta360.
- Durable, lightweight, and discreet design for compelling recordings.
- Comes with a 1-Year Warranty and excellent customer support.
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Pros:
- Extremely versatile, compatible with a wide range of devices beyond just GoPro.
- No batteries needed, convenient for on-the-go recording.
- Comprehensive kit includes essential accessories like a long extension cord and fuzzy windscreen.
- Delivers clear and crisp audio for speech.
- Excellent value for the price.
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Cons:
- Requires the GoPro Media Mod or 3.5mm Mic Adapter for newer GoPro models.
- Not compatible with certain devices like camcorders or PCs directly.
- Designed primarily for voice, not wide ambient sound.
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User Impressions: Users love the Purple Panda kit for its exceptional value and broad compatibility. Vloggers, podcasters, and interviewers frequently recommend it for its clear audio quality and the convenience of having all necessary adapters and extensions in one package.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about GoPro External Mics
Q1: Why do I need an external microphone for my GoPro Hero?
A1: While GoPro’s built-in mics are decent for capturing ambient sounds, they struggle with clear voice recordings, especially in noisy or windy conditions. An external microphone drastically improves audio clarity, reduces unwanted noise, and enhances the overall professional quality of your videos, making them more engaging for your audience.
Q2: Do all GoPro Hero models require an adapter to use an external mic?
A2: Most newer GoPro Hero models (HERO5 Black and onwards, including HERO9, 10, 11, 12, and 13 Black) require either the official GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter or the GoPro Media Mod to connect an external 3.5mm microphone. Older models (HERO3, HERO4) sometimes had a direct 3.5mm input or mini-USB adapter compatibility. Always check your specific GoPro model’s requirements.
Q3: What’s the difference between a lavalier mic and a shotgun mic for GoPro?
A3: A lavalier (or lapel) mic is small, omnidirectional (picks up sound from all directions), and designed to clip onto clothing, ideal for capturing clear speech close to the source. A shotgun mic is directional, meaning it picks up sound from a narrow area directly in front of it, making it great for isolating dialogue or specific sounds from a distance while rejecting side noise. For most vlogging and personal use with a GoPro, a lavalier is often simpler and more effective for voice.
Q4: Can I charge my GoPro while using an external microphone?
A4: Yes, if you use the GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter or the GoPro Media Mod. Both of these accessories are designed with a USB-C passthrough port, allowing you to connect an external microphone while simultaneously charging your GoPro or transferring data.
Q5: How can I reduce wind noise when using an external mic with my GoPro?
A5: Many external microphones come with a foam windscreen or a “dead cat” (a fuzzy wind cover). These accessories are highly effective at diffusing wind noise before it reaches the microphone capsule. Proper mic placement (e.g., shielded from direct wind) also helps.
Q6: Is the GoPro Media Mod necessary for using an external mic?
A6: The Media Mod is one way to connect an external mic to your GoPro Hero (Hero 8 Black and newer). It also adds other features like cold shoe mounts and an HDMI-out port. However, you can also use the standalone GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter, which is often a more compact and sometimes more affordable solution if you only need the mic input.
Q7: What does “omnidirectional” mean for a microphone, and is it good for GoPro?
A7: An omnidirectional microphone picks up sound equally from all directions. This can be beneficial for GoPro use as it means you don’t have to worry as much about precise mic positioning, and it can capture ambient sounds as well as your voice. However, in very noisy environments, it might pick up more unwanted background noise compared to a directional mic. For clear voice in vlogging, it’s often a good, forgiving choice.
