Crosstour Action Camera External Microphone Review Best Audio Upgrade

The Crosstour Action Camera External Microphone delivers a game-changing audio upgrade for vloggers and adventurers seeking crisp, clear sound in any environment. With plug-and-play ease and wind-resistant performance, it outperforms built-in mics, capturing rich vocals and ambient details without distortion—making it the best budget-friendly audio add-on for Crosstour action cameras.

Key Takeaways

• Enhances audio clarity significantly over built-in microphones.
• Easy plug-and-play setup with no software required.
• Compact and durable design ideal for outdoor action use.
• Reduces wind noise effectively with included foam cover.
• Compatible with most Crosstour models via standard 3.5mm jack.
• Improves video quality by capturing richer, more natural sound.

Crosstour Action Camera External Microphone Review: Best Audio Upgrade

So, you’ve got your Crosstour action camera strapped to your helmet, mounted on your bike, or clipped to your backpack—ready to capture every thrilling moment. The footage looks crisp, the colors pop, and the stabilization is smooth as butter. But then you play it back… and the audio? It sounds like you recorded it inside a wind tunnel while someone was yelling through a tin can. Frustrating, right?

I’ve been there. As someone who loves documenting outdoor adventures—whether it’s mountain biking through forest trails, skiing down snowy slopes, or kayaking on choppy lakes—I quickly realized that great video isn’t just about visuals. Audio matters. A lot. Background wind noise, muffled voices, and distant sound effects can completely ruin an otherwise epic clip. That’s when I started looking for a solution, and that’s how I stumbled upon the Crosstour action camera external microphone. After weeks of testing it in real-world conditions, I’m here to share my honest, no-fluff review. Spoiler: this little gadget might just be the best upgrade you can make to your Crosstour setup.

Why Audio Matters in Action Camera Footage

Let’s be real—most action cameras, including Crosstour models, come with built-in mics that are… okay. They’ll pick up sound, sure, but they’re designed more for convenience than quality. They’re often placed in spots that catch wind, vibrations, and ambient noise, which means your voice gets drowned out or distorted. If you’re filming a vlog, narrating a trail ride, or trying to capture the roar of a waterfall, that built-in mic just won’t cut it.

The Problem with Built-In Microphones

Built-in microphones on action cameras are typically omnidirectional, meaning they pick up sound from all directions. While that sounds good in theory, in practice, it means they’re just as likely to capture the whine of wind against the lens housing as they are to pick up your voice. Add in engine noise, water splashes, or crowd chatter, and your audio becomes a muddy mess.

Another issue? Placement. On most Crosstour cameras, the mic is near the lens or on the side, exposed to the elements. Even with windshields or foam covers, they struggle in high-motion environments. I once filmed a downhill mountain bike run where my voice was completely inaudible—just a constant whooshing sound. It was disappointing, to say the least.

How External Mics Solve the Problem

This is where an external microphone shines. By moving the mic closer to the sound source—like your mouth—you dramatically improve clarity and reduce background noise. The Crosstour action camera external microphone is specifically designed to plug into your Crosstour camera’s 3.5mm mic input (available on models like the Crosstour CT8000, CT9000, and others), giving you studio-quality audio in a rugged, portable package.

Think of it like upgrading from a smartphone camera to a DSLR. The difference isn’t just noticeable—it’s transformative. Whether you’re filming a travel vlog, recording a tutorial, or capturing family moments during a hike, clear audio makes your content more engaging and professional.

Unboxing and First Impressions

When the Crosstour action camera external microphone arrived, I was pleasantly surprised by how compact and well-designed it was. The box includes the mic itself, a foam windscreen, a clip-on mount, a short audio cable, and a user manual. Everything felt sturdy and thoughtfully packaged—no flimsy plastic or loose parts.

Build Quality and Design

The microphone has a sleek, matte black finish that matches most Crosstour cameras. It’s lightweight—just under 30 grams—so it won’t add bulk or throw off your camera’s balance. The body is made of durable ABS plastic, and the internal components are shielded to reduce interference. The cable is about 30cm long, which is perfect for mounting the mic on your chest, handlebars, or helmet without tangling.

One thing I appreciated right away was the inclusion of a foam windscreen. It’s not just a cheap piece of foam—it’s dense and fits snugly over the mic capsule, reducing wind noise significantly. I tested it on a windy beach, and while there was still some ambient sound, my voice came through clearly, which was a huge improvement over the built-in mic.

Compatibility and Setup

Setting up the microphone was straightforward. I plugged the 3.5mm jack into my Crosstour CT9000, attached the mic to my chest using the clip, and secured the cable with a bit of tape to prevent tugging. The camera recognized the external mic instantly—no settings to tweak or firmware updates needed. It just worked.

It’s worth noting that not all Crosstour models support external mics. Make sure your camera has a 3.5mm mic input before purchasing. Models like the CT8000, CT9000, and CT10000 are compatible, but older or budget models may not be. Always double-check your camera’s specs.

Audio Performance in Real-World Conditions

This is where the Crosstour action camera external microphone really proves its worth. I tested it in a variety of environments—mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, and even indoor vlogging—and the results were consistently impressive.

Voice Clarity and Noise Reduction

The mic uses a cardioid polar pattern, which means it picks up sound primarily from the front and rejects noise from the sides and rear. This is perfect for action filming, where you want your voice to stand out over wind, water, or engine noise. During a mountain bike ride, my narration was crisp and clear, even when I was breathing heavily or speaking quickly.

I also tested it while kayaking on a windy lake. With the built-in mic, the audio was dominated by wind and water splashes. With the external mic, my voice was front and center, and the background noise was reduced to a subtle ambient layer—exactly what you want for immersive storytelling.

Wind and Weather Resistance

The foam windscreen does a solid job, but for extreme conditions, I recommend pairing it with a furry windjammer (sold separately). On a particularly windy day, I used a third-party deadcat cover, and the difference was night and day. Wind noise dropped to almost nothing, and my voice remained intelligible.

The mic itself is splash-resistant, so light rain or water splashes won’t damage it. Just avoid submerging it—this isn’t a waterproof mic, and Crosstour doesn’t claim it to be. For underwater audio, you’d need a specialized housing or hydrophone.

Latency and Sync Issues

One concern with external mics is audio-video sync. If there’s a delay, your lips won’t match the sound, which is distracting. I tested this by clapping near the camera and checking the waveform in editing software. The sync was perfect—no noticeable lag. This is thanks to the direct wired connection, which avoids the latency issues common with Bluetooth mics.

Mounting Options and Practical Tips

One of the best things about the Crosstour action camera external microphone is its flexibility. You can mount it in several ways, depending on your activity and shooting style.

Chest Mount for Vlogging and Narration

The included clip works great for attaching the mic to your shirt or chest harness. This keeps the mic close to your mouth, ensuring consistent audio levels. I used this setup for a hiking vlog, and the audio was studio-quality—no need for post-processing or noise reduction.

Pro tip: Position the mic about 15–20cm below your chin, angled slightly upward. This minimizes plosive sounds (like “p” and “b” pops) and captures your voice naturally.

Handlebar or Helmet Mount for Action Shots

For biking or motorcycling, I clipped the mic to my handlebars using a small zip tie and the included mount. This worked well for capturing ambient sounds—like engine noise or trail chatter—while still picking up my voice when I spoke directly toward the mic.

If you’re using a helmet mount, consider routing the cable along the strap and securing it with tape or a cable clip. This prevents tugging and keeps the setup tidy.

Indoor and Studio Use

Surprisingly, this mic also works great indoors. I used it for a home workout video, and the audio was clean and professional. It’s not as sensitive as a studio condenser mic, but for casual content, it’s more than sufficient.

For best results, avoid placing the mic near fans, air conditioners, or other noise sources. Even with noise rejection, strong ambient sounds can still bleed through.

Comparison with Other Action Camera Mics

To give you a fair perspective, I compared the Crosstour action camera external microphone with a few popular alternatives: the GoPro Media Mod mic, the RØDE VideoMic Me, and a generic $20 USB-C lapel mic.

Microphone	Price	Compatibility	Audio Quality	Wind Resistance	Ease of Use
Crosstour External Mic	$39.99	Crosstour (3.5mm)	Excellent	Good (with windscreen)	Very Easy
GoPro Media Mod	$99.99	GoPro only	Very Good	Excellent	Moderate
RØDE VideoMic Me	$59.00	Universal (3.5mm)	Excellent	Good	Easy
Generic Lapel Mic	$19.99	USB-C/3.5mm	Fair	Poor	Easy

The Crosstour mic holds its own against more expensive options. While the GoPro Media Mod offers better wind protection and a built-in speaker, it’s overkill if you’re not using a GoPro. The RØDE is excellent but costs more and doesn’t include a windscreen. The generic lapel mic is cheap but lacks durability and audio clarity.

For Crosstour users, this mic is the sweet spot—affordable, high-quality, and purpose-built for action cameras.

Pros, Cons, and Who Should Buy It

After extensive testing, here’s my honest breakdown of the Crosstour action camera external microphone.

Pros

• Excellent audio quality—clear, natural voice reproduction with minimal background noise.
• Easy setup—plug-and-play with no configuration needed.
• Compact and lightweight—doesn’t add bulk or affect camera balance.
• Includes windscreen and mount—great value for the price.
• Works in multiple environments—outdoor adventures, indoor vlogs, travel videos.
• No latency issues—perfect audio-video sync.

Cons

• Not waterproof—avoid submersion or heavy rain without protection.
• Foam windscreen may not be enough in extreme wind—consider a furry windjammer for high-wind conditions.
• Limited to Crosstour cameras with 3.5mm input—not compatible with all models.
• Cable length is fixed—may be too short for some mounting setups.

Who Should Buy It?

This microphone is ideal for:

• Adventure vloggers who want clear narration during outdoor activities.
• Travelers documenting trips and wanting professional-sounding audio.
• Fitness enthusiasts recording workout videos or tutorials.
• Parents capturing family moments with better sound quality.
• Content creators looking to upgrade their Crosstour setup without breaking the bank.

If you’re happy with your current audio and don’t mind a bit of wind noise, you might not need it. But if you’re serious about improving your videos, this mic is a game-changer.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. The Crosstour action camera external microphone delivers on its promise: it transforms your audio from mediocre to impressive with minimal effort. For under $40, you get a durable, easy-to-use mic that significantly enhances your footage. It’s not perfect—no product is—but the pros far outweigh the cons.

I’ve used it on over a dozen shoots now, and I can’t imagine going back to the built-in mic. Whether I’m narrating a trail run, interviewing a friend on a hike, or just capturing the sounds of nature, the audio is always clear, balanced, and engaging. It’s the kind of upgrade that makes you wonder why you didn’t do it sooner.

If you’re a Crosstour user who values quality content, this microphone is one of the best investments you can make. It’s not flashy, it’s not overhyped—it’s just a solid, reliable tool that does exactly what it’s supposed to do: make your videos sound as good as they look.

So go ahead—upgrade your audio. Your future self (and your audience) will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Crosstour Action Camera External Microphone work with all action cameras?

The Crosstour Action Camera External Microphone is designed to be compatible with most action cameras, including popular models from GoPro, DJI, and other major brands. However, it’s always best to verify compatibility with your specific camera model before purchasing.

How does the Crosstour external microphone improve audio quality?

The Crosstour external microphone significantly enhances audio clarity by reducing background noise and capturing crisp, high-fidelity sound. This upgrade is ideal for vloggers, adventurers, and content creators seeking professional-grade audio in their footage.

Is the Crosstour Action Camera External Microphone waterproof?

While the microphone itself is water-resistant, it’s not fully waterproof and should not be submerged. For underwater use, pair it with a waterproof housing or use a windscreen to protect it during wet conditions.

Can I use the Crosstour microphone for live streaming?

Yes, the Crosstour external microphone is great for live streaming, offering clear audio transmission with minimal lag. Its plug-and-play design ensures seamless integration with most streaming setups.

Does the Crosstour microphone require batteries or charging?

No, the Crosstour Action Camera External Microphone is powered directly by the camera via the 3.5mm audio jack, eliminating the need for batteries or charging. This makes it convenient for extended outdoor use.

What accessories come with the Crosstour Action Camera External Microphone?

The package typically includes a windscreen, shock mount, and a 3.5mm audio cable for easy setup. These accessories help optimize audio quality in various environments, from windy outdoor shoots to high-motion activities.