So, you’ve got that trusty GoPro Hero 4 Silver, and you’re out there capturing all sorts of awesome adventures, right? But let’s be real, while GoPro cameras excel at stunning video, their built-in microphones often leave a bit to be desired. Wind noise, muffled dialogue, or just a general lack of clarity can really take away from your epic footage. If you’re serious about your content – whether it’s vlogging, action sports, or travel films – upgrading your audio is a game-changer. That’s where an external microphone for GoPro Hero 4 Silver comes in!
Adding an external mic can dramatically improve your sound quality, making your videos more professional and engaging. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the best external microphone for GoPro Hero 4 Silver that fits your needs? Don’t sweat it! We’ve done the digging to bring you five top contenders that can significantly elevate your GoPro audio experience.
Before we dive in, remember that the GoPro Hero 4 Silver, like its predecessors, requires a specific adapter (the GoPro 3.5mm Mic Adapter) to connect most standard 3.5mm external microphones. Some mics might offer direct plug-and-play, but it’s crucial to check compatibility. Let’s get your audio sounding as good as your visuals!
1. Movo GM100 Clip-on Lavalier Microphone
If clear, focused voice audio is your priority, the Movo GM100 is a fantastic choice. This clip-on lavalier microphone is designed to give you crisp, clean recordings, making it ideal for vlogging, interviews, or any scenario where your voice needs to cut through ambient noise. Its omnidirectional pickup pattern ensures you capture sound from all directions, providing a better alternative to your GoPro’s internal mic. Plus, it’s super convenient to use and doesn’t require batteries, drawing power directly from your camera (via an adapter, if needed).
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Key Features:
- CRISP AUDIO: Omnidirectional pickup for clearer recording.
- PLUG AND PLAY: Connects easily to Hero3/4 (requires GoPro mic adapter).
- CLEAR SOUND: Includes a mic windscreen to reduce wind noise.
- CONVENIENT: Compact and portable design.
- 1-YEAR WARRANTY: US-based support.
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Pros:
- Excellent for capturing clear vocals.
- Compact and easy to clip on clothing.
- No batteries needed, simplifying setup.
- Windscreen helps minimize unwanted noise.
- Affordable option for audio improvement.
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Cons:
- Requires a separate GoPro 3.5mm mic adapter (not included).
- Omnidirectional pickup might capture too much background noise in very loud environments.
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise the Movo GM100 for its significant improvement in voice clarity over the built-in GoPro mic, especially for vlogging and casual interviews. Many appreciate its simplicity and the fact that it doesn’t need external power. The need for an adapter is a common point of mention but is expected for most lavalier mics with the Hero 4.
2. AKASO External Microphone EK7000/EK7000 Pro/Brave 4/Brave
While the provided details for this AKASO microphone are limited, it’s generally positioned as a straightforward external microphone solution for action cameras, including various AKASO models, and often cross-compatible with others like the GoPro Hero 4 Silver with the right adapter. Expect a basic but noticeable upgrade over your camera’s internal microphone, particularly for general ambient sound capture or when you need the microphone closer to the sound source than the camera itself. It’s typically a budget-friendly option for those looking to dip their toes into external audio.
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Key Features:
- Note: Specific features were not provided for this product in the source material. General characteristics based on typical external action camera mics are listed below.
- Designed for external audio capture.
- Compact and lightweight.
- Improves overall sound clarity compared to internal mics.
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Pros:
- Likely a cost-effective solution for basic audio improvement.
- Simple to set up and use.
- Offers a quick upgrade for general audio needs.
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Cons:
- Specific technical features and performance details are not readily available.
- May not offer advanced features like noise cancellation or specialized pickup patterns.
- Requires a separate GoPro 3.5mm mic adapter (not included).
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User Impressions: Without specific product features, user impressions are hard to generalize. However, AKASO accessories are generally known for their affordability and compatibility with a range of action cameras, suggesting it’s a solid entry-level option for those on a tight budget needing basic external sound.
3. SOONSUN Frame Mount Housing Case with External Lavalier
This SOONSUN offering is a brilliant two-in-one solution for your GoPro Hero 4 Silver. Not only do you get a protective frame mount that keeps your camera safe while allowing full access to ports, but it also comes bundled with a high-quality external lavalier microphone. This means you can keep your GoPro compact and secure, all while recording superb audio for interviews, travel vlogs, or motovlogging. The extra-long 6.6ft microphone cable provides ample reach, letting you clip the mic conveniently to your collar.
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Key Features:
- Compatibility: Fully compatible with HERO4 Black, Silver, White, HERO3+, HERO3.
- Clear Sound: Mic windscreen reduces wind and unwanted noise.
- Ultra-long 6.6ft lavalier microphone for versatile placement.
- Standard frame mount provides protection and full port access.
- Memory card access without removing the frame.
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Pros:
- Excellent value as a bundle (frame + mic).
- Frame mount ensures full access to all camera ports.
- Long microphone cable offers great flexibility.
- Windscreen included for better audio in outdoor settings.
- Protects your GoPro Hero 4 Silver while enhancing audio.
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Cons:
- The frame mount offers less protection than a full waterproof housing.
- May not be ideal for very rough, impact-prone activities.
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User Impressions: Users love the convenience of getting both a protective frame and an external mic in one package. The long microphone cable is a definite highlight for vloggers and interviewers, and the improved audio quality, especially with the windscreen, is highly praised. It’s seen as a very practical accessory for daily use.
4. Saramonic G-Mic Microphone for GoPro Cameras Hero4, Hero3+, Hero3
The Saramonic G-Mic stands out in the crowd primarily because it’s one of the few high-quality stereo microphones that plugs directly into your GoPro Hero 4 Silver – no bulky adapters needed! This compact, lightweight mic is engineered specifically for GoPro cameras, dramatically improving both the sound quality and audio levels. If you’re tired of carrying extra cables and adapters, or if you simply want a sleek, integrated solution for capturing rich, stereo sound, the G-Mic is an exceptional choice. It’s also battery-free, making it hassle-free for on-the-go recording.
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Key Features:
- Professional stereo microphone designed for GoPro Hero 4/3+/3.
- Plugs directly into GoPro cameras without any adapters or cables.
- Dramatically improves sound quality and audio levels.
- Tech Specs: Electret Condenser, 35Hz ~ 20KHz, 80dB SPL, -24dB sensitivity.
- Extremely lightweight (12g / 0.42oz).
- No batteries required.
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Pros:
- Direct plug-in convenience – no adapter needed!
- Captures high-quality stereo sound.
- Extremely compact and lightweight.
- No batteries to worry about.
- Significantly boosts audio clarity and depth.
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Cons:
- Not a lavalier, so it picks up sound from where the camera is positioned.
- May not be ideal for focused voice recording in noisy environments without an additional lav.
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User Impressions: Users rave about the Saramonic G-Mic’s direct connectivity – it’s a huge selling point. The improved stereo audio is consistently highlighted, making it perfect for capturing ambient sounds, sports, and general environments with more depth than mono mics. Its compact size and battery-free operation also receive high marks for convenience.
5. SOONSUN Skeleton Housing Protective Case with Quick Release & External Mic
Here’s another excellent bundle from SOONSUN that combines protection with superior audio. This product features a skeleton housing, which is perfect for scenarios where you need camera protection but also require access to ports and want to prevent overheating. Crucially, it comes with an ultra-long 6.5ft external lavalier microphone. This means you can keep your GoPro safe and cool while simultaneously capturing crystal-clear audio by clipping the mic close to your subject. The side-open design allows full access to all ports, including the memory card slot, without removing the housing.
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Key Features:
- Side Open Housing with Skeleton Backdoor: Full port access (USB, HDMI, memory card).
- Reserved Hole for Internal Mic: Ensures good recording even with the internal mic (when external isn’t used).
- Ultra-long 6.5ft External Microphone: Convenient for voice recording, long enough for monopods.
- Compatibility: Fully compatible with HERO4 Black, Silver, HERO3+, HERO3.
- Provides good audio recording experience.
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Pros:
- Protective housing with easy port access.
- Prevents camera overheating during long shoots.
- Bundled external lavalier mic offers great audio for vocals.
- Long microphone cable provides flexibility.
- Allows use of internal mic or external mic as needed.
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Cons:
- Skeleton housing is not waterproof.
- The external mic is wired, which might be less convenient than wireless options for some setups.
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User Impressions: Customers appreciate the smart design of the skeleton housing, particularly the easy access to ports and the heat dissipation. The inclusion of the long external lavalier microphone is a major plus, making this bundle a go-to for vloggers and creators who need both camera protection and high-quality voice audio for their GoPro Hero 4 Silver.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why do I need an external microphone for my GoPro Hero 4 Silver?
A: While the GoPro Hero 4 Silver captures excellent video, its built-in microphone can suffer from wind noise, muffled sound, or just general lack of clarity, especially in noisy environments or when the subject is far from the camera. An external microphone significantly improves audio quality, making your videos sound more professional and engaging.
Q2: Do I need an adapter to use an external microphone with the GoPro Hero 4 Silver?
A: For most standard 3.5mm external microphones (like lavaliers or shotgun mics), yes, you will need the official GoPro 3.5mm Mic Adapter. However, some specialized microphones, like the Saramonic G-Mic mentioned above, are designed to plug directly into the camera’s mini-USB port without an additional adapter. Always check the specific mic’s compatibility.
Q3: What’s the difference between a lavalier mic and a direct-plug-in mic for GoPro?
A: A lavalier (or lapel) mic is a small, clip-on microphone often used for recording voices. It’s great for vlogging or interviews as it can be positioned close to the speaker. A direct-plug-in mic (like the Saramonic G-Mic) attaches directly to the GoPro itself, often capturing broader ambient sound or stereo audio from the camera’s perspective.
Q4: Can an external microphone help with wind noise?
A: Absolutely! Many external microphones come with a foam windscreen or a “dead cat” furry cover designed specifically to reduce wind noise. Even without one, positioning an external mic away from direct wind can yield much better results than relying on the camera’s internal mic.
Q5: Will using an external microphone drain my GoPro’s battery faster?
A: Some external microphones are “passive” and draw minimal power directly from the GoPro, having little impact on battery life. Others, especially those requiring batteries themselves, won’t drain your GoPro’s battery at all. Always check the microphone’s specifications regarding power requirements.
Q6: Is a skeleton housing a good idea if I use an external microphone?
A: Yes, a skeleton housing (like the SOONSUN options) is often preferred when using external mics because it provides port access. Unlike fully sealed waterproof housings, skeleton housings have open cutouts, allowing you to plug in your microphone without removing the camera from its protective case. They also help with heat dissipation during long recording sessions.
Q7: Can I use a wireless external microphone with my GoPro Hero 4 Silver?
A: Yes, you can! You would typically connect the wireless receiver to your GoPro Hero 4 Silver via the 3.5mm mic adapter. This setup offers maximum freedom of movement, as the microphone itself is wireless and transmits audio to the receiver plugged into your camera.
Q8: What kind of audio improvement can I expect from an external microphone?
A: You can expect clearer, richer, and more focused audio. This means less background hum, reduced wind noise, more defined voices, and a generally more professional sound profile that truly complements your high-quality GoPro video footage.
