You’ve got a GoPro Hero 7 – fantastic choice for capturing those epic adventures! Its video quality is stellar, but let’s be honest, the built-in microphone often leaves a lot to be desired, especially when battling wind noise or trying to capture clear audio for vlogging. If you’re serious about your content, upgrading your GoPro audio quality is a must.
That’s where an external microphone comes in. A good external mic can transform your fuzzy, distant recordings into crisp, professional-sounding audio, making your viewers truly immerse themselves in your content. But with so many options out there, how do you find the best external microphone for GoPro Hero 7?
Don’t sweat it! We’ve scoured the market to bring you our top picks, ranging from dedicated microphones to essential accessories that enable their use. Let’s dive in and find the perfect upgrade for your GoPro setup.
Understanding the GoPro Hero 7 & External Mics
Before we jump into the reviews, remember that the GoPro Hero 7 (Black) doesn’t have a direct 3.5mm microphone jack. To connect an external microphone, you’ll need the GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter. This small but mighty accessory is crucial for unlocking professional-grade sound. Some of the cases reviewed below offer integrated solutions for this adapter, making your setup much cleaner.
Our Top Picks for External Microphones & Essential Accessories
Here are our detailed reviews to help you choose the best external microphone for GoPro Hero 7:
1. AKASO External Microphone EK7000/ EK7000 Pro/Brave 4//Brave…
This external microphone from AKASO is designed to significantly improve the audio capture for action cameras, moving beyond the limitations of built-in mics. It’s a straightforward plug-and-play solution that aims to deliver clearer sound, especially in environments where the camera’s internal microphone struggles, such as windy conditions or noisy outdoor settings. Its compact size makes it an ideal companion for action sports enthusiasts and vloggers who need portable audio enhancement.
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Key Features:
- Designed for AKASO action cameras but can be adapted for GoPro Hero 7 with the correct adapter.
- Improves sound clarity over internal camera microphones.
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability.
- Simple plug-and-play functionality.
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Pros:
- Noticeably better audio than internal mics.
- Affordable entry into external audio.
- Easy to use for quick setup.
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Cons:
- Requires a separate GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter for GoPro Hero 7 use.
- May not offer the same professional-grade sound as higher-end mics.
- Specific compatibility with AKASO cameras might lead to confusion for GoPro users.
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User Impressions: Users generally find this mic to be a solid upgrade from their camera’s internal audio, especially considering its price point. It’s often praised for its simplicity, though some note that a windshield might be needed for very windy situations. It’s seen as a great starting point for enhancing action camera sound.
2. Movo GPR-5 GoPro Case with Microphone for Camera
The Movo GPR-5 isn’t just a protective case; it’s a comprehensive audio solution built for your GoPro Hero 5, 6, and 7. What makes this stand out is its integrated design, offering a secure housing for your camera alongside a directional microphone. This combination means you get enhanced protection and superior audio capture in one neat package, perfect for vlogging and outdoor adventures where clear, focused sound is crucial.
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Key Features:
- GOPRO CAMERA CASE: Protective housing case built for GoPro Hero 5, Hero 6, and Hero 7. Includes tripod mounting plate.
- MOVO MICROPHONE: Directional mic for iPhone, Android smartphone, and DSLR camera. Requires adapter to work with GoPro camera.
- GOPRO MICROPHONE ACCESSORIES: Camera mic comes with shock mount and windscreen for eliminating background noise.
- INCLUDES: GPR-5 GoPro Camera Housing Case, VXR10 Directional Microphone, 3.5mm TRS audio cable, 3.5mm TRRS audio cable, shock mount, and furry windscreen.
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Pros:
- All-in-one solution for protection and audio.
- Directional mic helps focus on subjects, reducing ambient noise.
- Included shock mount and windscreen are great for noise reduction.
- Durable housing protects your valuable GoPro.
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Cons:
- Still requires the GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter (sold separately).
- Adds bulk compared to just a mic.
- The mic is external to the case, requiring attachment.
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User Impressions: Reviewers appreciate the convenience of having a case and mic together. The audio quality is a significant improvement, especially for voice recordings and vlogging. The protection offered by the case is also a big plus for adventure seekers.
3. AKASO EK7000 4K30FPS 20MP WiFi Action Camera with EIS…
While not an external microphone itself, we’ve included the AKASO EK7000 action camera here as it’s often considered as an alternative or companion to GoPro models. Understanding its built-in capabilities helps contextualize the need for external mics on other cameras. The EK7000 is a budget-friendly action camera offering 4K video, decent photo capabilities, and electronic image stabilization, making it a viable option for those on a tighter budget who still want action cam features. However, for those specifically seeking to improve their GoPro Hero 7 audio, this unit wouldn’t be the solution as it’s a camera, not a microphone accessory for a GoPro.
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Key Features:
- 4K Ultra HD action camera: Professional 4K30Fps & 2.7K30Fps video with 20MP photos.
- Smooth Stabilization: Built-in Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) delivers steady and smooth videos.
- 131ft waterproof camera: Designed to withstand extreme environments with a durable waterproof case.
- Wireless wrist remote control: Convenient for controlling the camera from a distance.
- Built-in Wi-Fi & HDMI: Easy to edit & share via the AKASO GO app.
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Pros:
- Affordable 4K action camera option.
- Good video and photo resolution for its price.
- EIS helps with smoother footage.
- Comes with a waterproof case and remote control.
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Cons:
- Not an external microphone for GoPro Hero 7. It is a standalone camera.
- Audio quality for its internal mic may still be limited compared to external solutions.
- EIS is not as advanced as GoPro’s HyperSmooth.
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User Impressions: Users love its value for money, often praising it as a great beginner action camera or a secondary camera for unique angles. The video quality is a common highlight for the price, though expectations for audio and stabilization should be tempered compared to premium brands.
4. Vipxyc Mini Microphone, 3.5mm External Microphone Clip On…
This Vipxyc Mini Microphone is a straightforward, budget-friendly lavalier-style mic that aims to deliver improved vocal clarity. Its small, discreet design makes it perfect for interviews, vlogging, or any scenario where you want to capture clear voice audio directly from a person. The “clip-on” design allows for easy attachment to clothing, ensuring the microphone stays close to the sound source for optimal recording. It’s a simple, no-frills solution for getting better sound.
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Key Features:
- Quality: Adopting electret condenser cartridge with high sensitivity, low impedance, anti-noise, and anti-jamming capability.
- Design: New revamped design gives better quality sound during recording.
- Tips: Microphone can be glued with sticker to the wall, glass, car, door, etc. Lightweight and stylish.
- Support: Mini microphone is suitable for Hero3 3+/ Hero4 (requires the GoPro Mic Adapter for Hero7).
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Pros:
- Very compact and discreet.
- Affordable way to get an external microphone.
- Improves voice clarity for vlogging and interviews.
- Easy to clip onto clothing.
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Cons:
- Omnidirectional pickup might capture more ambient noise.
- Requires the GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter for GoPro Hero 7.
- Cable length might be limiting for some setups.
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User Impressions: Customers find this mic surprisingly effective for its size and price. It’s a popular choice for budget-conscious creators needing better voice audio. While not studio-grade, it significantly boosts clarity over internal mics.
5. Movo Lavalier Microphone for GoPro – Compatible with GoPro…
The Movo Lavalier Microphone is specifically engineered for seamless integration with your GoPro setup, ensuring you get crystal-clear audio, especially for vocal recordings. This omnidirectional condenser mic is a top choice for vloggers, interviewers, and anyone who needs reliable, high-quality voice capture without the bulk of a shotgun mic. Its robust build and included accessories make it a premium yet user-friendly option for upgrading your GoPro Hero 7 audio.
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Key Features:
- GOPRO COMPATIBILITY: Designed for seamless integration with GoPro Media Mod and GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter. Perfectly fits GoPro Hero 12, Hero11 Black, Hero10 Black, Hero9 Black action cameras for crystal clear audio.
- SUPERIOR SOUND QUALITY: Features an omnidirectional condenser microphone that captures sound from all directions, providing less noise, clearer voice, and high sensitivity. Ideal for professional-grade audio recording. Excellent choice as a GoPro external microphone.
- PREMIUM BUILD: Equipped with a 3.5mm (1/8″) male plug with 3 poles TRS gold-plated tip for superior connectivity and reduced resistance. Includes a high-quality windscreen foam cover.
- EASY TO USE: Comes with a 6ft cable for flexible positioning. Durable metal lavalier mic clip ensures secure attachment.
- VERSATILE USE: Perfect for vlogging, extreme sports, presentations, and any scenario requiring discreet microphone visibility and hands-free operation.
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Pros:
- Excellent voice clarity and sensitivity.
- Designed with GoPro users in mind (requires adapter).
- Long 6ft cable offers great flexibility.
- Premium build quality with a gold-plated tip.
- Includes a foam windscreen for basic noise reduction.
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Cons:
- Still requires the GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter for GoPro Hero 7.
- Omnidirectional pattern means it picks up sound from all directions, potentially more ambient noise.
- Not ideal for capturing sound from a distance.
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User Impressions: Users consistently praise this Movo lavalier for its professional sound quality and reliable performance. It’s a popular choice for vlogging and interviews, with many noting its robustness and ease of use with the GoPro adapter.
6. Vlogging Protective Case for GoPro Hero 7/6/5 with Cold Shoe Mount
This Vlogging Protective Case is an essential accessory for anyone looking to seriously upgrade their GoPro Hero 7’s audio by adding an external microphone. It solves the common headache of housing the necessary GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter, providing a neat and secure spot for it. Beyond that, its integrated cold shoe mount opens up a world of possibilities for attaching not just microphones, but also lights or other accessories, making your vlogging rig much more versatile and professional.
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Key Features:
- Perfect Solution for Action Camera Microphone Adapter: Offers specially designed space for your mic audio box when connecting an external microphone to video shooting.
- Versatile Cold Shoe Mount: On top, you can add an external video light, flash, microphone, or other accessories.
- Simple and Lightweight: Straightforward to mount your action cam and store the mic adapter professionally, easy to carry for travel.
- Universal Compatibility: Compatible with action camera Hero 13 12 7 6 5 etc.
- Reliable & Necessary Cam Partner: Ideal for action camera vlogging, video shooting, live streaming, filmmaking.
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Pros:
- Crucially provides a dedicated spot for the GoPro Mic Adapter, keeping your setup tidy.
- Cold shoe mount adds versatility for accessories like external mics or lights.
- Lightweight and easy to use, enhancing portability.
- Protects the GoPro while allowing accessory mounting.
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Cons:
- Does not include the microphone or adapter itself.
- Requires removing the camera’s audio/charging port cover for proper connection.
- Adds a small amount of bulk to the camera.
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User Impressions: Users love how this case streamlines their external mic setup, eliminating dangling adapters. The cold shoe mount is a huge hit for adding lights or shotgun mics, making it a highly recommended accessory for serious GoPro vloggers.
7. Andoer Vlog Case Action Camera Body Vlogging Cage Frame…
The Andoer Vlog Case is another excellent option for GoPro Hero 7 users who want to integrate an external microphone seamlessly into their setup. Its standout feature is the precisely designed slot for the GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter, addressing the common frustration of handling this essential piece of equipment. Made from durable ABS material, this lightweight cage not only protects your camera but also provides a convenient cold shoe mount for an external microphone or other accessories, making it an indispensable tool for improved GoPro audio quality.
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Key Features:
- Specially designed position of the microphone adapter, perfectly solving the 3.5mm microphone adapter problem.
- Suitable for GoPro Hero 7, 6, 5 Black Action Cameras. Portable to take out, can be mounted on bicycles, handrail, helmet, chest strap, etc.
- With a cold shoe mount on the top, an external microphone can be attached for better voice recording. Can also mount flash, GPS locator, video light, etc.
- The Vlog case is made of high-quality ABS material, lightweight yet durable.
- Note: The product is only suitable for GoPro Hero 5 6 7 Black. Not suitable for Hero7 Silver or White.
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Pros:
- Cleverly integrates the GoPro Mic Adapter, making setup cleaner.
- Provides a cold shoe mount for adding an external microphone or other accessories.
- Lightweight yet durable ABS construction.
- Enhances versatility for various mounting scenarios.
- Specifically designed for Hero 5/6/7 Black, ensuring a snug fit.
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Cons:
- Does not include the microphone or adapter.
- Not compatible with Hero 7 Silver or White editions.
- Requires removing the camera’s side door to fit the adapter.
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User Impressions: Many users find this case to be a game-changer for vlogging with their GoPro. The dedicated mic adapter slot is frequently highlighted as a major benefit, alongside the cold shoe for easily attaching preferred external microphones. It’s considered a robust and practical accessory.
FAQ Section
Q1: Why do I need an external microphone for my GoPro Hero 7?
A1: While the GoPro Hero 7 captures stunning video, its internal microphone is often limited, especially in noisy or windy environments. An external microphone significantly improves audio quality, reducing background noise and capturing clearer, crisper sound, which is essential for professional-looking vlogs, interviews, or action footage where sound matters.
Q2: What kind of adapter do I need to connect an external microphone to a GoPro Hero 7 Black?
A2: For the GoPro Hero 7 Black, you need the official GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter. This adapter connects to the camera’s USB-C port and provides a standard 3.5mm jack for your external microphone. Without this adapter, you cannot directly plug in an external mic.
Q3: Can I use any 3.5mm microphone with the GoPro Hero 7?
A3: Most 3.5mm microphones (TRS type) can work with the GoPro Hero 7, provided you use the official GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter. Microphones designed for smartphones (TRRS type) may require a TRRS to TRS adapter cable in addition to the GoPro adapter. Always check the microphone’s plug type.
Q4: What’s the difference between a lavalier mic and a shotgun mic for GoPro?
A4:
* Lavalier (Lapel) Mic: Small, discreet, clips onto clothing. Best for capturing clear voice audio from a single speaker, especially in interviews or vlogging where the subject is close to the camera. They are typically omnidirectional, picking up sound from all directions.
* Shotgun Mic: Longer, cylindrical mic that’s highly directional. Excellent for picking up sound from a specific direction while rejecting off-axis noise. Ideal for capturing ambient sound, dialogue from a distance, or focusing on a specific sound source in noisy environments.
Q5: How can I reduce wind noise when recording with an external mic on my GoPro?
A5: Many external microphones come with foam windscreens. For better wind noise reduction, especially in strong winds, consider a “dead cat” or “dead kitten” furry windscreen. Placing the microphone in a less exposed area (e.g., behind the camera, or using a lavalier mic under clothing) can also help.
Q6: Are the protective cases with cold shoe mounts necessary for using an external mic?
A6: While not strictly “necessary” to make a mic work (the GoPro adapter is), these cases are highly recommended. They provide a secure, integrated spot for the often-awkward GoPro Mic Adapter, preventing it from dangling. More importantly, the cold shoe mount allows you to easily attach your external microphone (or lights/other accessories) directly to your rig, making your setup much cleaner, more stable, and more professional.
Q7: Will using an external microphone drain my GoPro Hero 7 battery faster?
A7: Yes, connecting the GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter and a powered external microphone can lead to slightly faster battery drain on your GoPro Hero 7. Some external microphones are self-powered (e.g., with their own battery), which can help reduce the drain on the GoPro itself. Always carry spare batteries or a power bank for longer recording sessions.
