Best Action Cameras With Microphone Attachment
Thinking of keeping your hand in the world of action cameras? Then let me tell you one thing first; not all action cameras support external microphone attachment.
However, there is no doubt that action cams produce captivating videos, but the videos can’t impress the viewers unless the video has good quality sound.
If you want your audience to be part of the adventure from their homes, using the best action camera wouldn’t be enough. You have to look for the best action camera with external microphone input support.
Today, I’m getting insights into some of the best cameras with external audio input; going to suggest some microphones and adapters for them; hereafter, letting you know the best ways to add a microphone to them. So, keep reading till the end.
WHICH ACTION CAMERA WORKS WITH A MICROPHONE INPUT?
If the camera mic attachment is the must-have thing for you, go for action cameras with 3.5 mm jack audio input and square-shaped mini USB ports.
Some action cameras work with external microphones using Type-C USB, though the camera should have firmware update options to accept an external microphone.
The 3.5 mm audio input jack and mini USB ports work with external microphones in most cases. So, it would be better to get an action camera with a mini USB or 3.5 mm audio jack.
In a hurry?! Here are my top picks
REVIEWS OF THE BEST ACTION CAMERAS WITH EXTERNAL MIC INPUT
1. AKASO BRAVE 7 4K ACTION CAMERA - BEST ACTION CAMERA WITH MICRO USB PORT
PRODUCT DETAILS:
If you’re keen on adventurous sports, especially swimming, scuba-diving, or other underwater sports, the AKASO Brave 7 is the ultimate action camera for you. This rugged waterproof camera lets you visit some adventurous places with it that your smartphone or DSLR, or other cameras can only dream of.
The IPX7 water-resistant body could go down to 3.3 feet deep for 30 minutes without requiring the assistance of the case. In addition, a waterproof case also comes with this camera; that allows you to discover the underwater world down to 131feet deep.
The 20 MP photos and stunning 4K30FPS videos will definitely win your heart.
The 2.0" back touch screen, remote, and voice control function aid the beginners, whereas the Gimbal-like 6-Axis image stabilization mechanism at this price range simply beats the rest, it even attracts the experienced shooters toward it.
All are set for getting the best action shots! Now you need a good external microphone. The camera works wirelessly; you could use any reliable wireless external microphone. Such a hand-free audio-video recording system is a blessing for sports or adventurous action shooters.
However, you don’t need to wander around at online portals or go through tons of articles for this matter. You can select one from the list below.
NOTE: If you're looking for the perfect microphone adapter for this camera, then the AKASO Brave 7 adapter is the best fit.
What I liked about this ACTION CAMERA:
2. DJI OSMO ACTION 4K CAMERA - BEST ACTION CAMERA WITH USB TYPE C
PRODUCT DETAILS:
The DJI Osmo action cameras are specifically designed for capturing action shots. Their small and handy design with rugged construction lets you mount them to almost anything almost everywhere.
The voice command function and quick switch button make this camera effortless to shoot. I prefer this camera for shooting fast movements, not only for its flexibility; the imaging unit of DJI Osmo is also commendable.
The aspherical three-layered camera lens with powerful sensor and image stabilization mechanism produces shake-free action shots with more dynamic color details and crystal-clear image quality; that matches the intensity of the moment.
Besides recording sound with it's internal microphone, I would suggest using an external mic for best quality sound.
It lacks the 3.5mm audio jack port. So here, you have to use a microphone adapter to connect the microphone with the camera via USB, or you can go for a wireless microphone.
When it comes to filming adventures, you’ll always be more than happy with DJI Osmo Action cameras. If you want something different, check out my next favorite DV-styled action camera.
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS:
3. SJCAM SJ4000 AIR 4K Wi-Fi ACTION CAMERA
PRODUCT DETAILS:
The SJCAM SJ4000 Air action camera is another good option for adventure lovers; that comes with the cheapest price point. It’s a DV-style camcorder and ideal for most shooting situations, specifically for shooting underwater.
The camera allows you to go beyond 80-90 ft underwater and capture every exciting moment with stunning image quality. The battery life is also good enough for outdoor activities and extreme sports.
You can connect a wired external microphone via a USB port using an SJ4000 mic adapter, or you could try a wireless microphone connecting via Wi-Fi.
It’s true that the SJCAM SJ4000 lacks some advanced bells and whistles but has all those essentials; needed for satisfying action shots. In my opinion, it’s a real winner according to the price point and the vintage looks.
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS:
4. INSTA360 ONE R 4K ACTION CAMERA
PRODUCT DETAILS:
I’m a big fan of Insta360 One for its versatile features and 5.7K 360 recording mode. The 5.7K 360 recording lets you film in the 360-degree panoramic view around you with ease.
The Dual-Lens 360 mode with 5.7K resolution captures stunning action shots, whereas the H.265 encoding and AI-powered editing algorithm preserve the details and reduce file size.
You could take action shots from aerial angles and third-person perspectives on your own using the included selfie stick. The action cameras let you jump right into the adventure; capture stunning action shots; that smartphones or other traditional cameras just can't.
The Insta360 allows you to connect wired external mics only to the ONE R camera. It has a 3.5 mm audio jack on one end and a Type-C USB port on the other end.
The 3.5 mm audio port seems to be a universal port; that supports a wide range of versatile 3.5 mm TRS microphones; plus allows you to plug the mic directly into the audio port. If you have a USB mic, you can add the mic using the Insta360 ONE R Mic Adapter that I found best for Insta360 ONE R.
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS:
5. INSTA360 ONE X2 5.7K ACTION CAMERA - BEST ACTION CAMERA WITH EXTERNAL MIC JACK
PRODUCT DETAILS:
The biggest selling point of the Insta360 ONE X2, even the entire X series, is the increased 5.7K (5760 x 2880) resolution at 30fps. The camera also has options to record at 4K, 3K, and HD with your desired aspect ratio from desired angles.
The horizon level algorithms of FlowState Stabilization keep the shots steady, which is far better than other stabilization mechanisms.
The Insta360 One X2 has a Cold Shoe mount, where you can plug in external microphones to get immersive action shots with the best sound quality.
Like ONE R, the One X2 also has Type-C USB and 3.5mm audio port and Cold Shoe mount, in addition. So you can plug versatile high-end external microphones for recording studio-quality real-time audio while vlogging.
The Insta360 always ensures immersive action shots with the best sound quality. Moreover, the great image stabilization is a real steal at this price, as well as the live streaming and webcam function. There is nothing not to like Insta360 X2.
" If you're looking to purchase a microphone adapter to use with this camera, go for the Insta360 ONE X2 adapter. "
What I liked about this CAMCORDER:
6. GOPRO HERO 10 5.7K ACTION CAMERA
PRODUCT DETAILS:
After Insta360, GoPro started capturing the industry with their 5.7K video cameras. The Hero 10 model is the latest one; that comes with a revolutionary imaging unit with a new-gen GP2 image processing engine and HyperSmooth 4.0 stabilization system.
The image processing unit ensures smoother image quality and faster delivery. In addition, the HyperSmooth 4.0 stabilization system steadily holds the action footage. Moreover, it provides better low-light performance as well as improved horizon leveling options with a higher tilt limit.
So, your action footage will look perfectly straight, smooth, and crystal-clear.
Honestly, I always give it a 10 /10 rate as an action camera. Now I'm coming to the main point; how is it as an action camera with a microphone attachment?
The Hero 10 does not have a 3.5 mm audio port, but it allows you to use a wired microphone using a Type-C USB adapter and wireless microphones connecting via Wi-Fi. So, I think it’s a pretty good option for both professionals and amateurs.
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS:
LOOKING FOR MORE ACCESSORIES TO USE WITH YOUR ACTION CAMERAS?
If yes, check my list of some additional camera gear you can try! You'll have a lot to choose from this list so go ahead!
WHY DO I NEED AN EXTERNAL MICROPHONE FOR AN ACTION CAMERA?
Having an action camera with an audio input system is a blessing for everyone. We want separate audio recordings for different purposes.
The first one; that comes to my mind are vloggers. Many of us out there do video blogging about various things, from daily life to adventures vlogging or from product reviews to offline shopping and so on.
If you’re doing something interesting at a silent place, you could manage to record good sound anyhow.
But when you’re doing something adventurous like mountain biking, trekking, or motorcycling, it will separate you from the camera. Here, you strictly need a good action camera with external mic input.
REVIEWS OF THE BEST MICROPHONE FOR ACTION CAMERAS
1. REMOVU RM-M1+A1 WIRELESS MICROPHONE
PRODUCT DETAILS:
When you’re looking for an action camera with a microphone attachment and tending towards waterproof cameras, the external microphone should also be waterproof. So the Removu RM-M1+A1 microphone comes with waterproof housing, making it perfect for an underwater adventure.
The wireless nature also gives you the freedom; that one action shooter always wants. It records high-quality sound at distances up to 33 ft away, while the foam windscreen blocks wind noise.
If you want to mount it on a camera; then, let me tell you it is only compatible with GoPro HERO3, HERO3 plus, and HERO4. Otherwise, you could use it as a clip-on mic during vlogging, news gathering, or filming something with commentary.
What I liked about this microphone:
2. MOVO GM100 CLIP-ON LAVALIER MICROPHONE
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Movo GM100 picks up sound with equal gain from all sides of the mic with a frequency range of 35Hz to 18kHz. The windscreen guard reduces breathing and wind noise, ensuring crispy 100% noise-free sound.
It is simply a plug-and-play audio recording system; no battery is required. So the battery life never could bother you.
The attached 3.9” cable contains a 3.5mm mini male TRS input to make it compatible with almost all action cameras with a mic input, DSLRs, and other audio recorders.
Movo also includes a 3.5mm female to mini-USB adapter with this microphone pack to enhance the compatibility with GoPro HERO3, HERO3+, and HERO4 models.
Movo GM100 could be a cost-effective solution for vloggers, hikers, and all adventure enthusiasts.
What I liked about this microphone:
3. RODE WIRELESS GO MICROPHONE
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Rode Wireless GO is one of the most versatile, the smallest, and the simplest wireless microphones; you don’t even need to read the instructions. It is built to last and records top-quality sound in every situation.
The transmitter unit contains a pre-polarized omnidirectional microphone; that works with a frequency range of 50Hz to 20kHz.
The included USB cable also charges the transmitter and receiver in an hour. I’ve used this microphone on a busy street, it raised my voice; plus, it delivered a crispy and natural tone, full of depth.
You could use the transmitter as a clip mic or plug it in a lavalier. As a lav mic, it increases the volume so that the vocals could become a bit more computerized.
What I liked about this MICROPHONE:
4. WALWAY MINI USB OMNI-DIRECTIONAL LAPEL MICROPHONE
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Last but not the least; I’m suggesting another best lapel mic, which has an Omni-directional pickup pattern. You can connect this corded microphone just by plugging it into the USB interface of your camera, no converter adapter is needed.
You could be sure of crystal clear sound with this lapel mic while vlogging or shooting videos. Just clip the microphone on your collar and connect it to the camera. The lightweight design is easy to store and carry, though the construction is good enough for using it on an adventurous trip.
What I liked about this MICROPHONE:
HOW TO CONNECT THE ACTION CAMERA WITH MICROPHONE INPUT?
Here I’ll talk about establishing a connection between an action camera and microphone.
Various Mini USB to 3.5mm female jack converter and USB Type-C to 3.5mm female jack converter adapter are there; choose according to the connection option of your chosen camera.
For your convenience, I’m also suggesting some of the best adapters, which really work well with most action cameras.
REVIEWS OF BEST MICROPHONE ADAPTER FOR ACTION CAMERAS
1. GOPRO PRO 3.5MM MIC ADAPTER
PRODUCT DETAILS:
If your chosen camera only accepts mic or line-level signals through 3.5mm analog stereo input, you can use this GoPro mic input adapter. It is compatible with most GoPro max external microphones or other powered and unpowered microphones.
This mic adapter will come in handy when you use a shotgun or lapel mic during interviews or wish to directly take the audio signal from the music venue's mixing console.
The internal A/D (analog to digital) conversion system enables 106 dB sensitivity of headroom, which ensures clean audio recording.
A pass-through USB port is also available on the adapter so that your camera will be charged when you keep the adapter plugged in.
2. CYNOVA OSMO ACTION DUAL 3.5MM MIC ADAPTER
PRODUCT DETAILS:
The CYNOVA Osmo Action Dual 3.5mm/USB-C adapter is specifically designed for connecting the Osmo action external mics to the DJI Osmo Action camera; that I reviewed before.
It has a 3.5mm microphone port, where you have to plug in the microphone and plug in the USB interface of the adapter to the camera's USB-C port. The second USB-C connector port allows power pass-through and battery charging.
If you want to record stunning action shots with clear and effective audio through DJI Osmo action, try to use the original Osmo action external microphone and mic adapter.
3. INSYOO GENUINE OSMO COMPATIBLE USB-C/3.5MM MIC ADAPTER
PRODUCT DETAILS:
In the end, I’m referring to another 3.5mm/USB-C adapter for DJI Pocket 2 and Osmo action cameras. If you have a TRRS (Tip-Ring-Ring-Shield) connected microphone, you could use this adaptor for converting it to a TRS connector.
Though any camera already has a microphone jack, professionals still use a sound adapter to record sounds with a higher resolution. The mic adapter doesn’t cost you much so don't forget to add this Osmo accessory to your cart while purchasing the Osmo action camera and microphone.
CONCLUSION
Before wrapping up, I must say that you’ll get various connection options while choosing an action camera. I would suggest selecting the one that doesn’t require any extra equipment to connect the microphone or external audio recorder to the camera.
I’ve mentioned only those action cameras with microphone attachments, compatible external microphones, and audio adapters that I’ve tried and tested several times and found the best among the rest.
There are lots of options out there. You could choose one according to your shooting requirement and budget. If you find some particular option better than my choices, don’t hesitate to let me know.
If I like your suggestion, I will try to review that product in the future to let others know about the epic option.
