Best Video Cameras And Camcorders With Microphone Inputs
A video without good sound isn't pleasant, even not acceptable, be it for social media, news, or entertainment industries. A camcorder can't pick up the desired audio without using external microphones. Yeah, I agree that camcorders with built-in mics available in the market also perform well. However, the dedicated microphones in those video cameras only pick up the vocals, reducing wind noise or ambient noise of the specific areas of interest. But there is a lack of voice clarity and sound reproduction.
So, whether you have a professional video camera or a budget camcorder, you don't need to worry about the sound quality if it supports external microphone inputs. However, the main problem is still many people still consider the option of external audio inputs as premium features only.
But if you have come here, it means you're seriously looking for the best video camera with mic-inputs and I appreciate that.
I've picked the winners right now in the market. We have a detailed explanation of why our recommended camcorders are best. Please read the article till the end; hopefully, you’ll find the best camcorder with microphone inputs for you.
In a hurry?!, here are my top picks of camcorders with microphone inputs
REVIEWS OF THE BEST VIDEO CAMERA WITH MICROPHONE INPUTS
PRO-LEVEL CAMCORDERS WITH EXTERNAL MIC INPUTS
1. CANON XA40 - VIDEO CAMERA WITH USB AND XLR INPUT
PRODUCT DETAILS:
At the top of my digital video cameras review, I've chosen a 4K UHD professional Canon camcorder with an external mic input, model XA40. It supports both XLR microphones, and 3.5 mm jacked external microphones. There are two 3-pin XLR audio input interfaces and 3.5 mm ports for headphones and microphones. That means you can use multiple external microphones at once.
The camcorder comes with an ergonomic design with full manual control that ensures comfortable handling, while the detachable handle unit and enhances mobility. The 6th generation DIGIC DV image processor is very effective towards low power consumption, reducing noise, and delivering stable and impressive imagery.
Aside from the most desirable 4K filming, this XA40 UHD Canon camcorder can be considered the best camcorder for sound. However, there is no doubt that this camera is perfect for documentary making, interviewing from the field, and other journalism-style productions.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMCORDER:
2. PANASONIC X2000 – BEST PANASONIC CAMCORDER WITH MIC INPUT
PRODUCT DETAILS:
At the second position, I've picked another 4K professional camcorder with external microphone input from Panasonic, X2000, for film industry productions. The camcorder allows you to record 24-bit audio using the built-in microphone. The 4K ultra HD quality video in MP4, MOV, and AVCHD formats and specifically the 24-bit audio is just meant for studio editing.
However, you can use external XLR microphones to capture the vocals without background or wind noise. Generally, such dedicated microphones use X/Y stereo technology that picks only the sound coming from the shooting spot. You can live stream your videos while recording it; it uses broadcast compatible frame-rates plus provides clean HDMI and 3G SDI output, as well.
The X2000 Panasonic video camera could be a great choice for you if you want something special for BTS shooting and professional event filming or live streaming.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMCORDER:
3. SONY HXR-NX80 - BEST CAMCORDER WITH MICROPHONE INPUT
PRODUCT DETAILS:
If you want studio-quality sound, look for something that allows you to edit the audio and video footage to the next level, and that is why I recommend you the Sony HXR-NX80 digital video recorder. Using the movie, HDR, and HLG recording modes you can record videos or take pictures with the highest resolution and impressive color contrast. All this means you're going to save a lot of time in post-production work.
Moving on, the branded lens maintains top-notch clarity throughout the zooming range, while the large format image sensor brings out a crystal clear picture even from the dark area. The upgraded AF algorithm enables accurate focusing and tracking. On the other hand, the XLR microphones pick focused sound without disturbing background noise.
You can choose this camcorder for news broadcasting, television productions, and specifically covering corporate events, where often the clients demand live streaming.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMCORDER:
4. SONY HXR-NX100 - BEST SONY CAMCORDER WITH MICROPHONE INPUT
PRODUCT DETAILS:
I've picked the Sony HXR-NX100 digital video camera only for those people who are on a bit low budget. The handheld body with easily accessible manual controls make this camcorder easily portable and user-friendly.
It records only HD videos, and the image clarity is also crystal clear. Thanks to the large format backside illuminated image sensor!
You can attach two external microphones at once, using the multi-interface shoe (MI shoe). You can use a wireless microphone of the UWP-D series, as well as the camcorder.
If 4K filming is not your main concern, nothing could be a better choice than the Sony HXR-NX100. In my opinion, this camcorder offers us a lot at such a low price point, which is beyond our expectations.
If you're interested in purchasing this HD camcorder with external mic, click the check prize on amazon now!!
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMCORDER:
5. PANASONIC AG-UX90 - CHEAP CAMCORDER WITH MIC INPUT
PRODUCT DETAILS:
If you really don’t want to compromise 4K filming features, but your budget is forcing you to do so, then don’t restrict yourself when Panasonic is there. This Panasonic AG-UX90 4K UHD pro-level camcorder model, costs only within $1800, which is pretty surprising; Right?
The camera is fitted with a large format CMOS image sensor that offers amazing low-light performance. It has a 0.24 inch OLED eyepiece and 3.5 inches LCD screen for viewing the scene and recorded videos. The camera supports external XLR microphones to capture the best quality sound with less ambient noise.
The camcorder doesn’t support live streaming but you can transfer files wirelessly. If you only want camcorder with audio inputs with the best sound quality, the Panasonic AG-UX90 video cam is an overall good option for you.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMCORDER:
6. CANON XF605 - TRUE HIGH-END CANON CAMCORDER WITH MIC INPUT
PRODUCT DETAILS:
The Canon XF605 is a bit pricey, but it offers a lot, making it perfect for professionals. The camcorder with DIGIC DV 7 image processor and 1-inch CMOS image sensor provides outstanding imagery performance. The camcorder lets you access up to four audio inputs on the XLR audio unit and enables 16-bit / 48 kHz audio recording.
From wireless transmission to remote control operation, it has all that you expect from a high-end camera, though it uses a wired remote control. If you have the money to have the Canon XF605, we suggest you not opt for anything else.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMCORDER:
ENTRY-LEVEL CAMCORDERS WITH MICROPHONE INPUTS
7. SEREE 4K HANDHELD VIDEO CAMERA WITH AUDIO INPUT
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Have you ever imagined that you’ll get a 4K filming video camera with a boom mic for $260? The brand, SEREE, makes it possible by introducing their 4K UHD vlogging camcorders in July 2021.
The 4k camcorder from Seree is specifically designed for amateur videographers; so, it comes with easy operability. The lightweight body and handheld form factor makes it easy to carry around. On the other hand, the easily accessible manual controls, touch-friendly menu settings on the LCD screen, and the remote control operation enable easy operability; that anyone would get accustomed to in short.
The camcorder records video in 4K UHD resolution at up to 60 FPS. The anti-shake body design and foldable handle absorb the handheld shakes and keep the footage steady and distortion-free.
With this camcorder, you don’t even need to purchase a few important accessories like LED fill light, microphone, and SD card; that also saves you money. Being a beginner, is there anything that you expect to have in your entry-level camcorder? Grab this video cam with mic asap!!
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMCORDER:
8. VAFOTON 4K CAMCORDERS WITH MICROPHONES
PRODUCT DETAILS:
This camcorder of VAFOTON shares similar specifications and functions to the previous model. But, it features an advanced CMOS image sensor for better quality imagery. Both camcorders work with the remote controller from a distance of 65 feet almost at a 360-degree angle.
It also captures 48 MP still images and sharp 4K videos at up to 60 FPS rate. The included lens hood around the camera lens blocks excess light, which improves overall color contrast, as well as it protects the expensive camera lens from accidental damage.
Moreover, the attached boom microphone uses X/Y stereo pickup technology to capture focused sound, while the NCR technology reduces the background noise. You can see that the microphone is covered with a windproof cover; that restricts wind noise during recording.
If you’re confused about the previous option due to the absence of a dedicated image sensor, you can choose this VAFOTON without having second thoughts in mind.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMCORDER:
9. ORDRO AC3 VIDEO RECORDING CAMERA WITH MICROPHONE AND LED LIGHT
PRODUCT DETAILS:
As far as good audio recording options are concerned, the ORDRO AC3 camcorder could beat other competitors. It has a 3.1 inch IPS display, and you know that an IPS screen is better than LCD; that enables more accurate picture reproduction. It supports a Wi-Fi connection and you can control the camera via this connection using your smartphone and its dedicated mobile app, ORDRO “D video”.
In my opinion, the ORDRO AC3 video cameras with microphones are another good option for beginners; even where you’ll get a dedicated 13MP Sony CMOS image sensor that ensures better picture quality than others.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMCORDER:
10. OIEXI 4K VIDEO CAM WITH MIC
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Like others, this camcorder also enables remote control operation and webcam functions; it comes with an anti-shake design and 4K filming power. But, the 56 MP still image capturing ability, 13 MP image sensor with improved low light sensitivity make it superior to others.
It lacks wireless connection but provides broadcast compatible clean HDMI output, with which you can live stream videos on HD TV during recording. The OIEXI 4K camcorder is another good option to start your filming career.
WHAT I LIKED ABOUT THIS CAMCORDER:
We suggest using one of these entry-level camcorders at first; then, shift to the professional camcorders; when you get used to handheld camcorders.
BUYER'S GUIDE
You could choose a camcorder with your desired features, shape, size, and control options with which you would feel comfortable while shooting. But, there is something; that goes beyond your wish; even these aspects could restrict your preference. Still, you have to consider the following points before finalizing your purchasing decision.
Professional videographers always want HDMI or 3G-SDI video output and a headphone to check the audio-video quality just after taking shots. Some camcorders offer various connectivity options, input and output port options. The wireless connection is always hassle-free; the wired connections are stable and convenient, on the other hand.
If your budget is high, easily you’ll get all connectivity options, choices for video recording with various frame rates, and maximum resolution.
The industry is moving towards 4K and even 5K filming. So, if you have the money, look no further than a professional 4K video camera with external mic input. We suggest using HD or max full HD video quality for live streaming or video blogging as most users watch the videos from their mobile device.
There are very few people who watch videos on 4K TV, but if you’re making videos for large screen or film industries, filming with 4K resolution is a must.
If you will use camcorders with external mics, you don’t need to worry about audio quality. Well, a bit of wind could distort the audio quality. In that case, it would be better if you choose windproof microphones or a microphone with a windscreen cover.
BENEFITS OF USING AN EXTERNAL MICROPHONE WITH A CAMCORDER
Whenever you shoot a video without using a dedicated microphone, the built-in audio recorder picks vocals along with disturbing ambient noise. You can’t rely only on the built-in camera of your camcorder. It’s not possible to record the powerful sound with clear vocals only using a good video camera. As a result, you have to pay an expensive cost for editing.
A video camera with an external microphone ensures the best quality sound with fewer disturbances. The noise-canceling technology of the microphone only captures the vocal and restricts background noise to the next level. The windscreen cover over the microphone is a must-have requirement; it effectively controls the wind noise, making the sound powerful.
Interestingly, you can use multiple external microphones at once, which really come in handy for field reporting, interviewing people from the field, or on a shooting set. The microphones come with a decent large cord, with which you can reach your subject from a distance. Otherwise, you can mount it with your camcorder, as well, to capture audio and video like a pro on your own.
You don’t need to worry about the extended weight as the microphone can be detached. However, I suggest carrying the camera and microphone separately while traveling.
In short, the usage of an external microphone is a single way with which you can record professional or personal blog videos with quality sound in a low-cost investment.
HOW TO USE AN EXTERNAL MICROPHONE ON A CAMCORDER
The cameras use various input connectors and wiring schemes. You have to choose a compatible external microphone first. For instance, if your camera has a 3.5 mm mic jack, a 3.5mm jacked microphone only works with it. In addition, some professional camcorders have an XLR audio input interface; that means they will support XLR microphones, too, along with 3.5 mm microphones.
You can use the microphones either from a distance using a cable, or you can mount them on the camcorder. First, plug in the mic jack to the audio port of the camera or 3-pin XLR plug of the microphone to the XLR interface located in the handlebar of most camcorders. Then, the microphone will start working right away, and you’ll also get several associated audio control features in that area.
FAQ
1. What is zoom Mic on camcorder?
Zoom microphones are a special type of mic that works like this. Suppose someone is talking in front of you, and when you zoom the lens towards him, this mic will also zoom in and collect the sound. The unique feature of a zoom microphone on a camcorder is that it will capture the sound only from its front and not from the sides.
You can find these types of camcorders installed in higher-end camcorder models.
CONCLUSION
Balancing the audio and video recording features with your budget could be tricky. Hopefully, our recommendations helped you reach the best available in the market. If you’ve gone through the test details, you may come to a decision whether one of them can suit your needs or not. You may go for other options; in that case, we only request you to keep the considering points in mind.
