Audio is the number one thing that can boost the quality of your vlog dramatically. People think that video quality and HD video is the number one thing to make your vlog awesome. These people are wrong. An audience immediately knows when there is bad audio but is much more forgiving when it comes to image quality. Most cameras and recorders have built-in front-facing microphones but they are generally very bad. If you want to use a DSLR or other camera you definitely need to consider buying a microphone for vlogging. Here are my top 10 for crystal clear audio!
The microphones suggested here all have a 3.5mm (headphone style) jack that you can plug into your camera. A number of them also require an external battery to power the microphone and increase its sensitivity.
In a rush? Here are the microphones you should consider!
| Product | Number of start ratings | Number of reviews | LINK |
| Rode VideoMic NTG On-Camera Shotgun Microphone | 5 | 3 | URL |
| Canon Directional Microphone DM-E1 (Black) | 4.4 | 7 | URL |
| Rode VideoMic Pro+ Compact Directional On-Camera Shotgun Condenser Microphone | 4.4 | 80 | URL |
| Comica CVM-V30 PRO Camera Microphone | 4.3 | 89 | URL |
| Rode VideoMicPro Compact Directional On-Camera Microphone with Rycote Lyre Shockmount | 4.1 | 218 | URL |
| Tascam TM-2X Stereo X-Y Microphone for DSLR Cameras | 3.9 | 121 | URL |
| Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone | 3.6 | 17 | URL |
| Audio-Technica ATR3350 Omnidirectional Condenser Lavalier Microphone | 3.6 | 1,352 | URL |
| Rode Stereo VideoMic Pro Rycote Condenser On-Camera Microphone | 3.6 | 8 | URL |
| Rode VideoMic GO Light Weight On-Camera Microphone | 3.6 | 815 | URL |
| Azden High-performance (SMX-10) Stereo Condenser Microphone | 3.5 | 152 | URL |
Common questions about vlogging microphones
Vlogging and the set up for vlogging can be as complicated or as simple as you want to make it. You can go all in and buy lighting, microphones, tripods and camera bags. Or you can just get a camera.
The amount that you invest is completely up to you – but don’t get carried away early on. Start simple! Here are some answers to common vlogging microphone questions!
Do you need a microphone for vlogging?
If you are a new vlogger I’d say you only need an external microphone if you have a DSLR or handy cam that has a rubbish front-facing microphone.
Not if you use your phone
You can get around this by using your phone and a headset with a microphone in them. Most phones actually come with a headset like this. So if you are using your phone, I’d say you do not need an external microphone at all!
Not if you use this camera.
If you want a slightly better quality to your videos you need to consider buying a camera that has excellent front-facing microphones. I make no secret that I love the Sony Action Cam FDR-X3000.
This camera has a whole range of features that I love. Optical stability, wide and fisheye lens options as well as excellent front-facing microphones!
The one drawback to this camera is that it is really affected by the wind. Even a small amount can cause a rumble that is really horrible to listen to. That is when you need a windshield!
What is the fluffy thing on a microphone?
You may have seen a load of vloggers and YouTubers with a big fluffy or foam cover on their microphone.
The fluffy part of a microphone is an optional windscreen and is commonly referred to as a “dead cat” or “windjammer.” Dead cats are designed for outdoor use, providing an extra layer of protection from wind noise and plosive sounds (p’s and b’s) while recording.
Did you know that the popular microphone brand, Rode, calls them “dead wombats” because they are an Australian brand!
These shields stop the wind from directly vibrating the microphone diaphragm and also stop wind turbulence close to the microphone’s surface. I have used a number of dead cats and foam shields with great success.
If you are doing a fair bit of vlogging outside you should consider using one!
What microphones do YouTubers use?
Arguably, the most used microphone by YouTubers is a Rode VideoPro or version of it! The camera mounted microphones (like the ones in this.
I have also seen a range of desktop mounted microphones too. These tend to be visible in the video and place close to the mouth of the presenter. These are closer to podcasting microphones than microphones that clip to the camera.
If you are stationary and regularly film sitting down at a desk you may want to use a podcaster type of microphone. It’ll give your voice a deeper and more rounded tone due to the proximity of the microphone to your face!
If you are moving around a lot – you should check out the microphones that are mentioned in the list below!
How do microphones attach to the camera?
The standard way that a microphone attaches to a camera is through a 3.5 mm jack. You have seen these on headphones and are the industry standard for connecting microphones to a camera.
But you could also use an external recorder like the Zoom H4n or Rode Wireless GO Compact Microphone System to record your audio separate from your video. This is a more expensive option but gives you a lead of flexibility in recording your vlogs.
Here are the top 10 microphones for vlogging that can attach to a camera using a 3.5 mm jack.
The top 10 microphones for vlogging
Rode VideoMic NTG On-Camera Shotgun Microphone
Shotgun microphones are great at picking up sound from a single point. You just point the microphone at where the sound is coming from and it’ll reduce the environmental sound. That is why you will see a load of shotgun microphones on this list. The great thing about this microphone is that it is light but powerful – the perfect combination for vlogging!
- Vlogger, Run & Gun, Voiceover, Podcaster
- 30-Hour USB Rechargeable Battery
- For Cameras, Mobile Devices & Computers
- Variable Gain, Pad, Roll-Off & HF Boost
Canon Directional Microphone DM-E1
This shotgun microphone will improve the sound captured by your device dramatically. If you have a canon camera and want to stick to canon products then this is a great option for you. The only issue with this camera is that there is a manual on switch that some users have reported as forgetting to turn on and end up recording without any sound!
- Shotgun and Stereo (90 Degree/120 Degree) directional controls can be easily adjusted using the directivity switch for use in a variety of shooting situations.
- Included Wind Screen helps reduce peripheral sound from wind and other outside noise.
- Shock mount construction helps reduce camera operation noise and lens driver sounds.
Rode VideoMic Pro+ Compact Directional On-Camera Shotgun Condenser Microphone
This plus version of the microphone is very popular with vloggers. The audio profile is a little different and it has full digital settings controls that are remembered when you turn it off. It automatically turns on then you plug it in and turn on your camera.
This is a little more expensive but so very worth the price in my opinion.
- Automatic Power Function (with plug-in power availability) is perfect for the run-and-gun shooter, automatically turning the microphone off when unplugged from the camera.
- Built-in Battery Door makes replacing the battery a breeze – plus it won’t get lost.
- Power options the VideoMic Pro+ can be powered by the all-new and included RØDE LB-1 Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Battery, 2 x AA Batteries or continuously via Micro USB.
- Digital Switching – will ensure the user has the ultimate capture of the audio signal at the source, reducing post-production and editing times.
Comic CVM-V30 PRO
This camera has an excellent build quality and has a travel case and windshield for those that vlog out and about. The mic sensitivity is sadi to be perfect from vlogging – so it doesn’t sound like you are shouting into the camera!
This mic picks up a little ambient sound so great if you are out and about and want to get a more natural sound!
- Low-cut Filter & 10dB Sensitivity AdjustmentThe CVM-V30PRO Lightweight microphone has low-cut filter function and 10dB Sensitivity Adjustment. You can choose the low-cut mode when you are in the noisy environment and you can adjust the sensitivity from -38dB to -28dB as per your need.
- Excellent shock-absorbing Shock-resistant structural design can effectively reduce vibration noise. Which can primely prevent the noise of the jitter during video shooting and provides your video with more excellent voice.
- Super-Cardioid Polar Pattern The CVM-V30 PRO shotgun microphone is giving excellent off-axis rejection for desired sounds, which can effectively reduce the noise of the surrounding environment to be picked up.
Rode VideoMicPro
This is a true shotgun microphone that picks up very little background noise and is a step up from the video mic Go that Rode has manufactured. It can be a little muddier for vocals than other mics in this price range but that is the price you pay for a tighter pickup range.
It is a little larger than some of the other microphones mentioned here but the shock mount works very well for people wanting to walk and vlog!
- A true shotgun microphone designed for camcorders, DSLR cameras and portable audio recorders as primary and reference audio
- The 1/2″ condenser capsule provides broadcast-quality audio via a 3.5mm connector with an incredibly low self-noise of just 14db
- The Rycote Lyre based shock mounting system provides isolation from external factors that may cause unwanted rumble and vibrations
Tascam TM-2X Stereo X-Y Microphone
I really like Tascam products. They seem to understand their user’s needs. Don’t think that the only option for you is a shotgun microphone. This stereo microphone may be the best option if you are looking for a microphone that can capture the environment just as well as your voice.
- The X-Y pattern and two mic capsules are ideal for capturing a true representation of the sonic atmosphere
- Easily handles high sound pressures up to 120 dB SPL, and a two-stage output level adjustment switch ensures compatibility with a variety of cameras
- Setup is as simple as connecting the cord from the TM-2X to the camera’s mic input jack allowing you to add high-quality audio to video
- Included shoe adapter can be attached to the camera accessory shoe, and tripod mounting threads enable attachment to a camera tripod
- An on-board low-cut filter can be switched on and off to cut out low-frequency background noise when needed
- The floating support structure underneath the mics absorbs unwanted handling and mechanical noise, aided by the included noise isolation arm
Azden SMX-30 Stereo/Mono Switchable Video Microphone
Some people are saying that Azden is a better microphone quality than the very popular Rode microphones. This microphone automatically turns on when it is plugged into the camera so you will never end up with no sound after recording.
Customers of Azden are really happy with the sound quality of this microphone as it picks up the sound qualities of the voice perfectly! Making this one perfect for vlogging.
- Stereo and mono recording modes with 10db, 0db, +20db level adjustments
- Low noise, high sensitivity, wide frequency response shotgun mic with 3.5mm stereo minijack output
- Custom, detachable foam windscreen
- Integrated shock-absorbing shoe mount with 1/420 thread
- Operates on (2) aa batteries with indicator led light
Audio-Technica ATR3350 Omnidirectional Condenser Lavalier Microphone
This is one of the only lavalier microphones on this list. Lavalier microphones are awesome for picking up the voice and if you want to get a little bit further away from the camera. The omnidirectional microphone will pick up sounds from a wide range of angles which makes this perfect for natural-sounding audio with your video.
This is so inexpensive that it makes it a great option for vloggers who want to keep the price down. The cable connects directly into your camera and it really long so you son;t have to worry about running out of cable. People have also used this with their smartphones too!
- Element-Condenser,Polar pattern-Omnidirectional,Cable6 m (20′) terminated with 3.5 mm (1/8″) dual mono mini-plug
- Frequency response-50 – 18,000 hz
- Open circuit sensitivity-54 dB
- Impedance-1,000 ohms,Battery type-Lr44
- Condenser Element with Omnidirectional Polar pattern
Rode Stereo VideoMic Pro Rycote
This rode microphone is a perfect companion for vlogging if you want more ambient sound in your videos. The switches and buttons make it easy to adjust the sound to just how you want it. You can remove low hums like traffic or air conditioning.
- Ideal for videographers, recording music, and capturing the atmospheric ambience essential in building a realistic audio scene
- Capsule features a matched pair of high sensitivity ½” cardioid condensers in a coincident XY pair to provide a wide stereo image with natural depth
- The Rycote Lyre shock mounting system provides isolation from external factors that may cause unwanted rumble and vibrations
Rode VideoMic GO Light Weight On-Camera Microphone
This is probably the most popular microphone on this list. It is inexpensive. It is a plug and play microphone so you can sure that you are recording when it is plugged in. It is lightweight and is a fantastic option for vloggers that want to get out and about!
- Delivers clear, crisp, directional audio with incredible ease of use
- Rode designed the VideoMic GO with a tight pickup area that focuses directly in front of the mic
- Reduces other surrounding sounds, ensuring that your subject is isolated from background noise
- The integrated Rycote Lyre shock mount isolates the VideoMic GO from bumps and vibrations
Azden High-performance (SMX-10) Stereo Condenser Microphone
This is one of the cheaper shotgun microphones on the list. This does require the purchase of a hot-shoe to use used on the top of DSLR cameras. There are a few tricks that you need to do when capturing audio with cheaper microphones. The first and most important is to remove hiss and other noises from the recording.
DSLRs are notoriously noisy so bear that in mind when selecting a microphone.
- 7 inch Long, Dual Unidirectional Electret-Condenser Microphone
- Records High-Quality Stereo Directly
- Built-In Cable With 3.5Mm Stereo Mini Plug
- Powered By A Single Aaa Battery
- Includes Foam Windscreen & Shock-Mount Microphone Holder
- Ability to record directly in stereo Dual uni-directional electret condensor microphone Built-in cable with 3.5mm plug
The final word
A microphone for vlogging is a fantastic way to improve the quality of your videos. You don’t need to start with a microphone unless you have a DSLR or other small camera that has rubbish internal microphones.
This list will help you pick what one is best for you!
