The camera’s built-in microphone often doesn’t deliver the same sound quality as an external one. Even with high-end video gear, you’ll still need an external microphone connected to your camera for clear, professional audio. But how do you choose a video camera microphone? This buyer’s guide will help you, review the six best options from SYNCO and offer tips on selecting the best one by considering different types and key factors.
What is the best microphone for video camera: 6 picks at SYNCO
We’ve picked six microphones from SYNCO to meet different recording needs. Below are these six reliable options.
SYNCO P1S: Video camera microphone wireless clip-on for plug-and-play mobile recording
Many videographers prefer to use professional cameras and portable devices like smartphones for content creation, so the SYNCO P1S offers multiple connection options to enhance the experience. It includes a lightning/Type-C receiver that can connect directly to a camera or phone, along with a transmitter that clips onto the subject being recorded. We found this to be a smart, plug-and-play solution that works well. The connection between the microphone and the camera is instant, and while the audio quality may not match some of the more expensive options on this list, it’s more than sufficient for basic streaming and vlog recording on camera.
SYNCO G2(A2): Dual channel wireless lavalier system for video camera
The wireless lavalier microphone for camera has become an increasingly popular choice for video recording, offering more flexibility and freedom for capturing audio. The SYNCO G2 (A2) is a such versatile 3-in-1 solution. It includes a receiver that connects to your camera and two wireless lavalier transmitters. Pairing them is quick and easy, and you’ll be ready to record in no time. The transmitters come with built-in microphones, perfect for omnidirectional recording in quiet environments. Alternatively, you can connect a separate 3.5mm mic for even more flexibility. We found the system to be reliable and stable. While its 50-meter range may not be the longest, it’s a great option for those looking to move away from long cables without sacrificing sound quality.
SYNCO G2 Max: Lavalier microphone for video camera
You may first notice that the SYNCO G2 Max doesn’t look like a traditional camera microphone. Its transmitter and receiver are sleek, square devices clipped on a shirt, about half the size of a playing card. Despite their compact size, these blocks are packed with advanced technology to enhance your recording. With a nominal transmission range of 200 meters, you can transmit audio reliably over 330 feet (100 meters). Even if the transmission is interrupted, it has built-in recording capabilities. You can also activate safety mode and set one channel to -6dB to avoid clipping. The G2 Max features a clear TFT screen for real-time monitoring and includes a windscreen for use in windy conditions. It supports USB-C, TRRS, and TRS outputs.
SYNCO G3 Pro: Wireless collar video gear mounted on camera
The SYNCO G3 Pro is a video camera microphone equipped with a 2-inch touchscreen for easy monitoring and adjustment of audio settings. In addition to two compact transmitters clipped on the collar, the receiver also features a built-in microphone, allowing it to capture audio from all three channels simultaneously. With triple-level noise reduction and built-in recording, the device offers up to 10 hours of continuous operation, making it ideal for outdoor recording situations with limited power. It also comes with USB-C and TRS ports, ensuring compatibility with a variety of video recording devices, including cameras, smartphones, and computers.
SYNCO D2: Video camera shotgun microphone with XLR connector
The SYNCO D2 is a professional, long shotgun camera mic known for its high video audio quality and excellent build. It easily connects to a camera via the included XLRM-XLRF cable and comes with a windscreen and microphone mount. While it is priced higher, the D2 is a comprehensive video camera kit that significantly enhances the audio quality. Featuring supercardioid directionality and a super-flat frequency response of 20Hz–20kHz, it ensures optimal sound capture. The durable brass metal body also provides ultra-low self-noise, outperforming other audio devices on the market.
SYNCO M2S: 3.5mm TRS mini shotgun on-camera audio gear for video recording
The SYNCO M2S is a portable microphone for video camera, equipped with a windscreen and shock mount. It also comes with two 3.5mm TRS/TRRS cables for connecting to a phone or camera. At this price point, its sound quality is impressive. The 100Hz switchable high-pass filter effectively reduces environmental noise, while the 76dB high signal-to-noise ratio ensures maximum signal detail retention. Powered by a single AAA alkaline battery, this mini shotgun mic offers a long battery life of 90-110 hours (around 4 days), making it an ideal option for outdoor shoots.
What type of microphone is best for video recording?
The video camera microphones in our list have three types: wireless, shotgun, and lavaliere. We will analyze the pros and cons of each type in detail to help you make a more informed choice.
Wireless microphone for video camera: Convenient and flexible, but needs proper setup to prevent interference or signal loss
For those seeking mobility, wireless microphones like SYNCO P1S, G2 Max, G2(A2), and G3 Pro are an excellent option. They provide freedom to move around without being confined to the camera, making them ideal for vloggers and filmmakers. Available in various formats like lavalier, headset, and portable designs, they do require proper setup to minimize interference or signal dropouts.
Shotgun microphone: Focused sound capture, but tends to be pricier and picks up more background noise in camera video recording
Shotgun options like SYNCO D2 and M2S are well-known for their highly directional design, capturing sound primarily from the direction they are pointed. This makes them perfect for isolating specific sound sources, like interviews or performances. However, they often come at a higher cost and may also pick up unwanted background noise due to their directional nature.
Lapel microphone for video camera: Affordable and discreet, but limited in capturing background sound
Lavalier models like SYNCO P1S, G2 Max, G2(A2), and G3 Pro are small and worn by the subject being filmed, making them less noticeable than other types. They provide clear sound and are budget-friendly, making them a great choice for documentary-style filming. However, they aren’t ideal for recording ambient or surrounding sounds.
How to choose the best one?
In addition to the type of microphone, the best video camera microphone should also be determined by several key factors, such as camera compatibility, video content, and your budget. Here are four important things to consider before purchasing any of these six recommended audio gears for your camera.
Choose between 3.5mm and XLR microphone for video camera to ensure compatibility
Ensure that the microphone you choose matches the input options on your camera. Consumer cameras usually have 3.5mm microphone jacks, making models like SYNCO G2 Max, G2(A2), G3 Pro, and M2S, which feature 3.5mm TRS output, great options. On the other hand, professional cameras often require XLR connections, and the SYNCO D2 is a suitable choice for these. If you’re selecting a wireless microphone like SYNCO P1S, verify that the receiver is compatible with your specific camera.
Think about your video content to choose the right mic type for your camera
There are various types of microphones available, such as lavalier, on-camera, and shotgun options. Select the one that best suits the kind of video content you’re creating. For vlogging, a lavalier or clip-on option like SYNCO G2 Max, G2(A2), G3 Pro, and P1S is ideal, while shotgun mics like SYNCO D2 or M2S are better suited for interviews or documentary filming where targeted audio capture is needed.
Consider the pickup pattern of camera video microphone based on the sound direction you wish to capture
Camera microphones come with different pickup patterns like cardioid, supercardioid, and omnidirectional. Supercardioid microphones like SYNCO D2 focus on sound directly in front, perfect for capturing voices with minimal side noise. Cardioid mics like SYNCO M2S pick up sound from the front and sides, while omnidirectional microphones like SYNCO G2 Max, G2(A2), G3 Pro, and P1S capture audio from all directions.
Balance your budget and the audio quality of your video camera gear
When choosing a video camera microphone, key specifications like sensitivity, frequency response, gain control, low-cut filters, and signal-to-noise ratio are essential. For wireless mics like SYNCO P1S, check the range to ensure reliable audio quality. While high-end models like SYNCO D2 or G3 Pro offer superior sound, affordable options like M2S can still provide excellent performance, making them suitable for beginners or budget-conscious users. Consider your budget and determine how much you’re ready to spend on video camera audio gear.
FAQ
To help you find the perfect video camera microphone, we've gathered and answered some of the most common questions to make your decision easier.
Why is an external microphone for video camera essential?
It ensures the high audio quality of your camera video. Although the built-in microphone on a camera may seem adequate for recording sound, it often falls short of delivering high-quality audio. Built-in mics tend to capture a wide range of noises, resulting in less-than-ideal sound. Moreover, since it is typically located near the lens, it picks up unwanted sounds like the autofocus motor. To achieve clearer, more focused audio, an external microphone is a better option. Positioned closer to the subject, external audio gears capture more precise sound and are less prone to picking up camera-related noise.
Do video cameras have mics?
Yes, they do, but the audio quality is usually not very good. If you plan to use your DSLR for video recording, it’s better to film the video with an external microphone.
Can you connect a microphone to a video camera?
Yes, you can. There are various methods to connect and mount a microphone to your video camera, depending on the type of camera and audio gear you’re using. For example, If you are using a camera with a 3.5mm port, you can connect the SYNCO G2(A2) to it by using the 3.5mm TRS camera cable in the packing list.
What should you need to know about the compatibility?
It’s crucial to ensure the video microphone you choose is compatible with your camera. Camera creators have a variety of options, but be aware of how the mic connects. Some options like like SYNCO G2 Max require a 3.5mm jack, while others like SYNCO P1S use USB-C or Lightning, which is becoming rare on common cameras.
If you’re serious about enhancing your video and content creation, investing in a professional video camera microphone like SYNCO D2 is essential. While they are relatively affordable compared to cameras, they can make a significant difference, elevating the quality of your videos beyond what a built-in option can provide.