RODE VideoMic
External Microphones

VideoMic

RODE

Released May 1, 2013 · Analysis updated Feb 14, 2026

RODE VideoMic is a battery-free, easy-to-use video microphone with a compact lightweight design. The RODE VideoMic scores 84/100 based on 18 expert reviews in the external microphones category. Coverage includes reviews from Musiciannerd, Laptopmag, Podcastage, and Musictech.

Critic Score

What's this?
84

based on 18 expert reviews

MusiciannerdLaptopmagPodcastageMusictechVideomaker+13 more

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Pros

  • Compact and lightweight design(9)
  • Budget friendly(6)
  • No batteries required(4)
  • Amazing sound quality(4)
  • Comes with shock mount(4)

Cons

  • Requires external power for some models(3)
  • Higher-end models are expensive(2)

18 Expert Reviews

95
Independent publication03/2022

The Rode VideoMic Pro+ is one of the best, generally affordable on-camera shotgun microphones the market has to offer.

92
Major publication01/2022

The ultra-lightweight Rode VideoMic Go II proved itself in the field taking drops, kicks, and dirt while still recording some of our best audio to date.

90
Independent publication12/2019

Today I review the Rode VideoMic NTG Camera-mount Shotgun Mic, which is a camera top shotgun microphone that also functions as a USB Shotgun Microphone.

90
Established publication02/2022

RØDE’s latest brings crystal clear sound not only to your videos but to your smartphone and desktop too.

85
Independent publication

The Rode VideoMic is an easy-to-use, great sounding, and affordable microphone that takes care of the audio needs of novices and pros alike.

85
Independent publication04/2022

Rode VideoMic Pro VMP is a compact professional mic that perfectly sits on any DSLR camera while leaving minimum footprint.

85
Independent publication09/2022

The Rode VideoMic Go II is a sub-$100 microphone much better than the original, with bonus features perfect for creators on a budget.

85
Independent publication01/2014

The Rode VideoMic GO is a simple, affordable shotgun mic that requires no batteries and is always ready to record, making it ideal for amateur videographers.

85
Independent publication

The Rode VideoMicro, VideoMic Go, VideoMic, VideoMic Pro, and VideoMic Pro+ all provide significantly better audio quality than built-in camera microphones.

85
Independent publication07/2022

The RODE VideoMic GO II is a compact, versatile shotgun condenser microphone that delivers excellent audio quality for content creators both indoors and outdoors.

85
Independent publication11/2025

The RØDE VideoMic GO II is an excellent all-around mic for anyone looking to create high-quality audio content on a budget.

80
Established publication06/2022

The Rode Videomic Go II is a lightweight, well-built directional microphone that offers excellent portability and versatility for vloggers and content creators at an affordable price point.

80
Major publication01/2020

The Rode VideoMic NTG is an affordable, easy-to-operate, versatile shotgun microphone for cameras, computers, and mobile devices.

80
Independent publication02/2023

The Rode VideoMicro II is an improvement upon their prior ultracompact on-camera microphones, offering simplicity, versatility, and professional quality in a small package.

78
Independent publication10/2018

The Rode VideoMic Me-L performs well, offering significantly better audio quality than the built-in iPhone mic, especially outdoors, though it has some limitations with volume levels and screen obstru...

78
Established publication02/2014

The RODE Videomic GO is an excellent little microphone for jobs employing smaller cameras in run-and-gun situations, though the range is limited and quality falters past 3 feet.

78
Independent publication11/2013

The Rode VideoMic GO is a very low-cost, lightweight, and extremely easy-to-use shotgun microphone that significantly outperforms built-in camera mics, though it has compatibility limitations and is s...

75
Independent publication05/2013

The Rode VideoMic Pro provides a significant step up from on-camera sound in a solution that's good enough to last as an intermediate step between nothing and serious audio gear.