External microphone
Also known as: external mic, shotgun mic, on-camera microphone
A separate microphone connected to a camera, usually through an adapter or media module, for clearer sound than the built-in mics provide.
Updated
What it means
Built-in microphones on action cameras are tiny and sit in exposed spots, so they pick up wind, handling noise and the inside of a housing. An external microphone is a separate mic connected by cable or wireless link, chosen and positioned for the sound you actually want.
Common types include small shotgun mics that focus on sound in front of the camera, compact stereo mics for ambience, and clip-on lavalier microphones for voices. Wireless kits with a transmitter clipped to the speaker and a receiver on the camera have become popular for vlogging and interviews.
How it works in practice
Action cameras usually need an adapter or a module for a 3.5 mm mic input, such as the Media Mod for GoPro or a USB-C mic adapter. Check that the adapter is supported by your camera model and firmware before buying.
For riding, mount the mic out of the wind and use a windscreen. For talking to camera, a wireless lavalier or a small shotgun pointed at your mouth gives far clearer speech than the built-in mic.
Set levels with a test recording and listen back on headphones. Many cameras have an option for external mic gain, and a lower setting leaves room for loud moments.
What to watch out for
Adapters often remove waterproofing. Most action cameras with a mic adapter are no longer waterproof, so avoid water and rain, or choose a setup rated for wet conditions.
Cables catch on things and create handling noise. Tape them down and leave a little slack so movement does not tug on the connector.
Wireless kits can drop out, and their batteries die. Check the battery before recording, and monitor the levels whenever possible. A mic plugged in but switched off in settings records nothing; always confirm the camera actually uses the external input by checking a short test clip.
How RawClip handles it
RawClip highlights come with music included and cuts synced to the beat. An external mic is most useful for spoken parts you plan to use in other videos, such as vlogs or interviews from the same trip.