Whether you’re looking for one of the best shotgun microphones for a DSLR camera, for interviews or filmmaking we’ve made it easy for you.
We have handpicked the best shotgun mics under $100 that can meet the demands of any of these applications.
Our top pick Rode VMGO Super-Cardioid Mic is the lightest Rode mic weighing less than 75 grams making it one of the most lightweight on-camera mics.
It’s easy to use, compact and has a tight pick-up area for crisp and clear recording.
7 Best Shotgun Microphones under $100
1. Rode VideoMic Go
#1. Our Top Pick
The Rode VMGO is our pick for the best shotgun mic under $100 for 2018. It is known to deliver the most clear audio records for videography.
Its pickup area is positioned in a way that it bypasses all the background sound interference and only focuses on the sound in front of the mic.
The major material make of the mic is thermoplastic which gives it more life and prevents material sagging. Unlike the aforementioned mics,
RODE VMGO is powered by the camera meaning no moment of the video shoot will miss the audio. It is arguably the lightest shotgun mic weighing at 73g.
Additional feature that enhances clarity of audio recorded is its windshield. It usually ensures that on outdoor recording the audios are free from interference.
You don’t need to be in possession of a professional camera to use this mic. It is comfortably compatible with other nonprofessional devices like the iPhone.
Pros
- Very clear audios
- No batteries-powered by camera
- Has wind shield to prevent sound interference
- Compatible with even smartphones
Cons
- You need to be close to the object to get clear sound.
2. Audio-Technica Atr-6550
If you are looking for the best shotgun condenser microphone for outdoor videography, this is one of them. It has connector plugs designed for mounting on camera.
Its considerably low price should not be mistaken for low utility. It has a frequency response of 70Hz -18,000 Hz.
The Audio Technica, unlike Comica CVM has two range settings- normal and tele (Normal 1000 ohm, tele 2200 ohm).
Dislodged from the camera, the mic is very light and travel friendly. To use this condenser mic your camera must however have an external microphone jack input.
It is designed in a way that it can pick conversations from a distance at the same time ignoring (bypassing) other interference like movements, camera vibrations, wind and other background noises.
Despite being battery powered the mic has no power-on indicator. If you forget to turn it off the battery will be drained.
Pros
- Has plugs for camera
- Lightweight
- Sound isolation capability
- No power indicator
Cons
- One must have an external microphone jack input
3. TAKSTAR Sgc-598 Shotgun Microphone
Just like Each Shot Comica mic, sgc-598 is only compatible with video devices with TRS jack of 3.5mm.
The mic is to reasonable lengths describable as a lightweight and hence very portable. Its receiver is shaped in a way that it reduces the background noises hence enhancing clarity.
To the same effect, it is structurally designed to reduce mechanical shock. This reduces receipt of camera vibration reducing audio interference.
The low power indicator fitted to it usually makes it possible to know when it’s time to change the battery.
One of the challenges when it comes to mic is usually on how to power them. SGC-598 however is easy to power as it only requires 1.5V alkaline batteries.
This condenser mic is one the best shotgun cardioid microphones for beginners in film industry as well as professionals.
Its simplicity in handling and mounting on camera and stands makes is a convenient for solo and inexperienced videographers.
Pros
- Lightweight- portable
- Suitable for professionals and armatures
- Clear sound free of shock and vibrations
- Simple to handle
Cons
- Not compatible with devices without 3.5 mm TRS jack
4. Comica CVM-V30 PRO Video Microphone
If you looking a best shotgun microphone for field interviews, Comica Electric super Cardioid Directional mic is one of the best for the same.
The mic is compatible with video cameras and devices with TRS jack of 3.5mm.
Examples of these compatible video devices include, Nikon D3200/3300/5300, Canon 60/70/80D, and Sony A7/A6500/6300 etc.
This makes it non-usable on cameras without a 3.5mm TRS jack like Canon T6, T5, and T3. Nikon D3400, D5500, and Sony A6000 NEX6.
In case you will be handling both the camera and the mic with alone, you can simply mount it on a stand making it more convenient for solo outdoor interviews.
While conducting you interviews or other outdoor recordings, you need not be worried of wind and other vibrations that may interfere with the clarity of the audios.
The mic is fitted with wind guards and muffs which usually help in reducing the sound interference from the background and other vibrations during the recording.
Pros
- Sound isolation capability
- Compatible with many cameras
- Can be mounted on stand
- Has guards and muffs to reduce sound interference
Cons
- Cannot be used with devices without 3.5 mm TRS jack
5. Comica CVM-VS09 (Video Microphone) for Smartphones
Let me introduce you to one of the best shotgun mic for phone video recording. We know there are some phones with clear and quality video recording ability. Good audio to back up the video is therefore important.
This microphone provides advanced sound pick technology which gives clear audio thanks to the cardioid polar pattern.
It is made of 100% Aluminium which ensures the recordings are free from background interference.
The mic has a clamp fixed to connect it with the phone making the recordings clearer. You will therefore be able to capture all moments with your phone without fear of losing audio elements to prevailing atmosphere interference.
For outdoor video shooting, the mic has background noise filter. This makes it possible to produce high quality audios even in atrocious weather.
For around $50, this mic one of the best shotgun microphones for amateur filmmakers, vloggers and a backup for professionals.
If you have a small function that doesn’t necessarily require professional photography, you might consider having this mic since it is conveniently compatible with smartphones, iPad, iPhones, Huawei, etc.
For the best results have your phone in airplane mode and don’t make calls during recording.
Pros
- Advanced sound pick technology
- Made of aluminum-durable
- Clamp for phones
- Has noise filters
- Compatible with smartphones
Cons
- Not suitable for professional videography
6. MyMAX Smartphone Video Microphone Rig with Shotgun Mic Kit
This is a patented phone tripod with a built-in shotgun mic. With the sudden explosion social media and the trend of TikToc where people create their own content/films and upload them, MyMax have brought to the market an all in one kit.
This nifty devise allows you to make content on your phone easily by holding it or setting it down on the stand with a maximum height of 12 inches. The stand made out of plastic ASB and is adjustable to get the perfect angle.
It is designed to be taken with you on the move and is small enough to fit in your pocket. It is super light weight at only 60 grams. It allows you to rotate the camera 360 degrees to get the best shot.
The shotgun mic is small measuring only 0.9 inches wide by 3.2 inches long. It delivers great sound quality, and with the furry windscreen offers protection from the wind when out and about.
Comes with a Bluetooth remote trigger that is compatible with Android or Apple. It allows you to startstop videos and shots at a maximum distance of about 30 feet away.
This Product is perfect for someone who wants to make content in their home, studio or take it out exploring in the world.
7. BOYA BY-MM1 Shotgun Video Microphone
This is a no-nonsense mini shotgun microphone delivering great sound quality. It connects directly to any smartphone, camera, PC or any other audio/video recording device via a 3.5mm TRS and TRRS connector.
It has a great feel with the aluminium constructor and is small and light weight at 86g and comes with a neat carry pouch. One of the key benefits to this mini shotgun mic is that it requires no batteries or charging, it simply plugs and pay.
This means its perfect for grabbing and taking on the move. It has an anti-shock mount which effectively reduces unwanted vibration and background noise.
I found the professional furry windshield did its job perfectly, getting rid off all wind noise. This is one of the great benefits of trying to record outdoors compared to the standard mic on your device.
The sound quality is great with a frequency response between 35-19KHz. This means it captures vocals perfectly distinguishing between vocals and background noise.
This mic comes with everything you need straight out of the box. This includes the mic, professional furry windshield, shock mount, 3.5mm to TRS cable and 3.5mm to TRRS cable.
Shotgun Mic Buyers Guide
Regardless of your level of experience with microphones, its wide varieties you’ll find in the often make purchase decisions a little bit hard. Assuming you are not interested in instrument-specific microphone, you’ll certainly find many affordable types meant for different multiple use cases. But that makes things a little bit overwhelming too.
Fortunately, if you have narrowed down your choice to get the best shotgun microphone reviews only, this will make the whole buying process relatively easier for you.
But the question is, what are the specific factors you should be considering before you buy a shotgun mic online or offline?
Going by what is stated above, a shotgun mic can also be used in different contexts. The most important thing is for you to clarify your intended use case before you make the order. Having thing clarified in this way help you to skip any option that may not be suitable for you at this time.
While you are reading this shotgun microphone buying guide, you may want to skip some specific sections that related the general features of a recording microphone.
Uses of Shotgun Microphone
As noted earlier, this is the very first thing you have to consider before you even think about other specific features of a mic. The question is – how do you intend to use this mic? Practically, people that specifically interested in the best vocal mics are likely to have different needs in comparison to studio recorders.
The other thing that is important at this point is an understanding of how the microphone you want to buy can be connected with other relevant devices or instruments. Having said that, let’s look into some specific shotgun microphone applications.
Filmmaking
This is one of the most common uses of a shotgun mic. Its narrowly long shape and sensitive pick pattern work well for filmmaking. Besides making films, this mic has also been found to be a perfect match for many other outdoor use cases like television broadcasting.
If you do a simple search with terms like ‘best microphone for filmmaking”, there is a chance that the majority of the options you’ll find will be under the shotgun category.
Video Interviews
Recording interviews is another specific context where a lot of people make use of this microphone. besides its shape and design, this type of mic is known for picking sound signals directly from the speaker. This is one of the things that make it the best option, especially for outdoor interviews.
While picking up sound in this pattern, the best shotgun microphones also come with the ability to isolate and ignore sounds from the sided and rear of the device. Without being told, I am sure you won’t like to experience such when you are recording an interview.
iPhone Video Capture
We all know that modern smartphones can do much more than phone calls. In case you are interested in getting the best shotgun microphone for iPhone video capture, you can find a suitable option from the reviews above. And the interesting thing is that most of these devices are offered at different price points that could fall within your current budget.
Polar Pattern
For an interesting number of reasons, you should be specific about the polar pattern built into the mic you want to buy. As important as it is, this specific factor determines how your mic will be picking up a sound signal from one context to the other. While omnidirectional microphones work well in specific contexts conference rooms and recording studios, it doesn’t work well for outdoor use cases.
Your main task here is to check and confirm the polar pattern in any mic that appeals to you before you decide to make the purchase. The question you should be asking is – can this fit into a noisy environment? You might as well ask this question on the sales page of each product.
However, it may interest you to note that most microphones in this category are built with cardioid and super-cardioid polar patterns.
Camera Compatibility
A shotgun is the most suitable type of microphone for outdoor use cases. Based on this fact, many potential buyers start their search with terms like ‘best shotgun microphone for camera’. While these devices can work with a wide range of DSLR and camcorders, compatibility with some specific camera models sometimes becomes an issue.
To avoid any after purchase headaches, you have to take into account the exact model of camera you have into account before you make any purchase in this regard.
Even though a lot of the sellers in this space will say that theirs are compatible with DSLR cameras and camcorders, do not ignore to confirm this. At one point, I have seen someone buy a shotgun mic only to find out that it is not compatible with the specific model of camera he has.
Another important thing is to check and test everything immediately after arrival. Do not wait until the return and replacement duration had elapsed before testing on the exact camera model you have.
Depending on whether you want to use your microphone with a smartphone, tablet, laptop or camera, endeavor to check if there need for third-party software.
Connection Ports
Closely related to camera compatibility is the ports between devices you want to connect. Expectedly, most of these devices will come with an audio cable. Making a stress-free purchase here requires that you check whether devices you want to connect have 3.5mm or 2.5mm mic jack. A slight difference in this regard could lead to a disgusting mismatch. Here is another reason why I always remind potential buyers to test every feature as well as compatibility within the allowed return and replacement duration.
Shotgun Microphone Price
Affordability is another important factor in any buying process. While this type of mic doesn’t cost a big amount of money, people that specifically looking for the best shotgun microphones under $100 will find a lot of good options from the reviews above. One thing you have to bear in mind is that being cheap is not the same as having low quality and vice versa. Depending on some other relevant factors, you may still find lots of interesting options selling close to $35.
While deciding on the price, watch out for inclusion or exclusion of things like shock mount and extra batteries. These things affect the price a lot of times.
Best Shotgun Microphone Brands
Let’s face the fact. Some brands are more reputable than others. For example, looking at factors like age and sales volume recorded within a period, these microphone brands are rarely equal. While researching the research for this buying guide, I have also taken into account the positive reviews from past buyers of the products listed here. Whether you are loyal to any one of them or not, below is a preview of the best shotgun microphone brands in the market.
- Sennheiser
- Rode
- Audio-Technica
- BOYA
- Movo
- Comica
After considering every other relevant factor, warranty is one thing you don’t have to skip at all. As you may find later, some companies selling shotgun microphone on Amazon may not indicate the type or duration of warranty offered on each product. When a product from such companies appeals to you, do not let the issue of warranty to put you off. Go forward and ask them.
One good reason why it is always important to check the warranty before a purchase is the issue of return, replacement or refund. All things being equal, factory defects do happen from time to time. Do not buy and keep any of these products for future use.
Assume nothing. Test everything.
Shotgun Microphone FAQs
What are the 3 types of microphones?
The 3 different microphones have different benefits and sound when paired with the right instrument.
–Dynamic mics; are solid mics that are not particularly sensitive, making them perfect for loud sources such as drums. These mics are great at picking up sounds from the direction they are pointed and canceling out other noises. These mics are a great choice if you work in a busy/loud environment. Simply point the mic towards yourself and it will cancel all the noise around you.
–Condenser mic; These are more complicated than the dynamic mic giving a richer sound. As a result, they are more fragile and historically were more expensive. This is because they give a much clearer sound. They are great at picking up noise from all directions. These are a perfect choice for recording conferences where people will be speaking from a number of directions.
–Ribbon mic; These mics are the oldest and as a result, were popular in the 50s and 60s. They give a warm vintage sound. They are the most sensitive of all three mics meaning they are perfect for recording vocals.
What is a shotgun mic used for?
A shotgun mic is a type of dynamic mic. The long, narrow tube shape makes it good at canceling out background noise from the sides. The shape of the mic allows a narrow pickup pattern meaning it only picks up noise from the direction it is pointing.
What is the range of a shotgun mic?
The best shotgun mics have a top range of 6-10 feet. They do not “zoom†in on noise like a like a camera zoom feature works.