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5 Best Mini Shotgun Microphones in 2024

Joseph W. Herman

March 14, 2024

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Finding a combination of portability and high audio quality in a mini shotgun mic can be a challenging quest. But this journey becomes smooth when you know about popular devices that are already comforting thousands of content creators. However, digging deep into every product can take time and effort. And this is where this article comes to the rescue. 

Here, you will unveil the 5 best mini shotgun microphones that are proving their mettle in 2024. From budget-friendly gems to medium and high-priced jewels, you will learn about each shotgun mic’s features, specifications, pros, and cons. So that by the end of the article, you can make a sound choice. 

Comparison Table – 5 Best Mini Shotgun Microphones in 2024

List of the 5 Best Mini Shotgun Microphones in 2024

Let’s explore the 5 best mini shotgun microphones to record high-quality sound.

Takstar SGC-600

$31.99

Price when reviewed

Check at Amazon

The Takstar SGC-600 is a mini shotgun microphone primarily for the camera.  It is designed to couple with all major camera types, such as DSLRs, camcorders, and DV cameras. 

The device is made to meet various recording requirements, including YouTube videos, short films, wedding videos, documentaries, interviews, broadcasts, or extended videography.

You can also use it with tripods and mobile stabilizers using a cold shoe mount. But since it connects to devices using a 3.5mm jack, it can be used with laptops, Android phones, iPhones, and all video and audio recording equipment that supports the same connector type. 

The Takstar SGC-600 homes a supercardioid polar pattern with the ability to record a subject from a 3-meter distance. This pattern prevents the captured audio from environmental and unwanted noises so you can get clear recordings. The microphone also offers a Low Cut functionality that diminishes fan, wind, echoes, birds, and traffic noises below 200Hz.

This mini shotgun-style mic has three gain levels to ensure further audio clarity. You can set the gain to -10dB for close distances or loud sounds. For faraway sources, you can adjust the gain level to +10dB. Likewise, you can set the feature to neutral (0dB) to capture audio in its original volume. 

The Takstar SGC-600 is a battery-powered shotgun microphone. Using a single 1.5V AA battery lets you use this microphone for up to 100 hours. Moreover, the microphone shows ‘green’ and ‘red’ lights to indicate high or low battery levels. Talking specifically about the dimensions, the Takstar SGC-600 is 157mm (approx. 6-inch) long, 48mm (around 2-inch) high, with 11mm (less than 0.5-inch) diameter. 

Key Specifications of Takstar SGC-600

• 75grams weight
• 6.18” mic’s length
• Ø 0.43 mic’s diameter
• -25dB±3dB mic sensitivity
• Supercardioid polar pattern
• 2200 ohms output impedance
• 50Hz to 16kHz frequency response
• Up to 100 hours of battery life 
• Battery-powered (1x AA battery 1.5-volt)
• Up to 9.8ft (3m) sound-capturing range

Pros of Takstar SGC-600

• The microphone sounds pretty impressive
• Users admire its compact design with easy adjustment
• It works fine with adapters in case you need to use it with USB-C or lightning ports

Cons of Takstar SGC-600

• It is not mountable on all camera models, such as the Sony A6400
• The quality of the screw is not up to the mark – it becomes loose, moving the microphone around and causing rustling noises

Price

• $31.99 (As seen on Amazon)

Deity V-Mic D4

$49.95

Price when reviewed

Check at Amazon

Getting a budget-friendly mini shotgun mic with exceptional features has been no more challenging since the inception of the Deity V-Mic D4. Recording focused audio with minimal unwanted camera sounds is one of the many traits of this microphone. Instilled with a solid shock mount, this mic ensures smooth audio recordings by mitigating handling noises. It offers multiple mounting solutions, as it homes 1/4 inches and 3/8 inches dual shock mount adjustments. Also, it has rails for sliding shock mounts, allowing you to attach wireless boom poles. 

Technically, it is an on-camera shotgun microphone made for DSLRs. But due to its wide digital compatibility, you can use it on various recording equipment and systems, including Android smartphones, iOS (with lightning adapter), MacOS, Windows 10/11, iPadOS, ChromeOS, and Ubuntu. Thanks to the Smart Port 2.0 technology that turns this mini mic into a hybrid device, having both USB and 3.5mm ports. 

The Deity V-Mic D4 comes with an advanced-grade foam pop filter supported by a durable rubber-made backing plate. These components add more life to this microphone and provide strong support to the fur deadcat. Another notable strength is the gain knob adjustment to set accurate sound levels. You can adjust the knob between the ranges starting from -5dB to +10dB. This specific feature lets you record clean and stable sound under different audio intensities.

You will need a 1.2 or 1.5-volt AAA battery (single) to get started with the V-Mic D4 and enjoy a premium audio recording experience of up to 60 hours. Additionally, the microphone automatically detects when plugged into recording equipment and turns on. Likewise, it turns off on its own when not in use, saving your battery from draining. 

Key Specifications of Deity V-Mic D4

• 55grams weight
• 130dB Max SPL
• 6.35-inch length
• 0.82-inch diameter
• Supercardioid polar pattern
• 82dB signal-to-noise ratio
• 3.5mm and USB-C connectivity
• 50Hz to 20kHz frequency response
• Battery-powered (1x AAA 1.2V/1.5V)
• -42 ~ -22dB –re 1V/Pa @1kHz mic sensitivity

Pros of Deity V-Mic D4

• It is ideal for both indoor and outdoor recordings
• The windshield does a phenomenal job of blocking wind noise
• According to users, this mic delivers professional-grade sound quality up to 5ft

Cons of Deity V-Mic D4

• When the mic is used with GoPro Hero11, the windshield blocks the view of the camera

Price

• $49.95 (As seen on Amazon)

Movo VXR10

$39.95 49.99

Price when reviewed

Check at Amazon

Looking for a versatile mini shotgun microphone? The Movo VXR10 can be a suitable option. Weighing around 51 grams, this microphone has a feather-light but rigid construction. So, if you’re looking for an audio recording device that’s easy to handle, portable, and user-friendly, this mic won’t let you down. 

The secret of impressive audio quality lies in its cardioid polar pattern. It is carefully designed to reduce ambient noises while ensuring the targeted audio is cleanly recorded when the subject speaks in front of the mic. 

It seems like the Movo VXR10 has understood the pain of low audio quality in video shoots. Especially when content creators don’t have professional and expensive equipment. That’s why this mini shotgun mic fits all video recording equipment. 

Be it a high-end DSLR or a standard smartphone, you can mount this little champ directly on your phone or camera. According to the manufacturers, the Movo VXR10 isn’t restricted to devices, and it can be used with all Android phones, iPhones, tablets, laptops, camcorders, and action cameras like DJI Osmo Pocket and GoPro models. 

What’s more? The plug-and-play functionality. Unlike battery-powered mics, this shotgun baby microphone directly plugs into your device and uses its power to stay operational. So, if changing batteries every now and then is a big turndown for you, VXR10 can be your on-the-go mini microphone. This is one of the reasons why filmmakers, videographers, and vloggers opt for this specific Movo product over other brands. 

Key Specifications of Movo VXR10

• 51g weight
• Plug-in power
• 0.86-inch length 
• 3.2-inch diameter
• Cardioid polar pattern
• 76dB signal-to-noise ratio
• 35Hz to 18kHz frequency response
• -42dB ± 1dB/0dB = 1V/Pa @ 1kHz mic sensitivity
• TRS 3.5mm mini jack and 3.5mm TRRS connectivity

Pros of Movo VXR10

• This microphone offers great value for the price
• It captures clean audio in high and distortion-free volume
• The deadcat included in the package does wonders in minimizing wind noise 

Cons of Movo VXR10

• You will have to purchase adapters for USB-C and lightning port devices
• You may need to remove your smartphone case to connect this mini mic

Price

• $49.99 (As seen on Amazon)

Rode VideoMicro II

$74.40 79.00

Price when reviewed

Check at Amazon

Whether you use a smartphone or camera for recording, the Rode VideoMicro II can level up your audio experience. It is a lightweight and compact mini shotgun mic weighing only 39 grams. It is small enough to fit within your fist, as this mic is just 3.14 inches long, making it a reliable solution for content creators, filmmakers, and people who want to record magnificent sound for their videos without carrying bulky microphones.

However, don’t take its miniature size for granted when it comes to performance. The Rode VideoMicro II is equipped with annular line tube technology that ensures audio recording without manipulating originality. Also, the mic comprises a supercardioid polar pattern that lets you capture focused sound when the person speaks from the front side. Meanwhile, this microphone reduces unwanted noises from the rear, left, and right.

The VideoMicro II may look delicate, but it’s a tough microphone made from metal that ensures a rugged body that can survive rough handling. Moreover, the microphone sets you free from using batteries to power it. Simply plug this mic into your smartphone or camera and start recording professional-grade sound without complicated configurations. 

Additionally, the VideoMicro II comes with the HELIX isolation mounting mechanism. The credit goes to the Rode R&D for creating and adding this mount for supreme protection against handling noise, accidental knocks, and bumps. So, you can expect each audio recording to be free from annoying rumbles. 

Key Specifications of Rode VideoMicro II

• 39gram weight
• 3.14-inch length
• 0.86-inch diameter
• 110dB Max SPL
• 3.5mm TRS connectivity
• 79dB signal-to-noise ratio
• Supercardioid polar pattern
• 2600 Ohms output impedance
• 20Hz to 20kHz frequency response
• -30dBV ± 1dB @1kHz mic sensitivity

Pros of Rode VideoMicro II

• The microphone is really petite and portable to carry around
• It has a better audio quality compared to the previous model
• This is a cost-effective audio recording solution, especially when you’re searching for a renowned brand

Cons of Rode VideoMicro II

• Although labeled as a professional microphone, it is only good for beginners

Price

• $57.86 (As seen on Amazon)

Azden SGM-250MX

$199

Price when reviewed

Check at Amazon

Azden SGM-250MX is different from all the previous brands you have seen in this list. It is an XLR microphone with a 13-inch cable and a shock mount. Since it has a specific connector type and is compatible with cinema cameras. You should know that this short-sized victor is only compatible with Canon C70 and Black Magic 4K and 6K cameras. 

So, unless you have these camera models or a recording gear with a 3-pin XLR audio input, the microphone won’t work with any other equipment. Nevertheless, these traits hint that this mic offers professional audio quality, nearly similar to what you experience in TV documentaries. If your camera has a mini XLR input, consider this option if the mic matches your requirements.

The Azden SGM-250MX has a supercardiod polar pattern and a tailored acoustic tube to capture the natural tone of the speaker with minimal disturbing noises. Also, the microphone capsule is highly sensitive and facilitates a flat frequency response between 20Hz and 20kHz. Besides, it has low self-noise and a max SPL of 130dB that lets you record audio accurately. The device uses DC11V – 50V phantom power for smooth functionality.

While its features and mini size are attractive, users find this device reliable since it is made in Japan. Additionally, it is a solid microphone encapsulated in an aluminum/brass case that maximizes the mic’s life and helps reject radio frequencies at the same time. 

Key Specifications of Azden SGM-250MX

• 85g weight
• 6.02-inch length
• 0.82-inch diameter
• Supercardioid polar pattern
• -33dB @ 1kHz mic sensitivity
• 20Hz to 20kHz frequency response
• 3-pin gold-plated mini XLR connector
• 100 Ohms @ 1kHz output impedance
• 130dB maximum sound pressure level

Pros of Azden SGM-250MX

• The audio quality is so far impeccable, especially when you compare it with Rode

Cons of Azden SGM-250MX

• The mic has a premium pricing
• Users complained about the microphone picking up background noises

Price

• $199.00 (As seen on Amazon)

Note: The prices for each product are taken from Amazon (US).  All prices are ‘list prices’ without discount and may be subject to change by the owners of the store.

Factors to Choose the Best Mini Shotgun Microphones in 2024

To ensure you pick the right mini shotgun mic to fulfill your needs, here’s a detailed guide showing vital factors to consider before purchasing the product.

a. Price

The first thing you should do is to know your purchasing power. You should always look for shotgun microphones, which come into your pricing range. You can find mics in all pricing models from $30 to $200. 

b. Weight

Knowing the weight of a miniature shotgun mic is vital, as it contributes to ease of use. A lightweight design increases portability and minimizes handling strain for extended hours. For instance, if you are a filmmaker and currently shooting a documentary, a lightweight shotgun mic will benefit in terms of attaching it to your gimbal or camera rig. You can take nice, clean shots without giving up on audio quality. 

c. Length

Many people are unaware that the length of a miniature shotgun mic impacts focused audio recording. A longer microphone lets you enjoy a detailed directional sound pickup while minimizing disturbing background noise. For instance, lengthy mini shotguns are preferred for recording dialogues in documentaries or interviews. 

Remember, a long mic gets closer to the subject without bringing your video recording device. As a result, you get better chances of capturing cleaner audio. However, you should look for microphones that are at most 6 inches long since you need a shotgun design in a mini size. Or else, there won’t be a difference between a mini and a traditional shotgun mic. 

d. Diameter

Your shotgun mic’s diameter plays a key role in capturing accurate sound. Try to opt for microphones with bigger diameters as they enhance the overall directional sensitivity, pick clear audio, and mitigate ambient noise. Also, bear in mind the size of the diameter directly impacts your mic’s ability to record targeted sounds efficiently.  So, a mini shotgun mic with a diameter ranging from 0.4 to 3.5 inches (max) can help isolate the subject’s voice even in a congested environment while ensuring crispier audio recordings. 

e. Power Supply

Many people don’t pay much attention to the power supply factor and end up getting a non-suitable device that doesn’t align with their requirements. Mini shotgun microphones may require batteries, plug-in power, or phantom power to work. Selecting a battery-powered mic is highly portable, but you will need to replace the old batteries with new ones to use the mic. 

If you choose a plug-in power microphone, it uses your camera or smartphone’s power to stay functional but drains the source’s battery. Contrarily, phantom-powered mini shotgun microphones use an external power source, which is why they are commonly found in professional setups since they provide consistent performance. 

f. Connector Type

The connector or the audio input of a shotgun miniature microphone influences compatibility with recording devices, such as DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, iPhones, or Android smartphones. In shotgun-styled mics, there are two common connectors, such as 3.5mm TRS and 3.5mm TRRS. Mics with 3.5mm TRS connectors are for audio recorders and cameras, while 3.5mm TRRS connectors connect the mic to smartphones. 

But, there is also an exceptional case where shotgun mics come with XLR inputs. XLR connectors are mainly used for extremely professional audio recording as they provide balanced transmission and show no mercy on interference. 

g. Output Impedance

Output impedance, often called ‘Ohms’ or symbolized as ‘Ω,’ affects the audio quality and signal transfer of a microphone. That means your preferred mini shotgun mic should have an output impedance that resonates with your recording device to ensure adequate power transfer and halt signal degradation. 

However, the majority of users don’t know about their recording device’s impedance, which is why it is suggested to pick a mic with a maximum number of Ohms, like the Rode VideoMicro II or Takstar SGC-600. These mini shotgun mic brands have output impedance above 2000Ω. 

h. Cardioid or Supercardiod Polar Pattern

Although many types of polar patterns exist, cardioid and supercardioid are commonly found in mini shotgun microphones. The cardioid pattern picks up sound from the front side or the tip of the microphone while ignoring sounds from the rare and left and right sides.

The supercardioid pattern is a type of cardioid pattern that is narrower. It receives sound from the front only but with a tighter focus to improve directionality, making it perfect for isolating vocals or instruments in noisy environments.

i. Frequency Response

If you want your shotgun microphone to capture various audio frequencies, you should focus on the device’s frequency response. A suitable frequency response range is more likely to reproduce low and high tones and deliver clear and natural audio.  

Some shotgun microphones can capture frequencies as low as 20Hz and as high as 20kHz. Therefore, any number between this range can be an ideal product. Brands like Rode VideoMicro II have a flat 20Hz to 20kHz frequency response. Whereas, Deity V-Mic D4 has a frequency response ranging from 50Hz to 20kHz. 

j. Microphone Sensitivity

In diverse recording environments, capturing nuanced sounds becomes quite challenging. In such scenarios, the mic’s sensitivity determines its capability of picking up minute details in the audio. Low-sensitivity microphones often miss essential sounds. Meanwhile, high-sensitivity shotgun microphones can record subtle details, which makes them excellent for recording whispers, soft-spoken vocals, and distant sounds. 

For example, when recording outdoors, a mini shotgun mic with high sensitivity will let you capture audio in optimal quality, as it can adapt to various noise levels, like ambient or wind sounds. So, when selecting a mic, look for sensitivity ranging from -25dB to -60dB. 

Conclusion

The 5 best mini shotgun microphones in this list are top-performing devices. If you’re looking for mics under $50, you have options like Takstar SGC-600, Deity V-Mic D4, and Movo VXR10. But if you can increase your budget, you can get the Rode VideoMicro II as its price comes within $100. These tiny shotgun mics have brilliant sound quality with standard connectors, allowing you to use them with most audio and video recording gears. But, if you seek a professional shotgun mic with an XLR input, the Azden SGM-250MX can be a prime choice. 

FAQs 

Q1. What type of mic is a shotgun mic?

A shotgun microphone is a directional mic designed to capture sound from a specific direction.

Q2. Which is the smallest shotgun microphone?

Rode VideoMicro II is only 3.14 inches long with 0.86 inches diameter. These dimensions make this microphone as one of the smallest shotgun-style mics. 

Q3. What is the best mini shotgun mic for an iPhone?

Rode VideoMicro II, Deity V-Mic D4, and Takstar SGC-600 are ideal mini shotgun mics for iPhones and Android smartphones.