The Rode VideoMic Go II is a brand new shotgun microphone that only costs $99. It debuted in January 2021 and it is a miniature, stripped-down version of the popular Rode VideoMic NTG, which came out in November 2019. In this post, we’ll give you more details about this microphone and compare it to some other popular vlogging microphones including the Rode VideoMicro and the Rode VideoMic NTG. We tested these mics out with the Sony ZV-E10 and the GoPro Hero 10.
Rode VideoMic Go II (left) compared to the Rode VideoMic NTG (right).
Basic Specs
- Delivers crisp, clear, directional sound
- Broadcast-quality compact shotgun microphone
- Lightweight (just 89 grams)
- No battery required, no on/off switch
- Use with a camera (3.5mm TRS output), iOS and Android mobile devices, and Mac/Windows computers (via USB-C)
- Optional windscreen (dead cat) for an added cost
- Unlock additional settings (listed below) via the Rode Connect desktop or mobile app
- Add a pad for recording loud sounds, adjust audio input levels, add a high pass filter, high-frequency boost option, and adjust headphone monitoring audio levels.
Microphone Comparisons
Compared to Rode VideoMicro
For a long time, vloggers have turned to the Rode VideoMicro for its compact size and its ability to be self-powered (no batteries or charging needed). The Rode VideoMic Go II is definitely longer than the Rode VideoMicro, but it delivers crisper sound. The two microphones are also among the cheaper Rode options, with the Micro coming in at $70 and the Go II at $99.
Sony ZV-E10 and the Rode VideoMicro.
Compared to Rode VideoMic NTG
As mentioned earlier, the Go II is the little brother of the VideoMic NTG. Not only is it smaller, but it is also a lot cheaper as the NTG comes in at about $270. So what does the VideoMIc NTG offer over the Go II? It mainly has more settings such as a precise dial to control gain, a button to add a high pass filter, and the ability to add a safety track. The VideoMic NTG also has better sound quality. After all, you get what you pay for.
Sony ZV-E10 and the Rode VideoMic NTG.
In Conclusion
With its compact size and high-quality audio, Rode VideoMic Go II is poised to be the best budget microphone for vloggers and aspiring filmmakers and YouTubers. Would you buy this mic? Let us know in the comments below. For more details plus audio samples, check out the YouTube review below.
Rode VideoMic Go II (left) compared to the Rode VideoMic NTG (right).
