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10 Best Shotgun Mics that will Blow Your Mind in 2023

ByDaniel Thomas Posted on Updated on

Are you hunting for a high-quality shotgun mic to take your videos to the next level? Look no further; I’ve got you covered with my top picks for the best shotgun mics in 2023.

Whether you’re a beginner just starting out with your DSLR camera, a vlogger on the go, or an experienced filmmaker conducting an interview or audio recording, there’s a shotgun mic out there for you.

Let’s jump in and check out these awesome mics that made the cut. From budget-friendly options to the best of the best, I’ve got all the details you need to know.

So, grab a cup of coffee (why do people always say that?) and get ready to upgrade your audio game with these top-of-the-line shotgun mics!

What are the Best Shotgun Mics?

What are the best shotgun mics in 2023?

1. Rode VideoMic NTG – Most Versatile Shotgun Microphone ($249)

Why would you want this shotgun mic?

You want one shotgun microphone that can do everything. The shotgun mic you should choose if you only have one choice.

Rode Videomic NTG on Shock Mount
Rode Videomic NTG
Rode VideoMic NTG on Mic Stand
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Overview

The Rode VideoMic NTG is the Swiss Army Knife of shotgun microphones and has received rave reviews since its launch. This impressive microphone is jam-packed with features in a sleek design, making it one of the most versatile shotgun microphones on the market.

The supercardioid polar pattern on the VideoMic NTG makes it highly directional and perfect for rejecting background noise.

Its flat frequency response gives a natural and warm sound quality, and it sounds surprisingly identical to the Rode NTG5 XLR shotgun mic, which is almost double in price. The difference with XLR mics like the Rode NTG5 is that you need expensive DSLR audio mixers to use the microphone with a DSLR camera. In contrast, the VideoMic NTG can be connected directly to a DSLR video camera with a TRS cable.

You can also connect this shotgun microphone to your computer through USB, turning it into a USB microphone without needing an audio interface. This same USB port is used for charging the mic. In USB mode, the 3.5mm output jack doubles as a headphone output that can be used for zero-latency direct monitoring.

The VideoMic NTG uses an internal rechargeable battery, which provides 30+ hours of audio recording per charge. Since this shotgun mic can provide its own gain, you don’t need to rely on your DSLR camera’s low-quality mic preamps to get audible sound. Simply turn up the mic’s stepless gain dial and lower the camera’s audio levels to get clear, noise-free audio.

Another great feature is the auto-sensing 3.5mm output that detects whether you connect to a DSLR video camera or mobile device. All you need to do is connect the provided TRRS to TRRS cable, and this shotgun microphone will detect the connected device like magic. No more fumbling and figuring out whether to use a TRS or TRRS cable.

Also, this shotgun microphone automatically turns on with the camera and vice versa. This ensures you never forget to switch on your microphone and miss out on an audio recording.

One of the best features of the Rode VideoMic NTG is its safety channel, which records a separate audio track onto the right channel at -20dB (the original audio recorded on the left channel). This will save you from situations where the original audio is clipping, and you cannot record the event a second time. You can still use the second track recorded at a lower gain.

It has useful features for live situations where you have to give the audio some quick processing. It has a -20db pad for places with loud sounds, a presence boost where you want to add clarity to the audio, and a low-cut filter (75hz or 150hz) for removing low background noise such as fans, air-conditioning, and wind noise.

The provided Lyre cold shoe shock mount has sliding rails to adjust the mic’s position, allowing it to be moved out of sight of a wide-angled lens or brought forward when using the camera’s viewfinder. The shock mount also features cable management slots to keep your cables organized and prevent them from dangling.

There are a few things to remember with the VideoMic NTG, though. The 120 db Max SPL might not be high enough to record loud instruments, so close miking an electric guitar amp may sound distorted.

Additionally, the rechargeable battery may start to lose its charge over time, and unfortunately, the battery cannot be replaced.

If you’re keen to learn more, check out our full review of the Rode VideoMic NTG.

Product Info

  • Polar Pattern: Supercardioid
  • Transducer Type: Pressure gradient electret condenser
  • Power Requirements: Internal batteries
  • Frequency Response: 35 Hz to 18,000 Hz
  • Sensitivity: -26 dBV/Pa (50 mV/Pa) @1kHz
  • Max SPL: 120 dB
  • Output Connection: 3.5 mm auto-sensing, USB-C
  • Weight: 94g
  • Accessories: SM7-R Rycote Lyre shock mount, TRRS to TRRS cable, 3.5mm to USB-C cable, 3.5mm to lightning cable, windshield

Features

  • Internal rechargeable battery with 30+ hours of audio recording
  • Variable stepless gain control knob
  • Auto-sensing 3.5mm output
  • Automatic on/off when connected to the camera
  • Safety channel for recording a second track at -20dB
  • USB-C port for direct connection to a computer
  • 3.5mm jack doubles as a headphone output in USB mode
  • -20db pad, 75Hz and 150Hz high-pass filter, and high-frequency boost

Pros

  • Most number of features amongst the mics in this list
  • Many built-in idiot-proof safety features
  • High-quality audio, comparable to much pricier models
  • Very versatile and can be used for any situation
  • Well-built and durable with a sleek design

Cons

  • The rechargeable battery might lose its charge over time
  • Not beginner friendly
Rode VideoMic NTG

Rode VideoMic NTG

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2. Deity V-Mic D4 – Best Value for Money ($99)

Why would you want this shotgun mic?

You want the best bang for your buck shotgun microphone.

Deity D4 on Shock Mount
Deity D4
Deity D4 with windshield
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Overview

If you were reading the Rode Videomic NTG review and want a microphone of similar sound quality without all the fancy features, then the Deity V-Mic D4 is the answer. At less than half the price of the Videomic NTG, the Deity V-Mic D4 is the mic that provides the best bang for your buck on this list.

For just $99, this mic is an absolute steal. The V-Mic D4’s audio EQs beautifully with a well-balanced sound that slightly favors mids. Its supercardioid polar pattern provides excellent sound isolation, perfect for capturing your voice along a bustling city street.

This shotgun microphone also has pleasantly low self-noise and excellent protection against radio frequency and electromagnetic interference, making it ideal for use in quiet places and critical audio recording.

The Deity D4 operates with a user-replaceable AAA battery, lasting up to 60 hours with a lithium battery. You no longer have to worry about those irreplaceable rechargeable batteries losing their charge over time.

Like the Rode Videomic NTG, the battery power allows the Deity D4 to provide sufficient clean gain using its stepless gain knob, which ranges from -5 to +10 db. Hence it does not have to depend on the gain provided by a DSLR camera.

The Deity D4 has a USB-C output port that lets you connect to digital or analog devices, from DSLR cameras and audio recorders to PCs, Macs, and mobile devices.

The provided shock mount effectively eliminates handling noise and vibrations, perfect for your on-the-go vlogging needs.

The shock mount is attached to a cold shoe mount with a sliding rail that allows for attaching a wireless transmitter like the Rode Wireless GO II. The sliding rail also allows for adjusting the mic’s position to get it out of the way of wide-angle lenses or when using the viewfinder.

The cold shoe mount can swap between 3/8″ and 1/4″ mounting solutions using a thread adapter to mount the mic to a boom pole or mic stand.

One downside is that it doesn’t have a 3.5mm headphone monitoring output, so you’ll need to listen through your computer – which can have some latency.

Product Info

  • Polar Pattern: Supercardioid
  • Transducer Type: Pre-polarized condenser
  • Power Requirements: Single AAA battery
  • Frequency Response: 50 Hz to 20,000 Hz
  • Sensitivity: -42 dBV/Pa (7.9 mV/Pa) @1kHz
  • Max SPL: 130 dB
  • Output Connection: USB-C
  • Weight: 55g
  • Accessories: V-Mic shock mount, foam pop filter, Deadcat windscreen, USB-C to USB-C Cable, USB-C to TRRS Cable, USB-C to TRRS Cable (Sony Compatible), 1/4” to 3/8” Thread Adapter, one AAA battery

Features

  • Operates with a single replaceable AAA battery
  • Variable stepless gain knob ranging from -5 to +10 db
  • Automatic on/off when connected to the camera

Pros

  • Best bang for your buck shotgun microphone on this list
  • Crisp and warm audio quality that favors mids
  • The battery can be replaced
  • Effective and versatile shock mount
  • Low self-noise and radiofrequency interference

Cons

  • No headphone jack for monitoring
Deity V-Mic D4

Deity V-Mic D4

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3. Rode NTG3 – Best of the Best Shotgun Mic ($699)

Why would you want this shotgun mic?

You need the best industry-grade broadcast shotgun mic for filmmaking, interviews, and content creation.

Rode NTG3 Front
Rode NTG3 Side
Rode NTG3 windshield
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Overview

If you’re an indie filmmaker looking for one of the best shotgun mics with the highest audio quality to capture the sultry voices of your actors, look no further than the Rode NTG3.

The NTG3 is Rode’s flagship microphone with a supercardioid polar pattern. This long shotgun microphone effectively isolates sounds directly in front of it while rejecting noise from the sides.

The NTG3 has a flat frequency response that gives accurate sound representation and excels at capturing the low ends of human voices while maintaining the clarity of the high frequencies.

It delivers smooth, warm audio on par with the industry-standard Sennheiser MKH 416. Plus, with a low equivalent noise level of just 13dbA and extremely low handling noise, you won’t have to worry about unwanted background noise ruining your recordings.

But the NTG3 isn’t just great for recording in the studio or controlled environments. It has an RF condenser design that makes it highly resistant to moisture and condensation, making it an excellent choice for outdoor shoots and adverse conditions. Even in humid environments, the audio quality remains crisp and clear.

The NTG3’s all-metal body is incredibly durable and well-built, able to withstand shocks and multiple drops. And with a 10-year warranty, you can trust that this shotgun mic will be with you for the long haul.

When you’re not using the NTG3, you can store it safely in the provided water-resistant aluminum storage cylinder with interior protective foam.

If you want to get rid of wind noise, you might want to consider investing in the Rode WS7 Deluxe Windshield, which is a Deadcat furry windscreen to protect your mic from the elements.

For the ultimate shock and wind protection, you’ll want to go for the Blimp with the Dead Wombat windshield. This industry-grade system features a Rycote Lyre suspension system for superior isolation from handling noise and an ultra-lightweight and ergonomic handle.

The downside to the Rode NTG3 (other than the price) is that it is not ideal for run-and-gun vlogging due to its length. It’s better to attach it to a boom pole rather than make your DSLR camera look like a fishing rod.

Additionally, you’ll need to spend extra to get a DSLR audio mixer like the Comica CVM-AX3 to convert XLR to 3.5mm TRS and provide phantom power to the mic. Otherwise, you would have to go through the trouble of recording on a standalone audio recorder and syncing the audio and video during post-processing. But then again, who needs money for food when you’ve got a mic this good?

Product Info

  • Polar Pattern: Supercardioid
  • Transducer Type: Condenser RF biased
  • Power Requirements: +48V phantom power
  • Frequency Response: 40 Hz to 20,000 Hz
  • Sensitivity: -30 dBV/Pa (31.6 mV/Pa) @1kHz
  • Max SPL: 130 dB
  • Output Connection: 3-pin XLR male
  • Weight: 163g
  • Accessories: stand mount, 5/8″ to 3/8″ mic stand adapter, zip pouch, windshield, aluminum storage cylinder

Features

  • N/A

Pros

  • One of the best shotgun microphones for high-quality audio
  • Crisp and warm quality audio that is ideal for filmmaking
  • High sensitivity
  • Low handling and self-noise
  • Highly durable and well-built
  • It has a 10-year warranty and can last a lifetime
  • Resistant to moisture and can withstand harsh environments

Cons

  • Expensive (but worth its value)
  • Less recognized than the Sennheiser MKH 416 (but not inferior)
  • Only has an XLR connection
  • No special controls and filters
Rode NTG3

Rode NTG3

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4. Sennheiser MKE 400 – Best Shotgun Mic for Vlogging ($199.95)

Why would you want this shotgun mic?

You want a high-quality and portable on-camera shotgun mic for outdoor vlogging.

MKE 400
MKE 400 left side
MKE 400 right side
MKE 400 integrated shock mount
MKE 400 on DSLR camera
MKE 400 on Sony camera
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Overview

The Sennheiser MKE 400 is the best DSLR microphone for vloggers and outdoor content creators. It’s a portable on-camera mic that delivers excellent sound quality, is easy to use, and has unique features that make this the best shotgun microphone for vlogging.

The Sennheiser MKE 400 is a supercardioid shotgun mic that delivers crystal clear quality audio with a crisp high-end and a mid-range boost unmatched by other portable shotgun mics, like the Deity D4 Mini or the Rode Videomicro. Plus, its off-axis rejection capability is top-notch, it does very well at rejecting unwanted noise from the sides.

Unlike other shotgun mics that stick out like a sore thumb, the MKE 400 is a compact shotgun mic that blends seamlessly with your camera setup.

Remember, I mentioned unique features? The most amazing feature is its integrated wind protection and internal shock mount, a total game-changer. It’s like Sennheiser decided to take one of its great-sounding shotgun microphones and enclose it in a miniature Blimp.

The integrated shock mount and wind protection are so effective at removing handling and wind noise, and the best part is you don’t have to bring along a Deadcat windshield or one of those Rycote Lyre shock mounts with you.

This on-camera DSLR mic also has a built-in 200Hz low-cut filter which removes low-frequency rumbles like air-conditioning, car, and wind noise, further enhancing its ability to reject unwanted background sounds.

It has a 3-step sensitivity gain switch to adjust your gain sensitivity to optimize recording levels in different environments as well as a headphone output jack with volume adjustment for direct monitoring.

The MKE 400 has interchangeable 3.5 mm TRS and TRRS cables for connecting to mirrorless cameras, DSLR cameras, or mobile devices. It has a lockable microphone output jack positioned in front of the mic, ensuring the mic cable does not come loose or block the viewfinder of the DSLR video camera.

Similar to other smart mics like the Rode Videomic NTG and Deity D4, it has an automatic power on/off feature, which powers up the shotgun microphone when you turn on the camera, a great feature, especially if you’re a forgetful person.

This DSLR mic operates on two AAA batteries that provide up to 100 hours of usage, and it even has a red indicator light that comes on when there are 3 hours of battery life left. This gives you enough time to swap out the batteries before they go flat.

The downside to this already incredible DSLR microphone is that the self-noise is quite audible, especially when the sensitivity switch is turned to ‘+.’ But it might not be a deal-breaker if you use this DSLR mic for vlogging in a noisy environment.

Product Info

  • Polar Pattern: Supercardioid
  • Transducer Type: Pre-polarized condenser
  • Power Requirements: 2 x AAA batteries
  • Frequency Response: 50 Hz to 20,000 Hz
  • Sensitivity: -42 dBV/Pa (7.94 mV/Pa) @1kHz
  • Max SPL: 132 dB
  • Output Connection: 3.5mm screwable jack
  • Weight: 93.5g
  • Accessories: locking TRS to TRS coiled cable, locking TRS to TRRS coiled cable, furry windshield, drawstring pouch

Features

  • Integrated wind protection and shock mount
  • 200 Hz low-cut filter
  • 3-step sensitivity gain switch
  • Headphone output jack
  • Interchangeable 3.5 mm TRS and TRRS lockable connectors
  • Automatic on/off when connected to the camera
  • Replaceable AAA batteries
  • Low battery indicator

Pros

  • Best shotgun microphone for vlogging
  • Crisp and warm sound quality
  • You don’t need to bring a shock mount or windscreen, as these are integrated into the mic
  • Good off-axis rejection and low-cut filter can eliminate a lot of background noise
  • Has several key safety features like automatic on/off and low battery indicator
  • Lightweight, compact, and durable

Cons

  • Quite costly compared to similar models
  • Audible self-noise
Sennheiser MKE 400

Sennheiser MKE 400

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