Rode Shotgun Microphone

Rode VideoMic GO II microphone

★★★★½ 4.5/5 based on aggregated buyer feedback
Editorial Score 4.5/5.0
$174.79 $197.99 Save ~$23 · 13% off Estimated retail price · varies by seller
Expert Verdict

The Rode VideoMic GO II offers impressive audio quality and convenience for creators needing a reliable, portable shotgun microphone. Its ease of use and compatibility make it a great choice for vloggers and casual filmmakers, though professionals seeking more advanced controls might require a different model.

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Key Features

  • Super-cardioid polar pattern for focused directional audio capture
  • USB-C and 3.5mm TRS connectivity for versatile device compatibility
  • Lightweight and compact design weighing just 73 grams
  • Integrated Rycote Lyre shock mount to reduce handling noise
  • Plug-and-play operation with no batteries required
  • High-frequency response up to 20kHz for clear vocal reproduction
What we liked
  • Excellent sound quality for its price and size
  • Easy to use with quick setup and no battery dependency
  • Compatible with cameras, smartphones, and computers
  • Lightweight and portable, ideal for on-the-go recording
  • Effective shock mount minimizes unwanted vibrations
  • Good value for content creators and vloggers
  • Durable construction with a professional look
Worth noting
  • Limited gain control compared to higher-end models
  • Not ideal for capturing ambient or wide soundscapes
  • Requires adapters for some smartphone models
  • Lacks advanced features like built-in limiter or high-pass filter
Score breakdown
How Rode VideoMic GO II microphone performed across our key evaluation criteria.
Build quality
4.4
Performance
4.8
Value
4.4
Ease of use
4.8
Portability
4.6
Owner-sentiment mix
Distribution of star ratings from buyers across major retailers.
4.5 avg / 5
  • 5★ ratings73%
  • 4★ ratings21%
  • 3★ ratings4%
  • ≤2★ ratings2%

Full Review

The Rode VideoMic GO II is a lightweight, directional shotgun microphone designed for content creators, vloggers, and filmmakers seeking high-quality audio without the bulk of traditional microphones. It features a super-cardioid pickup pattern that effectively isolates sound from the front while minimizing background noise, making it ideal for recording dialogue and on-camera interviews. The microphone is powered via USB-C or 3.5mm connection, offering versatility across cameras, smartphones, and computers without needing batteries or additional power sources.

Its compact and durable design, coupled with a Rycote Lyre shock mount, reduces handling noise and unwanted vibrations, enhancing overall audio clarity. The plug-and-play functionality ensures quick setup, allowing creators to focus more on their content. Moreover, the integrated gain control and high-frequency response cater to a variety of recording environments, ensuring crisp and natural sound reproduction.

While it is not designed for professional studio use, the Rode VideoMic GO II strikes a perfect balance between portability, convenience, and audio quality. This makes it a valuable accessory for hobbyists and professionals looking to upgrade their on-camera audio performance without investing in complex setups or bulky gear.

Owner Reviews

Emily T. March 2025
★★★★★
Fantastic for vloggers on the go
I love how lightweight and easy the VideoMic GO II is to use. The audio quality is crisp and clear, and it significantly improved the sound on my YouTube videos. Setup was a breeze with my mirrorless camera.
Jason M. January 2025
★★★★☆
Great budget shotgun mic
This mic delivers solid performance for the price. It’s not packed with extra features but does exactly what it promises—clean directional audio. I wish it had a built-in gain control, but otherwise it’s a great upgrade.
Sophia L. February 2025
★★★★☆
Perfect for smartphone recording
I use this microphone with my phone and a small rig, and it really helps reduce background noise. Sometimes I needed adapters, but the audio clarity is much better than built-in mics.
Mark R. December 2024
★★★★☆
Reliable and easy to use
The Rode VideoMic GO II is very straightforward and reliable. The shock mount is excellent at cutting out handling noise, which is a big plus for outdoor shoots. I’d recommend it for beginners and intermediate users.