Are you looking for a decent on-camera microphone which you can use for recording high-quality audio in your video projects? Rode has the Videomic line, which features several different models on specific price points. Rode Videomicro and Rode Videomic Go are relatively affordable models; the Videomicro is a little bit more cheaper than the Videomic Go. So, which one is better for the money? See the comparisons between Rode Videomicr vs Videomic Go below.
Dimensions
The first thing that you need to consider when choosing between Rode Videomicro and Rode Videomic Go is the dimensions. If you prefer a simple, compact, and lightweight microphone to sit on top of your camera, Rode Videomicro makes a better choice. It measures only 21 mm wide, 21 mm tall, and 80 mm long. The weight is only about 42 grams. Thus, it won’t get in the way of your work.
On the other hand, Rode Videomic Go is slightly bigger and heavier. It measures 79 mm tall, 73 mm wide, and 167 mm long. It has an integrated cold-shoe mount. The weight is about 73 grams. It is definitely still very usable, but not as practical as the sibling here. See also our previous post about Rode VideoMic Pro vs Go!
Durability
Rode Videomicro has an all-metal housing, whereas Rode Videomic Go comes with a reinforced ABS construction. So, the Videomicro is relatively more rugged and durable. It can withstand impacts and heavy abuse better.
Technical Specs
| Rode Videomicr | Rode Videomic Go |
|---|---|
| - Acoustic Principle : Pressure Gradient | - Acoustic Principle : Line Gradient |
| - Polar Pattern : Cardioid | - Polar Pattern : Supercardioid |
| - Frequency Range : 100Hz - 20kHz | - Frequency Range : 100Hz - 16kHz |
| - Maximum SPL : 140dB SPL (@ 1kHz, 1% THD into 1KΩ load) | - Maximum SPL : 120dB SPL (@ 1kHz, 1% THD into 1KΩ load) |
| - Sensitivity : -33.0dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (22.00mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1kHz | - Sensitivity : -35.0dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (17.80mV @ 94 dB SPL) +/- 2 dB @ 1kHz |
| - Equivalent Noise Level (A-weighted) : 20dB-A | - Equivalent Noise Level (A-weighted) : 34dB-A |
Frequency Response and Sensitivity
Next, let’s have a look at the frequency response and sensitivity of Rode Videomicr vs Videomic Go. Interestingly, Rode Videomico actually has a wider frequency response range and better sensitivity. The frequency response range goes from 100 Hz to 20 kHz. The higher reach to the treble frequencies allow for more headroom, and the higher sensitivity allows the mic to capture better audio details.
On the other hand, the frequency response range of Rode Videomic Go only goes from 100 Hz to 16 kHz. The sensitivity is slightly lower. As the effect, it does not capture high-frequency sound signals very well.
Noise and SPL Handling
Finally, it is important to point out that Rode Videomicro has a higher maximum SPL handling and lower self noise level than Rode Videomic Go. The Videomicro can handle sounds as loud as 140 dB, which is impressive for such a compact mic. In addition, the self noise level is only 20 dBA, which is quite low. The users are happy with the quietness. This mic is very versatile and reliable for many conditions.
Rode Videomic Go has a maximum SPL handling of 120 dB, and the self noise level is 34 dBA. The noise is particularly annoying. It is pretty noisy, and it may be quite tricky and difficult to get good clarity. Using a denoiser is a great help, but not having that noise in the first place is much more convenient.
Rode Videomicr Vs Videomic Go
Conclusion
All in all, Rode Videomicro is definitely the better choice. It is more compact and more lightweight, with better performance. It has a wider frequency response range with lower noise, and it can handle loud voices very well.