What is the best external microphone for Sony RX100 VII?

Question

I finally got the RX100 VII for my trip to Japan next month because I wanted something small but Im really struggling with the audio part. Ive been looking at the Rode VideoMicro because its cheap and small but I saw some people saying it blocks the flip-up screen if you use the cold shoe. Then I saw the VideoMic Go II which looks better but it might be too heavy for this tiny camera?

Im mostly gonna be doing street vlogs so I need something that handles wind okay but doesnt make the camera tip over. My budget is like $100 max. Does anyone have a setup that actually works without blocking the screen?

Charlesbag · Accepted Answer

Like someone mentioned, that bracket is vital. Id be careful with the Go II tho... it felt too heavy. The <a href=" https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?Ntt= Sennheiser+MKE+200+Directional+On-Camera+Microphone&BI=8941&KBID=10361&SID=12345&DFF=d50" target="_blank" rel="nofollow sponsored">Sennheiser MKE 200 Directional On-Camera Microphone or Movo VXR10 Universal Video Microphone balance better.

KeithMob · Answer

Stumbled upon this and thought I would chime in. Like someone mentioned, screen visibility is a common pain point with this camera. I would suggest the Deity V-Mic D4 Mini High-Quality Shotgun Microphone for your trip. It is budget-friendly and lightweight. Be careful with the mounting; you might want to consider a relocation plate so it doesnt block the screen.

robtr3066297166 · Answer

In my experience, the Rode VideoMicro Compact On-Camera Microphone is the best choice here. I've tried many setups and to avoid blocking that screen, you basically need a bracket like the SmallRig L-Shape Grip for Sony RX100 VII LCS2438. It moves the mount to the side so you can actually see yourself. The Rode VideoMic GO II Lightweight Directional Microphone is kinda bulky for street vlogging tbh. TL;DR: Side bracket + VideoMicro keeps the screen clear.