Which external microphones work best with Sony RX100 compacts?

Question

Ive been a Sony RX100 user for years but finally grabbed the VII for that 3.5mm jack. My current Rode shotgun mic is way too chunky and blocks the flip-up screen which is super annoying for my Tokyo trip next month. Budget is about $150. Which external microphones actually work best with these tiny compacts without getting in the way?

Synvletter · Accepted Answer

I have used various setups with the RX100 VII and basically found 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 to be the most balanced choice. Its internal shock mount keeps the profile low enough to avoid blocking the screen. Alternatively, the Sony ECM-G1 Ultracompact Camera-Mount Shotgun Microphone is tiny and fits the body perfectly. Both are reliable and stay well under that budget limit tho.

Sanded · Answer

To add to the point above: remember the RX100 VII doesnt actually have a built-in shoe mount on top, so you are gonna need a bracket no matter what mic you pick. To stay well under that 150 budget for your Tokyo trip, I might want to consider going with a side-mount setup. It keeps the weight balanced and lets that screen flip up perfectly without any obstructions.

Comica CVM-VM10II Compact On-Camera Cardioid Directional Mini Video Microphone - this one is super cheap, usually under 50 bucks, and leaves you plenty of cash for sushi.

SmallRig 2434 Cold Shoe Extension Bracket for Sony RX100 VII - you basically need this to shift the mic to the side of the body.

Saramonic Blink500 B1 2.4GHz Wireless Lavalier System - keep an eye out for sales, sometimes these drop into your price range and totally solve the screen blocking issue. Just be careful with the cables tho, make sure to tuck them so they dont snag on your strap. I would suggest testing the weight before you go because a heavy mic makes these tiny cameras really awkward to hold for long periods. Happy to help if you need more setup tips!

amazzz · Answer

Re: "I have used various setups with the RX100..."

Totally agree, but honestly, I had issues with most top-mounted mics still feeling clumsy on such a small camera. Unfortunately, even smaller shotguns still block that flip screen half the time. Going wireless is basically the only way to keep it clear.

Rode Wireless ME Compact Wireless Microphone System

Sony ECM-W2BT Digital Bluetooth Wireless Microphone It is way less annoying than wrestling with a bulky shock mount tbh.