DJI Mic 2 vs Rode Wireless PRO

From YouTubers to podcasters, content creation is on the rise and shows no signs of slowing down. A quality audio recording—or lack thereof—can make or break your next video. In this DJI Mic 2 vs. Rode Wireless PRO article, we’re discovering which popular “all-in-one” dual-channel wireless microphone systems will be better suited to capture your voice.

Editor’s note: this article was published on June 5, 2024, and is the first version of the article. Updates will follow as the market changes.

What’s it like to use the DJI Mic 2 compared to the Rode Wireless PRO?

The DJI Mic 2 is the more compact of the two dual-channel, all-in-one wireless microphone systems. The transmitters, receiver, adaptors, and windscreens all fit inside a durable, locking charging case. You’re also supplied with a carrying bag with some organizational options on the road. The DJI Mic 2’s receiver is designed to be relatively low profile and very gimbal-friendly if you use your phone to make your content.

The Rode Wireless PRO also features a charging case design. However, you’ll need to carry a second carrying case for all the accessories it comes with. This includes two locking Rode Lavalier mics, which provide additional flexibility when wiring up yourself or your guests. The transmitters and receivers are much larger in physical size compared to the Mic 2, but this allows more space for internal recording. Each Wireless PRO transmitter offers 32g of onboard recording, compared to only 8g provided by the Mic 2.

Speaking of internal recording, both systems feature 32-bit float, which can help you recover any compromised audio. However, the Rode Wireless PRO offers two key features that the Mic 2 does not. The first is “Intelligent GainAssist.” When enabled, it will automatically adjust your levels on the fly to help prevent any unwanted audio spikes. The second is timecode. Timecode is a synchronized reference for audio and video recording devices, a valuable feature for professional videographers.

How do you control the DJI Mic 2 and Rode Wireless PRO?

Both microphone systems operate via physical buttons on the transmitters and receivers. However, the DJI Mic 2 receiver also includes a touch screen and a dedicated control wheel to access various menus. If you’re a content creator constantly on the go, you’ll appreciate the convenience and ease of navigation of the Mic 2 receiver.

Should you use DJI Mic 2 or Rode Wireless PRO apps?

Here’s one to consider. You really don’t need to use the DJI app. As mentioned, thanks to its touch screen and control wheel, the receiver allows you to adjust all your input and output settings.

However, downloading and installing the Rode Central companion app is essential for using the Wireless PRO. While you can change some settings and navigate the receiver’s display via the two buttons, connecting a loaded charging case makes it much easier and will let you configure further receiver and transmitter settings. You can also modify settings like file format and sample rate or activate that precious 32-bit float recording mode.

How does the DJI Mic 2 and Rode Wireless PRO connect?

The DJI Mic 2 and Rode Wireless PRO receivers connect to your device or camera via USB-C, Lightning, or 3.5mm audio cable.

Both receivers can physically attach to a camera via a cold shoe mount. However, suppose you’re using your phone’s camera as your primary video source. In that case, the Mic 2’s receiver is designed to attach and sit flush with your device with its short adaptor, compared to a short cable connection with the Wireless PRO. This makes using the Wireless PRO with a gimbal setup challenging, limiting its movement.

Does the Rode Wireless PRO sound better than the DJI Mic 2?

When it comes to sound, both of these wireless microphone systems are capable of capturing a quality recording of your voice. However, noise canceling is one feature the Mic 2 offers over the Wireless PRO. Once engaged, it does a decent job at keeping traffic noise at bay while in our outdoor tests and suppressing office background noise inside. Take a listen to our examples of the DJI Mic 2 in various environments.

DJI Mic 2 microphone demo:

Rode Wireless PRO microphone demo:

We used the Dynamic GainAssist setting for these demos to ensure consistent performance. In a controlled environment, the Wireless PRO sounds full and clear. In our outdoor tests, you can hear passing vehicles and sounds from the adjacent park. While they’re not distracting from my voice, without any noise canceling feature on the Wireless PRO, you’ll want to consider your surroundings before you hit that record button.

Should you get the DJI Mic 2 or Rode Wireless PRO?

As mentioned, both of these wireless microphone systems sound great. It really depends on what type of content creator you are.

If you’re a casual content creator looking for a wireless mic that’s more suited for use with a gimbal and phone camera, the DJI is the way to go. The Mic 2’s low-profile receiver connection is much more gimbal-friendly, and the touch screen is easier to navigate to make adjustments in the heat of battle. The noise canceling feature is also a valuable tool for on-the-go vloggers.

However, if you’re a serious videographer making content in more controlled environments, you should spend the extra $50 and get the Rode Wireless PRO. Its more camera-friendly design, two discreet lavalier microphones, and the timecode feature ensure videographers get the most out of the Wireless PRO.

Frequently asked questions