Rode Wireless GO (Gen 3) vs DJI Mic 2: Which is Best For You?
Naila Syifa
Updated December 2024
The Rode Wireless GO (Gen 3) and the DJI Mic 2 are some of the most popular wireless audio solutions on the market. They are around US$50 apart in price, with the DJI Mic 2 being the more expensive option.
In this comparison, we will explore the key differences between these two wireless microphone systems, helping you determine which one best suits your needs.
Key Takeaways
DJI Mic 2 has a touchscreen and a dial for easier gain control, but the gain range is wider on Rode Wireless GO (Gen 3) despite using a non-touch screen and buttons for control. DJI also supports Bluetooth while Rode doesn't. However, each model has its own unique feature — Noise Cancellation on DJI and Intelligent GainAssist on Rode.
Rode Wireless GO (Gen 3)
Mid-Range Mic with Pro Features
✓ 32-bit Float Internal Recording
✓ Intelligent GainAssist
✓ Granular Gain Adjustment
✓ 7-Hour Battery
DJI Mic 2
Pocket-Sized Pro Audio
✓ 32-bit Float Internal Recording
✓ Intelligent Noise Cancelling
✓ Direct Bluetooth Connection
✓ 18-Hour Battery
Design & Controls
DJI Mic 2
DJI Mic 2 comes in a rectangular design, which is slightly slimmer and more lightweight than the square-shaped appearance of the Rode Wireless GO (Gen 3). However, both are compact and portable enough to be easily carried around.
Both models equally have a back clip for easy attachment to clothing, but the DJI Mic 2 also includes additional magnetic attachments that the Rode does not provide. Magnetic attachments make the DJI Mic 2 more versatile in mounting options.
The receiver of both microphones features a display for monitoring key information during use, but the DJI Mic 2's display is a touchscreen while Rode's is not. A touchscreen is more intuitive and convenient.
DJI Mic 2 also integrates a dial into its receiver, which we can rotate to adjust the input or output gain between -12 dB to +12 dB in 1 dB increment. We can also swipe the touchscreen to quickly adjust the gain level.
Rode Wireless GO (Gen 3) uses the button(s) on its receiver and transmitter to adjust the gain level, which is less convenient. However, the gain range is indeed wider. Input gain can be adjusted from 0 dB to 30 dB in 1 dB increment, while output gain can be adjusted from -30 dB to 0 dB in 3 dB increments.
Audio Features
Rode Wireless GO (Gen 3)
DJI Mic 2 offers three recording modes you can choose depending on your needs — Stereo mode to record audio in separate channels for flexible post-production, Mono mode to record audio in a single channel for quick and simple use, and Safety Track mode for an additional lower track for backup.
Rode Wireless GO (Gen 3) has the same exact modes, just with different names — Split mode, Merged mode, and Safety Channel mode. The backup track in Safety Channel mode is recorded at -10 dB, which is lower than the -6 dB backup track in DJI Mic 2's Safety Track mode.
Both microphones also equally support 32-bit Float Internal Recording, which captures a wider dynamic range and allows for more flexibility in post-production. It is particularly useful for capturing loud or soft audio sources without the risk of clipping or distortion.
For wind noise protection, both models include windscreens. However, DJI Mic 2 further adds a Noise Canceling feature, which actively reduces environmental sounds and wind interference. Such digital noise cancellation offers more effective protection against unwanted noise than a physical windscreen alone.
Despite lacking digital noise cancellation, Rode Wireless GO (Gen 3) has its own advantage with an exclusive Intelligent GainAssist feature. It saves you from the hassle of manually adjusting the gain level by automatically optimizing the audio level to produce clear, balanced recordings.
Connectivity & Range
DJI Mic 2
Rode Wireless GO (Gen 3) supports up to 260 m of wireless range in ideal conditions, slightly longer than the 250 m maximum range of the DJI Mic 2.
However, when it comes to connectivity, DJI Mic 2 has a slight advantage with its Bluetooth connection. That means, you can connect to compatible Bluetooth-enabled action cameras and smartphones directly without the receiver or any cable or adapter.
When Bluetooth is not in the picture, both microphones offer equal compatibility with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, cameras, and computers. You can simply connect the receiver to your preferred device with the supplied cable or adapter.
When connected to a camera, they support power synchronization with the camera, meaning they can automatically power off when the camera is off to preserve battery life.
Both microphones also support audio monitoring via compatible 3.5 mm earphones or headphones. Rode Wireless GO (Gen 3) even supports simultaneous audio monitoring and recording using headset's microphone.
Battery & Charging
Rode Wireless GO (Gen 3)
Rode Wireless GO (Gen 3) is rated to last for up to 7 hours on a single charge for its transmitters and receiver, slightly longer than the 6 hours of battery life for the DJI Mic 2 transmitter and receiver.
However, DJI Mic 2 comes with a charging case, which allows for approximately two full charge cycles for the transmitters and receiver, providing a total of 18 hours of battery life on the go.
The charging case of the Rode Wireless GO (Gen 3) can provide a longer 21-hour total runtime, but it is not included and is available as a separate accessory. The package instead includes a charging hub, which is an accessory that can charge the transmitters and receiver simultaneously but does not provide additional battery life.
Rode Wireless GO (Gen 3) vs DJI Mic 2
Final Thoughts
DJI Mic 2
The Rode Wireless GO (Gen 3) and DJI Mic 2 are both impressive wireless microphone systems, but each has its own unique strengths and features that may appeal to different users and use cases.
DJI Mic 2 has a user-friendly touchscreen display with an integrated dial, along with digital noise cancellation and Bluetooth connectivity. It is appealing to those who prioritize convenience and versatility in their wireless microphone setup.
Rode Wireless GO (Gen 3) counters with its Intelligent GainAssist feature, wider gain range, longer standalone battery life, and a higher SPL, making it a compelling choice for those who value audio quality and flexibility in a wireless microphone system.
If you like to read more about Wireless Microphone, check out our other relevant guides here:
Rode Wireless Micro vs GO (Gen 3)
Rode Wireless GO 2 vs GO (Gen 3)
Rode Wireless GO (Gen 3) vs Pro
Rode Wireless GO (Gen 3) vs DJI Mic Mini
Author
Naila Syifa
Content Manager at Synced. She crafts insightful content on the latest trends in technology, consumer electronics, and smart home gadgets.
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