The DJI Mic Mini is probably one of the most affordable and flexible high-quality wireless microphone systems we’ve seen. When RØDE launched its Wireless Go microphone system in 2019, it could be said to have completely changed the world of wireless audio recording. No longer did content producers have to put up with poor Bluetooth audio quality in wireless solutions, or license the traditional and expensive UHF/VHF system.
RØDE later released an improved version of its system, but at the same time DJI was working on its own alternative. The first DJI Mic immediately gained a strong position and DJI further improved it with the DJI Mic 2. The latter offered particular advantages when used with a DJI camera, as the Mic 2’s microphone transmitter could connect without the need for a separate receiver.
Now DJI has launched the DJI Mic Mini, which costs half as much as the Mic 2, offering an attractive solution for budget-conscious users. But does the cheaper price compromise on quality compared to the Mic 2?
DJI Mic Mini first impressions
First impressions of the Mic Mini are positive – the build quality is decent and up to DJI’s usual standard. The charging cradle feels sturdy, well designed and comfortable to use. When the case is opened, the LED lights illuminate, indicating that the microphones and receiver are automatically activated and ready to connect.
The microphone transmitters are significantly smaller than those of Mic 2 and its competitors. While the quality and price of these microphones is often praised, their awkward shape may be uncomfortable for some users. This is not a problem with the Mic Mini, which, while not as discreet as a lapel microphone, for example, is a very compact solution given its dual function (microphone and transmitter with built-in battery).
Each microphone is equipped with a magnetic attachment button that allows the microphone to be attached to clothing in two ways: either with a built-in clip or magnetically, by placing the attachment under the clothing and the microphone outside. In addition, DJI also offers a necklace-type attachment as an alternative for even more flexibility.
Battery and charging
- Battery life: the battery lasts up to 11.5 hours per microphone and can be extended up to 48 hours with the charging case.
- Fast charging: a five-minute charge can add around 1 hour of usage time.
One advantage of the charging case over the Mic 2 is that the microphones can be stored with the windscreen filters attached. In the case of the Mic 2, they had to be removed in order to be placed in the charging case, which sometimes caused inconvenience.
Transmission by
Like the Mic 2, the Mic Mini has noise cancelling functionality, but the Mini goes one step further by offering two levels:
- Basic – removes quiet background noise and room noise.
- Strong – removes loud background noise, such as traffic sounds.
When the microphone is connected directly to a smartphone or camera, the noise reduction is set to “Strong” by default and cannot be set lower. However, if you are using a DJI camera, the noise reduction level can be changed.
To switch on the noise reduction, simply press the power button, and a dedicated indicator light will show when it is active. In use, the noise reduction works well, although a high level of reduction may slightly affect the quality of the sound.
Connectivity and reliability
Connecting the Mic Mini is very quick and easy. Just press the connect button and select the pairing mode on your device. DJI claims a signal range of up to 400 metres in ideal conditions, although real-world conditions may reduce the range.
If you’re using a DJI Pocket 3, Action 4 or Action 5 camera, you don’t need an extra receiver. The device automatically connects to the camera after the first pairing.
DJI Mic Mini vs Mic 2 comparison
Although Mic Mini is smaller and cheaper, it lacks some of the key features of Mic 2:
- There is no built-in storage, so the sound cannot be recorded independently.
- There is no 3.5 mm audio jack, so a wired lapel mic cannot be used.
- Mic Mini is compact, but Mic 2 can be made even more discreet thanks to additional components.
The DJI Mic Mini is available as a set of two in our online shop at droon.ee:
- Complete kit: includes two transmitters, receiver and charging case – price €169.
- Single kit: includes one transmitter and receiver in black – price €89.