RØDE VideoMic GO II Helix | Ultra-Compact On-Camera Shotgun Microphone with Both 3.5mm and USB Outputs for Filmmaking, Content Creation, Podcasting and Video Calls (3rd Gen)
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AI Verdict
The Rode VideoMic GO II Helix is a featherweight, battery-free shotgun mic that delivers massive audio upgrades for vloggers and hybrid shooters who want plug-and-play simplicity.
With its 33g weight and dual USB-C/3.5mm outputs, this mic perfectly bridges the gap between a dedicated camera mic and a desktop podcasting setup. The battery-free design means it is always ready to record, while the new Helix mount effectively kills handling noise for vloggers.
If you need physical gain control dials and a safety channel, step up to a shotgun mic with onboard analog controls.
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Pros
- Weighs just 33 grams bare and 89 grams with the mount, adding virtually zero bulk to a camera rig
- Dual 3.5mm TRS and USB-C outputs allow it to work seamlessly with cameras, phones, and laptops
- The new Helix isolation mount completely eliminates handling noise and bumps while walking
- Requires no batteries or charging, running entirely on 2-5V plug-in power from your device
- Unlocks advanced DSP features like a high-pass filter and high-frequency boost via the Rode Central app
Cons
- Does not include a USB-C cable in the box, only the 3.5mm TRS cable
- Prone to picking up electromagnetic interference if placed too close to Wi-Fi routers or certain camera preamps
- No physical gain dials or low-cut switches on the mic body, requiring the app for all advanced settings
- The included foam windshield is useless outdoors, requiring a separate furry windshield for wind protection
Dimension Scores
Delivers a rich, full-bodied sound with a supercardioid pattern that rejects off-axis noise, though it is prone to electromagnetic interference.
Captures deep vocal timbre well, but the extremely hot output signal can clip cheaper camera preamps.
Having both a 3.5mm TRS and a 24-bit/48kHz USB-C output makes it incredibly versatile across devices.
At just 89g fully assembled with the Helix mount, it adds zero noticeable weight to a gimbal setup.
Best For
- Run-and-gun vloggers using lightweight mirrorless cameras on gimbals
- Content creators who want one mic to swap between a DSLR and a MacBook for voiceovers
- Beginners who want better audio without managing batteries or complex gain staging
Not Recommended For
- Professional boom pole operators needing XLR connectivity and physical low-cut switches
- Shooting in heavy wind or rain without purchasing an aftermarket furry windshield
Watch Out For
- Electromagnetic interference: Users report a buzzing noise when the mic is placed too close to Wi-Fi routers or certain camera bodies.
- Missing cables: You have to buy your own USB-C to USB-C or Lightning cable to connect it to a phone or computer.
- App dependency: You cannot access the high-pass filter or high-frequency boost without plugging it into a computer or phone running Rode Central.
- Hot signal output: The mic outputs a very loud signal over 3.5mm, which causes distortion on cameras with poor preamps like the Sony ZV-1 if you do not lower the in-camera mic gain.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 698813012985 |
| ASIN | B0D6X93C58 |
| Brand | Rode |
| Color | 3rd Gen | VMGO II Helix |
| Material | Plastic |
| Color Name | 3rd Gen | VMGO II Helix |
| Model Name | Gen 3 |
| Item Weight | 2.01 ounces |
| Manufacturer | RØDE |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Material Type | Plastic |
| Polar Pattern | Super Cardioid |
| Connector Type | 3.5mm TRS, USB Type-C |
| Special Feature | 3.5mm jack, Lightweight |
| Audio Sensitivity | 38 Decibels |
| Hardware Platform | Camera, Smartphone, Tablet |
| Item model number | VMGOII |
| Compatible Devices | Camera, Smartphone, Tablet |
| Number of Channels | 1 |
| Product Dimensions | 5.91 x 1.97 x 2.06 inches |
| Included Components | 1 x VideoMic GO II; 1 x HELIX™ Isolation Mount; 1 x Windshield; 1 x SC14 |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 79 dB |
| Microphone Form Factor | On-camera |
| Connectivity Technology | 3.5mm TRS, USB-C |
| Item dimensions L x W x H | 5.91 x 1.97 x 2.06 inches |
| Recommended Uses For Product | For use with cameras and a USB output for plugging directly into a smartphone, tablet or computer |
What Buyers Say
Long-term owners frequently use this as a desktop USB mic rather than just a camera mic. The 33g featherweight design does not throw off the balance of small gimbals or lightweight mirrorless setups. A recurring frustration is the microphone's sensitivity to electromagnetic interference, with several users reporting a faint buzzing when shooting near Wi-Fi routers or smart devices. The new Helix mount completely eliminates the plastic creaks that plagued older models. Almost everyone complains that Rode did not include a USB-C cable in the box.
“Love the sound and the fact that it weighs literally nothing on my camera, but seriously Rode, you couldn't throw a basic USB-C cable in the box?”
Common Praise
- The 33g bare mic weight does not unbalance lightweight gimbals
- The new Helix mount absorbs heavy footsteps and handling bumps perfectly
- USB-C mode allows the 3.5mm jack to act as a zero-latency headphone monitor
- Voice reproduction is surprisingly deep and rich for a mic this small
- No batteries to charge or forget to turn on
Common Complaints
- Picks up electromagnetic buzzing from nearby routers or phones
- No USB-C or Lightning cables included in the box
- The included foam windshield does nothing for outdoor wind
- The 3.5mm output signal is too hot for some Sony camera preamps, causing distortion
Ownership Tips
- You must turn your camera's internal mic gain down to 1 or 2, as the mic's output is extremely loud and will clip.
- The Rode Central app settings (like the high-pass filter) save to the mic, so you can set them on your PC and then plug it into your camera.
- Standard Apple Lightning cables will not work for audio; you are forced to buy Rode's proprietary SC15 cable for older iPhones.
- The Helix mount is very stiff at first, making it slightly terrifying to snap the mic into place the first few times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it come with a USB-C cable?
No. It only includes the 3.5mm SC14 TRS cable. You will need to provide your own USB-C cable for phone or computer use.
Do I need to charge it?
No. The VideoMic GO II runs entirely on plug-in power (2-5V via 3.5mm or 5V via USB) from your camera or computer.
Can I plug my headphones directly into the mic?
Yes, but only when using it in USB mode. The 3.5mm port doubles as a zero-latency headphone jack when connected to a computer or phone via USB.
Will this work with my iPhone?
Yes, but you need a specific cable. For Lightning iPhones, you must use the Rode SC15 or SC19 cable; standard charging cables will not transmit audio.
Why is my audio buzzing or hissing?
The mic is sensitive to electromagnetic interference (EMI). Keep it away from Wi-Fi routers, and make sure your camera's internal mic gain is turned down low to avoid preamp hiss.
Does the Helix mount fit on a boom pole?
Yes. The bottom of the cold shoe mount features a standard 3/8-inch thread for attaching to boom poles or desktop mic stands.
Buying Guide
When buying an on-camera shotgun mic, your biggest enemy is handling noise and preamp hiss. The VideoMic GO II solves the first with its excellent Helix mount, but you have to manage the second by keeping your camera's internal audio levels as low as possible. Because this mic lacks physical buttons, you will need to be comfortable using a desktop or mobile app to tweak your EQ settings. It is the ultimate hybrid tool if you split your time between shooting video and recording voiceovers at your desk.
Supercardioid Polar Pattern
Think of it like a flashlight beam for sound. It focuses tightly on whatever is directly in front of the lens while ignoring the traffic noise behind you.
Plug-in Power
The mic draws a tiny amount of electricity directly from your camera's mic jack or computer's USB port, meaning you never have to remember to charge it or turn it on.
Helix Isolation Mount
This is the shock absorber for your microphone. It prevents the thud of your footsteps or the shifting of your hands on the camera from ruining your audio.
Alternatives
If you need physical gain dials, a safety channel to prevent clipping, and a built-in battery, look for a premium hybrid shotgun mic with onboard analog controls.
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