Elgato takes on DJI and Insta360 with a unique wireless clip-on microphone for creators

To keep the microphone as close as possible to the actual sound source, reducing ambient noise and making it easier to filter out unwanted sounds, many video producers rely on clip-on microphones, also known as lavalier mics. These can be easily attached to a collar, shirt pocket, or other item of clothing. These days, they no longer need cables, instead transmitting their audio wirelessly to a receiver.

The new Elgato Wave Go is one such wireless lavalier microphone, designed specifically for mobile creators who spend a lot of time on the go. Clipping it on leaves both hands free. The Wave Go comes with a USB-C wireless receiver that can be plugged into a smartphone, for example, which then serves as the recording device. Naturally, there is also an app for adjusting various settings, including sensitivity and noise reduction.

What makes the Wave Go particularly interesting is that the tiny wireless mic can be turned into a handheld microphone. To do so, you insert it into the included flashlight-shaped handle. The advantage: In interview situations where only one microphone is available, you can now pass it back and forth between the interviewer and the interviewee in the traditional way. The handle also has a built-in battery, extending the mic's runtime when the mic is inserted.

The charging case is clever, too: It not only stores the microphone components but also charges them. Multiple charging contacts are built into the inside of the case. On the outside, a USB-C port lets you charge the case and its contents. You can also purchase an additional transmitter (just the small wireless mic) and pair it with the same receiver, allowing two microphones to operate through a single receiver. This is ideal for interviews where both participants need a microphone.

The tiny wireless mic weighs just 7 g, yet its built-in battery lasts up to 8 hours. The battery in the handle provides five additional charges, bringing the total available power to up to 48 hours. Just 10 minutes connected to a charger is said to provide another hour of use.

The Elgato Wave Go goes on sale today, October 13, in more than 40 countries. The suggested retail price is €99.99 ($99.99, £99.99) for the complete kit with charging case. An additional microphone purchased separately costs just €29.99. A two-microphone kit, including the case and accessories, is also available as a complete set for $114.99.

The images show the limited Day 1 Edition, whose case features a blue interior. We're currently testing the new microphone, so look out for our review on Notebookcheck soon. The standard retail version has a black interior.