DJI Mic vs Neewer CM28 - The Wireless Mic Showdown

Your video projects MUST have clean, clear, crisp audio and the marketplace is flooded with options to make that happen.
Today, we're comparing the clubhouse leader - DJI MIC with a challenger from the "value" division - the NEEWER CM28. Both kits appear to have a lot of similarities, but how do they stack up in a head-to-head comparison for quality and value?
That's the question we'll answer in this Unboxing and Demo.
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BUY Neewer CM28: tinyurl.com/43xz2tk9
Buy Via Amazon: amzn.to/3UUVg0h
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0:00 - Intro
2:35 - Neewer CM28 unboxing
8:28 - Neewer CM28 operation basics
12:25 - Outdoor Comparison Field Test
14:55 - Conclusions and Recommendations
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Be sure to SUBSCRIBE and share your comments!
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More info on us - hobsonmedia.com/

[@Ellocoyyopodcast]

I’m a podcaster and I can tell you from your test. The neewer sounded way better. I just purchased the neewer today.

[@764nachomarchan]

Don't know if this is a stupid question but can you use both mics be connected on the same phone??

[@VakokProductions]

Yes. Both mic (two mics , two transmitters) goes into one receiver you connect that to phone or camera .

[@Ellocoyyopodcast]

Yes you can use both at the same time. And no. Is not a stupid question, there no stupid questions. It would be stupid if you didn’t have questions 😂😂😂😂😂😂 we all have questions.

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Glad to help...hope you'll use our link :)

[@HobsonMediaVids]

@@764nachomarchan Yes...both mics connect to the receiver and the receiver plugs into your phone. I always ALSO record on each TX as a backup.

[@jerrodlopes186]

As a former audio engineer and location sound mixer, I am fairly impressed with the value of this system. I find the mics to be a little harsh and have significant bumps in presence and intelligibility that may need some taming in post production, but overall, good value for the dollar. Thanks for an informative and engaging review.

[@rsesters]

Thank you very much for this review. Its crazy that i had to watch 3 videos for anyone to actually do a sound test on these mics. If Amazon didn't have an amazing deal atm I would hands down use your link

[@brunobermudez2784]

Thanks Bill! What a great detailed videos with just the comparisson I was looking for. Keep it up! Congrats

[@Notnerd]

I bought the CM28 on sale and have been really impressed.

[@indistinctchatterfilms]

Thank you for this comparison! I'm looking at picking up the Neewer CM28 and have been sitting on the fence for a while.

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Glad to help! Hope you’ll use our link when you buy Neewer :)

[@Ailyn]

Thank you for sharing this ! It’s exactly what I’m looking for 👌🏻

[@staticvideo]

Excellent video, thank you Bill!

[@LeilanosEUA]

Thank you very much for your video ! I was very indecisive about which microphone to purchase and ended up buying the neewer microphone !

[@southernebiking]

I purchased a fulaim X5, which is the same as a Neewer mic system. It is a good system that I think would work for most people. I ultimately had to return it. I purchased the DJI and it is of a much higher quality. In my situation, I have myself and my wife riding E bikes, with both of us miked up. The fulaim just had way too much interference. The quality was good from the mic that was close to the camera, but the audio from the other person was not very good at all, as it had a lot of interference. I could have used the internal recording, but that adds another post edit step that I would prefer to avoid. The DJI has a much better range with a lot less interference, when going through the receiver. Ironically, I decided even with a DJI to use just the internal recording and attach the two in editing. Probably would’ve been able to save the money and keep the fulaim, however, I am not sorry for purchasing the DJI. Good job on the review. If you would like to see how the DJI works, any of our videos that my wife and myself are speaking, that is what we are using. Have a great new year.

[@BunchOfAmateurs]

Thanks Bill, excellent video. You helped me out here.

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Glad to help...hope you'll use our link :)

[@lozpeterjonesbickerton]

love your factual style and review. thank you. I have now subscribed

[@scootercowboy]

Very nicely executed video there Bill! I've had the Neewer mics since they were released and it's amazing the capability you gain for the money. I like your reminder about the lav mics, I need to plug mine in. Most of the time I just record straight to the mic's internal memory.

[@copperdeserthomestead]

This was very helpful as a new content creator on a budget! I used your link 😊

[@BaL2024]

Great! Thanks for your review

[@IanSLX]

A fantastic review! Thank you.

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Glad to help...hope you'll use our link :)

[@HeyChannelDani]

Just the video comparison I was looking for... thanks

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Glad we could help! If you decide to buy the Neewer I hope you’ll use our link.

[@alexhuerta5426]

Great content, really helpful. Thanks!

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Glad to help...hope you'll use our link :)

[@TallGuyChris]

Thanks for this. Was on the verge of ordering the DJI mic, and found the Neewer model somehow. Your video really helped me take a chance on the Newer which is a brand I'm familiar with from photography equipment. I just want to dip a toe into off camera mic (much like off camera flash) so hope this will be productive. I accidentally ordered through my account directly, cancelled and went back to use your affiliate link. 👍

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Thanks!

[@xokferg894]

Thanks, Bill! This was very helpful!

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Glad to help...hope you'll use our link :)

[@Oceanpulsegear]

Bill, as an audiophile with experience in music production and mixing as well, the neewer sounds SIGNIFICANTLY better. I just began documenting our fishing trips and aside from teaching my self how to edit multicam videos while hopped up on Cuban Coffee 😂 my biggest observation was how bad the audio quality was from my cameras. Amazon had the neewer on sale today and your video helped me pull the trigger. You are a phenomenal KZbinr! And if you are ever looking in mentoring someone, I would appreciate the opportunity to learn from someone with your experience and background.

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Glad we could help. Hopefully you used our link to place your order. Good luck in your future projects.

[@nikilragav]

Both sound very similar. Nice. Both sound good

[@GeneralBuckles]

love the side by side..... should have tried that myself.

[@diddyonasisTV]

Great job! I just received my cm28 today. After testing with my dslr and iphone I think I made a great choice for $79.

[@speeduplove01]

Hi👋 How did you get this for 79 dollar?😮

[@YXLtheMAN]

It sounds so good

[@kembaoak]

Been in need of a wireless mic for my vlog. Those neewer mics are such a steal for that price. Not going to bother looking at Dji mics which cost 3x more. Thanks for the review. Ordered mine earlier today.

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Glad we could help! Hopefully you used our promo link when you placed your order

[@530Woody]

I purchased the Neewer mic to connect with my DJI Action 4. Im going to start recording my motorcycle rides.

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Glad to help...hope you'll use our link :)

[@randMcnally16]

Hey there just reading your comment. Have you purchased it yet and if so how has it been? I'm looking to get the same setup. Thanks in advance.

[@HobsonMediaVids]

@@randMcnally16 The Neewer is really quite solid. We've had the kit for a few months, used it numerous times, and have yet to be disappointed by the results.

[@randMcnally16]

@@HobsonMediaVids was really curious about the compatibility with the dji action 4? Have you tried this setup?

[@530Woody]

@@randMcnally16 Both camera and mic are great. I’m very happy with the mic. I honestly think it’s better than the DJI mic. It works great.

[@LSMcClain7]

thank you for this review.. just ot a new sub!!!

[@LetsTalkAboutReaper]

The DJI seems to have a high end roll off, but for a third of the price, i have no issue doing some minor EQ work on the Neewer. Heck, if i had the DJI, i would likely use EQ as well to roll off some low end and boost the top a bit. The Neewer would need the inverse, perhaps a bit of de-essing. Nice review!

[@omargguevara8548]

Muy similares el audio, excelente video.

[@ko_da_life]

Bought one today ❤

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Hope you used our link :)

[@crlclssic]

thanks!

[@JMEDINAx7]

Great video I just subscribed! I had one quick question regarding recording wtih your iphone. Does the recording automatically have the audio from added on it or does have to be synced later while editing in production?

[@MIGolfLive]

This is Bill replying from my other channel...if you're recording a video on your phone, using the receiver from the mics plugged into the lightning port, the audio will be mastered directly to the video.

[@JMEDINAx7]

Bill thanks for the quick reply and great video by the way! It's strange because its not automatically syncing to my iphone 13 pro max. I will continue to troubleshoot. Thanks once again! @@MIGolfLive

[@studioatlanta]

I've got both and it is a very close call. Those Neewer don't get enough credit!

[@StudioSam]

It's been a few months now, and the new DJI mic 2 is out. Have you tested it at all yet? I want to improve the audio on my videos and deciding between the cm28 and DJI mic 2...not sure which way to go.

[@MIGolfLive]

(Responding from our other channel) - the DJi Mic2 brings some excellent built in limiters so pegging the audio is nearly impossible but the overall sound quality is no different than the initial version… both of them are very solid in every aspect.

[@KevPezJALP]

DJI might sound little more pleasant to me….nothing a little EQ can’t solve. I’ll go with the neewer! After more testing…I’m 50:50. I want a little bit less high end then The neewer but more then DJI.. I’ll take the cost savings, and spend a few minutes on EQ. Great video

[@fernandogamboa7355]

Great review, have a question Is it possible to plug a lavalier mic on the transmiser?

[@MIGolfLive]

Yes

[@MIoffGridAdventures]

Thanks so much, Bill. That was very helpful. I thought the Neewer one sounded better. Do you?

[@HobsonMediaVids]

I like the DJI better but for the value the Neewer is really solid

[@MIoffGridAdventures]

When you add the two lavaliers, the value is even better. DJI doesn’t include them and theirs are $30 each!

[@IcyyX_]

will the neewer work with live audio connected via speakers?

[@lyonnesse100]

Great video. Think I must be doing something wrong but know not what! Played back on the Pocket 3 the sound is perfect but when I transfer the file to the laptop the sound is barely audible even at full volume. Can anyone help, very frustrating.

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Make sure your record levels are set properly. The default is to record low.

[@Chicago_Clout]

Good review. A little windy at the start.

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Blowing 15-20 mph, so I thought both mics did well

[@carlosaquino8203]

Is this audio modified or straight from the receivers? It sounds so good

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Straight from the transmitters internal recording storage. No modifications at all.

[@catflap001]

I've watched a few reviews comparing these 2 mics and not being an audiophile or very technical person I think the neewer sounds much better. Richer and Fuller sounding and the DJI sounds kind of tinny.

[@studioatlanta]

Oh I have the Neewer CM22, Paid $200 when they were new. They are much cheaper now. great mics though.

[@blesingudeh]

Thanks for the review but You didn’t try out the noise cancellation test

[@GeneralBuckles]

i've tested it... it's decent but works best when there's actual noise.... oddly it sounds muffled and cuts off your first words in a silent setting.

[@blesingudeh]

@@GeneralBuckles thank you

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Minimal impact

[@zlshaan]

great review .Neewer sounds way better

[@kevinpowers9024]

What about setting db levels? Recording in stereo or mono? Should the external microphone on the camera be turned off? Recording level on my Sony ZV 1 goes up to 30. Where should I set that? The manual that came with the Neewer isn't much help at all and I'm not tech savy lol.

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Yes you can set levels within the receiver. You can also choose stereo or mono. If you plug the receiver into your camera it will override the external camera mic. Or you can leave that on and record with the internal storage on the individual tx as a backup and then sync it in post. Neewer has terrible user documentation help but that's why we're here. Pls use our link when you buy!

[@nsslots]

So when you’re using it with an iPhone 15 promax, you will need to attach the receiver via usb-c and the iPhone will automatically detect the CM28 and override the phone’s mic?

[@MIGolfLive]

Correct

[@WATCHYOR6]

I often have trouble with my mic cutting out and peaking, and the clarity suffers. I would like a mic that is simply plug and go will this mic have those challenges.

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Every mic has the potential to peak if overloaded with input. These are ready to go the moment they power on.

[@WATCHYOR6]

Thanks @@HobsonMediaVids so I wouldn't have to make any adjustments? I'll be upgrading from the Comica vimo s

[@mokisan]

I am sorry if i missed it, but does it have noise cancelling feature? Also does it support passthrough charging when connected to a smartphone ?

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Yes, it does have noise reduction but it’s not noticeably different. As for pass through, I’m not sure your definition of that. It works great with smartphone but you’ll not be able to monitor live thru the phone.

[@nikilragav]

15:20 where did you place the mic? Under your hoodie?

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Yes, using the magnet to attach it to my shirt.

[@HankGoodness]

Just curious what volume setting you use when recording video using smartphones?

[@HobsonMediaVids]

I think I bumped it up +3db but there's not much adjustment needed

[@NoSignal_UK]

Honestly, I know audio is subjective but I think I prefer the sound of the Neewer. Seems to pick up a little more ambient noise though.

[@dsbaehler]

What was the point of doing the range test if you used the internal recording of each mic pack? You would need to record the sound on the receiver side to hear the difference.

[@MIGolfLive]

Well, the camera only takes one receiver, so it would literally be impossible to record both mics at the same time. That’s why you record to the internal recorder, and then impost pull the audio from both.

[@andrejung_]

Is it possible to use just the transmitter recording on the internal storage without using the receiver? Ofc syncing the audio and video afterwards For example when the USB-C port on the iPhone 15 is occupied from recording to a SSD.

[@MIGolfLive]

Yes. You don’t have to use the receiver or plug it into anything in order for the system to work. You can record entirely on the internal storage and then synchronize everything when you edit.

[@andrejung_]

@@MIGolfLive thanks a lot🙏🏽

[@visualsbysanga5523]

Hi I have just bought the cm28…. Can’t figure out how to download the internal recording from the transmitters…..please help.

[@MIGolfLive]

Plug a USB-C cable into the transmitter and your pc and it will be recognized like another drive. Then you can copy the files to your pc.

[@visualsbysanga5523]

Appreciate your reply…..tried this already but no drive shows up do I need additional software???

[@MIGolfLive]

@@visualsbysanga5523 You shouldn't need any additional software. Your PC should recognize the transmitter once you power it on.

[@sharifsircar]

Prosumer hardware and functionality for cheap, yes please

[@jaldred3246]

What sort of external lavalier mics will or won't it work with? Does it provide phantom power (do some lav mics need that?) I've read people saying some lav mics are designed specifically to lock into Sennheiser or Sony transmitter packs, say - will it work with those mics?

[@MIGolfLive]

It doesn’t provide phantom power to lavs. Will work w Rode lavs for sure, which is what we used in the test.

[@jaldred3246]

Thanks @@MIGolfLive Another related question if I may? Are most lav mics multidirectional condensers, or more focused cardioids? I like the idea of directional so I don't pick up the noise from my (suprisingly noisy) Godox light, but then again maybe the voice will get lost under the chin and I'm better off just recording everything and cutting it out with the noise reduction (or in post, or Prem Pro)?

[@jaldred3246]

Maybe that's another video!

[@MIGolfLive]

@@jaldred3246 most are multi unless you get into very expensive pro models. Mount the mic high enough and it will capture the subject even if ambient noise creeps in

[@jaldred3246]

Thanks. Much appreciated. @@MIGolfLive

[@BikerGeek]

I just bought one for 69 bucks on promo. I'm going to see how this works with my DJI Osmo Mobile 6.

[@trentinomelone]

Was this purchased after January 8th when the new version was released?

[@HobsonMediaVids]

No

[@trentinomelone]

Thank you!@@HobsonMediaVids

[@ChrisPollard]

Seems like the big thing missing from the Neewer, reasonable for the price, is noise cancellation. That was my main takeaway between the two mics. The DJI was quieter with noise cancellation, the Neewer had much more background noise audible ... but I think your voice sounded better for it too. Noise reduction in post is a button-click away these days.

[@ChrisPollard]

I stand corrected. Saw in another video that the Neewer DOES have noise cancellation. A very compelling budget option!

[@ChrisPollard]

Follow-up number two ... now as an owner. I am super impressed with the Neewer kit. I used it this week for audio on an outdoor flag-raising ceremony, used the magnet to snap the CM28 transmitter to the mic for the PA system, popped on the deadcat, enabled the local recording, and left it alone through multiple speakers. Left the noise cancellation off and was floored with the crisp, clear audio I got from it. What surprised me even more was that you can actually connect the receiver to TWO devices at the same time if you can keep them close enough to run a cable to one of them. I used the Lightning adapter on my work phone and tested the analogue cable plugged into a second device. BOTH got the same audio recording from the mic. Didn't know it could be done, didn't expect it, but was pleasantly surprised by the discovery. For the price? Really, REALLY tough to beat.

[@andydlamini]

Greetings, I wish I could see a video tutorial on how you achieved this, 'used the magnet to snap the CM28 transmitter to the mic for the PA system, popped on the deadcat, enabled the local recording, and left it alone through multiple speakers....' But this is helpful info 👍

[@DetailingBreakdown]

How do I record so that the playback comes out of both ear buds?

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Not sure what you mean. Whether it’s recording in mono or stereo, the playback should come thru both ear buds.

[@DetailingBreakdown]

@@HobsonMediaVids my playback comes out in both when my music plays but not when I speak

[@HobsonMediaVids]

That shouldn’t be the case. Not sure why it’s happening to you.

[@DetailingBreakdown]

@@HobsonMediaVids ok, I’ll try some variations

[@zamtv2514]

Can the CM28 connect with a doji pocket 3

[@MIGolfLive]

Not sure on that one. Need to get my hands on the P3 to try it out. Stand by...

[@DavidAdlawan]

Currently have this mic but when i put this to my iphone the receiver will drain the battery of the iphone. Any advice?

[@HobsonMediaVids]

I have no idea why it would impact your phone battery in any way since all of the power is being provided by the receiver. You should not be experiencing a drain on your phone battery, so perhaps it’s related to something else.

[@efad3215]

Maybe try attaching the Neewer through a usb adapter that can also charge the phone and see if that works better?

[@fishycomics]

I have owned the Fulaim X5, same as the one you have, the lowest it sold in hand was $73.00 the DJI mic 2 just came out. if we just look at the price and quality I totally agree, this is the way to go. The advantages of t he DJI mic 2 kit today is Auto on/off with the camera, the lit screen, and the AI wind noise. I personally go with t he DJI mic 2 kit single for $219.99 if these features are a must, for me. excellent review Love the fulaim gives me that full 5 hour of recording if asked. I personally stuck a permanant wind muff closes in the case and sterelizes it all

[@mkongsoefast]

What about the noise reduction?

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Minimal impact

[@user-gr7hd4hv2k]

How much

[@ronnieblanchet4072]

God bless ya brother. Thanks for doin’ The LORDS work.🤓☝️ SOLI DEO GLORIA (To The Glory Of God Alone) Father, Son & Holy Spirit -Ronnie

[@TheJPinder]

You should get an mazon affiliate link.

[@HobsonMediaVids]

I agree…gotta figure that out

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Got one! amzn.to/3UUVg0h

[@showingYOUtheworld]

The sound quality of Newwer is better 👍 The build quality of DJI is better 👍

[@AKSSB_Hustle]

This guy

[@ConorBofin]

Dreadful to hear you call the DJI the industry standard. I’ve watched numerous fanboy reviews, many with comparative audio v Rode. These are far from the industry standard. Can’t work with pro level lavs. Daft noise reduction and they seem to miss the top end of audio even without the sledgehammer noise reduction. Maybe the industry standard is just low and I’m missing something. I use two systems, one old but great Senheiser the other Rode series 1. The former being really good. The latter, pretty good but not perfect.

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Dreadful? Lol Take a breath. I’m well aware of the difference between consumer and pro audio, working in both spaces for 35 years. The DJI/Rode ARE the industry standard when it comes to consumer level audio and for people who don’t have $3k to spend on wireless sound. Relax. You’ll be ok.

[@WillNewcomb]

Why oh why do most reviewers never do audio samples in the office. You talk about it but don't do it! Grrrr.

[@HobsonMediaVids]

Welllll, I did. The final part of the video is in the studio using the CM28. Perhaps you’re referring to other reviewers.

[@WillNewcomb]

⁠Apologies. I stand corrected. Where did you locate the mic? It's not visible on your clothing? Why did you only have a few seconds right at the end instead of the whole of the indoor setting? The point of a mic is AUDIO so present it's audio! I have a Fulaim X5 (identical) and the sound quality is best when right in front of my mouth. Located on shirt mid chest level it's far more mediocre.

[@HobsonMediaVids]

@@WillNewcomb attached it to my tshirt using the magnet and the entire thing is hidden under my hoodie

[@WillNewcomb]

@@HobsonMediaVids Thanks. It woukd have been helpful to mention that in the video!

[@MIGolfLive]

@@WillNewcomband it would be helpful if you listened to the video where I do mention it at 15:16

[@truthdefenders-]

Your audio and video are not perfectly synchronized.

[@HobsonMediaVids]

They are…but thanks for the helpful note

[@truthdefenders-]

@@HobsonMediaVids I'll watch again on my desk top, it looked slightly off on my phone. Good review though, I just might get the NEEWER. Thnx

[@Lokochonprod]

Great review thank you!