In early 2025, Hollyland made waves with the release of the Lark M2, a mini lavalier microphone that shook up the market. Not long after, DJI entered the arena with their own offering: the DJI Mic Mini. Both systems offer similar features at comparable price points, but which one is right for you? Let’s break it down Hollyland Lark M2 vs DJI Mic Mini .
What’s in the Box?
Both of these systems come with the essentials, but each has its own unique set of accessories.
DJI Mic Mini
The DJI kit includes:
- A travel pouch
- A charging case
- Two transmitters and one receiver
- Four windshields (two gray, two black)
- USB-C and 3.5mm cables
- A USB-C adapter for smartphones (Lightning adapter sold separately for $30)
Hollyland Lark M2
The Hollyland package includes:
- A travel drawstring bag
- A charging case
- Two transmitters and one receiver
- USB-C and Lightning receivers (for smartphone connection)
- A long USB-C charging cable
- A 3.5mm coiled cable
- Two windshields
- Two lanyards
- Two magnetic clips
- Stickers to discreetly cover the logo on the microphone
As far as pricing goes, the DJI kit is priced at $169, which surprised me, I expected it to be more expensive. The Hollyland system, on the other hand, is typically priced between $129 and $139, but I got it on sale for $111 on Black Friday.
DJI Mic Mini Design and Build Quality
The DJI transmitters come in a sleek matte black design, also available in a white Arctic finish. There’s a noticeable DJI logo on the transmitter, almost as big as the mic itself. The overall build is plastic, except for the clip, which is metal. There’s no lavalier support on the transmitter, but there are buttons for linking and powering on. One of my favorite design features is the windscreen, which clips on easily and effectively covers the mic.
The receiver for the DJI system is similarly plastic, with a knob for adjusting the gain (five levels). It also has USB-C and 3.5mm ports, and the same link and power buttons. On the back, there’s an insert for different smartphone attachments.
Hollyland Lark M2 Design and Build Quality
The Hollyland transmitter is compact and sleek, a bit smaller and thinner than the DJI model. It’s roughly the size of a USB stick and only a couple of millimeters thick. The transmitter features a magnetic attachment on the back, a power button, and a dedicated noise-reduction button. The interface is simple no confusing buttons. The receiver, however, feels a bit cheaper and bulkier, although it still functions well.
The charging cases for both systems are different. The DJI case has a locking mechanism for secure storage, while the Hollyland case is simpler, without a lock but still effective for holding the transmitters and receiver. Both cases are USB-C compatible.
Wireless Range and Signal Strength
In terms of signal range, both systems perform well, but with some differences. During a distance test, the DJI Mic Mini performed better, maintaining a stable signal even at 75 feet. The Hollyland Lark M2 started dropping signal at around 50 feet. Both systems are rated for 300 meters of direct line of sight, but obstacles like the user’s body can disrupt the signal, especially with the Hollyland system.
Noise Reduction
The Hollyland system has a noise reduction feature that can be activated with a single button. When engaged, the noise reduction function is effective but leaves a slightly underwater-like sound. In comparison, the DJI Mic Mini’s noise reduction seems to perform better in terms of clarity, though both systems offer solid noise cancellation.
Apps and Customization
Both systems come with mobile apps for additional control. The DJI system uses the DJI Mimo app, which allows users to adjust the noise intensity, enable safety tracks, and control clipping. However, the app requires a physical connection to the smartphone, which can be frustrating.
The Hollyland app is simpler and allows users to adjust and lock gain, plus a speaker play feature for real-time audio feedback. While I find the Hollyland app more intuitive, both apps could benefit from Bluetooth connectivity for easier access.
Battery Life
The DJI Mic Mini offers impressive battery life, with up to 48 hours of total use thanks to the charging case. Each transmitter lasts about 11.5 hours, and the receiver lasts 10.5 hours per charge.
The Hollyland system lasts about 10 hours for the transmitters and 9 hours for the receiver per charge. However, you can recharge it multiple times during the day, and in my year of use, I haven’t had issues with battery life.
Audio Quality
Both systems record in 24-bit, 48kHz audio, but when connected to smartphones via Bluetooth, the DJI system downgrades to 16kHz. While this is noticeable, it’s not a huge deal for social media content. Both systems sound remarkably similar in terms of raw, unprocessed audio, with slight differences in bass response.
Direct Comparison: Which One Sounds Better?
To compare the two, I read a memorized passage and let you decide which mic sounds better. After testing both on high-end headphones and studio monitors, I noticed very little difference in sound quality. If there’s any distinction, it’s a slight bass boost on the DJI system, but it’s so minor that it wouldn’t sway my decision.
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Article Summary
Both the DJI Mic Mini and Hollyland Lark M2 offer excellent performance, with each system having its own strengths. If you’re looking for a more professional setup with longer battery life, better signal range, and additional features like safety track and easy smartphone integration, the DJI Mic Mini might be the better choice. However, if you’re on a budget, want a simple, no-fuss system, and don’t mind slightly less range, the Hollyland Lark M2 offers excellent value for money. Whichever system you choose, you won’t go wrong as long as you know how to mix your audio properly.
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