Each DJI Mic 2 transmitter can record on its own to 8 GB of internal storage: about 14 hours of 48 kHz 24-bit WAV, or about 11 hours with 32-bit float turned on. Press the record button on the transmitter to start and stop, or control it from the receiver. It works as a backup while you're wireless, or as a standalone recorder with no receiver at all. DJI doesn't publish a latency figure or list timecode for the Mic 2.
How to record internally
On the transmitter: press the record button once to start, again to stop. The recording LED turns solid red while recording.
From the receiver: swipe up on the home screen, on the left side for transmitter 1 or the right side for transmitter 2, and tap REC. Tap again to stop.
Auto Record: in the receiver's Transmitter Settings, turn on Auto Record and the transmitter starts recording as soon as it powers on or leaves the charging case.
REC Stop Lock: turn this on so nobody stops a recording by bumping the button.
24-bit or 32-bit float?
Turn on 32-Bit Float Recording in the receiver's Transmitter Settings.
- 32-bit float stores a huge dynamic range. If someone shouts and the level looks clipped, you can usually pull it back down in an editor that supports 32-bit float files. The tradeoff is less recording time (about 11 hours) and shorter battery life.
- 24-bit gives about 14 hours and smaller files. It's fine when levels are set well.
Transmitter gain still matters: DJI notes that changing transmitter gain affects the internal recording volume.
Files and storage
- Format: WAV, mono per transmitter.
- File splits: 24-bit files split about every 31 minutes. Since April 2024 firmware, 32-bit float files split every 30 minutes.
- Full storage: recording stops when storage is full.
- Check space: Transmitter Settings, eMMC Storage, shows recordable hours left for each transmitter and lets you format.
- Getting files off: connect the transmitter to a computer by USB-C. See transfer DJI Mic 2 recordings.
As a standalone recorder
You don't need the receiver to record. Power on a transmitter, press record, and clip it on. This is handy for:
- A second angle or a person away from the camera.
- Sports or events where the wireless link might drop.
- Cameras with poor preamps: record clean audio separately and sync it in the edit.
Not available over Bluetooth to a phone: DJI says internal recording turns off in that mode.
Latency and timecode
- Latency: DJI doesn't publish a wireless latency figure for the Mic 2, and there's no latency setting. If audio looks slightly out of sync on a camera, nudge it by a frame or two in your editor.
- Timecode: DJI's Mic 2 specs don't list timecode. Sync internal recordings to video using the camera's scratch audio and your editor's waveform sync. A clap at the start of each take helps.
Battery impact
DJI's 6-hour runtime figure is measured without internal recording. Expect less with backup recording on, and less again with 32-bit float. See Mic 2 battery life.
Mic Mini?
The DJI Mic Mini has no internal storage and can't record on its own. If backup recording matters, the Mic 2 is the one. See Mic 2 vs Mic Mini and recording modes.
Shop the DJI Mic 2.
Related guides
- DJI Mic 2 and Mic Mini recording modes: stereo, mono and safety track
- DJI Mic 2 Bluetooth: recording straight to your phone
- DJI Mic not working or not recording: troubleshooting checklist
- Are the DJI Mic 2 and Mic Mini waterproof?
- Best microphone for the Osmo Pocket 3 (DJI Mic 2 setup)
- Best wireless mic for iPhone and cameras in 2026
Not sure which to pick?
Tell us what you'll fly and your budget. One of our drone pilots will reply with a recommendation.
Buying drones for a business, agency or store? Get wholesale pricing →
