Both sensors both use a MEMs-based microphone and are very similar in their response to sound.
The major benefit of the Microphone (MCA-BTA), is the flexibility of the “wand” style form factor for positioning the sensor in an experiment.
The MCA-BTA also tends to perform better at longer distances from the source of sound. The internal microphone can only measure sounds very close to the face of the LabQuest.
The internal sensor tends to register larger difference (maximum to minimum) in sound pressure for a given tone. However, it can tend to drift up in value over the course of a standard 0.03 second experiment.
See also:
Microphone Troubleshooting and FAQs
Can I use the internal sensors on a LabQuest when connected to Logger Pro?
What are the specifications of the internal temperature sensor found in the original LabQuest and LabQuest 2?
Where is the Microphone located on LabQuest 3?