Whether you are a vlogger, podcaster, amateur filmmaker, or content creator, you know that both visual quality and audio quality are essential for perfect video outcomes. A DSLR camera requires a high-quality external microphone to capture or shoot a video and audio properly, as the in-built microphone has poor sound quality and performance. So, it’s time for podcasters to explore the Best DSLR Microphones.
A DSLR (Digital Single-Lens Reflex) microphone is a specially designed external mic used to run smoothly with a camcorder or a video-enabled DSLR camera. This easy-to-use, lightweight, compact mic can be attached easily to the DSLR camera to deliver superior sound quality for recordings, especially in loud places.
Size, polar patterns, mic type, and battery life are the key factors to consider that differentiate the options and help to select the best microphone for your DSLR camera. For more information on how to choose the best option, we recommend you read our detailed “Buying Guide”.
Using the same information, we researched and picked some of the Best DSLR Microphones on the market that delivers excellent audio performance to enhance your overall video. Go through them and select the right choice that suits your requirement and budget range.
Best DSLR Microphones for Camera & Video List
Best DSLR Microphones for Camera & Video Reviews
Here is the list of the top-rated DSLR microphones that you have to check and pick the best option that suits perfectly for your shooting requirements.
1. Movo DSLR Microphone
Movo VXR10 Universal Video DSLR Microphone is the perfect choice to enhance the overall audio quality of the videos. This external mic has universal compatibility that makes it work with various devices, including iPhones, Androids, camcorders, tablets, cameras, laptops, or audio recorders.
With its battery-free design, durable aluminum construction, and sturdy integrated shock mount, the mic offers an enduring performance by minimizing handling noise and other external environmental noises. Also, its unidirectional cardioid polar pattern allows recording the sound/audio straight from a single front direction. Thus, it is ideal for those on the go.
Additionally, this VXR10 offers a 1-year extended manufacturer warranty, ensuring its user that their investments are safe and protected. This Movo VXR10 compact shotgun mic creates better-sounding videos, irrespective of recording either YouTube vlogs, interviews, live music, tutorials, outdoor events, or any family vacation trips. Also, it includes a universal video microphone, shock mount, 3.5mm TRS and TRRS output cables, travel bag, or furry windscreen.
Customer Feedback : Most people have appreciated this professional VXR10 cardioid condenser microphone for its exceptional sound quality, build quality, durability, noise cancellation, and battery-free design along with its affordable price. Yet some are a bit disappointed with compatibility issues and shock mounts.
2. Sennheiser DSLR Microphone
Elevate your video recording with this Sennheiser MKE200 microphone. It is a super-cardioid unidirectional (front-direction) external mic that captures clear & focused recordings (voice or audio), even in noisy environments, making it perfect for those on the go.
Whether you shoot videos on the phone or DSLR cam, this professional MKE200 will enhance the audio quality of your footage, irrespective of vlogging or filmmaking setup. It is equipped with integrated wind protection, an internal suspension mount, and shock absorption to minimize or resist handling noise.
While its universal compatibility allows you to use them with a variety of devices, thanks to its standard cold shoe mount. This MKE200 microphone has a small and compact design with a stylish and sleek finish that delivers isolated and enhanced in-camera audio, making it perfect to use with mirrorless & DSLR cameras, or mobile devices. Also, it offers versatile connectivity and usage with its interchangeable 3.5mm (1/8ʺ) TRRS and TRS connectivity. Another great feature is that this MKE200 microphone is battery-free, allowing you to rely on it for a perfect outcome.
Customer Feedback : This Sennheiser Professional MKE200 on-camera microphone has received numerous positive responses due to its ease of use, exceptional sound quality, and lightweight & compact design. Yet some people have noted the noise-cancellation feature is not up to the mark at this price range.
3. Rode DSLR Microphone
The Rode VideoMic GO II Camera-Mount Microphone is designed to easily capture incredible audio with less fuss. The compact and ultra-lightweight (89 grams) design with excellent features will allow us to use the mic easily in all types of content creation with a tablet, smartphone, camera, or PC.
This VideoMic GO II has a broadcast-quality compact shotgun microphone that doesn’t require any battery and is powered by the attached device, including a smartphone, tablet, or camera. Connect the mic to the camera by using the 3.5mm TRS output jack, whereas the digital USB-C output jack allows to use the mic with computers (Windows or MacOS) and mobiles (Android or iOS), thanks to its plug-and-play setup without any complicated controls or switches.
Unlock the pro features with RODE Connect software. It is designed to deliver professional sound for podcasting, streaming, filmmaking, or vlogging. So, this easy-to-mount mic will allow you to capture the audio and video effectively, even while on the go.
Customer Feedback : This Rode VideoMic GO II Camera-Mount Microphone has been praised by numerous users for its durable build quality, noise cancellation, superior sound quality, software support, and ease of use features. However, some people complained about not being useful as a run-and-gun mic and some compatibility issues with iPhones.
4. Deity DSLR Microphone
Enjoy capturing the video/audio with the world’s only microphone having a stepless gain knob. This Deity V-Mic D3 Pro is equipped with a +20dB step-less analog gain adjustment dial, in which a bump guard on each side prevents accidental dial rotating. It captures superior sound quality, irrespective of the shooting environment.
Also, it features auto-configuring 3.5mm TRS/TRRS output that makes it widely compatible with every device, including tablets, PC, phones, camcorders, DSLRs, or bodypack transmitters. With its dual power mode – standby mode and run mode, the device saves a lot of power while operating.
The internal 51-hour rechargeable battery of the mic will allow using the mic for longer shoots, while the auto on/off and power switch with an LED keep the camera battery charged when shooting. The dual low-cut filters (75/150 Hz) on the top of the mic allow for perfect shooting even on the windiest day. It is equipped with a detachable shoe/tripod/pole shock mount that ensures an effortless setup.
It delivers superior broadcast quality sound with its high SNR rating, low distortion THD, low-noise circuitry, and pre-polarized condenser capsule, making this mic a perfect option for all forms of video projects. Upon plugging into various devices with its stereo microphone input, the V-Mic D3 Pro outputs dual mono tracks. Also, it comes with a built-in headphone jack for real-time monitoring.
Customer Feedback : Most people praised this V-Mic D3 Pro microphone for its universal compatibility, stepless gain control, longer battery life, excellent sound quality, and easy mounting. Yet some people criticized it for its poor noise cancellation feature and battery not holding the charge for a recommended time.
5. Shure VP83F DSLR Microphone
If you are looking to take video to the next level, then this Shure VP83F LensHopper DSLR microphone is one of the best options to look for. This high-quality mic is a perfect option for on-camera usage or recording audio with the stand.
The superior RF immunity protects from unwanted audio artifacts from RF and cellular devices, while its integrated digital flash recording to microSD cards offers 15 hours of audio on an 8 GB card. Its foam windscreen reduces wind noise, whereas the integrated professional quality Rycote Lyre shock mounting offer isolation from mechanical noise & vibration.
Equipped with an easy-to-read backlit LCD display, 3.5mm headphone monitoring output, five-position joystick, and one-button recording that let you operate the device effectively. It lets you adjust the 60dB audio gain adjustment in single dB increments for the perfect sound level as desired.
With its 2 AA alkaline batteries, the device offers a battery life of up to 10 hours long, and its durable all-metal construction will ensure longevity and enduring performance. While its 6.3mm threaded base of standard-size shoe mount allows its users to attach the mic easily to the camera or use the stand for stationary recordings.
Customer Feedback : Most people praised this Shure VP83F LensHopper Camera-Mounted Condenser Shotgun microphone for its excellent sound quality, durable build quality, and decent battery life. However, some people are disappointed for being a bit higher price.
6. Hollyland DSLR Microphone
Being a tiny, compact, and lightweight lavalier microphone, this Hollyland Lark M1 Wireless mic delivers clear, crisp, and powerful noise-free audio for your videos, irrespective of your content shooting.
The transmission range of up to 650 feet will allow the system to be used in complex environments and let you move around freely while shooting/recording. With its one-click noise cancellation feature, the mic ensures to capture clean and clear voice. While the 8-hour long battery life of this mic allows you to shoot for an extended period, and also charge the mic with its USB-C charging ports on RX and TX even while working to use it outdoors or on the go.
Furthermore, the Lark M1 is widely compatible with various devices making it useful for a variety of applications, thanks to its 3.5mm TRS/TRRS cables and USB-C port. With all these features, this Hollyland Lark M1 is worth considering for those seeking a state-of-the-art wireless microphone system. Another great thing is that this mic comes with a charging case to protect it from dust and ensures its longevity.
Customer Feedback : People got impressed with this Hollyland Lark M1 Wireless Lav omnidirectional microphone for its excellent noise cancellation, sound quality, decent battery life, charging case, and ease to use. Yet some people complained about its compatibility & connectivity issues with iPhone.
7. BOYA DSLR Microphone
If you are in the market searching for a mic to capture clear, clean sound for broadcasting, live streaming, interviews, and more? Then check this BOYA BY-XM6-S2 wireless Lav DSLR microphone.
Featuring a 2.4 GHz dual-channel system with Hi-Fi and low noise audio processing, the mic process and transmit to deliver the best possible audio quality. At the same time, its mono/stereo switching, adjustable gain control (6 levels), and mute function will make it capture the audio perfectly. The 100-meter signal transmission range of the mic makes it useful in different applications.
Additionally, this external lav mic and omnidirectional mic input modes allow its users to capture the events, broadcasting, vlogging, or two-person interviews. Its receiver with a 3.5mm headphone jack allows for real-time monitoring.
Both the receiver and transmitter have HD OLED display to monitor the status and they are lightweight, ultracompact, and portable which lets you clip the mic on a collar or place it in a pocket. This mic works effectively for around 7 hours upon a single full charge and also provides a 2-year long manufacturer warranty.
Customer Feedback : Most people praised this BOYA wireless microphone system for its excellent noise reduction, OLED HD display, real-time monitoring, long battery life, wide compatibility, sound quality, dual-wearing options, and wireless transmission. Yet some users are a bit disappointed with the hissing noises produced by the mic.
8. Saramonic DSLR Microphone
The Saramonic Blink500 Pro is another wireless Lavalier microphone that has to be considered due to its amazing features, especially for 2-person use. This external mic has an ultracompact and lightweight design that is quite easy to use and delivers exceptional sound quality.
It is compatible with a variety of devices, including smartphones, DSLR/mirrorless/video cameras, computers, tablets, and more, thanks to its TRS and TRRS output cables. The receiver has an OLED display along with a 3.5mm headphone output that allows for real-time monitoring. This Blink500 Pro B2 mic provides a remarkable 8-hour long runtime to shoot/record wireless with a single full charge. Its charging case charge both receivers and transmitters via USB-C DC 5V port.
Its 2.4 GHz digital frequency spectrum and Syncoder technology provide a stable, secure, and hassle-free audio transmission in the system. Also, the auto-pairing button allows for automatic connection of TX and RX for easy operations if manual pairing is required. While its mute operation gets activated with a quick press of the mic’s power button. Furthermore, the built-in microphone & lapel microphone on each transmitter allows using this system as per the scenario.
Customer Feedback : Most people praised this Saramonic Blink500 Pro B2 DSLR microphone for its decent sound quality, long battery life, noise cancellation feature, durable build, and various other features. Yet some people criticized it for being a bit higher priced and poor charging case.
9. Comica DSLR Microphone
The Comica CVM-WM100H UHF DSLR handheld microphone is the best option for those who want to capture audio in large scenes. Its long working distance and 48 channels will easily prevent signal interference and capture clear, precise audio from around 100 meters.
The crystal-clear LCD screen of this mic system will allow you to read or know the status easily. This external microphone is a great option for both novice and professional videographers. The mic system offers a real-time audio monitoring function to test for the proper functioning of the mic before recording. It also features a muting mode, and 16-level adjustable audio volume, making it an excellent and most preferred option.
It has universal compatibility that allows using the mic on a variety of devices, including smartphones, camcorders, tablets/PC, and Canon/Nikon/Sony/Panasonic DSLR cameras. The CVM-WM 100 captures and delivers the best audio possible irrespective of your shooting/recording scenarios like a wedding video, YouTube series, or Vlogging.
Customer Feedback : Most people appreciated this CVM-WM100H wireless handheld microphone for its various features like real-time monitor, 48 channels & long working distance, HD lattice LCD display, wide compatibility, ease to use, and great sound quality. Yet some people complained about the quick draining of batteries.
Buying Guide for the Best DSLR Microphones
Here are some of the key factors that have to take into account for differentiating and selecting the best option that suits your requirement.
1. External Mic Vs Onboard Mic
The onboard microphone in the DSLR camera produces low-quality audio, which gets affected easily by external environmental sounds or camera handling noises. Thus, it results in poor audio quality and finally affects the overall video outcome. So, it is ideal to record/shoot in household/small areas (or) to take pictures.
While the external mic on the DSLR camera is the most preferred option because they deliver better sound quality with its noise isolation and cancellation features that reduce unwanted background noise and offer better directional focus. Thus, it is used widely for professional-level video production with enhanced audio clarity and video quality.
In most cases, people prefer to use the camera with an external mic rather than a built-in microphone. Choose them based on your purpose of using the DSLR camera.
2. Audio Quality
The reason why we are investing in external microphones is to get the best audio quality. So, ensure to choose the microphone that produces a clear, crisp, and accurate sound with less distortion or background noise. The high-quality microphone will elevate the overall video quality with excellent audio output, making it more engaging and professional.
3. Mounting Style
There are different styles available to mount DSLR microphones, making it a must to consider feature even while mounting directly on the camera. Some of the popular mounting styles include boom pole mount, on-camera, hot-shoe mount, and robust shock mount. Choose the correct mounting style that makes the microphone stay secure during use and captures high-quality audio uninterruptedly.
For instance, a robust shock mount will eliminate the noise and enhance the audio recording, even while moving the camera or due to some external mechanical noises. This shock mount won’t be any creaks due to the changes or movements of the operator. Yet, ensure that the shock mount of the mic is compatible with the camera. However, it is an add-on if it won’t come standard with the camera.
4. Battery Life
Consider the battery life of these DSLR microphones before making a purchase. A mic with a long battery life will allow for long shooting or recording sessions. It is quite useful for outdoor shoots, where power outlets aren’t available. So, look for a mic with reliable battery life to capture high-quality audio and video on your DSLR cam.
Furthermore, ensure to charge the battery properly before shooting or else keep another full-charged battery as a spare for uninterrupted recording/shooting. Most DSLR wireless systems are dual-channel and their battery offers a runtime of 4 – 5 hours for each of these two sources (or) 8 hours straight for a single source.
5. Budget
The market is flooded with numerous DSLR microphones at wider price ranges (from $15 – $350). So, to grab the best option, it is a must to set a budget before making a purchase and search for the best products that are available within that price range. While expensive microphones offer higher audio quality and more high-end features, yet there are several affordable options available that deliver exceptional sound quality and great performance.
6. Portability
DSLR microphones are available in different sizes and weights. Ensure to select a compact, lighter, and portable microphone, especially for those who are on the go frequently or those who pack lightly for a shoot. This makes its transportation quite easier for shooting or recording the video. Also, it allows the user to use them in different recording situations for a better and more efficient outcome.
7. Polar Patterns
The direction/way the mic picks up the sound from its surroundings depends on the polar pattern. They are cardioid, super cardioid, and hyper-cardioid pattern microphones. For instance, some microphones pick up sounds simultaneously from all directions. While some other models are limited to a single approach based on the situation.
a. Cardioid : A Cardioid (or Heart-Shaped) pattern is used to pick the audio or vocals effectively. The mic with this directionality allows to hear sound only from the front, especially where the mic points, and to a bit lesser extent from the sides. This type of mic is most commonly used for recording music.
b. Super-Cardioid : A super-cardioid mic is a narrow pickup pattern that rejects ambient sound more significantly. Unlike cardioid mics, these super cardioid microphones pick up the sound directly at the rear, making this mic best suited to capture a single sound source in noisy environments.
c. Bi-Directional & Multidirectional : The bi-directional microphones will pick up sound from the front and back in the figure-eight polar pattern. This type of mic is popular for podcasters and can cost a bit more. While the multi-directional mic will pick up sound from all directions, making it popular for live performances, recording groups, or crowds, where you need to recreate the sound, yet not for live usage due to its high feedback sensitivity.
8. Types
There are different types of microphones available for DSLR cameras, including shotgun microphones, stereo microphones, and Lavalier microphones. Each type is designed to use in different ways to record in different settings.
a. Lavalier Microphones : This lav mic is a small, compact, clip-on microphone that has to be blended into the background by attaching it to a speaker’s collar. It is perfect to use for presentations, interviews, broadcasting, tutorial videos, and other applications. It delivers top-notch audio quality by letting them move around freely with less – no ambient noise. It is connected wired or wireless as desired.
b. Handheld Microphones : It offers a classic feel and most preferred option for those who hold the mic while recording or interviewing, like reporters or journalists. These are durable and won’t require to charge them. However, it requires extra attachments to use with the camera for the best sound quality which boosts the overall cost.
c. Shotgun Microphones : It is a popular and preferred microphone option. Attach these shotgun microphones to either a boom pole or DSLR camera as preferred. Its strong directionality, ease of use, and versatility will make them used widely, and its tubular design improves the directional audio capture capabilities.
d. Camera Microphones : It is a specialized on-camera microphone designed for use with video-enabled DSLR cameras or camcorders. It is lightweight and mounted on the shoe of the camera.
e. Video Microphones : It is a form of shotgun microphone used to capture audio temporarily for production. Connect it directly to the camera to record scratch-track audio, which facilitates synchronization easily in post-production.
9. High Pass Filters
The DSLR microphone with high-pass filters will eliminate unwanted noise from your recordings. The low-frequency traffic noise is a common source of ambient noise. So, an external DSLR microphone with a high-pass filter switch allows you to enjoy a perfect recording without worrying about these noises.
10. Gain Control
The gain control on these external DSLR microphones will affect the signal strength passed to the preamp of the camera. Check and select the mic that pad/cut or boost the signal to produce a louder and clear sound without clearing the background noise. So, use Pad the signal to gain control while using the mic in loud venues such as rock concerts.
11. Frequency Response
Different types of microphones come with different frequencies to produce different levels of sound. For instance, some mics deliver better sound to low frequencies, while others respond to high frequencies. The standard frequency response is 20 Hz to 20 kHz (human-detectable audible range). Yet the frequency response of the mic and how it responds to particular frequencies is essential to know before making its purchase.
Based on your specific recording requirements, you need to select the mic with the specific frequency response. For instance, a dynamic mic performs better at low frequencies yet might lose reliability if exposed to bass or drum recordings. While the condenser mic is ideal to perform better at high-frequencies.
Why Do We Need To Use A DSLR Microphone?
The built-in microphone in the DSLR camera can capture and deliver the sound but its quality is not up to the mark, as it won’t delivers crisp, clear, and precise audio. Also, the onboard DSLR camera microphone isn’t professionally made, and some pre-settings for gain and adjustments don’t block unwanted background noise or allow for customized sound. So, people prefer to use external DSLR microphones to take their audio quality to the next level.
Some people prefer using their phones instead of this inbuilt DSLR microphone to record audio from a short distance. Since the external DSLR microphones vary in different sizes and shapes, the user should check and select the microphone that suits perfectly for their video cameras to enhance the overall audio and video quality. Also, check the noise isolation and cancellation feature to block the external noises and record the video with better and clear sound. So, get this external microphone to record beyond expectations using the video camera.
Best DSLR Microphone – FAQs
Ans: The battery life of DSLR microphones differs based on the microphone (type & usage) and its features. Some models are battery-free operated, while others require a battery to use this microphone. The maximum runtime of most microphones can be 15 – 20 hours. Some require frequent charging (or battery replacement), whereas some models last for several hours to record/shoot with a single full-charge battery.
Ans: The direction of the mic’s sensitivity toward sound waves is referred to as a polar pattern. This means different polar patterns are suitable perfectly for different recording situations. You need to choose the right pattern to enhance the overall audio quality of your recordings.
Ans: Both wireless and wired DSLR microphones come with their pros and cons. Wired microphones are reliable options that offer better sound quality, whereas wireless microphones provide great flexibility and ease of use, particularly while recording in large spaces or outdoors. So, connect this external mic to a DSLR camera via TA4F (TQG) or XLR connectors based on the type of camera and mic you’re using.
Ans: Though expensive DSLR microphones deliver high audio quality and various advanced features, they are several affordable options that still deliver excellent sound performance. So, as a user, you need to look for microphones built with high-quality components to deliver the best sound quality that comes within your budget.
Ans: Yes, we can use the DSLR microphones with other recording devices like tablets, smartphones, or PC/computers via its compatible input jack or adapter. Thus, it enhances the versatility and usefulness of the mic by using them beyond just a DSLR camera.
Ans: Directional microphones are the best to capture audio from a specific/single direction and reject any type of audio from other directions. Thus, it isolates the subject’s voice. While omnidirectional microphones are perfect for capturing ambient audio from all directions. So, choose either one based on your recording purpose.
Ans: Some external microphones need phantom power provided by the XLR connector or a separate battery to operate. Check the mic’s specifications to know if it needs phantom power and how it is provided.
Conclusion
A high-quality DSLR microphone is an essential accessory for everyone to capture perfect audio along with the video. So, pick the correct DSLR microphone to enhance the overall audio quality of the content and to engage more viewers professionally. Here we reviewed the best microphones with different features and capabilities. Go through them and select the proper option that fits your recording/shooting requirement and budget.
Here are some of the quick recommendations for an effortless and instant picking of the Mic for your need.
- If you are looking for the Best Overall, then go with Movo DSLR Microphone. It is a professional mic that has a durable construction, battery-free design, universal compatibility, and various amazing features at an affordable price range.
- If you are looking for the Best Wireless DSLR Microphone with long battery life and transmission range, then select Hollyland Lark DSLR Microphone. It offers excellent noise-cancellation, 8 hours of battery life, wide compatibility, and 200 meters of long-range wireless transmission.
- If looking for the Best Wireless Handheld DSLR Microphone, then go with Comica DSLR Microphone. It has a long working distance of 100 meters to capture the audio and allows for real-time audio monitoring in the receiver. Also, it has several features like local audio testing, LCD, muting mode, 48 channels, and wide compatibility.
We hope this article helped you in making an informed buying decision on which DSLR microphone best suits for your requirement. Feel free to share your queries with us in the below comments section.