Buying Guide for the Best Camera Microphone For Canon
Picking the right camera microphone for your Canon camera can really improve the sound quality of your videos or recordings. Built-in camera microphones often struggle with background noise, wind, or distant sounds, so an external microphone is a smart upgrade. When deciding which microphone to buy, it's important to think about what you’re recording (interviews, vlogs, music, or nature) and where you’ll be using the mic (indoors or outdoors). Understanding key specifications will help you match a microphone to your needs and ensure you get clear, professional audio each time you record.Microphone TypeMicrophones come in different types such as shotgun, lavalier (lapel), and stereo. A shotgun microphone is long and directional, designed to pick up sound in front of the camera and block out noise from the sides and back; it's best for filming interviews or events from a distance. Lavalier microphones are small and can be clipped to a person’s clothing, capturing the voice clearly—ideal for interviews, presentations, or vlogging. Stereo microphones capture sound from a wider area and are great if you want a sense of the environment or are recording music. To choose the right type, think about where the main sound will come from: use shotgun for focused sound, lavalier for hands-free voice recording, and stereo for a broader, natural feel.
Compatibility (Mount and Connection)Ensuring your microphone can connect to your Canon camera is crucial. Most microphones connect via a 3.5mm (mini-jack) audio input; some use XLR (more professional models), and a few connect via USB or wirelessly. Also, look at how the mic attaches to your camera—many use a standard hot or cold shoe mount on top. Always check what ports your camera offers and whether the microphone can securely attach. Pick a microphone that matches the connectors and mounting style your camera supports, so you don’t need adapters or complicated setups.
Pickup PatternThe pickup pattern, also called polar pattern, describes the direction from which a microphone captures sound. The main patterns include cardioid (focused in front), omnidirectional (all directions), and supercardioid/shotgun (very highly focused in front). Cardioid mics reject noise from behind, making them good for interviews or solo speaking. Omnidirectional picks up sound from all around, useful for group discussions or ambient sound. Supercardioid and shotgun patterns are great for distance or noisy settings where you want to isolate your subject. Think about your recording scenario: focused on one speaker or a group, in a controlled place or outdoors with noise, and choose the pattern that fits.
Power SourceExternal microphones may use battery power, draw power from the camera (plug-in power), or require phantom power (mainly for professional XLR mics). Battery-powered mics work with most cameras, but you’ll need to remember to keep spare batteries. Plug-in powered mics are more convenient since the camera supplies power, but only some cameras offer this. If you only use your Canon camera (not audio mixers), stick to mics that use batteries or take power from the camera. Check what your camera provides and think about where you'll record—if you’re outdoors for long days, battery life matters.
Size and PortabilitySome microphones are large and might be cumbersome to use on smaller cameras or in mobile setups, while others are compact and lightweight. Shotgun mics tend to be longer, while lavaliers are tiny and easy to tuck out of sight. Consider where and how you’ll record: if you move around, travel, or vlog, a small or easily wearable mic is handy. For stationary setups or if audio quality is your highest concern, a larger mic might be fine. Your preferred recording style will help determine the right size and portability for you.
Wind and Shock ProtectionWind noise and handling noise can ruin your audio, especially when filming outdoors or moving the camera. Some microphones include foam windscreens or furry covers (often called 'deadcats') to reduce wind noise, while others feature shock mounts to isolate the mic from vibrations. If you plan to shoot outside or move the camera often, make sure your microphone offers good wind and shock protection, either built-in or with included accessories. This feature is less critical if you always record indoors in quiet, controlled environments.