Best External Microphone for Canon EOS 80D
The Canon EOS 80D remains a legendary workhorse for content creators, but its internal microphone is its Achilles’ heel, often picking up distracting lens motor whirrs and ambient hiss. To truly unlock this camera’s cinematic potential, an external upgrade is mandatory. After years of field-testing various rigs, I’ve found that the Rode VideoMic Pro+ is the definitive choice for most shooters. In this guide, I’ll break down the best options to ensure your audio finally matches your 1080p footage.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best External Microphone for Canon EOS 80D: Detailed Reviews
Rode VideoMic Pro+ View on Amazon View on B&H
The Rode VideoMic Pro+ is the gold standard for DSLR users, and it pairs beautifully with the Canon 80D. What I find most exceptional is the +20dB level boost; this allows you to turn down the 80D’s internal preamps, which are notoriously noisy, resulting in a much cleaner signal. The “Auto Power” feature is a genuine lifesaver—it senses when the camera is turned on and off, so you’ll never accidentally drain the battery. The sound profile is rich and directional, effectively isolating your subject from background noise. While it is a bit bulkier than the original Pro model, the inclusion of a rechargeable battery and a built-in battery door (no more fumbling with plastic clips!) makes it worth the investment. It’s a professional-grade tool that feels right at home on an enthusiast body like the 80D.
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Rode VideoMicro View on Amazon View on B&H
If you’re looking for a massive upgrade over the 80D’s internal mic without spending a fortune, the Rode VideoMicro is unbeatable. It’s incredibly compact, which is a huge plus because it won’t obstruct the 80D’s articulating screen when you’re filming yourself. Since it runs on “plug-in power” from the camera, you never have to worry about batteries. I’ve taken this mic on several hiking trips, and its all-metal body is surprisingly rugged. It comes with a high-quality Rycote Lyre shock mount and a synthetic furry windshield (the “deadcat”), which is essential for outdoor shooting. While it lacks the gain control of its bigger brothers, its cardioid pattern does a great job of reducing peripheral noise. It’s the perfect “set it and forget it” microphone for casual creators and travelers.
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Movo VXR10 View on Amazon View on B&H
The Movo VXR10 is often called the “Rode Killer,” and while that might be a bit of a stretch, it offers incredible value for the 80D user on a tight budget. It has a slightly wider pickup pattern than the VideoMicro, which can be useful if you’re not perfectly centered in front of the lens. One thing I really appreciate is that it includes both TRS (for your 80D) and TRRS (for your smartphone) cables in the box. The sound is punchy and clear, though it can be a bit more sensitive to handling noise than more expensive options. It’s an honest, no-frills microphone that significantly improves voice clarity. If you’re just starting your YouTube journey and want to save money for lenses, this is the smartest way to fix your audio without breaking the bank.
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Sennheiser MKE 600 View on Amazon View on B&H
The Sennheiser MKE 600 is a “proper” shotgun microphone that bridges the gap between prosumer and professional gear. While it’s primarily an XLR mic, you can easily use it with the 80D via a simple XLR-to-3.5mm adapter, and it can be powered by a single AA battery. The audio quality is in another league; it has a clinical, transparent sound that captures the human voice with stunning detail. Its long interference tube provides incredible directionality, making it my favorite choice for filming in noisy environments like busy streets or trade shows. You’ll notice that it ignores sounds coming from the sides much better than any “on-camera” style mic. It’s long, so you’ll need a sturdy mount, but if you’re serious about the cinematic quality of your 80D productions, this is the pro’s choice.
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Rode VideoMic NTG View on Amazon View on B&H
The Rode VideoMic NTG is perhaps the most versatile microphone ever made for a camera like the 80D. Its standout feature is the stepless gain control knob on the back, which gives you granular control over your levels on the fly. I find this particularly useful when switching between a loud outdoor environment and a quiet studio. Furthermore, it functions as a USB microphone when plugged into a computer, making it a dual-purpose tool for voiceovers. The 3.5mm output also auto-detects whether you’re using a camera or a phone. While it lacks the raw “warmth” of the VideoMic Pro+, its precision and feature set are modern marvels. If you want a microphone that can do it all—vlogging on your 80D and recording podcasts at your desk—this is the one to get.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose a Microphone for the 80D
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rode VideoMic Pro+ | Pro Vlogging | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Rode VideoMicro | Travel | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Movo VXR10 | Beginners | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Sennheiser MKE 600 | Filmmaking | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Rode VideoMic NTG | Versatility | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Canon 80D have a microphone input?
Yes, the Canon EOS 80D features a dedicated 3.5mm stereo microphone jack located on the side of the body. This allows it to work with almost any standard on-camera shotgun or lavalier microphone. It also features a headphone jack, which is vital for monitoring your audio levels in real-time to ensure you aren’t clipping or picking up unwanted interference during your shoot.
How do I stop the “hissing” sound in my 80D videos?
The “hissing” is usually electronic noise from the camera’s internal preamps. To fix this, go into the 80D’s sound recording menu and switch from “Auto” to “Manual.” Turn the camera’s gain down to the lowest possible setting (usually 1 or 2 clicks from the bottom). Then, use a microphone with a +20dB boost, like the Rode VideoMic Pro+, to provide a strong, clean signal to the camera.
Will these microphones block the flip-out screen?
The Canon 80D’s screen flips out to the side. Most shotgun microphones sit on the hot shoe on top of the camera. While larger microphones with long cables might occasionally dangle in front of the screen, they generally do not block the view. Compact mics like the Rode VideoMicro are ideal if you want to keep the footprint as small as possible while vlogging.
Can I use an XLR microphone with the Canon 80D?
Yes, but you will need an adapter. Since the 80D only has a 3.5mm input, you’ll need an XLR-to-3.5mm cable or a dedicated pre-amp box like a Saramonic or Tascam that mounts to the bottom of the camera. If the XLR mic requires Phantom Power (48V), ensure your adapter or the mic itself (like the Sennheiser MKE 600) can provide its own battery power.
Do I need a “Deadcat” windshield for indoor filming?
Generally, no. The foam windscreen that comes with most microphones is sufficient for indoor use to prevent “plosives” (popping sounds from B and P sounds). However, if you are filming near a fan or an air conditioner, or if you are moving the camera quickly on a gimbal, the furry “deadcat” windshield is much more effective at cutting out low-frequency wind noise.
Final Verdict
For the vast majority of Canon EOS 80D users, the Rode VideoMic Pro+ is the definitive upgrade that will last for years. If you are a traveler or casual vlogger who hates dealing with batteries, the VideoMicro is a brilliant, lightweight alternative. For those moving into professional documentary or narrative work, the Sennheiser MKE 600 offers a level of audio fidelity that simply can’t be matched by standard on-camera microphones. Whichever you choose, your 80D’s video quality will finally have the professional sound it deserves.