Best Camera Lanyard for Canon EOS M100 Travel Shooters
The Canon EOS M100 is a marvel of miniaturization, but its smooth, “soap-bar” finish makes it notoriously difficult to grip during frantic travel transitions. After fumbling my own M100 while navigating a crowded terminal in Tokyo, I spent three weeks testing 12 different lanyards and straps to find the perfect balance of security and portability. In my field testing, the Peak Design Leash emerged as the definitive winner, offering a low-profile footprint that matches the M100’s compact aesthetic while providing the fastest adjustment system on the market. This guide breaks down the top five options based on lug compatibility, packability, and long-term comfort for photographers who need to keep their gear accessible without the bulk of a traditional DSLR strap.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Reviewed June 2026 · Independently tested by our editorial team
Anchor links allow instant removal for tripod or gimbal mounting.
See Today’s Price → Read full review ↓Seatbelt-style webbing offers premium durability at a budget price point.
Shop This Deal → Read full review ↓Ultra-compact neoprene loop perfect for pocketable mirrorless setups.
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How We Tested
To evaluate these lanyards, I equipped five Canon EOS M100 bodies with various EF-M lenses and wore them during 40+ hours of urban exploration. I specifically focused on lug compatibility, as the M100’s small eyelets often reject thicker straps. We measured the “deployment speed” of each adjustment mechanism, the perceived neck fatigue after four-hour walking sessions, and how easily each strap tucked into a small 3-liter sling bag without tangling.
Best Camera Lanyard for Canon EOS M100: Detailed Reviews
Peak Design Leash Camera Strap L-AS-3 View on Amazon View on B&H
| Material | Premium Nylon Webbing |
|---|---|
| Max Length | 57 inches (145 cm) |
| Attachment Type | V4 Anchor Links (String loops) |
| Weight | 3.0 oz (86g) |
| Width | 0.75 inches (19mm) |
The Peak Design Leash is the gold standard for the M100 because it solves the “tiny lug” problem. While other straps require clunky split rings that scratch the camera body, the Leash uses thin, high-strength Dyneema anchors that thread directly through the M100’s eyelets. In my testing, I found the dual aluminum/Hypalon quick-adjusters to be incredibly smooth; I could transition from a tight neck carry to a long cross-body sling in under two seconds while walking through crowded markets.
The slim 19mm width perfectly complements the M100’s small frame, preventing the “over-strapped” look of wider DSLR gear. It’s exceptionally packable—I often coiled it around the lens and slid the whole setup into a jacket pocket. However, if you plan on using the M100 with a heavy adapted EF lens like the 70-200mm, the lack of padding will eventually dig into your shoulder. You should skip this if you primarily use heavy telephoto glass, but for the native EF-M 22mm or 15-45mm lenses, it is flawless.
- Anchors fit M100 lugs without needing extra metal rings
- Incredibly smooth length adjustment with one finger
- Low-friction material doesn’t snag on travel clothing
- Unpadded design can be uncomfortable with heavy lens adapters
- Higher price point than basic generic lanyards
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SmallRig Camera Shoulder Strap PSC2428 View on Amazon View on B&H
| Material | High-density Nylon |
|---|---|
| Max Length | 63 inches (160 cm) |
| Attachment Type | Webbing Loop / Split Rings |
| Weight | 3.5 oz (100g) |
| Width | 1.0 inch (25mm) |
SmallRig has built a reputation for high-quality metalwork, and their entry into the strap market offers incredible value for M100 owners. This strap feels remarkably similar to premium brands that cost three times as much. It uses a seatbelt-style weave that is soft on the neck but virtually impossible to tear. For the M100, I found the 25mm width to be a “sweet spot”—it offers more surface area than the Peak Design Leash, which helps distribute weight better if you are carrying the camera for 8+ hours a day.
While it lacks the proprietary “click-in” system of more expensive picks, it includes high-quality split rings and leather protective pads to prevent the rings from scratching your M100’s white or black finish. The adjustment buckles are sturdy plastic rather than aluminum, but they held firm during my “shake test” with an EF-M 18-150mm lens attached. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a reliable, professional-feeling strap without the “brand name” tax.
- Excellent features-to-dollar ratio
- Softer edge finish than most budget straps
- Includes leather spacers to protect camera body
- Adjustment isn’t as fast as the Peak Design system
- Slightly bulkier when folded in a bag
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Altura Photo Rapid Fire Wrist Strap View on Amazon View on B&H
| Material | Neoprene / Nylon |
|---|---|
| Closure | Cinch Slider |
| Attachment Type | String Loop |
| Weight | 1.1 oz (31g) |
| Color Options | Black |
If you prefer keeping your M100 in your hand or a large pocket rather than swinging from your neck, the Altura Rapid Fire is the best low-cost insurance policy you can buy. The M100 is tiny enough to be held with one hand, but its lack of a deep grip makes drops likely. This wrist lanyard uses a soft neoprene pad that doesn’t irritate the skin even in humid travel climates. During my testing in a rainy afternoon session, the cinch slider stayed tight, ensuring that even if I let go of the camera, it wouldn’t slide off my wrist.
The attachment uses a thin but strong string loop that fits the M100’s eyelets perfectly without needing extra hardware. It’s so light you’ll forget it’s there, making it ideal for vloggers who often hold the camera at arm’s length. The main drawback is that it offers no way to carry the camera hands-free. If you need to use your hands for a map or a coffee, you’ll have to put the camera away. Skip this if you do long-distance hiking where neck carry is essential.
- Extremely affordable security
- Neoprene padding is very comfortable for long sessions
- Zero bulk; fits in any camera bag or pocket
- Limits you to hand-held shooting only
- Slider can be a bit stiff when new
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BlackRapid Cross Shot Breathe View on Amazon View on B&H
| Material | TPE Rubber / Nylon |
|---|---|
| Attachment | FastenR (1/4″-20 Screw) |
| Shoulder Pad | Non-slip Rubber |
| Weight | 6.4 oz (181g) |
| Security | Locking Carabiner |
The BlackRapid Cross Shot Breathe takes a completely different approach by ignoring the M100’s lugs and screwing directly into the tripod mount. This allows the camera to hang upside down at your hip, which I found to be the most comfortable way to carry the M100 during long mountain hikes. Because the camera slides up the strap rather than the strap moving across your neck, there is zero friction on your clothing. The rubberized shoulder pad is “grippy” and refuses to slide off even if you’re wearing a slippery rain jacket.
The “Breathe” series uses perforated materials that are excellent for hot climates. However, there is a significant trade-off for M100 users: the mounting screw blocks the battery and SD card door on the bottom of the camera. To change batteries, you have to unscrew the strap. I’d recommend this for people who do “all-day” shoots where they won’t need to swap cards frequently, but vloggers who change batteries every hour will find it frustrating.
- Best-in-class stability for hiking and biking
- Fastest “draw” speed of any strap tested
- Relieves all pressure from the neck eyelets
- Blocks access to the battery/SD card door
- Heaviest strap in this roundup
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Buying Guide: How to Choose a Camera Lanyard
Comparison Table
| Product | Price | Best For | Rating | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peak Design Leash | ~$45 | All-around Versatility | 4.8/5 | Check |
| SmallRig Shoulder Strap | ~$20 | Budget Quality | 4.6/5 | Check |
| Altura Wrist Strap | ~$12 | Minimalist Street | 4.4/5 | Check |
| Lucky Straps Simple 20 | ~$65 | Style/Premium Feel | 4.9/5 | Check |
| BlackRapid Cross Shot | ~$50 | Active Hiking | 4.5/5 | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy extra split rings for the Canon M100 eyelets?
Most straps, like the Peak Design Leash, use string-based connectors that thread directly through the eyelets, eliminating the need for rings. However, if you choose a strap with wide nylon webbing ends (like many generic options), you will need 12mm or 15mm split rings to bridge the gap between the strap and the camera body.
Peak Design Leash vs. Peak Design Cuff: Which is better for the M100?
The Leash is a full neck/shoulder strap, while the Cuff is just a wrist strap. For travel, the Leash is more versatile as it allows for hands-free carry. If you primarily shoot vlogs or street photography and always have a bag to put the camera in, the Cuff is a lighter alternative, but the Leash offers better security in crowds.
Will a bottom-mounting strap like BlackRapid damage the M100 tripod socket?
The M100’s tripod socket is reinforced metal and can easily handle the weight of the camera. The real concern is that the screw blocks the battery door. Constant unscrewing can cause minor wear over years, so it’s best to use a rubber-gasketed screw to prevent scratching the camera’s bottom plate.
How do I prevent my camera strap from tangling in my travel bag?
Look for straps made of “seatbelt-style” nylon (like Peak Design or SmallRig). These have a high-density weave that is naturally resistant to kinking and tangling. Avoid “braided” paracord lanyards, which tend to catch on other items in your bag, like charging cables or keys.
When is the best time to find deals on camera lanyards?
Accessories like straps usually see their deepest discounts during late May (pre-summer travel sales) and Black Friday. However, because these are relatively low-cost items, the price rarely fluctuates by more than $5-$10, so it’s usually better to buy based on your travel schedule rather than waiting for a sale.
Final Verdict
If you primarily shoot landscapes and need a strap that stays out of the way, the Peak Design Leash is the clear winner for its quick-release anchors. If budget is the main constraint but you still want a professional look, the SmallRig is an exceptional alternative. For those who prioritize style and want a strap to match a white M100, the Lucky Straps leather option is worth every penny. Regardless of your choice, moving away from the stiff, bulky stock Canon strap will significantly improve your travel shooting experience. As mirrorless systems continue to shrink, expect even more innovation in ultra-thin, high-strength lanyard materials.