Best External Microphone for Canon EOS 70D
The Canon EOS 70D remains a legendary workhorse for vloggers and mid-range videographers, but its internal microphone is its Achilles’ heel, often picking up lens motor whirring and ambient hiss. To truly unlock this camera’s cinematic potential, an external upgrade isn’t just optional—it’s essential. After years of testing shotgun and lavalier setups on Canon bodies, I’ve found that the Rode VideoMic Pro+ is the definitive champion for this specific DSLR, offering the perfect balance of convenience and clarity.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best External Microphone for Canon EOS 70D: Detailed Reviews
Rode VideoMic Pro+ View on Amazon View on B&H
The Rode VideoMic Pro+ is, in my opinion, the most refined shotgun microphone ever built for the DSLR era. When paired with the 70D, its standout feature is the Automatic Power Function, which senses when you turn your camera on or off. This is a lifesaver; I can’t tell you how many times I’ve ruined footage on older mics by forgetting to flip a switch. It features a Rycote Lyre suspension system that is incredibly effective at absorbing handling noise, and the safety channel—which records a second track at -10dB—is a total insurance policy against unexpected loud noises clipping your audio. While it is larger than some “micro” options, the audio fidelity is rich, full-bodied, and remarkably low-noise. The only real drawback is the price, but considering it includes a rechargeable battery and premium build, it is a long-term investment for any 70D owner.
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Rode VideoMicro View on Amazon View on B&H
If you want to keep your 70D setup lightweight and unobtrusive, the Rode VideoMicro is your best bet. It’s an all-aluminum cardioid microphone that draws power directly from the 70D’s mic jack, meaning you never have to worry about batteries dying mid-shoot. I love the “plug-and-play” simplicity here. It comes with a high-quality “deadcat” windshield, which is usually a $30 add-on for other mics, making the value proposition here incredible. While it doesn’t have the gain controls of the Pro+ model, its sound signature is far superior to the internal 70D mics, offering much better directionality and reduced background hum. You’ll notice a significant jump in vocal clarity, especially in indoor environments. It’s the perfect “always-on” microphone for hobbyists who don’t want to fiddle with settings but want professional-sounding results every time they hit the record button.
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Takstar SGC-598 View on Amazon View on B&H
The Takstar SGC-598 is a legend in the budget community for a reason. For roughly the price of a couple of pizzas, you get a functional shotgun mic that outperforms its “cheap” appearance. The build quality is undeniably plasticky, but it features a +10dB sensitivity enhancement switch which is vital for the 70D. By turning the gain up on the mic and lowering the 70D’s internal recording level to almost zero, you bypass the camera’s noisy pre-amps, resulting in much cleaner audio. It runs on a single AA battery and fits securely on the hot shoe. Is it as durable as a Rode? No. Will it survive a drop onto concrete? Probably not. But if you are on a strict budget and need to get rid of that annoying background hiss for your YouTube channel, the Takstar is a shockingly effective tool that proves you don’t need to spend hundreds to get decent sound.
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Rode VideoMic NTG View on Amazon View on B&H
The Rode VideoMic NTG is a masterpiece of versatility. While designed for modern mirrorless cameras, it works beautifully with the 70D, offering a level of control usually reserved for high-end boom mics. Its infinitely variable gain knob on the rear allows you to precisely dial in your levels on the fly. What sets it apart is its ability to double as a USB microphone for your computer, making it perfect if you also record voiceovers or podcasts. The sound is incredibly transparent and natural, avoiding the “colored” sound of cheaper shotguns. It features a digital switch for high-pass filters and a high-frequency boost, which helps cut through wind or mud. It’s slightly more complex than the Pro+, but for the user who wants one microphone to rule them all—both on-camera and at their desk—this is the absolute gold standard in the current market.
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Sennheiser MKE 400 (2nd Gen) View on Amazon View on B&H
The Sennheiser MKE 400 is the direct competitor to the Rode Pro series, and it holds its own with German-engineered precision. The second generation features a built-in windscreen and internal shock mount, meaning it doesn’t need a bulky external cage. I find this microphone particularly impressive for travel because of its compact footprint and rugged metal build. It includes a headphone monitoring jack—a massive plus for 70D users, as the camera itself lacks one. This allows you to listen to exactly what is being recorded in real-time. The sound profile is slightly more focused and “punchy” compared to the Rode, which works wonders for dialogue in busy environments. It lacks the auto-power feature of the Rode Pro+, but its superior monitoring capabilities and sleek design make it a favorite for many professional mobile journalists.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose an External Microphone
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rode VideoMic Pro+ | Pro Vloggers | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Rode VideoMicro | Compact Travel | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Takstar SGC-598 | Budget Build | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Rode VideoMic NTG | Hybrid/Studio | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Sennheiser MKE 400 | Built-in Monitoring | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Canon 70D provide phantom power?
No, the Canon 70D does not provide 48V phantom power. It only provides a small amount of “plug-in power” through its 3.5mm jack. This is enough for small mics like the Rode VideoMicro, but professional XLR microphones will require an external power source or a battery-powered adapter to work with this camera body.
How do I stop the background hiss on my 70D?
The best way to stop hiss is to go into the 70D’s menu, set “Sound Recording” to Manual, and turn the level down to about 5-10%. Then, use a microphone with a gain boost (like the +20dB setting on the Rode VideoMic Pro+) to provide the volume. This utilizes the microphone’s cleaner electronics instead of the camera’s noisy ones.
Can I use a wireless microphone with the 70D?
Absolutely. The 70D works perfectly with wireless systems like the Rode Wireless GO II or DJI Mic. You simply plug the receiver into the 70D’s 3.5mm mic port. This is a great choice if you are recording someone walking at a distance or if you don’t want a bulky shotgun mic sitting on top of your camera.
Is a shotgun mic better than a lavalier?
It depends on your scenario. Shotgun mics are better for general use, vlogging, and picking up ambient sound while staying focused on the subject. Lavalier mics (clip-ons) are better for interviews where you need the mic close to the speaker’s mouth to eliminate room echo. For most 70D users, a shotgun mic is the most versatile starting point.
Will a new mic pick up lens autofocus noise?
If you use a high-quality shotgun mic with a good shock mount, it will significantly reduce lens noise. However, the 70D’s STM lenses are much quieter than older USM lenses. If you’re still hearing the lens, a shotgun mic helps because it is directional and pointed away from the lens motor, unlike the internal mics which are right next to it.
Final Verdict
For the serious content creator, the Rode VideoMic Pro+ is the absolute best companion for the Canon 70D, thanks to its auto-power feature and superior gain control. If you’re a casual vlogger who values portability, the VideoMicro is a fantastic, battery-free upgrade. Finally, if you’re just starting out and every dollar counts, the Takstar SGC-598 provides a massive audio boost over the internal mics for a fraction of the cost of premium brands.