Best External Microphone for Canon EOS M50
The Canon EOS M50 is a legendary vlogging powerhouse, but its internal microphone is, frankly, its weakest link. If you’ve ever filmed outdoors, you know that even a light breeze or a distant car can ruin your audio. I’ve spent years testing various rigs on the M50, and I can tell you that adding an external mic is the single most important upgrade you’ll make. While the Rode VideoMic Pro+ is our gold standard, there are fantastic options for every budget.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best External Microphone for Canon EOS M50: Detailed Reviews
Rode VideoMic Pro+ View on Amazon View on B&H
The Rode VideoMic Pro+ is widely considered the industry standard for a reason. Its standout feature is the automatic power function; the mic turns on and off in sync with your Canon M50, saving you from the heartbreak of recording a 20-minute vlog only to realize the mic was off. This mic features a 2-stage high-pass filter to cut out traffic rumble and a +20dB gain boost, which allows you to turn down the M50’s noisy internal pre-amps for much cleaner audio. The Rycote Lyre shock mounting is top-tier, effectively isolating the capsule from handling noise when you’re walking and talking. While it is larger than other options, the audio fidelity is noticeably richer and more directional. The only downside is the price, but for serious creators, it’s an investment that pays off in every edit. I find the included rechargeable battery a massive convenience over standard AAs.
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Rode VideoMicro View on Amazon View on B&H
If you value portability above all else, the Rode VideoMicro is your best bet. At just 80mm long, it perfectly complements the compact mirrorless body of the M50 without making the setup feel top-heavy. My favorite thing about the VideoMicro is that it runs on “plug-in power” from the camera—meaning no batteries to charge or replace. It comes with a high-quality “deadcat” windshield included in the box, which is essential for any outdoor filming. While it lacks the advanced gain controls of its “Pro” sibling, the cardioid pickup pattern is much more focused than the M50’s internal mic, significantly reducing background noise. It’s a rugged, all-metal workhorse that can survive being tossed into a backpack. For beginners or travel vloggers who want a “set it and forget it” solution, this is the best value for your money by a long shot.
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Takstar SGC-598 View on Amazon View on B&H
The Takstar SGC-598 is a bit of a legend in the budget filmmaking community. For a fraction of the price of brand-name mics, it offers surprisingly clear audio and a functional shock mount. It features a +10dB gain switch and a low-cut filter, which are features usually reserved for much more expensive gear. When paired with the Canon M50, you’ll notice a massive jump in vocal clarity compared to the built-in mic. However, you do get what you pay for in terms of build quality—the plastic feels a bit thin, and the shock mount bands can be somewhat fragile. It also requires a single AA battery, which isn’t as convenient as the VideoMicro’s battery-free design. That said, if you’ve spent all your money on the camera and a lens, the Takstar is the most honest, high-performing budget option that will get you professional-sounding results immediately.
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Sennheiser MKE 400 (2nd Gen) View on Amazon View on B&H
Released in 2021, the second-generation Sennheiser MKE 400 is a masterpiece of engineering for small cameras like the M50. It features a unique internal shock mount and integrated wind protection that makes it incredibly sleek—no bulky external foam needed. What really sets this apart for M50 users is the integrated headphone monitoring jack on the mic itself. Since the M50 lacks a headphone port, this is one of the only ways to actually hear what you’re recording in real-time. The sound profile is exceptionally balanced, providing a natural warmth to voices that I find superior even to the Rode Pro+. It’s built like a tank and features auto-power just like the top Rode models. While it’s a premium spend, the peace of mind of being able to monitor your audio is worth every penny for professional work.
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Deity V-Mic D4 View on Amazon View on B&H
The Deity V-Mic D4 is a clever alternative for those who find the standard Rode offerings a bit too restrictive. Its killer feature is an offset shock mount that includes an extra cold shoe on the back. This is incredibly useful for the Canon M50 because it allows you to mount a wireless receiver (like the Rode Wireless GO) directly onto the shotgun mic, solving the M50’s limited mounting space issue. Sound-wise, it rivals the VideoMicro but offers a bit more detail in the high frequencies. It uses a single AAA battery, which lasts for over 100 hours of use. I particularly like the smart 3.5mm cable that works with both cameras and smartphones without needing extra adapters. It’s a versatile, smart piece of gear that feels like it was designed by people who actually use these cameras in the field.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose a Microphone for the Canon M50
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rode VideoMic Pro+ | Professional Vlogging | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Rode VideoMicro | Lightweight Travel | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Takstar SGC-598 | Budget Starters | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Sennheiser MKE 400 | Pro Audio Monitoring | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Deity V-Mic D4 | Multi-Device Use | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an adapter to use these with my Canon M50?
No, the Canon EOS M50 (both the Mark I and Mark II) features a standard 3.5mm TRS microphone jack. All the microphones on this list come with the correct 3.5mm cable to plug directly into the side of your camera. However, if you’re using a mic designed for smartphones (TRRS), you might need a TRS adapter, but usually, vlogging mics include the correct cable for cameras.
Will a microphone block the M50’s flip-up screen?
This is a common issue. Because the M50’s screen flips up, a microphone mounted on the hot shoe will block your view. To fix this, most M50 users buy a “Cold Shoe Relocation Bracket” or a small camera cage (like the SmallRig 2164). This moves the microphone to the side of the camera, keeping your screen fully visible for vlogging.
Can I monitor my audio while recording on the M50?
The M50 does not have a dedicated headphone jack. The only way to monitor your audio in real-time is to use a microphone that has its own headphone monitoring port, such as the Sennheiser MKE 400 or the Rode VideoMic NTG. Otherwise, you have to rely on the on-screen audio meters to ensure you aren’t “clipping” or recording too quietly.
Is it better to use a wireless mic or a shotgun mic?
It depends on your distance. A shotgun mic (like the ones on this list) is best if the camera is within arm’s length, like when vlogging. If you plan on standing 10 feet away from the camera, a wireless lavalier mic (like the Rode Wireless GO II) is a better choice, as shotgun mics lose clarity the further away you get from the subject.
Does the external mic drain the M50 battery faster?
If you use a “plug-in power” microphone like the Rode VideoMicro, it does draw a tiny amount of power from the camera. However, the drain is so minimal that you likely won’t notice it. Mics with their own batteries (like the VideoMic Pro+) do not draw power from the camera at all, which is actually helpful given the M50’s notoriously short battery life.
Final Verdict
For the average vlogger using the Canon M50, the Rode VideoMicro is the most practical choice due to its size and battery-free design. However, if you are serious about YouTube and want the cleanest possible audio, the Rode VideoMic Pro+ is worth the investment. For those who need to monitor their audio, the Sennheiser MKE 400 is the clear winner. Whichever you choose, your audience will thank you for the improved sound!