Best External Microphones for Canon EOS 70D
The Canon EOS 70D remains a workhorse for vloggers and indie filmmakers, thanks largely to its revolutionary Dual Pixel autofocus. However, its internal microphone is a major weak point, prone to picking up lens motor whirring and ambient hiss. To truly unlock this camera’s potential, an external microphone is mandatory. After years of testing various rigs on the 70D, I’ve found that the Rode VideoMic Pro+ stands out as the ultimate companion for this specific body.
Our Top Picks at a Glance
Best Microphones for Canon EOS 70D: Detailed Reviews
Rode VideoMic Pro+ View on Amazon View on B&H
The Rode VideoMic Pro+ is the definitive shotgun mic for DSLR users. I’ve lost count of how many times I forgot to turn off my mic, only to find a dead battery the next morning; the Pro+ solves this with an auto-power feature that detects when the 70D is turned on. It features a built-in Rycote Lyre shock mount that is practically indestructible and far superior to the old rubber-band mounts. With a +20dB gain switch, you can turn down the 70D’s noisy internal pre-amps, resulting in incredibly clean audio. It also includes a “safety channel” that records a second track at a lower volume—a lifesaver if your subject suddenly shouts. While it’s a bit pricey, the combination of the rechargeable battery and the sheer broadcast quality makes it worth every penny for serious creators.
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Rode VideoMicro View on Amazon View on B&H
If you find the large shotgun mics intimidating or too bulky for the 70D’s hot shoe, the Rode VideoMicro is your best bet. This tiny cardioid microphone runs entirely on “plug-in power” from the camera’s 3.5mm jack, meaning you never have to worry about batteries. I find it perfect for travel because it doesn’t block the 70D’s articulating screen when it’s flipped out for vlogging. It comes with a high-quality “deadcat” windscreen, which is essential for outdoor shoots. While it lacks the gain-boosting features of its larger siblings, it offers a much more natural, full-bodied sound than the internal mic. The cardioid pattern is slightly wider than a standard shotgun, so it’s more forgiving if you aren’t pointing it directly at your mouth. It’s a “set it and forget it” tool that just works.
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Movo VXR10 View on Amazon View on B&H
The Movo VXR10 is the primary competitor to the VideoMicro and often comes in at a lower price point. Don’t let the low cost fool you; the build quality is surprisingly rugged with an all-metal body. In my side-by-side tests, the VXR10 actually has a slightly “hotter” output than the Rode, which can be helpful for the 70D’s pre-amps. It also includes cables for both cameras (TRS) and smartphones (TRRS), making it a versatile piece of kit if you switch between platforms. The drawback is that the shock mount feels a bit more “plasticky” than the Rycote version, and the audio profile is somewhat bass-heavy. However, for anyone just starting their YouTube journey with an EOS 70D, this is the most cost-effective way to get clean, directional 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 “real” shotgun mic often found on high-end cinema sets. Why use it with a 70D? Because it offers unparalleled side-noise rejection. If you’re filming in a noisy environment, this mic focuses like a laser on the person in front of it. It can be powered by a single AA battery, which allows it to work with the 70D’s 3.5mm jack via an adapter (usually included in kits). You’ll notice the sound is much more “cinematic” and rich compared to standard on-camera mics. The only downside is the length; it’s quite long and will likely pop into your frame if you use a wide-angle lens. However, for narrative work or controlled interviews where you want the highest possible fidelity, the MKE 600 is a professional investment that will outlast your camera body.
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Shure VP83 LensHopper View on Amazon View on B&H
The Shure VP83 LensHopper is a tank. While Rode uses a lot of high-grade plastics, the VP83 is constructed from metal, making it incredibly durable for field work. I particularly like the recessed switches for gain and low-cut filters, which prevent accidental changes while the camera is in your bag. It’s also exceptionally good at rejecting RF interference—if you’ve ever had your audio ruined by a nearby smartphone “beeping” into the signal, you’ll appreciate this mic’s shielding. The audio quality is crisp and detailed, leaning toward a more neutral sound profile than the slightly bass-boosted Rode mics. It uses a single AA battery that lasts for about 130 hours. It’s a fantastic middle-ground option for those who want professional durability without the massive footprint of a full shotgun mic.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose a Microphone for the 70D
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rode VideoMic Pro+ | Pro Vlogging | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Rode VideoMicro | Travel | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Movo VXR10 | Budget Starts | ★★★★☆ | Check |
| Sennheiser MKE 600 | Filmmaking | ★★★★★ | Check |
| Shure VP83 | Durability | ★★★★☆ | Check |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Canon 70D have a microphone jack?
Yes, the Canon EOS 70D features a standard 3.5mm (1/8″) TRS microphone input located on the left side of the camera body. This allows you to connect a wide variety of external microphones. However, it does not provide XLR inputs or phantom power, so if you use professional XLR microphones, you will need a self-powered mic or a dedicated external preamp/adapter to make them compatible with the 70D’s input.
How do I stop the “hissing” sound in my 70D recordings?
The hissing is usually caused by the 70D’s “Auto Gain Control” (AGC) boosting the signal too much. To fix this, go into the camera menu, set Sound Recording to “Manual,” and turn the level down to almost zero. Then, use a microphone with a +20dB boost (like the Rode VideoMic Pro+) to provide the volume. This shifts the workload from the camera’s noisy electronics to the microphone’s cleaner preamp.
Will an external mic pick up the autofocus motor sound?
External microphones are much better at isolating motor noise, but they can still pick it up through the camera body if the shock mount is poor. Using a microphone with a “Rycote Lyre” shock mount or a similar suspension system is essential. Additionally, using lenses with STM (Stepping Motor) or Nano USM technology will significantly reduce the amount of physical noise the microphone has to filter out in the first place.
Can I use a smartphone microphone with my Canon 70D?
You can, but you may need an adapter. Smartphones use TRRS connectors (three rings), while the 70D uses TRS connectors (two rings). If your microphone has a TRRS plug, you will need a “TRRS to TRS” adapter (like the Rode SC3) for it to work. Some budget microphones, like the Movo VXR10, conveniently include both cables in the box so you can use them with either device without extra purchases.
Does the 70D supply power to the microphone?
The Canon 70D provides a small amount of “plug-in power” through the mic jack. This is enough to power small condenser microphones like the Rode VideoMicro or the Movo VXR10, which do not have their own batteries. However, it is not enough for large professional microphones that require 48V phantom power. For those, you must use a microphone that has an internal battery compartment or an external power supply.
Final Verdict
If you’re serious about content creation with your Canon 70D, the Rode VideoMic Pro+ is the gold standard that will solve your audio issues instantly. For those who prioritize a lightweight setup for travel or vlogging, the Rode VideoMicro is an unbeatable value that requires zero maintenance. If you’re on a strictly limited budget, the Movo VXR10 provides a massive jump in quality over the internal mic for the price of a few pizzas.