Mobile phones let everybody have a camera in their pocket to quickly capture photos or record short videos. But while the technology has advanced at a blistering pace, mobile gadgets can’t keep up with a traditional digital camera.
Digital single-lens reflex cameras are not only excellent photography tools, they are also amazing for videos. But there is an obvious drawback. The factory-fitted microphone is often of poor quality, susceptible to the slightest breezes or just failing to record the full audio spectrum.
If you're serious about the sounds that go with your sights, then you must add a DSLR microphone to your photography arsenal. But which microphone is the best for you?
A significant factor in choosing the right DSLR microphone is what you want to record. There are different kinds of microphones for various situations, and if you don’t use the appropriate mic, the audio won’t be great.
You might have a certain microphone in mind, but you’ll be quickly disappointed if it doesn’t fit on your camera. The mounting where a flash goes is called the hot shoe, and that is where the microphone will attach to your camera — if it supports it.
Not all microphones use the hot shoe, but it's a convenient spot, ensuring that the mic and the camera’s lens are always focused on the same object. Other microphones connect to the camera through a 3.5-millimeter jack. But if you need the hot shoe for lighting at night, you’ll need to make a different plan for the microphone, such as a hot shoe extender or adapter.
Some microphones use the mount for positioning only and don’t draw power through the plate. This is called a cold shoe.
Just like your camera and flash battery, your microphone needs a power source. Look for a mic with a built-in battery that supports your shooting style. Ensure that you can easily recharge it or change batteries when needed.
Keep in mind that some microphones can draw power directly from the camera, which drains its battery faster than usual. One thing to note is that condenser microphones require a power source, while dynamic microphones don’t.
Rode VideoMicro Compact On-Camera Microphone with Rycote Lyre Shock Mount
This shotgun mic is one of the most compact around, as it is only 3 inches long and weighs just over an ounce. It draws power directly from the camera and comes with a Rycote Lyre shock mount and a deluxe furry windshield that keeps out wind noise. Sold by Amazon
Movo VXR10 Universal Video Microphone with Shock Mount
Mounted on the DSLR’s hot shoe, this shotgun unidirectional microphone doesn’t require a separate battery source. It's perfect for capturing audio in most situations and comes with a windshield, carrying case and a 3.5-millimeter cable. Sold by Amazon
Comica CVM-VM20 Shotgun Microphone
It is easy to keep track of battery usage with this shotgun mic. It has an OLED display for power monitoring and levels of the built-in battery. It has a 10-level adjustable gain knob and the battery can last for around 60 hours on standby. Sold by Amazon
D Debra Audio Series UHF Wireless Lavalier Microphone
Perfect for recording audio during an interview or speech, this lavalier microphone connects to a DSLR camera through a wireless transmitter. It has 30 channels to minimize interference, an LED display to monitor battery levels and comes with lapel clips. Sold by Amazon
Shure VP83 LensHopper Camera-Mounted Condenser Microphone
This condenser microphone screws onto a DSLR through the hot shoe mount, and the battery lasts for about 125 hours. It’s excellent at recording audio that is directly in front of it, and it comes with a windshield. Sold by Amazon
Takstar SGC-598 Photography Interview Shotgun Microphone
Great for interviews, this high-sensitivity condenser microphone has a cardioid unidirectional pickup. It focuses on audio straight ahead and rejects any sounds from the surroundings. The replaceable battery lasts for up to 100 hours and it comes with a padded windshield. Sold by Amazon
Saramonic WM4CA Professional Portable Wireless VHF Handheld Microphone System
The handheld microphone connects wirelessly to the DSLR camera through a VHF transmitter, which has a range of 200 feet. The transmitter has a detachable antenna that can rotate 360 degrees for the best signal. The microphone has a manual on/off switch. Sold by Amazon
Maono Clip-on Lapel Mic with Omnidirectional Condenser
To get up close and personal with your audio, this lavalier microphone easily clips onto a collar. It connects to the DSLR camera through a 3.5-millimeter cable, which is also compatible with mobile phones. It comes with a small windshield, two batteries and a carry pouch. Sold by Amazon
Sennheiser Professional MKE 200 Directional On-Camera Microphone
An excellent option for professional audio recording, this directional microphone from Sennheiser connects to a DSLR and mobile devices through a 3.5-millimeter cable. It has built-in wind protection and an internal suspension mount to minimize handling noise. It doesn’t have a battery and works on a cold shoe instead. Sold by Amazon
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Charlie Fripp writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
