DSLR Microphones: Our Top 10 Picks for 2023

DSLR cameras are popular tools for shooting high-quality video, but built-in microphone more often than not will fail to deliver the audio quality to really make your work shine. This is where external DSLR microphones come into play. External mics for DSLR cameras can come in two flavors: lavalier mics and shotgun mics. In this article, we’ll run through ten of the best DSLR microphones in these categories. After reading the entire post, you should be confident in your next buying decision.

Keep in mind that all of the mics we’ll talk about here can be mounted on a DSLR camera. Some of them, such as the Rode VideoMic Pro+ and the Sennheiser MKE 440, are specifically designed to mount on a camera’s hot shoe. Others, such as the RodeLink Filmmaker Kit and the Audio-Technica AT4053B, require a separate mount or accessory to attach to a camera. It’s important to check the compatibility of the microphone with your specific camera model before making a purchase. Let’s dive in!

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Short on Time? Here’s Our Top 3

10 of the Best DSLR Microphones for 2023

The Rode VideoMic Pro+ is a shotgun mic that was designed for DSLR cameras and camcorders. Its high-quality directional sound pickup is perfect for capturing interviews, events, and other outdoor scenarios. The VideoMic Pro+ is best suited for advanced to professional users. If you’re just starting out, it may make more sense to go with one of the earlier versions of the VideoMic.

All in all, Rode VideoMic Pro+ is a premium mic that offers exceptional audio quality, battery life, and additional features such as auto-power and audio level adjustment, which sets it apart from some competitors. It features a high-pass filter, high-frequency boost, and low-frequency cut, and comes with a rechargeable battery and a micro-USB cable for charging. It runs on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and has a battery life of roughly 100 hours when fully charged.

Features & Specs

• Acoustic Principle: Line Gradient
• Active Electronics: JFET impedance converter with bipolar output buffer, A/D converter
• Polar Pattern: Supercardioid
• Frequency Range: 20Hz – 20kHz
• Maximum SPL: 133 dB SPL (1 kHz, 1% THD into 1 KΩ load)
• Sensitivity: -33.6 dB re 1 Volt/Pascal (21.20 mV @ 94 dB SPL) ± 2 dB @ 1 kHz
• Output Impedance: 200 Ω
• Equivalent Noise Level (A-weighted): 14 dB-A
• Power Options: Internal rechargeable lithium-ion battery, USB bus-powered
• Battery Life: Approximately 100 hours
• Output: 3.5 mm TRS jack (dual mono), USB-C
• Dimensions (L x W x H): 111 mm x 66 mm x 170 mm
• Weight: 122 g
• Additional accessories required? No – includes standard camera shoe mount w/3/8″ thread

The Sennheiser MKE 600 is a shotgun mic that delivers superior audio quality for video production, specifically for capturing dialogue and interviews in noisy environments. The recommended user experience level for this mic is in the pro category, since the MKE 600 has been designed to excel in a variety of professional settings such as film, television, and documentary production. It can also be found being used in ENG (electronic news gathering) and EFP (electronic field production) industries.

The MKE 600 comes packaged with with a shock mount and foam windshield, which provides additional value for its price compared to competitors. It also has a low-cut filter and adjustable sensitivity, making it adaptable in different recording situations. This mic is longer than some other options, making it great for long-range applications, and it’s capable of running off battery or phantom power.

Features & Specs

• Microphone Type: Shotgun
• Directionality: Supercardioid
• Frequency Range: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
• Sensitivity: Switchable (low, high)
• Max SPL: 132 dB
• Output Impedance: 200 ohms
• Signal to Noise Ratio: 84 dB
• Dynamic Range: 115 dB
• Power Requirement: 48 V Phantom Power or 1.5 V AA Battery
• Connector: XLR-3M
• Dimensions: 256 x 20 mm (L x D)
• Weight: 128 g (without battery)
• Additional Accessories Required? No – it comes with a cold-shoe mount

The Audio-Technica AT4053B is a small diaphragm condenser microphone that is suitable for professional recording and broadcast applications, such as film and TV production, voiceover, and live performance. This is a pro-level mic and it’s built with a lightweight, rugged design that can handle heavy use and provide wonderful sound quality.

This mic has a hypercardiod polar pattern, meaning side noise rejection isn’t as great as a traditional shotgun. However, it does reduce low-end reflections in comparison to shotgun mics in indoor settings, and it preserve low-end sounds rather well with distance. These properties would make it a great mic for filming live indoor dialogue or single-source bass instrumentals.

It’s high SPL handling capability also makes it good for recording percussion instruments such as drums. If you’re planning on filming a live solo performance in your house, this may be your choice. It’s worth noting that this is usually used as an indoor boom mic, so you’ll need to purchase a DSLR shock mount adapter if you want to use this on your camera. You’ll also need a separate phantom power supply in the situation that your camera doesn’t already provide that.

Features & Specs

• Polar pattern: Hypercardioid
• Frequency response: 20 Hz – 20k Hz
• Sensitivity: -33 dBV/Pa (22.4 mV/Pa)
• Impedance: 200 ohms
• Max SPL: 145 dB SPL, 1 kHz at 1% T.H.D.
• Dynamic range: 126 dB, 1 kHz at Max SPL
• Signal-to-noise ratio: 76 dB, 1 kHz at 1 Pa
• Power requirements: 48 V phantom power (4.1 mA)
• Weight: 133 g (4.7 oz)
• Dimensions: 170.0 mm (6.69″) long, 21.0 mm (0.83″) maximum body diameter
• Output connector: XLRM-type
• Accessories included: AT8449a shock mount for 5/8″-27 threaded stands, microphone dust cover, protective carrying case

The kit consists of a transmitter, a receiver, and a lavalier mic, all of which communicate using on 2.4 GHz. The system is compact, lightweight, and easy to use, making it an excellent choice for videographers and filmmakers on the go.

It’s simple to set up and operate and lacks the complicated menus or settings that may be found on other system. The transmitter and receiver both feature intuitive LCD displays that provide real-time information on battery life, signal strength, and channel selection. The RodeLink also features automatic frequency selection. This which helps boost reliability, even in crowded wireless environments.

Another important feature of the RodeLink Wireless Filmmaker Kit is its versatility. The system is compatible with a wide range of recording devices, including DSLR cameras, camcorders, and audio recorders. The kit also comes with a range of accessories, including a belt clip, a camera shoe mount, and a furry windscreen a.k.a. a deadcat for the lav mic.

Features & Specs

• Frequency range: 35 Hz – 22 kHz
• Dynamic range: 112 dB
• Maximum input level: -20 dBu
• Output impedance: 300 ohms
• Range: Up to 100 meters (328 feet)
• Audio latency: Less than 4 ms
• Audio input connector: 3.5 mm TRS mini-jack
• Audio output connector: 3.5 mm TRS mini-jack
• Power source: 2 x AA batteries
• Battery life: Up to 10 hours
• Weight (transmitter): 56 g (1.98oz)
• Weight (receiver): 190 g (6.7oz)
• Dimensions (transmitter): 111 mm x 65 mm x 52 mm (4.37″ x 2.56″ x 2.05″)
• Dimensions (receiver): 111 mm x 65 mm x 52 mm (4.37″ x 2.56″ x 2.05″)

What sets the EW 112P G4 apart is its ability to operate in the UHF frequency range, with up to 1680 tunable frequencies across 42 MHz bandwidth, ensuring reliable and interference-free transmission. The high-contrast LCD display provides useful information such as battery status, signal strength, and frequency data.

The Sennheiser EW 112P G4 is incredibly easy to use. The system can be quickly set up and synced with the receiver using the infrared synchronization feature. The automatic frequency scan and synchronization feature ensure that the system is always on the best available frequency.

Whether you’re doing on-camera interviews, documentary filmmaking, live event coverage, or presentations, the EW 112P G4 is suitable for various applications. It’s an excellent option for both beginner and professional users, as it’s easy to use but provides professional-grade sound quality.

Features & Specs

• RF frequency range: 516-558 MHz or 566-608 MHz or 626-668 MHz
• Switching bandwidth: up to 88 MHz
• Presets: up to 12 compatible channels
• Signal-to-noise ratio: ≥ 110 dBA
• Frequency response: 25 Hz – 18 kHz
• Audio output level: +12 dBu (max)
• Audio adjustment range: 42 dB
• Modulation: wideband FM
• Battery life: up to 8 hours
• Charging time: approx. 3 hours
• Transmitter power supply: 2 x AA batteries or Sennheiser BA 2015 accupack
• Receiver power supply: 12 V DC
• Dimensions (transmitter): approx. 82 x 64 x 24 mm
• Dimensions (receiver): approx. 82 x 64 x 24 mm
• Weight (transmitter): approx. 160 g (incl. batteries)
• Weight (receiver): approx. 160 g (incl. power supply)

What makes the Rode NTG4+ particularly useful for DSLR cameras is that it has an internal rechargeable battery that can last up to 150 hours. This means that you don’t have to worry about purchasing and changing out batteries frequently, making it a very convenient option for on-the-go recording. It also comes with a micro USB cable that can be used for charging the mic and firmware updates. It has a high sensitivity level of -32 dB re 1 V/Pa (20 mV @ 94 dB SPL), which enables it to pick up very quiet sounds.

One downside, however, is that the Rode NTG4+ requires a separate mount to use on a DSLR camera. It comes with a micro-USB cable for charging, a windshield, and a pistol grip, but it does not include the camera mount. There are several options out there for mounting the NTG4+ to a DSLR – check out the Rode SM3-R camera shoe shock mount.

Features & Specs

• Microphone Type: Shotgun
• Polar Pattern: Super-cardioid
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz
• Sensitivity: -32 dB re 1 V/Pa (20 mV @ 94 dB SPL) ± 2 dB @ 1 kHz
• Output Impedance: 200 Ω
• Maximum SPL: 135 dB SPL (1kHz, 1% THD into 1KΩ load)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 78 dB SPL (A-weighted, 1kHz, 1Pa)
• Dynamic Range: 119 dB SPL
• Power Options: Internal Battery (150 hours) or +48 V phantom power
• Output: 3-pin XLR (balanced output between Pin 2 and 3)
• Weight: 126 g
• Dimensions: 22 mm x 278 mm (diameter x length)

The UwMic9 is a product whose designers were willing to take the chance on. While its “budget-friendly” reputation may not be suitable for critical professional situations, the UwMic9 is more than suitable for beginner to intermediate users whose livelihood doesn’t depend on the latest and greatest in audio-for-video gear. That said, there are some great features that shouldn’t be overlooked.

The system offers up to 96 selectable channels, which allows you to find and use the clearest and most interference-free channel in your location. This feature is especially valuable in crowded environments where other wireless devices may be present.

The UwMic9 also offers flexibility in the types of transmitters you can use. Users can choose between a bodypack transmitters with a lav mic, plug-on transmitter for handheld mics, or a handheld transmitter with a built-in microphone. This versatility enables you to choose the most suitable configuration for your recording setup.

The receiver unit also features a headphone jack, which allows the cameraman to directly monitor the audio in real-time during recording. This feature helps ensure that you capture the desired audio quality and allows for immediate adjustments if needed.

Features & Specs

• Frequency Range: UHF 514 MHz – 596 MHz
• Oscillator Type: PLL Synthesized
• Channels: 96
• RF Output Power: 10mW
• Frequency Response: 40Hz – 18kHz
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: ≥96dB
• Distortion: ≤0.5%
• Audio Output: 3.5mm TRS and XLR
• Audio Output Level: -60dBV (MIC level), -30dBV (LINE level)
• Operating Range: Up to 330 feet (100 meters)
• Power Supply: Two AA batteries or DC 5V via USB
• Battery Life: Approx. 8-10 hours (depending on usage)
• Dimensions (Receiver): 6.1 x 4.1 x 1.6 inches (155 x 105 x 41 mm)
• Dimensions (Transmitter): 4.6 x 2.6 x 1.3 inches (117 x 66 x 33 mm)
• Weight (Receiver): 8.3 ounces (235 grams)
• Weight (Transmitter): 3.6 ounces (102 grams)

The Shure VP83F LensHopper is Shure’s response to Rode’s VideoMic lineup, and it’s definitely a worthy consideration if you’re looking for an out-of-the-box DSLR mounted shotgun mic.

One of the key features of the VP83F is its integrated digital flash recording capability. This DSLR shotgun mic features an onboard microSD card slot, allowing you to record audio directly to the memory card while simultaneously capturing video with your camera. This feature provides a backup recording option and ensures that you won’t miss any important audio, even if there are issues with your camera’s audio input.

And similar to the Saramonic UwMic9 wireless system we just looked at, the VP83F features a built-in headphone output jack for direct monitoring. This convenient feature allows the cameraman to monitor the quality of the audio in real time and make adjustments as necessary during the recording process.

It also comes with a Rycote Lyre shock mount. These mounts are known for their durability and longevity, as well as the superior material engineering that allows them to excel at reducing handling noise and vibration. You won’t have to worry about buying a separate mount with this mic.

Features & Specs

• Microphone Type: Electret Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Super-cardioid
• Frequency Response: 50 Hz to 20 kHz
• Sensitivity: -35 dBV/Pa at 1 kHz
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 74 dB
• Maximum SPL: 130 dB SPL (1 kHz, 1% THD, 1 kΩ load)
• Dynamic Range: 101 dB
• Output Impedance: 145 Ω
• Power Requirements: 2 AA batteries (up to 10 hours of battery life)
• Output Connector: 3.5 mm (1/8″) stereo mini-jack
• Headphone Output Connector: 3.5 mm (1/8″) stereo mini-jack
• Recording Format: WAV (up to 24-bit/48 kHz) on microSD card
• Operating Temperature Range: 0°C to 60°C (32°F to 140°F)
• Weight: 166 grams (5.9 ounces)
• Dimensions: 206 mm x 58 mm x 42 mm (8.1″ x 2.3″ x 1.7″)
• Check out the full spec list

The MKE 400 was designed with portability in mind, and achieves that without sacrificing on other features. It has a small form factor and weighs only 60 grams (2.1 ounces), making it easy to carry and mount on a camera without adding excessive weight or bulk. It also has an integrated shock mount that effectively minimizes handling noise and vibrations. The MKE 400 is incredibly energy efficient and can provide roughly 300 hours of continuous usage off of one AAA battery.

One feature that sets this DSLR microphone apart from the MKE 200 is a three-step sensitivity switch (-10 dB, 0 dB, +20 dB), allowing you to adjust the microphone’s sensitivity to better match the audio source and recording environment. This feature provides flexibility when dealing with different sound levels or when using the microphone in challenging acoustic conditions.

Features & Specs

• Microphone Type: Electret condenser microphone
• Polar Pattern: Supercardioid
• Frequency Response: 40 Hz to 20 kHz
• Sensitivity: -28 dB V/Pa (at 1 kHz)
• Maximum SPL: 126 dB SPL
• Equivalent Noise Level: 16 dB(A)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): 78 dB(A)
• Dynamic Range: 110 dB
• Battery Type: 1 x AAA battery
• Battery Life: Approximately 300 hours
• Output Connector: 3.5mm TRS
• Weight: 60 grams (2.1 ounces)
• Dimensions (L x D): 130 x 21 x 62 mm (5.1 x 0.8 x 2.4 inches)

The MKE 200 is a supercardioid microphone, which means it focuses on capturing sound primarily from the front while minimizing ambient noise from the sides and rear. This helps to isolate the desired audio source and improve the overall quality of the recorded sound, but may fall short at really isolating the sound source when compared to a traditional shotgun mic.

A feature that may be valuable to some (looking at you, vloggers and YouTubers) is the MKE 200s highly portable and unobtrusive nature. It has a small form factor and weighs only 48 grams (1.7 ounces), making it easy to carry and mount on a DSLR camera without adding significant weight or bulk to your travel bags. Overall, if you’re an on-the-go shooter who values compact and lightweight gear, and you’re looking to up your audio quality with a leader in the industry, the Sennheiser MKE 200 will not disappoint.

Features & Specs

• Microphone Type: Electret condenser microphone
• Polar Pattern: Supercardioid
• Frequency Response: 40 Hz to 20 kHz
• Sensitivity: -33 dB V/Pa (at 1 kHz)
• Maximum SPL: 120 dB SPL
• Equivalent Noise Level: 20 dB(A)
• Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): 74 dB(A)
• Connector: 3.5mm TRS (with included TRS to TRRS adapter for smartphone compatibility)
• Cable Length: 2.0 meters (6.6 feet)
• Power Requirements: Plug-and-play, no batteries required
• Weight: 48 grams (1.7 ounces)
• Dimensions (L x D): 69 x 60 x 39 mm (2.7 x 2.4 x 1.5 inches)

Picking a DSLR microphone that’s right for you

Microphones can be tricky to work with and purchasing the right one for you can also present a challenge, especially when shopping online. Let’s take a look at what factors you should consider when shopping for a DSLR microphone.

Consider the type of mic you’ll need

Decide on the type of microphone that fits your recording needs. Shotgun microphones are popular for capturing directional audio, while stereo microphones are ideal for immersive soundscapes. Lavalier microphones are great for capturing audio from subjects who are moving or at a distance from the camera.

Don’t skimp on audio quality

Look for a microphone that provides high-quality audio capture. Pay attention to specifications such as frequency response, signal-to-noise ratio, and sensitivity to ensure clear and accurate sound reproduction. Picking a well-reviewed or reputable brand can also be a way to ensure you’re getting the best. You can also listen to audio sample comparisons to give you an idea of what you’re working with.

Mounting options & compatibility

Make sure that the microphone is compatible with your DSLR camera’s hot shoe mount or has appropriate mounting options. Check if the microphone comes with the necessary mounting adapters for seamless connection to your camera – and if not, make sure to get a mount that’s compatible with both your DSLR and the mic.

Directionality

Consider the microphone’s directional pattern based on your recording environment. Supercardioid or shotgun microphones are often preferred for on-camera use as they help isolate the desired audio source while reducing background noise. It’s important to think about how directional you need your mic to be, as well. A shotgun mic is better at rejecting side noise vs a supercardioid mic. If you’re going to be filming in super noisy environments, it may be a better idea to go with a shotgun mic.

Wind noise reduction considerations

If you plan to record outdoors or in windy conditions, choose a microphone that includes effective wind noise reduction features such as built-in windshields or the ability to attach external windshields.

Budget considerations

These things can get expensive. Set a budget range for your DSLR microphone purchase and research models that fall within that range. While it’s important to consider cost, prioritize the overall quality and suitability of the microphone for your specific needs first. It’s better to shell out the cash for something that’ll last than buy an upgrade further in the future because you skimped out on quality!

Wrap-Up: Buying a DSLR microphone

Your search should boil down to the following big decisions:

• Wireless lav system or camera-mounted shotgun/supercardioid mic?
  • Pick wireless if your subject will be moving around a lot and you’re filming from far away.
    • Rode RodeLink Wireless Filmmaker Kit
    • Sennheiser EW 112P G4
    • Saramonic UwMic9
  • Pick camera-mounted if you’ll be up close to the subject and want highly-directional audio pickup.

• If you pick a camera-mounted mic, does it need to be more portable or more professional?
  • Pick portable if you’re a travel vlogger or YouTuber who values light weight gear while sacrificing some noise rejection.
    • Sennheiser MKE 200
    • Sennheiser MKE 400
    • Shure LensHopper
    • Rode VideoMic lineup
  • Pick professional if you can deal with the bulk of a longer shotgun mic, but really need the side noise rejection.
    • Sennheiser MKE 600
    • Audio-Technica AT4053B
    • Rode NTG4+

• Budget-friendly or piggy bank annihilator?
  • This is completely subjective.
  • Please don’t annihilate your piggy bank though – this is universally bad.