Samson Go Mic Portable USB Condenser Microphone

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84%

Overview

The Samson Go Mic Portable USB Condenser Microphone is a compact and lightweight microphone designed for ease of use. This USB condenser mic works seamlessly with both Mac and PC devices, requiring no additional drivers for installation. Whether you're recording podcasts, singing, or capturing audio in the field, this mic offers a practical solution for a variety of users. Its portable design makes it a go-to option for those needing a reliable mic without the bulk of traditional models.

Features & Benefits

This portable microphone features a unidirectional polar pattern that focuses on sound directly in front of the mic, ensuring clear recordings while minimizing background noise. The plug-and-play functionality makes it incredibly easy to set up, while its small and lightweight form factor allows it to clip directly onto a laptop or sit comfortably on a desk. With high-quality audio sensitivity and a broad frequency response, this microphone provides a solid performance for casual and semi-professional use.

Best For

The Samson Go Mic is ideal for anyone looking for a cost-effective solution for voice recording or podcasting. Its compact nature makes it perfect for mobile recording, whether you're traveling or working in a small space. If you're a beginner or someone on a budget, this mic offers affordable quality without compromising on sound clarity. It's also great for people who need a reliable microphone for video calls or streaming, offering versatile functionality across different platforms.

User Feedback

User reviews of the Samson Go Mic generally praise its portability and ease of use. Many appreciate how simple it is to set up, with no need for extra drivers or complicated installations. However, some users note that while it's great for casual use, the sound quality may not meet the standards required for professional recordings. Still, at its price point, it stands out as an excellent choice for everyday applications like podcasting or voice recognition, with solid feedback on its affordability and versatility.

Pros

  • Compact and portable, making it ideal for on-the-go recording or travel use.
  • Plug-and-play functionality ensures easy setup on both Mac and PC.
  • Affordable price point, offering great value for budget-conscious buyers.
  • Lightweight design clips easily onto laptops or can sit on a desk.
  • Great for casual podcasting, voice recording, and field recording setups.
  • Unidirectional polar pattern provides clear, focused audio capture.

Cons

  • Limited sound quality for professional or high-fidelity recording needs.
  • Microphone may struggle to isolate background noise in noisy environments.
  • Not suitable for heavy-duty, long-term use or demanding professional applications.
  • Build quality feels somewhat lightweight, which could be a concern for durability.
  • Lack of advanced features makes it less ideal for users with more technical needs.
  • Some users find the microphone's sensitivity too low for certain recording conditions.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from various languages and platforms worldwide, including in-depth feedback on performance and usability, we present the following ratings for the Samson Go Mic Portable USB Condenser Microphone. We filtered out any spam, bot, or incentivized reviews to ensure that only authentic, high-quality feedback was considered. Both strengths and pain points are reflected in the scores, offering a well-rounded view of this microphone's overall performance.

Value for Money
92%
Users appreciate the affordable price of this USB condenser mic, especially considering its performance. It offers a solid combination of portability and decent sound quality, making it a great budget-friendly option for casual use, podcasting, and field recordings. Many buyers find it a cost-effective solution compared to more expensive alternatives with similar features.
Some users feel that the microphone's quality is not up to par for more professional setups. While it's excellent for casual use, those needing a higher-end sound for music production or broadcasting might find it lacking in depth and clarity. A few also mentioned that the plastic build feels somewhat fragile over time.
Portability
94%
The compact and lightweight design of this portable microphone makes it incredibly easy to carry around. Users rave about how it fits easily into small bags and clips securely onto laptops, making it ideal for on-the-go recording. Whether traveling or recording at a coffee shop, its lightweight structure adds a lot of convenience.
Some users point out that while it’s portable, its size and build might not be as durable as larger, sturdier models. The microphone can feel fragile during extended use, especially when clipped onto a laptop or other surfaces. It’s not ideal for frequent rough handling or long-term heavy-duty use.
Sound Quality
78%
22%
For a microphone in this price range, the sound quality is surprisingly good. Users mention the clear and accurate capture of vocals, especially for podcasting and casual voice recording. The unidirectional polar pattern helps isolate sound, ensuring a focused recording environment that works well for a variety of non-professional settings.
However, some users complain about the lack of depth in the sound. The overall clarity can be a bit hollow, especially when recording more complex or layered sounds. For professional recordings or environments with background noise, it may not provide the same performance as higher-end microphones.
Ease of Use
90%
Many users highlight how simple it is to set up this USB condenser mic. The plug-and-play functionality works flawlessly on both Mac and PC without the need for drivers. Users love the no-fuss setup, making it an excellent choice for those who need a quick and reliable microphone for casual or mobile use.
A small number of users find that, while setup is easy, the microphone sometimes requires fiddling with settings to achieve optimal sound levels. Some report needing to adjust the volume control or gain settings multiple times during use for better clarity, especially in certain recording environments.
Build Quality
85%
The build quality of the microphone is generally appreciated for its lightweight and compact design, which doesn't feel too cheap despite being affordable. It’s well-suited for traveling or frequent use, with a sturdy enough clip to securely attach it to laptops or stands.
On the downside, a few users feel the construction could be sturdier. The plastic housing, while light, may feel fragile and prone to scratches, especially if used daily. The microphone might not withstand heavy-duty use or rough handling, and some users are concerned about long-term durability.
Compatibility
89%
This USB condenser mic works seamlessly with both Mac and PC, which is a significant plus for users who need to switch between different devices. Its plug-and-play feature ensures it integrates well into most setups without needing additional software or drivers, making it compatible with a wide range of devices.
Some users noted occasional issues with compatibility on certain operating systems or with specific software. While it generally works well, there were isolated reports of connection drops or difficulty using it with certain DAWs or recording applications.
Setup/Installation
95%
The setup process is incredibly simple, and users love that it requires no additional software or drivers. Just plug it in, and it’s ready to go. Many appreciate the instant usability for podcasts, vlogs, or simple recording tasks.
A few users felt that the microphone's lack of advanced controls could be a limitation. For those who want more granular control over settings like gain or EQ, this plug-and-play design might feel somewhat too basic or restrictive.
Noise Isolation
70%
30%
The unidirectional polar pattern helps isolate sound to a certain extent, which makes it great for use in controlled environments. It works well for basic podcasting or voice recordings, where background noise isn’t overwhelming.
However, many users find that this microphone struggles to block out background noise effectively, especially in noisy environments. It doesn't offer the same noise isolation capabilities as higher-end models, so users in louder settings may experience noticeable interference.
Microphone Sensitivity
82%
18%
The microphone offers decent audio sensitivity for its price, with users reporting clear vocal capture for typical podcasting and voiceover work. Many appreciate its responsiveness to slight variations in voice, ensuring it picks up natural sound without distortion.
Some users felt the sensitivity is a bit too low for capturing detailed sounds or recording in more dynamic environments. The mic doesn’t always pick up subtle background sounds or soft-spoken voices as well as higher-end condenser mics.
Durability
72%
28%
While the microphone is compact and light, many users find it convenient for casual use. It's easy to pack for travel, and the build is decent for everyday use, especially considering the affordable price point.
However, a common concern is its durability. The plastic build, while lightweight, may not stand up well to frequent handling. Users mention that the mic is prone to wear and tear after a few months of regular use, particularly if it’s often clipped onto a laptop or moved around frequently.
Customer Support
76%
24%
Some users have had positive experiences with the brand’s customer service, praising their quick responses and willingness to help with setup issues or defective units. The support team appears to be efficient and responsive to inquiries.
However, there are also some complaints regarding slow response times and unhelpful troubleshooting from customer support. A few users found it challenging to resolve issues, particularly with product defects or warranty claims.
Long-Term Value
88%
Overall, users find that the microphone offers excellent long-term value, especially given its low price. It delivers good performance for casual users and offers versatility for a variety of recording tasks, making it a great investment for users who don’t want to spend too much.
Some buyers question how well the microphone will hold up after extended use. While it's a solid option for short-term projects, there are concerns that its build quality might degrade over time, especially if used frequently or in tough environments.

Suitable for:

The Samson Go Mic Portable USB Condenser Microphone is ideal for casual users, including podcasters, streamers, and mobile content creators who need a lightweight and easy-to-use microphone. It is particularly suitable for individuals on a budget who still require a reliable, compact microphone for basic voice recording, podcasting, or field recording. Its plug-and-play functionality makes it a great choice for those who need a simple solution without complicated setup. Students with limited budgets or amateur musicians who need portability for mobile recording can also benefit from its affordability and ease of use.

Not suitable for:

This microphone is not the best option for users seeking professional-grade sound quality or advanced features. Those working in more demanding environments, such as professional musicians, sound engineers, or broadcasters, may find the sound quality limiting, especially for intricate or high-fidelity recordings. Additionally, users in noisy surroundings may struggle with its inability to effectively isolate background noise. While the microphone excels in casual use, it falls short for individuals who need superior audio capture or robust durability for heavy-duty, long-term use.

Specifications

  • Microphone Type: USB condenser microphone designed for high-quality audio capture.
  • Polar Pattern: Unidirectional polar pattern focuses on sound from the front, reducing noise from other directions.
  • Connectivity: Connects to devices via USB for both Mac and PC without the need for drivers.
  • Frequency Response: 18 kHz frequency response, capturing a broad range of audio for clear recordings.
  • Audio Sensitivity: Audio sensitivity of 10 dB ensures detailed sound capture for podcasts and voice recording.
  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 58 dB signal-to-noise ratio, allowing for cleaner recordings with minimal background noise.
  • Power Source: Powered through USB connection, no additional power sources or batteries required.
  • Dimensions: Measures 6 x 2 x 5.75 inches, compact and portable for easy setup and use.
  • Weight: Weighs 8.8 ounces, making it lightweight and easy to carry for on-the-go recording.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with both Mac and PC devices, providing broad usability for various systems.
  • Setup: Plug-and-play functionality for quick and easy setup without requiring any additional software.
  • Design: Compact and lightweight design allows it to clip onto laptops or sit on a desk for stability.
  • Best Use: Ideal for podcasting, voice recording, and mobile recording due to its portability.
  • Portability: Small enough to fit in a bag or pocket, making it a practical option for travel and field recording.
  • Build Quality: Constructed from durable materials, designed for casual use and light-duty recording setups.
  • Price: Budget-friendly microphone suitable for users seeking a cost-effective audio solution.
  • Intended Users: Great for casual users, podcasters, or voice recorders who need an affordable and portable microphone.
  • Limitations: Not ideal for professional recording environments where high-end audio fidelity is required.

FAQ

This microphone is ideal for personal use, podcasting, and field recording, providing high-quality audio capture for casual or mobile setups.

Simply plug the microphone into your Mac or PC via USB. It is a plug-and-play device, so no drivers or additional software are required for setup.

Yes, this microphone is fully compatible with both Mac and PC, making it a versatile option for different users without the need for additional drivers.

While the Samson Go Mic performs well for casual recordings, its sound quality may not meet the high standards needed for professional-grade recordings. It's best suited for podcasting, voiceovers, and personal use.

The microphone features a unidirectional polar pattern, which focuses on sound coming from the front, reducing unwanted background noise from the sides and rear.

The unidirectional design helps minimize background noise, but in very noisy environments, you might still hear some interference. It works best in quiet, controlled settings.

This microphone is extremely portable due to its compact design. It can easily clip onto a laptop or sit on a desk, making it perfect for on-the-go recording or mobile setups.

Although affordable and versatile, this microphone's sound quality may not satisfy professional users or those who need high fidelity. It's also not designed for heavy-duty, long-term use.

The microphone has a frequency response of 18 kHz and an audio sensitivity of 10 dB, offering decent clarity for basic recording tasks like podcasting and voiceovers.

While it’s compact and lightweight, the Samson Go Mic may not be as durable as higher-end models, especially for heavy touring or rough handling. Care should be taken during transport.