The Best Portable Podcast Microphone For 2024

Dan Simmons By, Dan Simmons
Updated
SAMSON Go Mic Portable USB Condenser Microphone for Mac and PC Computers, Titanium Black
Image credit: Amazon.com

If you’re thinking about starting a podcast, you’re probably wondering which podcatching mic is the best one for your needs. One of the first questions you need to ask yourself is whether you plan on recording only one episode or if you want to become a regular podcaster and produce content regularly. If you’re recording only one episode at a time and don’t plan on having multiple guests on your show each week, then any affordable USB mic will work just fine.

However, if you want to produce more than one regular episode per week, then it makes sense to invest in a better podcast setup so that your audio sounds as professional as possible. 

Our team spent about 15 hours researching, sifting, and selecting many high-quality models. SAMSON Go Mic Portable USB Condenser Microphone for Mac and PC Computers, Titanium Black is the product that receives the highest award from us. In addition to the other suggestions on this list, which are equally deserving of your consideration, we have also compiled a helpful buyer's guide to assist you in making your decision.

Our Top Picks

  • Custom compact design that clips to a laptop or sits on a desk
  • Perfect for recording music, podcasting and field recording
  • Ideal for voice recognition software, iChat, VoIP and web casting
  • Plug and Play Mac and PC compatible, no drivers required
  • Portable USB condenser microphone
  • Portable high-quality condenser microphone that lets you capture high-quality audio at any location
  • Plug-and-play driverless set-up and performance
  • Proprietary digital converter and preamp
  • Ultra-compact design gives you the freedom of pristine sound on the go
  • Custom three-capsule array: This professional USB mic produces clear, powerful, broadcast-quality sound for YouTube videos, Twitch game streaming, podcasting, Zoom meetings, music recording and more
  • Blue VO!CE software: Elevate your streamings and recordings with clear broadcast vocal sound and entertain your audience with enhanced effects, advanced modulation and HD audio samples
  • Plug 'n Play: Set up the computer microphone in seconds with the included desktop stand or connect directly to a mic stand or boom arm and instantly start recording and streaming on Mac or PC
  • Positionable design: Pivot the mic in relation to the sound source to optimize your sound quality thanks to the adjustable desktop stand and track your voice in real time with no-latency monitoring
  • Four pickup patterns: Flexible cardioid, omni, bidirectional, and stereo pickup patterns allow you to record in ways that would normally require multiple mics, for vocals, instruments and podcasts
  • Onboard audio controls: Headphone volume, pattern selection, instant mute, and mic gain put you in charge of every level of the audio recording and streaming process
  • Ultra-Compact Build: Made for minimalist or smaller setups, it barely takes up any desk space and is discreet on-camera, putting more focus on you. Easy to bring along if you need take your streaming elsewhere.
  • Heavy-Duty Tilting Stand: Sitting on a sturdy support, the mic can be angled to find the perfect sweetspot for your voice. It can also be detached and mounted on a boom arm or mic stand that uses a standard 5,8-inch thread.
  • Connectivity technology: USB
  • Ultra-Precise Supercardioid Pickup Pattern: The Razer Seiren Mini is tuned with a tighter pickup angle, so it can focus on your voice while ensuring that background noises like typing and mouse clicks don’t get picked up.
  • Professional Recording Quality: With its 14mm condenser capsule and flat frequency response, the mic broadcasts your voice with stellar clarity that’s filled with crisp highs and deep lows.
  • Cardioid Pickup Pattern: The mic has a cardioid pickup pattern and an excellent off-axis suppression function, allowing it to capture more natural sound and suppress unwanted background noise.
  • Easy to Install: Without any assembly, only need to attach the pop filter to the mic tripod, then it can be plug and play.
  • Plug and Play: With a USB 2.0 data port, no additional driver is required. TC30 is compatible with Windows, macOS and Linux. Ideal for gaming, podcasting, zoom meeting, streaming, Skype chatting, online conference.
  • Exceptional Anti-vibration: The upgraded concealed shock mount can effectively reduce the noise caused by the mouse, keyboard, radiator or touch of the microphone.
  • What You Get: 1 x condenser microphone, 1 x shock mount, 1 x foldable mic tripod, 1 x pop filter, 1 x USB Type-C to USB-A 2.0 Cable, 1 x manual. Note: It is compatible with Macs, PCs, PS4 and iPad (an adapter is required), not compatible with Phones and Xbox.
  • Multi-Function Smart Knob – Fine-Tune Your On-Stream Sound With Easy-Access Controls For Mic Gain, Mute, Headphone Volume And Blend
  • High-Res Led Metering – Visualize Your Voice Level At A Glance And Adjust Up Or Down For Powerful, Broadcast Quality Sound
  • Four-Capsule Array – Capture Legendary Blue Broadcast Sound With Greater Focus And Clarity Than Ever For Professional Streaming, Podcasting And Youtube
  • Blue Vo!Ce Software: Craft The Perfect Broadcast Vocal Sound And Entertain Your Audience With Enhanced Effects, Advanced Modulation And Hd Audio Samples. Advanced Blue Vo!Ce Is Compatible With Yeti, Yeti Nano And Yeti X. To Access Blue Vo!Ce, Please Download Logitech’S Free G Hub Software.
  • Upgraded Version with More Functions: PROFESSIONAL SOUND CHIPSET: Designed with professional sound chipset, which lets it hold a high-resolution sampling rate. SAMPLING RATE: 192kHz/24bit!!! The smooth, flat frequency response of 30Hz-16kHz--Extended frequency response is excellent for singing, speech and Voice over. ONE-KEY MUTE/UNMUTE AND LED INDICATOR: Green: Working, Red: Mute. POWERFUL HEADPHONE JACK for zero-latency monitoring.
  • PACKAGE LIST AND WARRANTY: Wired Headphones+Condenser Mic + Adjustable Scissor Arm Stand + Metal Shock Mount + Pop Filter + Foam Mic Windscreen + Table Mounting Clamp + USB-B to USB-A Cable+3.5mm to 6.35mm Adapter. MAONO products provide 12-Month warranty to ensure a better shopping experience!
  • 16mm ELECTRET CONDENSER TRANSDUCER & MAGNET RING: With the 16mm electret condenser transducer, the USB microphone can give you a strong bass response. This professional condenser microphone picks up crystal clear audio. The magnet ring, on the USB microphone cable, has a strong anti-interference function, which makes you have a better feel
  • Equipped with Studio Headphones: Proprietary 50mm large-aperture drivers and deep, accurate bass response bring you a treat of your ear. Advanced active noise reduction technology makes you focus on what you want to hear. Foldable, flexible and skin texture design, more durability and comfort! What's more, MAONO provides one more adapter(3.5mm to 6.35mm plug), which you can connect to a mixer, Meet your more needs!
  • PLUG and PLAY: The microphone has USB 2.0 data port which is easy to connect with your computer and Linux operation system, and no need extra driver software, and no need for an external sound card. Double shielding USB cable reduces interference. That makes it easy to sound good on a podcast, livestream, video call, or most any other kind of recording
  • Excellent Sound Quality: The USB microphone has a built-in professional sound chipset, 192kHz/24Bit high sampling rate, and smooth frequency response of 100Hz-18kHz, which captures the crystal clear sound when podcasting or gaming. Cardioid pickup pattern suppresses unwanted background noise and captures clear sound. It is perfect for recording, live streaming, zoom meetings, chatting, voice-over, twitch, YouTube video, etc
  • Easy to Install: With a sturdy and durable arm stand set, you only need to install the arm stand on the table, which easily adjusts the microphone angle and height when podcasting or gaming. The arms stand set and pop filter is made of durable steel, which prolongs the use time of the microphone kit
  • Flexible Mic Gain Knob: The gain button can increase the sensitivity of the pc microphone so that you can adjust the gain and volume easily and quickly. You can increase the gain appropriately when the volume of Youtube live streaming is low or the distance is far away, which will help you increase the volume without sound distortion
  • Plug and Play: No need for the driver software or external devices. The computer microphone can be immediately recognized by Mac or Windows system and begin recording in less than one minute. It is a great choice for beginners to start recording or live streaming. NOTE: Not compatible with Xbox
  • 12-Month Warranty: MAONO provides a 12-month warranty and friendly tech support. What you get: 1x USB condenser microphone, 1x full metal arm stand, 1x shock mount, 1x metal pop filter, 1x table mounting clamp, 1x USB cable and 1x manual
  • Durable Boom Stand: The Q9 microphone has a sturdy all-metal suspension scissor stand that extends vertically up to 27.5"/700mm, giving you an excellent range of motion. Maximum desk thickness: 1.7"/45mm.
  • Great Sound of Fidelity: Equipped with a 16mm large diaphragm, wide frequency response (20Hz to 20KHz) and professional sound chipset, Q9 microphone provides a perfect combination of clarity, warmth, extended dynamic range and high SPL capability. The cardioid condenser capsule enables the Q9 to capture pristine and accurate sound and cancel noise from surroundings, perfect for recording and communicating.
  • Complete Mic Set: Package includes a condenser microphone, metal shock mount, adjustable suspension scissor arm stand, desk mount clamp, pop filter, foam mic cover, 1.8M USB A to B cable and manual. All premium accessories are contained in one package, which makes the TONOR Q9 to be your most secure choice!
  • Plug and Play: With USB A to B cable, TONOR Q9 microphone is easy to connect with both Mac and Windows computer, no need any extra driver software or sound card. It is perfect for podcasting, music/video recording, live streaming, gaming or online chatting. Note: This microphone is compatible with PS4, but not compatible with Xbox.
  • User-friendly Design: With a convenient volume button, TONOR Q9 recording microphone is much easier for you to use. In working status, short press for adjusting mic volume level, 3s long press for turning off the microphone.
  • EXCELLENT SOUND QUALITY: This podcast microphone has a cardioid pickup pattern, allowing it to capture the clear, smooth, crisp sound and suppress unwanted background noise. Supports sample rates up to 192kHz/24bit, Great for presentations, podcasts, Zoom, Skype, Recordings,YouTube, instant messaging, gaming, and streaming on Twitch.
  • ONBOARD AUDIO CONTROLS: Sensitive mic gain and volume knobs allow you to adjust the appropriate volume at will to record sound more comfortably. This gaming microphone's 3.5mm headphone output provides direct, latency-free monitoring. The quick mute functionality is very handy for users, with built-in LED light to indicate the working status.
  • PLUG AND PLAY: Compatible with Mac, PS4/5 and Windows PC computer laptop that has USB-A or USB-C port. No extra driver is required, it also compatible with Android Phone (Type-C Port).
  • WHAT YOU GET: Microphone with Desk Stand x1, USB Cable (5.6ft) x1, Type-C Cable (5.6ft) x1, Pop Filter x1, Conversion Adapter x1, User Manual x1, Quick Guide x1.We provide 24hr Professional Customer Service. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
  • EASY INSTALLATION & VERSATILITY: Without any assembly, you can use this microphone by simply plugging in a USB cable. You can use the included 5/8" male to 3/8" female adapter to install the mic on a standard boom arm. It also comes with a well-fitted pop filter , for no additional cost!
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What to Look For in a best portable podcast microphone?

Some consumers are concerned about ordering best portable podcast microphone. Various aspects should always be explored before making big product choices. Our expertise on best portable podcast microphone will help determine the best possible decision.

Please keep in mind the following points before selecting best portable podcast microphone:

Connections

After you have chosen the mic type you prefer, it is time to think about how you will connect it to your system. There are two options: wireless or wired.
Traditional wired microphones transmit sound signals via a cable. They can be a hindrance to performers' movement, particularly during large productions. A wireless microphone is a good option if you need to be mobile. These wireless microphones use radio waves to transmit signals to the receiver.

Type Of Microphone

The energy of sound waves is captured by microphones, which can then convert it into electricity in various ways. You can either use a condenser microphone or dynamic microphone to accomplish this.

Cost

Anyone who purchases a microphone should consider the cost. The microphones are generally more expensive, however, this is not always the case.
The majority of microphone manufacturers have excellent products. Other makes can be purchased for a more affordable price and offer excellent value.

Response Flatness

Although it might seem that flat responses are the best, a treble lift is sometimes an advantage. This applies especially to vocals. This can cause the PA system to become more sensitive to howling. The signal from speakers often gets in the microphone, creating a hissing sound. Many dynamic microphones have a treble lift, which lends itself to many vocals.

Maximum Sound Pressure Level

This measurement is often expressed as decibels (dBs), and it is the highest volume the microphone can tolerate without distortion.

Frequency Response

The frequency response refers to the range of frequencies that a microphone can detect, usually 20hz-20Khz. Knowing the frequency range is not enough. What you need is the microphone's responsiveness to certain frequencies. Before you choose a microphone, think about the recording you are going to do. A microphone with a higher frequency, such as a dynamic microphone, may be better suited for recording bass, drums, and other musical instruments.

Attenuation Switch

Have you ever wondered what those switches at the back of Rode Videomic are for? Attenuation switches are the switches at the back. Attenuation switches on microphones reduce the output of the mic by a specific amount. This is usually between -10dB and -20dB. The microphone will become four to sixteen times more quiet than usual.

Impedance

This is measured in Ohms (symbol O) and refers to the microphone's ability to receive an audio signal or AC current. Mics with a low impedance (600O and lower) retain better audio quality when used on cables that are longer than 16 feet. High impedance signals that other microphone components may be of lower quality can sometimes indicate a low quality signal.

Polar Pattern/Directionality

Directionality is the way a microphone picks up sounds from its surroundings. One microphone can detect sound in all directions simultaneously. Most other microphones can only pick up one direction at a time. This can be advantageous depending on the circumstances.

FAQs

How Do I Clean My Miniature Microphone Cable From Tape Remains?

Over time, residue from glue and tape can etch the cable making it less able to withstand braking. Organic oil can be used to clean the cable (e.g. Olive oil and lukewarm warm water can be used to clean the cable. Ecotech2 Multidegreaser by Finish Line has been reported to have good results.

What Microphone Is Recommended For Determining The Direction Or Noise Source Location Of Sound?

Multiple free-field microphones, placed in predefined patterns and combined with appropriate software allow spatial transformations of complex sound pressure fields to be projected to map the acoustic energy flows. Because of their general value and matching phase specifications, array microphones make a great choice for large-channel count acoustic testing. Because they allow the user to identify specific microphones quickly and easily, Transducer Electronic Data Sheets (TEDS), are highly recommended.

What Should I Do When My Miniature Microphone Gets Soaked In Water Or Sweat?

A microphone is best if it's not in contact with water. However, sweat can be a problem if the environment is professional. The microphone should be shaken to remove any water. It must then dry, perhaps near a heat source such as a radiator. Never use a hairdryer. After they have been sweat-filled, omni microphones should be rinsed in demineralized waters and dried.

What Is The Noise Floor Of A Microphone?

The cartridge thermal noise specification defines the microphone's noise floor. Important to remember that preamplifier noise can have an impact on the mic and preamplifier combo's noise floor. You can also measure the sound pressure by limiting other components of the measurement chain like power supplies or data acquisition systems.

Which Levels Can The Microphone Handle?

A microphone's dynamic range is the difference between its lowest and highest levels.
It is not just a function the microphone, but the preamplifier that goes with it. A microphone's dynamic range is directly related to its sensitivities.

Does The Size Of A Microphone Impact Its Frequency And Dynamic Range?

It is important to consider the size and sensitivity of your microphone. Microphones of smaller dimensions and higher sensitivity are more capable of measuring high amplitudes or frequencies. However, microphones with a larger diameter or more sensitive can measure higher frequencies and have lower noise floors.

What Is A Polar Plot And How Is It Used?

Polar plots, also known as beam patterns, show an angular dependence on the sound pressure measured by the microphone. A polar plot shows how sound pressure levels are affected by different angles of incidence. The typical angle of incidence is a 180-degree arc, with the microphone in the middle. As you move away from the centre, your pressure amplitude will decrease. The frequency dependence of measured sound pressure is not shown in polar plots. They are only obtained at one frequency. Because the pattern of the beam will vary at different frequencies, it is important to specify the measurement frequency with polar data.

Which Microphone Is Recommended For Low Frequency Measurements?

Low frequency can be referred to as a relative term. The standard 1/2" condenser test microphones and the measurement grade microphones have an -3dB point between 1 Hz and 3 Hz. This is enough for most applications. Some specialty microphones can measure down to 0.1 Hz and exceed this limit.

What Is The Rise Time Of A Microphone?

The resonance frequency and damping factors of second-order systems determine the rise time.

What Is The Minimum Supply Voltage For A Phantom Power Microphone, And How Will The Performance Of The Microphone Change?

Phantom power standards require 48 volts +-4 volt. Low voltages result in a lower maximum sound pressure handling capability. The dynamic range also will be affected. Depending on how the circuits are wired, there may be an increase in noise floor.

Our developers make it reliable for the info by their rich experience. best portable podcast microphone data is also kept up to date on any occasion. You might relax knowing that the information is updated and accurate.

Try reporting any best portable podcast microphone problems or inconsistencies so that we can make your life better. Thanks to your feedback, we'll push for even greater quality levels!


2 ratings

About Dan Simmons

Dan Simmons

Dan Simmons is a writer who loves home theater and HiFi audio. As the editor of TheAudioInsights, he has helped countless people enjoy the best possible sound quality in their homes. He is an audiophile who takes great pleasure in helping others find the perfect audio equipment for their needs. When he's not writing or editing, Dan enjoys listening to music and spending time with his family.