Current testing methodology is v1.2
January 31, 2009
$29.99
29/GOMIC
8 oz
6 x 1 x 5 in
I started streaming games when the pandemic hit and back then, I was looking for an affordable mic with excellent sound quality.
That’s when I came across the Samson Go and since it’s from a well-known company, I pulled the trigger and bought one.
It’s a compact condenser microphone that’s affordable without compromising quality. There are some hiccups, but it hasn’t failed me yet.
So today, I’ll share my full review of the Samson Go condenser microphone. I’ll go over the pros, cons, and what I wanted to see on the next version in case Samson decides to make another one.
Let’s do it.
Samson Go Microphone
Compact and portable microphone with great build and sound quality.
TL:DR;
The Samson Go condenser microphone came out years ago yet it can still compete against the latest offerings at this price point. The sound quality is solid and crisp but that’s not even its main selling point.
It has a compact size and built-in clip that make it perfect on the go. Just clip it on your laptop or desk and you have an excellent sound setup for voice conferences. It even has a screw mount for tripods and microphone stands.
The main problem I encountered is the gain. This microphone would be better with a gain knob, even if it’s just a simple slider to adjust it higher and lower.
It might be nitpicking but I also wonder why Samson hasn’t updated this microphone with a USB-C version. Mine came with the old micro-USB cable and a simple upgrade for this would make it a strong contender in 2023.
The Specs
- Type: Condenser microphone
- Connection: Wired micro USB
- Frequency Response (Cardioid): 80Hz – 18kHz
- Frequency Response (Omni): 20Hz – 20kHz
- Audio Monitoring: 3.5mm headphone output
- Compatibility: PC and Mac
- Clip: With built-in clip
- Mounting options: Laptop Monitor, Desktop, Microphone Mount
What’s in the Box?
- Samson Go microphone
- Carrying pouch
- Micro USB cable
Stuff I like
- Two input patterns: cardioid and omnidirectional
- Excellent sound quality for its price
- Affordable
- Compact and lightweight
- Easy to setup
Stuff I like less
- Micro USB cable
- Outdated Design
- Lack of gain control
Where to get it
Comparable products to consider
A premium option, the Tonor Orca 001 USB Microphone is aimed at gamers but also great for video conferencing and podcasting.
Audio Quality
The Samson Go microphone has an acceptable audio quality for its price. My voice comes out clear and there are no distortions at all.
Background noise is present at times but at a level that’s not too distracting.
For instance, I can hear my AC or my keyboard yet not to the point where my colleagues would ask me to mute my microphone.
There are three modes to choose from and all modes meet my expectations.
I use cardioid mode the most since I use the Samson Go for meetings and voice support at work. The audio quality in this mode isn’t the best since it is a budget microphone.
It picks up my voice clearly during calls and meetings but it also picks up other sounds behind me. Sometimes, people walking behind me can be heard by my colleagues and I had to explain that it was my mic.
On the other hand, the -10B setting is better when it comes to audio isolation. It can reduce ambient noise while focusing on your voice, although you need to get closer to the microphone so it can pick up your voice more efficiently.
The Samson Go isn’t better than other condenser microphones, such as the Audio Technica AT2020. However, for a budget microphone, it doesn’t disappoint.
Performance
The performance of the Samson Go mic is great. It’s way better than other microphones at this price point.
It’s also better than the usual built-in microphones from headphones under $50.
Using this microphone is a breeze – I just have to plug it into my computer and it’s ready to go. There’s no need for XLR input and other extra cables.
However, in my experience, this microphone worked best with Nvidia Broadcast, which is an AI-powered noise removal software.
Using Nvidia Broadcast eliminated ambient noise such as the air conditioning system in my room whenever I record audio.
If you don’t have noise removal software, then don’t worry as the microphone can still give you rich and crispy vocals. You can expect a little bit of ambient noise but if you use the cardioid setting, then the noise wouldn’t be too distracting.
Lastly, the Samson Go performs better with a pop filter or wind filter, which it doesn’t come with so that’s an added cost.
Design and Durability
Let’s start with the design – the Samson Go has a lovely and well-thought-out design.
On the front, you have a small Samson Logo. On the right, you have a 3.5mm headphone jack for audio monitoring. Beside that is the mini USB power cable.
The left side houses the mode switch that lets you choose between cardioid, omnidirectional, or -10 settings. The lower left is where the tiny ball joint is found and it’s connected to the clip.
This microphone looks like a regular condenser microphone that has been shot with a shrink ray. It’s small but reminiscent of the classic silver microphones.
I actually like its look.
I love the size and weight of the Samson Go as it’s easy to carry. It even comes with a carrying pouch (though I already lost mine). I can toss it in my bag and carry it around whenever I work in a cafe.
Durability-wise, I can say that it’s a tough microphone. As mentioned, I don’t have the carrying pouch anymore but it has survived in my bag alongside my other equipment which tells you how sturdy it is.
The clip serves as a stand for the mic so you can prop it up. You can also use it to clip the mic on top of a laptop or monitor. Additionally, it has a microphone thread so you can attach it to microphone holders.
The clip protects the microphone once it’s tucked inside. It’s like a half-cover for cameras. It doesn’t cover a lot but it works.
There’s one problem with the clip stand though. It falls whenever I use a heavy mini USB cable.
The ball head is attached to the right side of the clip so the center of gravity of the microphone is on the right as well. Attach a cable and it falls unless I use the cable to help it stay up.
Other than that, the design and durability is top-notch. Having it small enough to fit in my hands is just the icing on the cake.
Is The Samson Go Microphone Worth It?
Definitely!
There are a lot of microphone options out there but the Samson Go is still worth it even in 2023.
With an impressive frequency range and excellent audio quality, it’s a great option for people who are always on the go.
It’s not the best choice for professional recording but it will work as a backup microphone and it will even work as a main microphone for streamers and aspiring podcasters.
Final Thoughts
The Samson Go microphone is a top-notch option for someone who needs a portable and high-quality mic that won’t break the bank.
It’s plug-and-play and it works with a wide range of recording software.
This microphone may not be that versatile (you cannot use it on cameras), but it’s still a solid choice for vloggers, musicians, and podcasters.
Just manage your expectations considering its price and you’re good to go.
Aim is a tech and gaming content writer who loves playing Apex Legends, Valorant, and Dota 2. He also plays casual games such as Animal Crossing: New Horizons and Pokemon titles on his Nintendo Switch too. He also builds gaming computers and does tech troubleshooting on the side.
This post was last updated on 2025-02-06 / Some images from Amazon Product API & some links may be affiliate links which may earn us a commission from purchases.