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JLab’s New Affordable USB-C Talk Series Microphones Start at $50

Three microphones side by side.
Jlab

If you’re in the market for a new USB microphone, you’ve probably seen options starting at $100 and going up from there. When you can find more affordable options, they often give up the best features you might want. JLab thinks it’s threaded the needed with a new set of microphones that are affordable yet still powerful.

The first thing you should know about JLab’s microphones is they all use braided USB-C cords. That’s a step up you won’t find even on some well-known brands (we’re looking at you Blue). All three support Mac and Windows out of the box, with no extra drivers needed. But how you much you spend from there depends on what you need.

Take the Talk Go With You

As the name suggests, the Talk Go is a portable microphone you toss in your bag. For $49 it’ll get the job done when you’re traveling without breaking the bank. It’s compact enough to fit in a hefty bag, though don’t expect to slide it in a tablet sleeve.

JLab says the Talk Go works best for web-based audio calls or streaming, and podcasting, thanks to its two condensers and Cardioid and omni options. But you’ll miss out on other recording capabilities like stereo and bi-directional, so don’t plan on making any studio grade web-series. This one’s good for the interview and quick podcast when you’re on the go.

An affordable portable mic

JLab Talk Go USB Microphone | USB-C Output | Cardioid or Omnidirectional | 96k Sample Rate | 20Hz - 20kHz Frequency Response | Volume Control and Quick Mute | Plug and Play

The Talk Go doesn't do much and doesn't cost much. It's your on the go microphone when you just need to get the job done.

Get Into Game Streaming with the JLab Talk

If you want something nicer than a portable mic, but you’re not ready for full-on professional, JLab’s middle of the road $99 Talk microphone is for you. It steps up to three condensers, Cardioid and omni, stereo and bi-directional, and a longer braided USB-C cable. Like the Talk Go, its sample rate tops out at 96k.

JLab says the Talk is intended for game streaming, podcasting, and interview-style recordings.

Middle of the road

Go Professional with the Talk Pro

Finally, if you’re willing to spend extra and want the best sound, look to the $150 JLab Talk Pro. Here you’ll fine three conensers, Cardioid and omni, stereo and bi-directional, and a longer braided USB-C cable, and a much higher sampling rate than the other microphones at 192k.

You’ll use the Talk Pro for calls, podcasting, streaming and professional level vocal recording, like voice acting.

For professionals

JLab Talk Pro USB Microphone | USB-C Output | Cardioid, Omnidirectional, Stereo, Bidirectional | 192k Sample Rate | 20Hz-20kHz Frequency Response | Volume, Gain Control, Quick Mute | Plug & Play

If you're ready to go pro, then get the Talk Pro. It uses a much higher sampling rate to the get the best vocals, perfect for voice actors and professional podcasters.

You can grab all three on Amazon now.

Josh Hendrickson Josh Hendrickson
Josh Hendrickson is the Editor in Chief of Review Geek and is responsible for the site's content direction. He has worked in IT for nearly a decade, including four years spent repairing and servicing computers for Microsoft. He’s also a smart home enthusiast who built his own smart mirror with just a frame, some electronics, a Raspberry Pi, and open-source code. Read Full Bio »