Movo UM300 Microphone Review

Whether for podcasting, video conferencing, game streaming, or starting a YouTube channel, a good microphone is a must-have. The Movo UM300 microphone is a compact, affordable mic that doesn’t compromise on audio quality. It works with a variety of operating systems (OSes), features broadcast audio quality, and includes multiple modes for versatile recording. If you need a multi-faceted mic that can handle virtually any audio recording needs, the UM300 USB condenser microphone is a great choice. Learn this mini mic punches well above its weight class in our hands-on Movo UM300 review!

What is the Movo UM300 – Movo UM300 Microphone Overview

The Movo UM300 is small USB microphone. Capable of capturing broadcast-caliber audio, its three-capsule array recodes in up to 48kHz/24-bit resolution with a frequency response between 20Hz and 20kHz. It’s cross-platform compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android. Adjustable settings let you choose between cardioid and omnidirectional polar patterns. Therefore, you can pick a recording mode that suits your needs.

In the box, you’ll find the Movo UM300 mic, a USB-C to USB Type-A cable, and USB Type-C to USB Type-C cable. An all-in-one dial controls the headphone volume, gain, and offers one-touch muting. In addition to a USB-C jack, you’ll find a 3.5mm headphone port. There’s an included aluminum stand, or you can use the threaded 5/8-inch mount to attach the UM300 to a headphone stand.

Movo UM300 Specs

• Broadcast quality 48kHz/24-bit resolution recording capabilities
• 20Hz-20kHz frequency response
• Cross-platform compatible: Works with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android
• Dual polar patterns: Cardioid and omnidirectional
• Onboard controls: Shared headphone volume/gain/mute button, polar pattern switcher
• Inputs/outputs: USB-C jack, headphone out port
• Mounting options: 5/8-inch threaded mount, aluminum stand
• Built-in windscreen
• Type: USB condenser mic

Movo UM300 Review Verdict

The Movo UM300 is an outstanding microphone that delivers big results in a small package. It’s well constructed with an aluminum stand. A built-in windscreen reduces background noises likes pops or hisses. As a condenser mic, the UM300 provides two recording modes: cardioid and omnidirectional.  The cardioid pickup pattern is ideal for directional recording such as podcasting, game streaming, recording YouTube videos, or capturing vocals. On the other hand, the omnidirectional polar pattern lets you record interviews or group podcasting sessions. As such, the UM300 is a versatile mic that works well in a variety of situations.

I tested the UM300 and recorded several YouTube videos as well as podcasts. Audio recording quality was magnificent. Cross-platform support allowed me to use the UM300 with my Windows desktop, Linux laptop, Chromebook, and even Android phone. While I’ve been using the Movo VXR10-Pro with my phone or DSLR, it’s nice to have another option – the UM300 worked flawlessly with my Samsung Galaxy S9+ using its USB-C to USB-C cable.

The compact form factor is attractive and unobtrusive on a desk. Additionally, it’s fairly lightweight and portable. Movo strikes a good balance of minimalist and user-friendly design. While there’s a single control knob, it does triple duty serving as gain control, headphone volume adjustment, and a mute button. Therefore, you’ve got a physical button to change settings on-the-fly while recording.

Audio quality was absolutely fantastic. Even before post-processing, I was impressed by the fidelity of recordings. Audio pickup is excellent even with low gain and vocals sound natural. Unfortunately, it doesn’t have the range of polar patterns as found on some mics such as my Blue Yeti. And the gain, even at a low level, has solid pickup which is prefect for maintaining good vocal clarity but can pickup unwanted background noises easily. Nevertheless, the Movo UM300 is an outstanding microphone that’s extremely affordable and challenges mics even two- or three-times its price.

Movo UM300 Design and Build Quality

Movo’s UM300 mic is well-constructed. It’s comprised mostly of high-quality aluminum for a lightweight yet sturdy design. At just 8.39 x 5.39 x 5.28 inches and 2.16 pounds, the UM300 is pretty portable. On the front of the mic, you’ll find a polar pickup pattern selector button that lets you choose between its cardioid and omnidirectional settings. There’s also an all-in-one knob that offers gain control, headphone jack volume adjustment, and muting functionality. It glows blue while in headphone mode, red while muted, and purple when controlling the gain.

On the bottom of the unit, there’s a 3.5mm headphone jack alongside a USB-C port for interfacing with devices such as PCs, laptops, phones, and tablets. You’ll also find 5/8-inch threaded mount for attaching the UM300 to a microphone stand. The UM300 does come with an aluminum stand which works well at a desk or table.

Recording Quality Using the Movo UM300

Audio recording quality with the Movo UM300 is fantastic. My voice sounded natural and crystal clear without having to crank up the gain. I did notice the occasional unwanted noise such as my chair creaking which was picked up by the UM300’s powerful gain, although it wasn’t too frequent or noticeable. The built-in windscreen works wonders in reducing ambient noises. Thanks to its superb recording quality, the UM300 minimizes required post-recording audio edits.

Movo UM300 Ease of Use

Boasting plug-and-play compatibility, the UM300 functions flawlessly with almost any device you throw at it. I was able to pair the UM300 with my laptop, desktop, Chromebook, Android phone, and tablet. The all-in-one knob which serves as a shared gain/headphone volume adjustment and mute button is simple enough: long-press the button for around five seconds to turn the LED ring behind the knob purple which indicates that it’s in gain control mode. Press it once to mute the mic which turns the LED ring red. In headphone volume control mode, the LED ring glows blue.

Should You Buy the Movo UM300 Microphone?

If you’re in the market for a good, cheap USB condenser mic that won’t break the bank but doesn’t compromise on audio recording quality, the Movo UM300 is an exceptional choice. Particularly considering its low price tag, I was blown away by its sound quality. Recordings about on par with my Movo UM700 or Blue Yeti. The compact form factor works well in a variety of situations including portable podcasting. For on-the-go recording, its USB Type-C jack and plug-and-play Android support let you connect the UM300 to phones and tablets.

The dual polar pickup patterns offer the ability to capture solo voiceovers and group podcasts or interviews alike. You may also consider Movo’s own UM700. It’s larger, somewhat pricier though still affordable, and great for a variety of different recording situations.

Blue’s Yeti is another alternative to the UM300. It’s larger and pricier, but packs a slew of different polar pattern settings. Nevertheless, the UM300 offers best-in-class performance for its size and price to help you get started podcasting, YouTubing, or game streaming on the cheap.

Movo UM300 Review – Final Thoughts

Overall, the Movo UM300 is a jack of all trades microphone. For an affordable low price, you can snag a well-constructed, small, portable mic that delivers big results. Recording quality rivals that of more expensive microphones and premium features including a built-in windscreen benefit audio recordings. It’s user-friendly and boasts plug-and-play compatibility with several different OSes. Whether you’re a beginner starting a podcast or YouTube channel or seasoned Twitch gaming live-streamer, the UM300 is bound to satisfy your needs.