MK1,
The TravelMike has a shorter range as far as the distance you can be from the microphone element. The TravelMike does not have as much noise cancellation as the Philips SpeechMike LFH-3500
http://www.knowbrainer.com/NewStore/pc/viewPrd.asp?idproduct=450&idcategory=67 but if you were in a noisy situation you could remove the TravelMikes included mini-gooseneck microphone from the specialized sound card and plug in a noise cancelling headset microphone. The TravelMike does not have to be held or worn making it perfect for tablet or laptop use and again a headset can be added for desktop use. In the same tablet laptop situation the SpeechMike has to be carried but in a stationary situation it can be used as a desktop microphone with our included stand so you don?t have to wear it or hold it. In the end they are both great tools for dictation with different strengths and weakness. I don't recommend using a usb splitter, hub or a USB port on a keyboard, monitor or the front/side of a desktop computer.
When it comes to the return policy we offer a 30 day customer satisfaction guarantee on everything we sell whether it?s a six foot shielded cable or a 10 pack of Dragon Medical. We know that depending on schedules and workload sometimes it may take a few weeks just to get started. We also bundle a 35 page manual for Dragon Medical and include phone, email and virtual onsite support.