Microphone not working? How to fix it

Step 1: Test the mic on its own

Open the microphone test, allow access and speak. This checks the mic without any call app in the way.

• The level moves: the mic works, so the problem is in the app. Go to Step 4.
• The level stays flat: work through Steps 2 and 3.
• Your browser says access was blocked: click the icon in the address bar and allow the microphone for this site.

Places sound can get lost, checked in order below

5

Windows 11 privacy switches that must be on

3

Mac privacy switch per app, including your browser

1

Step 2: Pick the right input

Computers often have several inputs, such as a built-in mic, a headset and a webcam mic, and the wrong one may be selected.

• Windows 11: open Settings > System > Sound, choose your mic under Input, and check its Input volume isn't at zero.
• Mac: open System Settings > Sound, click Input, select your mic and check the input level moves when you speak.

Also check for a mute switch on the headset or its cable, and push the plug fully in.

Step 3: Check privacy permissions

Both Windows and macOS can block apps from the microphone.

• Windows 11: open Settings > Privacy & security > Microphone. Turn on Microphone access, Let apps access your microphone, and Let desktop apps access your microphone.
• Mac: open System Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone and switch on the app you're using, including your browser.

Restart the app after changing a permission.

Step 4: Check the app's audio settings

If the mic works in the test but not in a call, the app is using a different input or cutting your voice out.

• Discord: User Settings > Voice & Video. Set Input Device and lower Input Sensitivity. Check with the Discord mic test.
• Zoom: Settings > Audio. Pick your mic under Microphone. Check with the Zoom mic test.
• Any app: make sure you aren't muted in the call itself.

Step 5: Rule out the hardware

On Windows, open Device Manager, expand Audio inputs and outputs, and check the mic is listed without a warning icon. If it has one, right-click it and update or reinstall the driver.

Finally, try the mic on another device, and another mic on this one. If the mic fails everywhere, it's faulty. If every mic fails on this computer, the port or audio driver is the problem.