How do I know if my microphone is broken?

Test it on another device. If it doesn't register anywhere — with permissions allowed and the right input selected — the microphone or its cable is likely faulty.

Why does my mic work in one app but not another?

Each app picks its own input device and needs its own permission. Check that app's audio settings and the operating system's privacy list for it.

Why do people say I sound robotic or keep cutting out?

Usually heavy noise suppression, a weak Bluetooth connection or a slow network. Record a clip in the mic test — if it sounds clean there, the problem is the connection, not the mic.

Microphone not working? How to test and fix it

Most microphone problems come down to four things: permissions, the wrong input device, a mute somewhere along the way, or the input level. Test first so you know which one you're dealing with.

Open Mic Test

1. Test the microphone

Open the mic test and press Start. If the level meter moves when you speak, the microphone works and the problem is in the app you're using — skip to step 5. If the meter doesn't move, or the page can't access the mic, work through the steps below.

2. Allow microphone access in the browser

Chrome and Edge: click the icon to the left of the address bar → Site settings → Microphone → Allow, then reload.
Safari on Mac: Safari → Settings → Websites → Microphone, and set the site to Allow.
Firefox: click the permissions icon in the address bar, clear the blocked microphone permission, then reload.
Close other tabs that might be using the microphone.

3. Check the operating system's privacy settings

Windows 11: Settings → Privacy & security → Microphone. Turn on Microphone access, Let apps access your microphone, and Let desktop apps access your microphone.
Windows 10: Settings → Privacy → Microphone, with the same switches.
macOS: System Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone. Turn on your browser or call app, then restart it.
iPhone and iPad: Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone, and enable the app.

4. Pick the right input and level

Windows: Settings → System → Sound → Input. Choose your microphone, speak, and raise the input volume if the bar barely moves.
macOS: System Settings → Sound → Input. Select the device and raise the input volume.
Headsets: check the inline mute switch on the cable, and that a single 3.5 mm plug is in a port that supports a headset mic.
Bluetooth: many headsets switch to a lower-quality hands-free mode while the mic is on. Try a wired or USB mic if your voice sounds muffled.

5. Fix it inside the call app

Zoom: Settings → Audio → Microphone — select the right device and use Test Mic.
Microsoft Teams: Settings → Devices → Microphone.
Google Meet: More options (⋮) → Settings → Audio → Microphone.
Discord: User Settings → Voice & Video → Input Device, and check Input Sensitivity.
Make sure you aren't muted in the app itself, and that 'Same as system' isn't pointing at a different device.

Tools used in this guide

Mic TestCheck your microphone with a live level meter Speaker TestCheck left/right channels, stereo and bass Webcam TestCheck your camera, resolution and frame rate