How many times has this happened to you? You’re on a Zoom call and launch into a fantastic speech, only to look upon a sea of confused, concerned, and amused faces. “Um, I think there’s something wrong with your mic.” “Yeah, we can’t hear you.” “Aren’t you our Senior Technology Editor?” Before you resign from the call in utter embarrassment, here’s where to look to get your mic back on track.
One of the most common issues with microphone settings is that your video call app’s input settings don’t match your system settings. Your AirPods might be connected to your computer, but Zoom might be trying to access a different microphone source.
Most apps will keep their input options in a settings gear in the video call window. Click the settings option, look for something along the line of “Microphone” or “Input,” and choose the microphone source you’re currently using.
On the flip side, your system’s input settings might be wrong. To check on Windows, head to Start > Settings > System > Sound, then Input > Choose your input device. Make sure the microphone you want to use is selected. On Mac, head to System Preferences > Sound > Input, and make sure that your microphone is selected.
Apps like Zoom can only use your microphone if they have permission. If you accidentally denied those permissions in the past, no one’s going to hear you on your call.
On Windows, head to Start > Settings > Privacy > Microphone, then make sure that the toggle next to your video call app is enabled. On Mac, head to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy > Microphone, then make sure the checkmark next to your video call app is blue.
Bluetooth headphones and earbuds are common, but sometimes you might want to use your computer’s built-in mic and speakers. That might not happen if your Bluetooth device is still silently connected to your computer; if your AirPods are connected, but stuck in your pocket, your team on the other end is going to hear a whole lot of nothing during your call.
Make sure you disconnect any Bluetooth microphones from your computer if you’re not using them. If it has a power button, you can simply use that to turn it off. To disconnect an active device from Windows, head to Start > Settings > Bluetooth & other devices, then click the active device and choose “Disconnect.”
To disconnect an active device from Mac, you can simply go to your Bluetooth settings from the menu bar or Control Center and click the blue icon next to the device.
If you use wired headphones or earbuds, it’s possible your connection is loose. Unplug and replug the wire securely into your headphone jack to be sure. If the connection doesn’t feel snug, the port might be blocked by debris. Take a small brush and carefully dab away at the port; you don’t want to damage any components while you clean.
If people on the other end can hear a little of what you’re saying, but it sounds muffled, you might have yourself a dirty microphone. If there’s any dirt and debris covering the grill, it’s going to interference with the input. Depending on the type of microphone, you can take a soft brush or microfiber cloth to the grill to gently shake away anything clogging the sound.
You can actually control how sensitive your microphone is; the more sensitive it is, the louder you’re going to sound talking into it. If your input levels are too low, however, those on your video call might not be able to hear you.
To check on Mac, head to System Preferences > Sound > Input. Move the slider next to Input volume to the right, until you see the Input level meter go up high enough. You don’t want it going all the way to the top when speaking normally.
On Windows, head to Start > Settings > Sound > Input, then Device properties. Here, make sure your Volume is up high enough. You can test your microphone’s input levels on the previous settings page.
If your microphone is still giving you issues, it might be your microphone’s driver at fault. To check, search for Device Manager, then expand the Sound, video and game controllers item. Now, locate and right-click on your microphone or device, and choose Update driver. Choose Search automatically for updated driver software, and let Windows search. If there is an update, you can install it here.
If you can’t figure out what’s wrong with your mic yourself, you can let Windows take a look for you. Head back to Start > Settings > Sound > Input, then click Troubleshoot. Alternatively, head to Start > Settings > Update & Security, then click Troubleshoot from the options on the left. Scroll down and click on Recording Audio, then click Run the troubleshooter. If any issues do arise, follow Windows’ suggestions.
I never would have known about this bug if it didn’t happen to me. I’m not sure how widespread it even is, but it’s real: Out of nowhere, your Mac’s mic stops working. None of the tips on this list will help you, it will just be broken, and you will be forced to use an external Bluetooth mic.
...that is, until you figure out that by keeping the Dictation tab open in System Preferences > Keyboard, your mic will start working again. You need to keep this settings page open every time you want to your microphone, but hey, it works. I’m not sure if there’s a fix for this bug; perhaps restoring my MacBook Pro to factory settings would do the trick. But, until then, it’s the Dictation page for my video calls.
Covering tech news, how-to guides, explainers, and more.
Each year towards the end of November, the nation gathers together to give thanks for one of life’s greatest gifts: dogs. And despite the pandemic, to
As we finish up the unforgettable year that is 2020, you’re going to see everyone start reminiscing about the various geeky distractions they enjoyed
Samsung announced recently that users of its flagship phone, the Galaxy S21 Ultra, will get to add a stylus. Galaxy fans rejoiced at the thought of us
Windows 10’s News and Features feed for your taskbar is rolling out now as part of the operating system’s KB5001391 system update. Like Microsoft’s Ne
If your iPhone or iPad has been running slower than normal, all it might need is a clearing the device’s browser cache for a quick performance boost.
Google Chrome version 93 has just launched for both desktop and Android. These monthly updates can bring a mixed bag of new features, tweaks, and chan
The Reminders app on the iPhone is a simple, unassuming app for managing your to-do list, but once you start using it, you’ll realize just how powerfu
Apple devices tend to retain their value, even after a brand new model is announced. So if you want to resell an iPhone or iPad, or trade in your olde
We are a comprehensive and trusted information platform dedicated to delivering high-quality content across a wide range of topics, including society, technology, business, health, culture, and entertainment.
From breaking news to in-depth reports, we adhere to the principles of accuracy and diverse perspectives, helping readers find clarity and reliability in today’s fast-paced information landscape.
Our goal is to be a dependable source of knowledge for every reader—making information not only accessible but truly trustworthy. Looking ahead, we will continue to enhance our content and services, connecting the world and delivering value.
