Is your microphone not working during calls, recordings, or online meetings? You’re not alone. Audio issues are one of the most common tech problems
Simple step-by-step solutions to get your mic working again on Windows, macOS, and mobile devices.
1. Basic Checks Before Troubleshooting
Before diving into settings, do these quick checks:
- Ensure your mic is properly plugged in
- Check if the mic power switch is ON (if it has one)
- Try a different USB port or cable
- Test the microphone on another device (phone/PC)
- Disconnect Bluetooth devices if using a wired mic
- Check if another app is using your mic
If your mic works on another device → software issue
If it doesn’t work anywhere → hardware issue
Read also: Common Microphone Problems
2. Fix Microphone Not Working on Windows
Step 1: Select the Correct Microphone
- Click Start > Settings > System > Sound
- Under Input, choose your mic
Step 2: Check Recording Settings
- Right-click the Sound icon > Sound settings > Recording
- Right-click your mic → Enable & Set as Default
- Increase mic level from the Levels tab
Step 3: Allow App Permissions
- Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone
- Turn on Microphone Access
- Allow access for apps like Zoom, Chrome, etc.
Step 4: Update or Reinstall Drivers
- Press Win + X > Device Manager
- Sound, video and game controllers → find your mic
- Right-click → Update / Uninstall driver
- Restart PC
3. Fix Microphone Not Working on macOS
Step 1: Select Microphone
- Apple Menu → System Settings > Sound
- Select the microphone under Input and increase the volume
Step 2: Allow App Access
- System Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone
- Enable access for required apps
Step 3: Reset Audio System (Quick Fix)
Open Terminal and run:
sudo killall coreaudiod4. Microphone Not Working on Phone?
For Android:
- Settings > Apps & Permissions > Microphone
- Allow mic access for apps
- Restart phone
For iPhone:
- Settings > Privacy > Microphone
- Enable toggle for apps
5. Fix Microphone in Browsers (Zoom/Meet/Teams)
- Click website lock icon near URL
- Go to Permissions > Microphone > Allow
- Restart browser tab
- Choose mic inside meeting settings
For Chrome settings:
- Go to: chrome://settings/content/microphone
- Choose default mic & remove block entries
🔧 6. Advanced Fixes
If still broken:
- Disable virtual audio apps (VB Cable, Voicemeeter)
- Change sample rate (Windows > Sound > Advanced tab)
- Update system OS
- Reset browser settings
- Try a USB adapter for 3.5mm headsets
Conclusion
Fixing a non-working microphone is usually just about:
✔ Correct input device
✔ Giving permission to apps
✔ Updating settings or drivers
Follow these steps and your microphone should be back to normal!
FAQ
Why is my microphone not working?
Your microphone may not work due to incorrect audio settings, disabled permissions, outdated drivers, faulty cables, or another app using the mic. Fix it by checking input device settings, enabling mic access, and updating audio drivers.
How do I enable my microphone in Windows 10/11?
Go to:
Settings → System → Sound → Input
Select your microphone and increase the volume. Also go to:
Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone
Enable access and allow apps to use the microphone.
Why is my mic not working on Zoom or Google Meet?
Your browser/app may not have microphone permission.
Check permissions and choose the correct input device inside meeting settings. Also close apps like Discord or Skype that might already be using the mic.
My mic works in one app but not another — why?
Some apps block microphone access if another app is using it.
Close other voice apps (Zoom, Discord, Teams, Skype) and grant mic permission to the app you’re using.
How do I reset microphone settings?
Windows: Reset Audio → Sound > Advanced > Reset app sound
Mac: Restart coreaudio service
Mobile: Reset app permissions & restart phone