Test your microphone in five steps
A microphone test helps you check whether your browser receives audio from the right input. The most useful check combines a moving input meter with a short recording you can listen to.
- Open the free online microphone test. Select your headset, USB microphone, or built-in input if a device selector is available.
- Click Start Free Microphone Test and allow microphone access when your browser asks. Permission applies to this website; it does not configure other apps.
- Speak at your normal volume for 10 to 15 seconds. Keep your position consistent and watch whether the input meter responds.
- Stop recording, then play the clip through headphones. Listen for clear speech, unwanted background noise, crackling, and distortion.
- Adjust one setting at a time and repeat the same phrase. Download the clip if you want to compare recordings later.
Start With the Right Environment
Close windows and reduce fan or keyboard noise where practical. Check that a headset's physical mute switch is off and that its plug is fully inserted. For a USB microphone, connect it directly to the computer while troubleshooting.
Start around a hand's width from your microphone, then follow its manufacturer's guidance. Place it slightly to the side of your mouth if breath sounds are distracting. Distance, microphone design, and room acoustics affect the result, so compare short recordings before deciding on a position.
What your microphone test results mean
The meter moves and the recording is clear: the selected input is reaching this browser. You should still check the input device in Zoom, Teams, Discord, or your recording app separately.
The meter stays flat: you may have selected another input, muted the microphone, or blocked access. Check browser permissions and your system's microphone settings before buying replacement hardware.
Speech is quiet: move a little closer and increase input gain gradually. Raising volume too far can make background noise more noticeable.
Speech sounds harsh or distorted: lower input gain or speak farther away. If distortion continues at a sensible level, try another cable, USB port, or recording app to narrow down the cause.
The browser meter shows relative input activity. It does not provide a calibrated sound-pressure reading, a professional sound-quality score, or a reliable measurement of end-to-end latency.
Fix microphone permission and device problems
Windows
Open Settings, find Privacy & security > Microphone, and allow microphone access for the browser. In System > Sound > Input, choose the microphone you want to use and check its input volume. Labels can vary between Windows versions.
Mac
In System Settings, check Privacy & Security > Microphone and allow your browser. In Sound > Input, select the intended device. You may need to restart the browser after changing permission.
Android and iPhone
Check both the browser's website permission and the phone's microphone permission. Bluetooth headsets can switch between playback and call modes, which can change recording quality. Disconnect the headset and compare the built-in microphone if the sound is unclear.
If permission was previously blocked, use the site's permission controls beside the browser address bar. Reload the page after updating the setting. Read more microphone troubleshooting answers.
Record, replay, and download a comparison clip
Use the same short sentence and microphone position for each test. Listen at a comfortable playback volume and compare speech clarity rather than simply choosing the loudest clip. Headphones help you hear room echo and prevent speaker feedback during live monitoring.
The tester processes microphone audio in your browser. A recording remains available in the current page until you discard it or leave the page; download a copy before closing the tab if you need it. The download format depends on browser support and is shown on the download control. Learn about recording privacy.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my microphone work here but not in a meeting app?
Each app can use a different input and permission setting. Select the same microphone in your meeting app, check its mute control, and run that app's own audio check.
Do I need to install anything to test my microphone?
No installation is needed for this browser tool. You need a supported browser, a connected microphone, and permission to use it. JavaScript must be enabled for recording and the live meter.
Can this test prove my microphone is faulty?
A failed browser recording alone does not prove a hardware fault. Compare another browser, input port, or device after checking permissions and mute controls. This helps separate browser settings from connection or hardware issues.
Run another microphone test or contact support with your browser, device, and the error you see.