How to test your microphone
- Click "Start mic test" and allow microphone access.
- Pick your microphone from the drop-down if you have more than one.
- Talk at your normal volume and watch the meter and waveform.
- Press "Record 5s", then play the clip back to hear exactly what others hear.
What is a good microphone level?
Aim for peaks between −20 dB and −10 dB while speaking normally. Below −45 dB the other side will struggle to hear you: move closer or raise the input gain. If the meter keeps hitting the red zone near 0 dB, your voice will clip and sound harsh, so lower the gain or move the mic back a little.
The "Dominant frequency" value shows the strongest pitch the mic picks up. Most voices sit between 85 Hz and 255 Hz. A constant reading at 50 Hz or 60 Hz with no one speaking usually points to electrical hum from a cable or power supply.
Microphone not working? Try this
- Browser permission: click the lock icon in the address bar → Microphone → Allow, then reload.
- Windows 10/11: Settings → System → Sound → Input. Select your mic and check the "Input volume". Also open Settings → Privacy & security → Microphone and turn on access for desktop apps and your browser.
- macOS: System Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone → enable your browser. Then System Settings → Sound → Input to choose the device and input level.
- iPhone / iPad: Settings → Safari (or Chrome) → Microphone → Allow.
- Android: long-press the browser icon → App info → Permissions → Microphone → Allow.
- Headsets: check the inline mute switch, and make sure the plug is in the mic (pink) jack or that you're using a 4-pole TRRS connector.
- Bluetooth headsets: some switch to a low-quality "hands-free" mode when the mic is active. That is normal behavior, not a fault.
Tips for clearer sound on calls
- Keep the mic 10–20 cm (4–8 in) from your mouth and slightly off-axis to avoid pops.
- Use "Hear myself" with headphones to monitor background noise in real time.
- Soft furnishings such as curtains, rugs and a sofa reduce echo far more than any software filter.
- Leave echo cancellation and noise suppression on for calls; turn them off only for music recording.