To hear yourself through your microphone on Windows 10, open the classic Sound control panel, go to the Recording tab, open your microphone’s Properties, and on the Listen tab check Listen to this device. Choose your headphones under Playback through this device and click Apply. Use headphones, not speakers, or you’ll get loud feedback.
Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025. Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) now run until October 12, 2027. The same steps work on Windows 11.
Quick Answer
Windows + R > mmsys.cpl > Recording > mic > Properties > Listen > check Listen to this device > Apply.
Turn On Listen to This Device
- Put on headphones.
- Press Windows + R, type mmsys.cpl, and press Enter. (Or Settings > System > Sound > Sound Control Panel.)
- Click the Recording tab, select your microphone, and click Properties.
- Open the Listen tab and check Listen to this device.
- Pick your headphones under Playback through this device and click Apply.
Uncheck the box when you’re done.
Why You Might Want It
| Use | Tip |
|---|---|
| Testing a new mic | Compare levels on the Levels tab |
| Hearing your voice on calls or streams | Many headsets and apps offer “sidetone” with less delay |
| Checking background noise | Adjust noise suppression in your call app |
For output devices, see how to set up speakers.
Troubleshooting
- Echo or delay: Some delay is normal with this method. Use your headset’s sidetone feature if available.
- Loud squeal: Speakers are feeding back into the mic. Use headphones.
- No sound: Check mic privacy settings (Settings > Privacy > Microphone) and that the mic isn’t muted on the Levels tab.
- Other sound problems: See fixing sound on Windows 10.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will others hear the playback?
No. It only plays on your chosen output device.
Does it affect recordings?
No. It doesn’t change what the mic records.
Summary
- Open mmsys.cpl > Recording.
- Mic Properties > Listen.
- Check Listen to this device and pick headphones.
- Uncheck it when done.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.