To test your microphone on Windows 10, go to Settings > System > Sound. Under Input, choose your microphone, then speak normally and watch the Test your microphone bar. If the blue bar moves as you talk, your mic is working. To hear yourself, open the Sound Control Panel, go to Recording, open your mic’s Properties, and check Listen to this device on the Listen tab.
Here are all the ways to test a microphone, plus fixes if the bar doesn’t move.
Method 1: Test your microphone in Settings
- Press Windows key + I and click System > Sound.
- Under Input, pick your microphone from Choose your input device.
- Speak and watch the Test your microphone bar.
For a more detailed check, click Device properties > Additional device properties, or click Troubleshoot to let Windows look for problems.
Method 2: Listen to your microphone
- Right-click the speaker icon on the taskbar and choose Sounds (or Open Sound settings > Sound Control Panel).
- Click the Recording tab.
- Speak and watch the green bars next to your microphone.
- Double-click the microphone, open the Listen tab, and check Listen to this device. Click Apply to hear yourself through your speakers or headphones.
- Uncheck it when you’re done to avoid echo.
Method 3: Record a test with Voice Recorder
Open the Voice Recorder app (called Sound Recorder in newer versions) from the Start menu, click the record button, speak for a few seconds, then play it back. This is the best way to hear how you actually sound.
Microphone not working? Try these fixes
- Allow microphone access: Go to Settings > Privacy > Microphone. Turn on Allow apps to access your microphone and Allow desktop apps to access your microphone.
- Check the right device is selected in Sound settings, especially with headsets and webcams.
- Check the volume: In the Sound Control Panel, open the mic’s Properties > Levels and raise the level. Make sure it isn’t muted.
- Check the hardware: Many headsets have a mute switch. Try another USB port or plug a 3.5 mm mic into the correct pink jack.
- Update or reinstall the driver in Device Manager > Audio inputs and outputs.
Frequently asked questions
How do I test my mic for Zoom or Teams?
Both apps have a test option in their audio settings. Zoom’s Test Mic and Teams’ Make a test call check your microphone in the app itself.
Why does the bar move but people can’t hear me?
The app may be using a different microphone. Check the app’s audio settings and choose the same device.
How do I set a default microphone?
In the Sound Control Panel’s Recording tab, right-click the mic and choose Set as Default Device.
Does this work in Windows 11?
Yes. In Windows 11, go to Settings > System > Sound, click your input device, and use Start test.
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.