Microphone not working

Quick checks

1. Check the mute key. Many laptops have a microphone-mute key (often F4, with a light when muted). Headsets often have a mute switch on the cable or ear cup.
2. Check the app isn't muted in the call or recording app.

Check Windows privacy settings

Open Settings > Privacy & security > Microphone and turn on:

• Microphone access
• Let apps access your microphone
• Let desktop apps access your microphone (needed for Teams, Zoom and most programs)

Choose and test the right microphone

1. Open Settings > System > Sound.
2. Under Input, choose your microphone: Microphone Array for the built-in mic, or your headset.
3. Select it to see its properties, set Input volume to between 70 and 100, and select Start test.

Turn on a disabled microphone

1. In Settings > System > Sound, select More sound settings, then the Recording tab.
2. Right-click an empty area and tick Show Disabled Devices.
3. Right-click the microphone and select Enable, then Set as Default Device.

Still not working?

• Run Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Recording Audio.
• Reinstall the audio driver (see article 41).