How to use the microphone test
1. Click "Start microphone test" and allow access when the browser asks.
2. If you have more than one microphone (the laptop one and a headset, for example), pick the one to test from the list.
3. Speak normally during the 10-second recording, like on a call. The bar and the chart show your voice level, and at the end the test gives a verdict.
4. Click "Play recording" to hear exactly how other people hear you. Click the chart to jump to any part.
What the dBFS numbers mean
Levels are shown in dBFS (decibels relative to digital full scale). 0 dBFS is the ceiling: anything above it gets cut off and distorts, which is called clipping. That is why the values are negative, and the closer to zero, the louder.
As a reference, a voice on a call usually sits between -30 and -12 dBFS, and a quiet room is below -55 dBFS. What matters for being understood is the gap between your voice and the background noise: 15 dB or more is a clear voice.
Mic works here but not in Meet, Zoom, Teams or Discord
If the meter reacts here, the microphone and its driver work. The problem is in the other app’s settings. Check three things.
Selected microphone: the app may be using a different mic, such as the webcam one or a disconnected headset. In the audio settings of Meet, Zoom, Teams or Discord, pick the same microphone that worked here.
Site permission: in the browser, each site needs its own permission. Click the lock next to the Meet address and allow the microphone.
Filters: call apps turn on echo cancellation, noise suppression and automatic gain. Turn on "Call filters" in this test to hear their effect. If your voice disappears or gets choppy with filters on, turn off noise suppression in the call app.
How to allow the microphone on Windows and Mac
Windows 11: Settings > Privacy & security > Microphone. Turn on "Microphone access" and "Let desktop apps access your microphone". Then, in Settings > System > Sound, choose the input microphone and adjust its volume.
macOS: System Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone. Enable the browser you are using (Chrome, Safari, Edge or Firefox) and reopen it. Input volume is in System Settings > Sound > Input.
Headset mic not working on a laptop
Headsets with a 4-pole 3.5 mm plug (three rings on the plug) include a microphone. Laptops with a combo jack accept them directly. Computers with separate headphone and mic jacks need a splitter adapter. A 3-pole plug (two rings) has no microphone. Bluetooth headsets often show up as two devices; to use the mic, choose the "Headset" or "Hands-Free" option.
Your audio never leaves your computer
Audio is analyzed inside your browser. Nothing is recorded on a server or sent over the internet. The 10-second recording stays in this tab only and is deleted when you close or reload the page.
Frequently asked questions
How do I test my microphone online?
Click "Start microphone test", allow access and speak. If the level bar moves, the microphone works. The test records 10 seconds so you can hear how your voice reaches other people.
Why can’t the site find my microphone?
The microphone may be disconnected, disabled in the system or blocked in privacy permissions. On Windows, check Settings > Privacy & security > Microphone. On a Mac, System Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone.
How do I allow the microphone in Chrome?
Click the lock or settings icon next to the site address, set "Microphone" to "Allow" and reload the page. To see all sites, open chrome://settings/content/microphone.
What does a clipping microphone mean?
The level goes over the digital ceiling (0 dBFS) and the sound gets cut off, so it sounds distorted and harsh. Lower the input volume in sound settings or move the mic away from your mouth.
My microphone is too quiet. What can I do?
Raise the microphone input volume in your system sound settings. On Windows, some sound cards also offer "Microphone Boost" in the device properties. Speaking closer to the mic helps a lot.
Why does my mic work here but not in Google Meet or Teams?
Because the problem is in the call app settings: the wrong microphone is selected, permission was denied for that site, or noise filters are cutting your voice. Choose the same microphone in the app that worked here.
Does the microphone test record or upload my voice?
It does not upload anything. Audio is analyzed in your browser and the 10-second recording stays in this tab only, deleted when you close the page.
Can I test my microphone on a phone?
Yes. The test works in current Android and iPhone browsers. The browser will ask for permission to use the microphone.