Microphone not working in Zoom
When your mic works elsewhere but not in Zoom, the culprit is usually the input device chosen inside Zoom or a missing permission. Confirm the mic works first, then fix Zoom.
Step-by-step fix
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First, confirm the mic itself works: run the CheckMyMic microphone test.
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In Zoom, open Settings → Audio → Microphone and select the correct input device.
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Check the input level and make sure you're not muted inside Zoom.
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Grant Zoom microphone permission at the operating-system level.
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Restart Zoom and rejoin your call.
Frequently asked questions
My mic works in the browser test but not in Zoom — why?
That points to Zoom's own device settings. Open Settings → Audio → Microphone and pick the same microphone that worked in the test.
Does Zoom need separate mic permission?
Yes — even if your browser or system has access, Zoom may need its own grant. Allow it in your OS privacy settings, then restart Zoom.
Everything looks right but Zoom still can't hear me — what now?
Update or reinstall Zoom — device lists go stale after OS updates. Run the CheckMyMic mic test again to prove the mic itself, then check our mic guide for your operating system (Windows, macOS, and the rest): an OS-level permission or default-device change fixes this more often than anything inside Zoom.
Why does Zoom keep changing my mic volume?
Zoom's "Automatically adjust microphone volume" setting rides your gain up and down as you speak. If your level keeps drifting, untick it in Settings → Audio, use the Test Mic button to set a steady manual level, and retest.