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.

Test your microphone right now — it takes one click. Run the microphone test →

Step-by-step fix

  1. First, confirm the mic itself works: run the CheckMyMic microphone test.
  2. In Zoom, open Settings → Audio → Microphone and select the correct input device.
  3. Check the input level and make sure you're not muted inside Zoom.
  4. Grant Zoom microphone permission at the operating-system level.
  5. 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.

Fixed it? Confirm with a quick test. Run the test →

Related guides

← All troubleshooting guides · Interview-ready check →