How to Fix a Non-Working Microphone in Windows 10

Many users reported problems with the microphone after upgrading to Windows 10. They were unable to record sound or use Skype or similar apps. This problem affects all types of devices, including desktops, laptops, and tablets. So, if your microphone isn’t working, it may appear to be one of the most serious issues.

Causes of a Computer Mic That Isn’t Working in Windows 10

If your PC microphone isn’t working, it could be due to several factors, including:

Hardware failure
Poor physical connections
Device drivers are missing.
Other Bluetooth devices causing interference
Conflicts between an external microphone and an internal microphone
Your computer’s audio input is muted.
Your headset’s audio input is muted.

How to Fix a Non-Working Windows 10 Microphone

Try the following solutions in order until your computer mic works properly:

Use the Windows 10 troubleshooter to resolve the issue. Windows 10 includes several troubleshooting tools. If you’re having problems with your microphone, right-click the Speakers icon in the taskbar and select Troubleshoot sound problems to have Windows look for potential solutions.
Search for a Mute button. External microphones may have physical volume controls, so make sure your device isn’t muted or set too low.
Examine the device manager. To ensure that your microphone is detected by your PC, open the Windows Device Manager and expand the Audio inputs and outputs section, then select your microphone and look under the Device Status section.
Examine your connections. Use a different connector cable if possible, and try plugging the mic into a different USB port on the same device. If it still doesn’t work, try it on another computer.
Examine the settings of each app. Certain applications, such as Skype, provide their audio input options. If you’re experiencing audio issues in a specific app, look for a settings menu where you can select the audio input.
Modify the sound settings in Windows. Check the Input section of the Windows 10 sound settings to ensure that the microphone you want to use is selected and enabled.
Increase the volume of the microphone. Select Device properties under your microphone selection in the sound settings to ensure that the volume on your microphone is turned on.
Turn off all other Bluetooth devices. Other Bluetooth connections can interfere with the signal when using a wireless microphone. If your Bluetooth isn’t working on Windows, try turning off Bluetooth on each connected device individually to see if that helps.
The hardware drivers should be updated. If you can see your microphone in Device Manager but it still isn’t detecting sound, make sure your drivers are up to date. Most external PC microphones do not require any drivers, but you should check the instruction manual to see if any additional software is required.
Examine your app’s permissions. Windows updates can sometimes cause app settings to be reset. If you’re having microphone issues with a specific app, check the app permissions settings in Windows 10 and make sure the app has permission to access your microphone.

If the microphone works on another PC but not on your current one, there could be a problem with your computer’s audio jack. If you’re using a PC with audio jacks on the front and back, try plugging it into a separate microphone input jack.

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