My microphone works elsewhere but not in Teams, Zoom or Discord: step-by-step fix

This is the most common microphone problem: the mic works in one app, but people can't hear you in another. In most cases the microphone isn't broken: it's a setting. Here is the order to follow to find the cause in a few minutes.

1. Check that the microphone really picks up sound

Open the microphone test, allow access and speak. If the volume bar moves, the microphone and its cable (or Bluetooth link) work. Note the exact name of the microphone in the list: that's the one to choose in your app.

2. Select the same microphone in the app

• Teams: profile picture → Settings → Devices → Microphone.
• Zoom: Settings → Audio → Microphone.
• Discord: User Settings → Voice & Video → Input Device.

Many apps stay on "Default", which may point to the computer's built-in mic while you are speaking into your headset.

3. Check the system permission

• Windows: Settings → Privacy & security → Microphone: allow desktop apps.
• macOS: System Settings → Privacy & Security → Microphone: tick the app.

On a Mac, after granting permission you often need to quit the app completely and reopen it.

4. Close other apps using the microphone

On some systems, software running in the background (another video call, a recorder, a voice assistant) keeps the microphone to itself. Close them and restart the call.

5. Bluetooth headsets

When a Bluetooth headset's microphone turns on, sound often drops to "phone quality": that's normal. If the mic doesn't appear at all, choose the headset entry containing "Hands-Free" or "Headset" in the list.

If the bar in the microphone test doesn't move at all, the problem is the hardware or the system: describe your device in a reply and we'll help.