Microphone Test

Shows whether your microphone picks up sound with a live level meter and waveform, then lets you record a few seconds and play them back. Use it before a video call or online class, or after connecting a new headset.

How to use

1. Press "Turn on microphone" and allow microphone access when the browser asks.
2. Speak and watch the "Input level" bar move. If you have more than one microphone, choose another one under "Microphone".
3. Choose a "Recording length" of 5 or 10 seconds, press "Start recording", then play it back. Press "Record again" to repeat.
4. Switch "Noise suppression", "Echo cancellation" and "Automatic gain control" on and off to compare the sound, then press "Turn off microphone".

How it works

• The level is shown in dBFS: the left end of the bar is −60 dBFS and the right end is 0 dBFS, the digital maximum. The highest point is held for a moment.
• If almost no sound comes in for more than 4 seconds, the "No sound is coming in" checklist appears.
• Sound is processed on this device only. Recordings are not saved or sent anywhere and are gone when you close the page. Only the chosen microphone and settings are remembered in this browser.

Questions and answers

Why does the mic test pick up no sound?

Check the mute switch on your microphone or headset, and the input device and input volume in your system sound settings. If you have several microphones, choose another one under "Microphone".

How do I allow microphone access in the browser?

Allow the microphone from the lock (site information) icon in the address bar, then turn it on again. Your operating system settings may also block the browser from the microphone.

Why does it say another app is using the microphone?

The microphone cannot be turned on while a video call app or another tab is using it. Close that app and try again.

Does it sound the same as in a video call?

Video call apps usually use noise suppression, echo cancellation and automatic gain control. Leave all three on to listen under similar conditions.