Mac Microphone Not Working
When your Mac microphone stops working, apps and websites can't access audio input. This page covers how to fix microphone issues on Mac. Check permissions first, then verify device selection and system settings.
You can use the online microphone test to confirm whether your device is working.
Check Microphone Permissions
Mac requires explicit permission for apps to access your microphone. Verify permissions are granted.
- Open System Preferences → Security & Privacy
- Go to Privacy tab
- Select Microphone from the left sidebar
- Check the box next to your browser or application
- If the app isn't listed, click the lock icon to unlock, then add it
- Restart the application after granting permission
Verify Input Device Selection
Mac may be using the wrong microphone. Check which input device is selected.
- Open System Preferences → Sound
- Go to Input tab
- Check that your microphone appears in the device list
- Select the correct microphone if multiple devices are available
- Adjust input volume slider if needed
- Speak into the microphone and watch the input level indicator
Check Physical Mute Switch
Some Mac keyboards have a physical mute button that can disable the microphone.
- Look for a microphone mute key on your keyboard
- Check for Fn + F4 or similar function key combinations
- Press the mute key again to unmute
- Check the menu bar for microphone mute indicators
Test USB Microphone Connections
USB microphones may not be properly recognized. Verify connections.
- Unplug and reconnect USB microphones
- Try a different USB port
- Check System Information → USB to see if the device is recognized
- Test with a different USB cable if available
- For external audio interfaces, check driver installation
Reset Audio Settings
Corrupted audio settings can prevent microphone access. Reset audio settings.
- Open Terminal
- Type: sudo killall coreaudiod
- Press Enter and enter your password
- Wait a few seconds for audio system to restart
- Test microphone again
Update macOS
Outdated macOS versions can have microphone compatibility issues. Update if needed. For general microphone troubleshooting, see the guide on microphone not working.
- Open System Preferences → Software Update
- Check for available updates
- Install any macOS updates
- Restart your Mac after updating
- Test microphone again
Test Microphone After Fixes
After trying these steps, use the online microphone test to verify your Mac microphone is working. The test shows real-time volume levels and confirms device detection.
Related Fixes
You can use the online microphone test to confirm everything is working.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my microphone not working on Mac?
Mac microphone issues are usually caused by denied permissions, wrong input device selection, or system settings. Check System Preferences → Security & Privacy → Microphone first, then verify input device selection in Sound settings.
How do I enable microphone on Mac?
Go to System Preferences → Security & Privacy → Privacy tab → Microphone. Check the box next to your browser or application. Also verify Settings → Sound → Input to ensure the correct microphone is selected.
Use the online microphone test to confirm everything is working.