How to Test Your Microphone Online Before a Call or Interview

Nothing is more awkward than being told "we can't hear you" at the start of a meeting. A one-minute test beforehand avoids it.

Quick answer

Allow microphone access, speak, and watch the level bar move. Record five seconds and play it back to hear how you sound.

Steps

1. Open the tool and press start.
2. Allow microphone access when the browser asks.
3. Say a few words at your normal volume.
4. Watch the level bar: it should move well into the middle without hitting the end.
5. Record five seconds and play it back.

If you see no movement

• Check that the correct microphone is selected in the browser's permission popup.
• Look at the physical mute switch on a headset or the keyboard mute key.
• In system settings, check the input device and its volume.
• Close other apps that may be using the microphone.
• Reload the page and allow access again.

Improve your sound

• Sit close, about a hand-span from the microphone.
• Reduce background noise: close windows, turn off fans.
• Use a headset to prevent echo.
• Avoid speaking directly into the microphone's "plosive" zone; sit slightly to the side.

Privacy

Audio stays in your browser. Nothing is sent to a server or stored.