Fix guide · Microphone test
How to test and fix your microphone on a Chromebook
A Chromebook microphone can fail because the wrong input is selected, a website or app lacks permission, or the device itself is muted. Press the live check, speak, and use the steps below until the level moves.
Quick fix checklist
- 1Click the clock in the bottom-right corner, then the arrow next to the sound icon (Audio settings).
- 2Under Input choose the microphone you want, such as Internal Mic or your headset, and make sure the input volume is up and not muted.
- 3In Chrome click the lock icon next to the address, set Microphone to Allow, then reload the page.
- 4Open Settings > Privacy and security > Site settings > Microphone and remove this site from the blocked list.
- 5For Android or Linux apps open Settings > Apps and allow the microphone for that app.
- 6Unplug external headsets, then restart the Chromebook if the level still does not move.
Why a Chromebook microphone stays silent
A Chromebook has three permission layers: the browser site permission, the app permission for Android and Linux apps, and the device selection in Audio settings. School-managed Chromebooks may also have the microphone disabled by an administrator, which no setting on the device can override.
Using the microphone for school or work
Test in the browser first, then join the call. The guides for Google Meet and Zoom cover the in-app settings. If the browser reports a blocked device, read the NotAllowedError guide.
FAQ
Common questions
How do I test my Chromebook microphone?
Open Audio settings from the clock menu and speak, or use the live check on this page. A moving level bar means the microphone works.
Why is my Chromebook microphone blocked at school?
The school administrator may have disabled it for managed accounts. Ask your IT team, or try a personal profile if allowed.
How do I choose the microphone on a Chromebook?
Click the clock, open Audio settings and select the device under Input.
Is my voice recorded during this test?
No. The check runs in your browser and nothing is uploaded or recorded.