MacBook microphone not working? 5 fixes to try

It can be very frustrating when you're in the middle of an important meeting or recording a podcast and your MacBook can't pick up your voice.Whether it's a software bug or a simple setting that needs tweaking, we've got you covered.

1. Test the microphone using the sound input setup

It's always a good decision to test whether your MacBook's microphone is working properly and rule out any hardware issues.Here's what you need to do:

1. Click the Apple menu in the menu bar and select System Settings from the drop-down menu.

2. Select "Sound" from the sidebar and look for the "Output and Input" section on the right.

3. Select the "Input" tab.You'll see different devices that can be used as sound input sources, including paired headphones.

4. To test whether the MacBook microphone is working properly, select the MacBook speakers from the list.

5. First make sure the input volume is at maximum.If not, drag the input volume slider to the right.

6. Now, speak at a normal speaking speed and double-check that the input volume bar is filled.

If the input level bar increases as you speak louder, this means your MacBook's built-in microphone is configured correctly and is detecting sound.

2. Check microphone permissions

When you first visit apps and websites, they will prompt you to grant access to your device's microphone.If your MacBook's microphone detects sound properly but you notice it's having trouble with an app, you may be denying it permission without knowing it.If this is the case, it's easy to fix.Please follow these steps:

1. Go to Apple menu > System Settings > Privacy & Security.

2. Select "Microphone" under the "Privacy" section.

3. To allow an app to use your MacBook's microphone, make sure the toggle button next to the app is enabled.

3. Check application-specific microphone settings

If you've allowed the app to use your device's microphone, you should go into the app's internal settings.The exact steps vary depending on the app you're using, but look in your app's Preferences, Settings, or Options menu.

Generally, you can find it in the app's menu bar, or by browsing within the app.Now, look for any microphone-related settings and make sure they are configured correctly.

4. Update your Mac

Often times, microphone-related issues may just be software bugs.If your MacBook's microphone stops working immediately after updating, it's worth waiting and updating to the newer macOS version as soon as it becomes available.

To do this, go to System Settings > General > Software Update. MacBook will now check for available updates.If a new update is available, click "Upgrade Now" to install it.

5. Reset MacBook’s NVRAM/PRAM

The MacBook's NVRAM and PRAM store information such as time zone, control settings, and other configuration settings.If you've tried all of the above fixes and your microphone still isn't picking up sound properly, you might want to reset your Mac's NVRAM or PRAM.

If you have an Apple Silicon MacBook, simply restart the machine (Apple menu > Restart) to reset its NVRAM.However, if you have an Intel-based MacBook, here's how to reset it:

1. Turn off your MacBook and press the power button.

2. Press the CMD, Option, P and R keys simultaneously for about 20 seconds.

3. Release the button.

Fix Microphone Failure on MacBook

Hopefully, after you complete all the troubleshooting steps above, your MacBook's microphone is working properly.However, if you try your best and the problem persists, it's a sign that there may be a deeper problem.

In this case, we strongly recommend that you seek professional help to diagnose and resolve any potential hardware-related issues with your MacBook's internal microphone.