A mic test checks that your browser can hear your microphone and how good the signal is. Press Start the mic test and allow access. Stay quiet for 3 seconds while we measure background noise, then speak for 5 seconds. If the meter moves when you speak, your microphone works; the card then grades noise, level and clipping.
What the numbers mean
| Reading | Healthy | What it tells you |
|---|---|---|
| Noise floor | Below −50 dBFS | The background hiss and room noise with you silent. Lower is better. |
| Voice peak | −24 to −1 dBFS | Your loudest moment. Too low sounds distant; at 0 it distorts. |
| Voice to noise | Higher is better | How far your voice stands above the background. |
| Clipped | 0 | Samples that hit full scale. Any clipping sounds harsh and crackly. |
dBFS means decibels relative to digital full scale: 0 dBFS is the loudest a recording can be, and every value below it is negative. These are not sound-pressure levels in your room; a browser cannot measure those without a calibrated microphone. The healthy ranges are our working guide for speech, not a standard.
Processing on or off?
Browsers can apply echo cancellation, noise suppression and automatic gain, as video-call apps do. We test with them off by default so you see the raw microphone. Switch processing on to hear roughly what a call app will send; it usually lowers the noise floor and evens out your level.
Mic not working?
- Browser permission: click the icon at the left of the address bar, allow the microphone for this site, and reload.
- Windows 11: follow our Windows 11 microphone fix, which uses Microsoft's own steps.
- Mac: open System Settings › Privacy & Security › Microphone and turn on your browser.
- Hardware: check any mute switch on the headset or cable, and try another USB port.
Want to hear yourself? Use mic record and playback.
Common questions
How can I test my mic online?
Press Start the mic test on this page and allow microphone access. If the meter moves when you speak, your mic works. Stay for the full 8 seconds to get noise and level readings.
Is my voice recorded?
No. The test measures levels in your browser and discards the sound. Nothing is saved or uploaded. To hear yourself, use the record and playback page, which also keeps the recording on your device.
Why is my mic so quiet?
Raise the input volume in your system sound settings, move closer, or switch processing on so automatic gain can help.
What is a good noise floor for a microphone?
For speech, below −50 dBFS is quiet enough for calls and recordings. Fans, air conditioning and laptop keyboards are the usual causes of a high floor.
Last reviewed 14 November 2026 by Sri Murugan Systems. Found a mistake? Tell us.