Why does Chrome keep blocking my microphone?

Chrome blocks microphone access by default for security. Each site must request permission, and you need to click "Allow". If you accidentally clicked "Block", you can change it in the address bar's site settings or in chrome://settings/content/microphone.

My microphone works in other apps but not in Chrome. Why?

This usually means Chrome doesn't have microphone permission at the OS level. On Windows, check Settings > Privacy > Microphone and make sure Chrome is allowed. On Mac, check System Settings > Privacy & Security > Microphone.

Can browser extensions block my microphone?

Yes, some privacy and ad-blocking extensions can interfere with microphone access. Try disabling extensions one by one, or test in incognito mode (where most extensions are disabled by default).

Microphone Not Working in Chrome — How to Fix It

Chrome is the most popular browser for video calls and online meetings. If your microphone stopped working in Chrome, don't panic — it's almost always a permissions or settings issue that you can fix in minutes.

1. Check site permissions

Click the lock icon (or tune icon) in the address bar of the website where your mic isn't working. Look for "Microphone" and make sure it's set to "Allow". If it says "Block", change it to "Allow" and reload the page.

2. Check Chrome's global microphone settings

Go to chrome://settings/content/microphone (paste this in your address bar). Make sure: • The correct microphone is selected in the dropdown • "Sites can ask to use your microphone" is enabled • The site you need is not in the "Not allowed" list

3. Check your system audio settings

On Windows: Right-click the speaker icon in the taskbar > Sound settings > Input. Make sure the correct microphone is selected and the volume is not at zero. On Mac: System Settings > Sound > Input. Select the right device and check the input level.

4. Test your microphone

Open check-camera.com in Chrome and click "Test Microphone". If the audio level bars react to your voice, your microphone is working in Chrome. If it works on check-camera.com but not on another site, the issue is with that specific site's permissions.

5. Advanced fixes

If nothing above works: • Try incognito mode (to rule out extensions blocking the mic) • Disable browser extensions one by one (ad blockers can interfere) • Clear Chrome's cache and cookies for the problem site • Reset Chrome site settings: chrome://settings/content > Reset permissions • Update Chrome to the latest version

Ready to check your devices?

Test Camera & Microphone →

1. Check site permissions

2. Check Chrome's global microphone settings

3. Check your system audio settings

4. Test your microphone

5. Advanced fixes

FAQ

Why does Chrome keep blocking my microphone?▼

My microphone works in other apps but not in Chrome. Why?▼

Can browser extensions block my microphone?▼