Mac Microphone Not Working? Easy Fixes For LOL & More!

Oct 30, 2025 by Team 55 views

Hey guys! Ever been in the middle of an epic League of Legends match, ready to call out the perfect gank, only to realize your Mac microphone isn't working? Talk about a buzzkill! Don't sweat it, though. We've all been there. Getting your mic to cooperate on a Mac can sometimes feel like trying to herd cats, but trust me, it's usually a pretty straightforward fix. This guide is your ultimate weapon for troubleshooting those pesky microphone issues, whether you're trying to trash-talk in-game, record a podcast, or just hop on a Zoom call. We'll cover everything from the basic settings to some more advanced troubleshooting tips, ensuring your voice is heard loud and clear. Let's dive in and get that mic back in action!

Check Your Mac's Input Settings: The Basics

Okay, so the first thing, and often the simplest, to do when your Mac microphone is not working is to check your system settings. This might seem obvious, but you'd be surprised how often a simple oversight is the culprit. We're going to make sure your Mac actually knows you want to use your microphone and that it's set up correctly. Think of it like this: your Mac is the director, and your microphone is the actor. The director (your Mac) needs to know who the actor is and what they're supposed to be doing. To check these settings, follow these steps:

Open System Settings: Click the Apple icon in the top-left corner of your screen, and then select "System Settings." If you are using an older version of macOS, it might be called "System Preferences." Don't worry, the process is pretty much the same.
Navigate to Sound: In System Settings, click on "Sound." You'll find this icon, which looks like a speaker, in the main panel.
Select the Input Tab: At the top of the Sound settings window, you'll see tabs for "Output" and "Input." Click on "Input." This is where you'll find all the microphones connected to your Mac.
Choose Your Microphone: In the list of input devices, make sure your desired microphone is selected. If you have multiple microphones connected (like a built-in mic and an external USB mic), make sure the correct one is chosen. Click on the microphone you want to use.
Adjust the Input Volume: Under the selected microphone, you'll see an "Input Level" slider. Speak into your microphone and watch the level meter. If the meter isn't moving, your Mac isn't picking up any sound. Drag the slider to the right to increase the input volume. Test the sound level to ensure that the microphone is not too loud or too quiet.
Test Your Microphone: You can test your microphone right there in the Sound settings. Speak into your microphone and listen to the playback. If you can hear yourself, congratulations! Your microphone is working.

Troubleshooting Tips for Input Settings

Microphone Not Listed: If your microphone isn't listed, make sure it's properly connected. For USB microphones, try unplugging and plugging them back in. If you're using a built-in microphone, there might be a physical issue with the Mac.
Volume Too Low: If the input level is too low, increase the volume slider. You might also need to adjust the microphone's gain settings if it has any (many external mics do).
No Sound: If you still can't hear anything, try a different microphone (if you have one) to rule out a hardware problem.

Remember, checking your input settings is the foundation for fixing any microphone issues on your Mac. Often, this simple step solves the problem right away! If you're still experiencing problems, don't worry. Let's move on to other potential solutions.

App-Specific Microphone Settings

Alright, so you've checked your system settings, and your Mac thinks your microphone is working, but it still isn't working in a specific app, like League of Legends. That's where app-specific settings come into play. Many applications have their own microphone settings that can override or conflict with your system-wide settings. It's like having two bosses, and they don't always agree! Let's explore how to make sure your apps are using the right microphone and configured correctly. These steps are super important when Mac microphone not working in specific application such as LOL.

Checking App Permissions

First, you need to make sure the app has permission to access your microphone. MacOS has robust privacy features, and applications need explicit permission to use your microphone. Here's how to check and grant these permissions:

Open System Settings: Go back to your System Settings (Apple icon > System Settings).
Go to Privacy & Security: In System Settings, click on "Privacy & Security." It's usually near the bottom of the list.
Select Microphone: Scroll down and click on "Microphone." Here, you'll see a list of all the apps that have requested microphone access.
Check the App: Find the app where your microphone isn't working (e.g., League of Legends, Discord, Zoom). If the app has a toggle switch next to its name, and it's turned off, then the app doesn't have permission to use your microphone. Click the switch to turn it on.
Restart the App: After granting permission, you'll likely need to restart the app for the changes to take effect. Close the app completely and reopen it.

Adjusting Microphone Settings Within the App

Once you've ensured the app has permission, you need to check the microphone settings within the app itself. Each app has a different interface, but the general steps are similar:

Open the App's Settings: Look for a settings menu within the app. It's usually a gear icon, a settings tab, or something labeled "Preferences."
Find the Audio or Voice Settings: Within the settings menu, look for a section related to audio, voice, or input devices.
Select Your Microphone: Make sure your correct microphone is selected as the input device. There's often a dropdown menu where you can choose from the list of connected microphones. Select the correct microphone.
Adjust Input Volume: Many apps allow you to adjust the input volume directly. Make sure the volume isn't too low or muted. Speak into your microphone and watch the level meter to ensure the app is picking up your voice.
Test the Microphone: Some apps have a built-in microphone test function. Use this to check if your microphone is working within the app.

Troubleshooting Tips for App-Specific Settings

Incorrect Microphone Selected: Double-check that you've selected the correct microphone in the app settings. It's easy to accidentally choose the wrong one.
Muted Microphone: Make sure the microphone isn't muted within the app. There's often a mute button or setting that can override your system-wide settings.
App Updates: Make sure your app is up-to-date. Sometimes, outdated software can have compatibility issues with your microphone. Check for updates within the app or in the App Store.
Restart the Application and Your Mac: Restarting both the application and your computer is always a good troubleshooting step. It can often resolve glitches and conflicts.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your apps are properly configured to use your microphone. App-specific settings are a common cause of microphone issues, so taking the time to check these settings can save you a lot of headaches!

Hardware and Connection Issues

Alright, let's talk about the physical side of things. Sometimes, the problem isn't software-related. Sometimes, it's a simple hardware or connection issue causing your Mac microphone not working! Here's how to troubleshoot these potential problems.

Checking the Physical Connection

If you're using an external microphone, the first thing to do is check the physical connection. A loose or faulty connection is a common culprit.

USB Microphones: If you have a USB microphone, make sure it's securely plugged into your Mac. Try a different USB port to rule out a problem with the port itself. Check the USB cable for any damage. Try using a different USB cable.
XLR Microphones: If you're using an XLR microphone with an audio interface, make sure the XLR cable is securely connected to both the microphone and the interface. Check that the interface is powered on and connected to your Mac.
Built-in Microphone: If you're using the built-in microphone on your Mac, there's not much you can do about the physical connection. However, make sure nothing is obstructing the microphone itself (e.g., a case, debris).

Testing the Microphone with a Different Device

To isolate the problem, try testing your microphone with a different device. This will help you determine whether the issue is with the microphone itself or with your Mac.

Test on Another Mac: If you have access to another Mac, connect your microphone and see if it works. If it works on the other Mac, the problem is likely with your original Mac.
Test on a Smartphone or Tablet: Some microphones can connect to smartphones or tablets. If you have a way to connect your microphone to another device, try it. If it works, the problem is likely with your Mac.
If the Microphone Doesn't Work on Any Device: The microphone itself might be faulty. It's time to consider replacing it.

Troubleshooting Tips for Hardware Issues

Dust and Debris: Make sure there's no dust or debris blocking the microphone input or the microphone itself.
Cable Damage: Check your cables for any damage, such as frayed wires or bent connectors. Replace any damaged cables.
Audio Interface Problems: If you're using an audio interface, make sure it's properly connected and powered on. Consult the interface's manual for troubleshooting tips.
Built-in Microphone Problems: If your built-in microphone isn't working, it could be a hardware issue. You might need to take your Mac to an Apple Store or authorized service provider for repair.

Hardware issues can be tricky to diagnose, but by methodically checking the connections and testing the microphone with different devices, you can pinpoint the problem and find a solution.

Software Conflicts and Updates

Sometimes, the culprit isn't a setting or a physical connection; it's a software conflict or an outdated driver. Let's look at how to address these potential issues when Mac microphone is not working.

Checking for Software Conflicts

Certain software applications can sometimes interfere with your microphone. These conflicts can cause your microphone to malfunction or not work at all.

Close Unnecessary Applications: Close any applications that might be using your microphone, such as other voice chat programs, screen recorders, or virtual audio devices. This helps to eliminate potential conflicts.
Restart Your Mac: A simple restart can often resolve software conflicts. It clears temporary files and resets the system, which can fix issues with microphone access.
Check for Background Processes: Use the Activity Monitor (located in /Applications/Utilities/) to check for any background processes that might be using your microphone. Look for processes related to audio, voice chat, or recording. If you find any suspicious processes, try quitting them. Be careful not to quit any essential system processes.

Updating Your MacOS

Keeping your macOS up-to-date is essential for ensuring compatibility and resolving software bugs. Sometimes, an outdated operating system can cause microphone issues.

Open System Settings: Go to System Settings (Apple icon > System Settings).
Go to General > Software Update: Click on “General,” then select “Software Update.”
Check for Updates: Your Mac will check for available updates. If an update is available, download and install it. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the update.
Restart Your Mac: After the update is installed, restart your Mac to ensure all the changes take effect.

Troubleshooting Tips for Software Conflicts and Updates

Third-Party Drivers: If you've installed any third-party drivers for your microphone or audio interface, make sure they are up-to-date and compatible with your macOS version.
Virtual Audio Devices: If you use virtual audio devices, such as those used for creating virtual microphones, make sure they are properly configured and not interfering with your microphone.
Clean Install (Advanced): If you've tried everything else, you might consider a clean install of macOS. This is a more drastic measure, but it can resolve deep-seated software conflicts. Back up your data before performing a clean install.

By addressing software conflicts and keeping your macOS up-to-date, you can minimize the chances of microphone issues caused by software glitches.

When All Else Fails: Other Solutions

Okay, so you've tried everything, and your Mac microphone is still not working? Don't lose hope, guys! There are a few more things you can try. These are more advanced troubleshooting steps, but they might just do the trick.

Resetting the SMC (System Management Controller)

The SMC controls various hardware functions on your Mac, including audio. Resetting the SMC can sometimes resolve microphone issues. The process for resetting the SMC varies depending on your Mac model. Here's a general guide:

For Macs with Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3 chips): There's no SMC reset for these Macs. Simply shut down your Mac and wait a few minutes before restarting it.
For Macs with Intel Chips:
- Laptops: Shut down your Mac. Press and hold the Shift+Control+Option keys on the left side of the built-in keyboard, and then press the power button. Hold all four keys for about 10 seconds, then release them. Restart your Mac.
- Desktops: Shut down your Mac. Unplug the power cord. Wait 15 seconds. Plug the power cord back in. Restart your Mac.

Creating a New User Profile

Sometimes, the problem might be with your user profile. Creating a new user profile can help determine whether the issue is user-specific.

Open System Settings: Go to System Settings (Apple icon > System Settings).
Go to Users & Groups: Click on “Users & Groups.”
Add a New User: Click the “Add Account” button. Follow the prompts to create a new user account. Give the new account an administrator role.
Log in to the New User Account: Log out of your current account and log in to the new user account.
Test the Microphone: Test your microphone in the new user account. If the microphone works in the new account, the problem is likely related to your original user profile.

Getting Professional Help

If you've exhausted all these troubleshooting steps, it might be time to seek professional help.

Contact Apple Support: Apple Support can provide further troubleshooting assistance and may be able to diagnose hardware issues.
Visit an Apple Store or Authorized Service Provider: An Apple Store or authorized service provider can inspect your Mac and potentially repair any hardware problems.

By trying these more advanced solutions, you can often overcome even the most stubborn microphone issues. Don't be afraid to reach out for professional help if needed.

Conclusion

Alright, folks, we've covered a lot of ground today! We've tackled everything from basic system settings to hardware checks and software conflicts. Hopefully, one of these solutions has helped you get your Mac microphone back up and running, especially if you're a League of Legends player! Remember to start with the simple fixes and work your way through the more advanced troubleshooting steps. Persistence is key! If you're still struggling, don't hesitate to reach out for professional help. Happy gaming (or podcasting, or Zooming) and good luck out there!