Your Mac microphone is too quiet

Why it happens

Each microphone on your Mac has its own Input volume, and it's sometimes set low. A call app can also turn it down by itself. If the wrong microphone is chosen, such as one across the room, you'll sound quiet even with the volume up.

How to fix it

1. Open System Settings, click Sound, and choose Input. Click the microphone you're using.

   Sound›Input

2. Talk at a normal volume and drag Input volume to the right until the level bars light up to about two-thirds of the way.

   Sound›Input

3. In your call app's audio settings, check that the same microphone is selected and that the app isn't turning the level down.

Still not fixed?

1. Make sure the right mic is chosen. If AirPods or a monitor are selected, pick your Mac's own microphone in the same Input list.

2. Background noise drowning you out? While you're in a call, click the Video or Audio icon in the menu bar, click Mic Mode and choose Voice Isolation.

3. Check nothing covers the microphone holes, such as a case, a sticker or a keyboard cover on a MacBook.

4. If you still sound quiet with Input volume at full on the built-in microphone, the mic may be faulty. Contact Apple Support or a repair shop to have it checked.