How to troubleshoot Zoom audio issues

The following article outlines basic steps to troubleshooting audio issues in Zoom. There are many links directly to Zoom resources. If any of these links become outdated or broken, please reach out to the Helpdesk team for assistance.

Check your device

  1. Check if the microphone, speakers, or headphones are plugged in and not muted.
  2. Unplug the device, then plug it back in.
  3. If it’s a Bluetooth device, ensure that it is turned on and connected properly.
  4. Make sure that you are using a supported USB device for Zoom.
    Note: USB devices not listed within the above article may still work with Zoom. However, the devices listed are what we recommend for the most optimal experience. Supported USB devices are less likely to encounter audio issues.
  5. Ensure that no other applications are using the microphone at the same time.

Check headphone connectivity

In addition to making sure that your headphones are plugged in and not muted, try the following steps:

  1. For Bluetooth headphones, troubleshoot common Bluetooth issues.
  2. For wired headphones on Windows devices, you may need to adjust the volume mixer within your device's settings to ensure that the Zoom app is not muted.

Test your audio

  1. Test your audio to ensure that it is working properly.
  2. Record a message to test your microphone, then listen to the playback to test your speakers or headphones.

Check audio settings

  1. Make sure that the correct audio output is selected.
  2. Adjust the sound or volume settings.

Check for privacy permissions

  1. Make sure that Zoom is allowed to use your microphone.
  2. Make changes to privacy settings to grant permission to access the microphone on your device.


Check for any audio drivers

  1. Check for any audio drivers updates.
    1. Steps under Update drivers and system software section at the bottom of the page here: How-to Speed up a Slow Dell Laptop
  2. Uninstall and reinstall any audio drivers.

Perform general troubleshooting for audio issues

  1. Make sure that you have downloaded the latest version.
  2. Uninstall the app, then download and reinstall it.
  3. Check for any available operating system updates.
  4. Clear cache and cookies from the settings.
  5. Restart your browser or device.

For further assistance and troubleshooting, please reach out to [email protected]