A common reason why a headset microphone won’t function is a dirty jack socket. The connection can be damaged by lint, grit, and dust, which will stop the electric signals from being sent. Cleaning up your jack port with compressed air and isopropyl alcohol on a cotton tip is an easy fix. Use no metal objects.
In this article, we will discuss the problems of gaming headsets that are not working well. If that doesn’t solve it, the problem might be:
1. Make sure your microphone isn’t muted
This is one of those facepalm moments, but it happens. Make sure your device and microphone are unmuted before going any further.
2. Software-related microphone issues:
Sometimes all that’s needed is a software update. Head to the manufacturer’s website, download the latest driver update, and install them while your headphones are connected.
Alternatively, it could be that your operating system is blocking your microphone for privacy reasons. Check your privacy settings to resolve the issue.
3. Cable issues could prevent your mic from functioning properly
The number one cause of malfunctioning headphones could very well be the cable. It’s a weak link, and the constant bending and swinging will eventually wear it down.
If you have a detachable cable, try a different one to make sure your cable is still working.
4. Headphone jack issues
Any scratches or dirt on your headphone jack can break the connection, causing issues in your audio.
Again, use a different cable to see if the problem persists.
5. You may have used the wrong headphone jack
If you’re using an adapter or a different brand’s cable, the wrong headphone jack could be at fault. Try getting an original cable to test if the problem resolves itself.
6. Dust and dirt on your microphone’s mesh screen
The sound actually needs to enter the microphone for it to get transferred. If you’ve ever looked into the little mesh-covered hole in your mic, you’ll know that every time you throw it in your bag, it picks up all sorts of dirt and grime.
Give your headphones a good clean every now and then to keep the speakers open and ready to output audio.
7. Dirt inside of the headphone jack
This makes things a little bit more complicated, but a fix is still possible. It often happens that dirt, lint, and dust get into the headphone jack port, and to clean it, it takes a bit more care.
Tip: Never use a metal object to tick it out – you’ll scratch the connective metals and damage it permanently.
8. The headset might be faulty
Finally, It could be that your headphone mic is faulty, and if it’s still under warranty, now would be a good time to send it in for repairs or to get a replacement.
If you think one, or a few of these, might be causing you some issues, let’s take a look at the solutions in detail.
Final Thought
There are a number of ways you can fix your headphone’s mic problems, and the best way to do it is to symptomatically go through the steps:
- Make sure your microphone isn’t muted
- Check the settings on your Audio Device
- Update your audio drivers
- Check for any damage to the jack, cable, or microphone
- Clean everything thoroughly
- If you’re still under warranty, have the defective headset replaced
All in all, your microphone shouldn’t be giving you issues, and the solution lies in one of these steps.
I highly recommend just testing them all (that way you’re servicing your headphones too), and if that fails, send them to the professionals for service. You’re likely to get a new pair if there wasn’t any foul play.
