How to Test Audio in Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams has become a cornerstone for remote collaboration, and ensuring that your audio settings are optimal is essential for effective communication. This article will explore how to test audio in Microsoft Teams.

Testing the audio and call settings in Microsoft Teams is essential for several reasons. You can identify and address issues like echo and background noise, providing a distraction-free meeting environment.

Moreover, when testing audio devices such as headphones or external microphones, you can rule out the possibility of audio mishaps during a meeting. With this understanding, let’s begin.

How to Test Microphone and Speakers in Teams Before Meeting

Whether using a headset, microphone, or the built-in audio on your device, conducting a pre-meeting audio check ensures you can participate seamlessly, minimizing disruptions and enhancing the overall meeting experience. Follow the below steps.

Step 1: Launch Microsoft Teams on your Windows or Mac and click the three-dots icon in the top-right corner.

Step 2: From the drop-down menu, select Settings.

Step 3: Under Settings, go to Devices from the side pane.  

Step 4: On the right pane, click the ‘Make a test call’ button under Audio Settings.

Note: Ensure your preferred microphone and speakers are selected before making a test call.

That’s it. Listen, follow the on-screen instructions, and monitor the output. Once the test call is complete, you will see a checkmark or crossmark next to your microphone, speaker, camera, and connected network, indicating whether the test succeeded or failed.

It is important to note that there’s no way to test calls in the Microsoft Teams mobile app while writing this article. That said, this was the case when you wanted to test calls before a meeting; what if you want to test calls during a meeting?

Also Read: How to schedule a meeting in Microsoft Teams

Test Sound in Microsoft Teams During Meeting

Microsoft Teams does not allow audio testing during meetings or ongoing calls. However, if you experience any sudden audio or video difficulties, you can quickly change the audio or video setting in Teams. Here’s how. 

Note: For demonstration, we consider that you are already in a Teams meeting or call.

Step 1: From the top call controls icons, click on the More (three-dot icon) option.

Step 2: Select Settings and choose Device settings from the drop-down menu. 

The device settings pane on the right lets you change the input and output devices for an active Teams call or meeting, including the microphone, speakers, and camera.

Step 3: Click the chevron icon under Microphone in the Device settings side pane.

Step 4: Now, select the microphone you want to check or change. Once selected, you will see a visual indication confirming whether your voice is being picked up correctly. 

You can switch between audio devices depending on what is available and suits your current needs. As mentioned earlier, this is highly recommended if you encounter sudden audio issues during your call.

If you want to make a test call in Microsoft Teams without joining a meeting, continue reading.

Make a Test Call in Microsoft Teams Without Joining a Meeting

Testing calls in Microsoft Teams without joining a meeting is simple. This allows you to assess and troubleshoot your audio settings within the Teams platform without the formality of joining an actual meeting. Follow the instructions below. 

Step 1: Launch Microsoft Teams on your Windows or Mac and click on the Chat icon on the left. 

Step 2: Click on the New chat icon at the top of the chat list.

Step 3: Now, type your name or email address in the To field and hit Enter.

Step 4: Press the Record icon in the bottom right of your self-chat window.

You will see and hear yourself. Now, make the necessary adjustments. Once done, close the self-meeting and go ahead and join the Teams call.

Also Read: How to keep Microsoft Teams status green all the time

Test Audio Before a Teams Meeting in Windows 11

Whether you’re a seasoned Teams user or getting started, this step-by-step guide will help adjust microphone settings to test speaker output, identify and resolve audio issues, and ensure a smooth virtual meeting experience with Windows 11. Follow the below-mentioned instructions.

Step 1: Press the Windows key on your keyboard, type Settings, and click Open. 

Step 2: Navigate to the System and choose Sound.

Step 3: Under the Output section, you will see speakers or headphones currently selected as the default output device. You can change them by clicking the radio button in front of the microphone or speaker of your choice.

Additionally, choose the output volume by dragging the slider. 

Step 4: To test the speakers or headphones, select the Speaker of your choice.

Step 5: Under the Output settings section, click Test beside Format.

You will hear a sound playing. You can quickly fix it on Windows 11 or 10 if you don’t hear any sound. Moving on, if you face issues using a microphone, continue reading. 

Step 6: Now, under the Input section, you will see the microphone currently selected as the default input device. Much like in the Output section, you can change the input device by clicking the microphone of your choice and changing the input volume.

Step 7: Now, click on the selected microphone to test the microphone.

Step 8: Under Properties, scroll down and click the Start test button under Input settings.

You will see a blue bar moving as you speak into your microphone. If your microphone isn’t working or your PC doesn’t detect the microphone on the headset, you can quickly fix it.

FAQs on Testing Audio in Microsoft Teams

Test Your Audio Quality

Whether you’re focused on audio quality assurance, preventing echo or background noise, selecting suitable devices, or configuring personalized call settings, it is crucial to know how to test audio in Microsoft Teams. You may also want to read how to check someone’s calendar in Teams.