Background noise makes calls tiring and recordings sound cheap. The good news: most of it can be fixed with settings and how you place the microphone, without buying new gear.
Start with a test
Record a few seconds with our Mic Test while staying silent. Whatever you hear is your background noise. Check the level with the Sound Meter too.
Placement matters most
- Get closer. Moving the mic from 30 cm to 10 cm from your mouth makes your voice much louder compared to the noise.
- Point it at you, and away from fans, windows and computers.
- Use a headset mic for calls; it stays close to your mouth.
Turn on noise suppression
| Where | Setting |
|---|---|
| iPhone calls | Control Center → Mic Mode → Voice Isolation (during a call) |
| Android | Some phones have a noise reduction or clear voice option in call settings |
| Windows | Settings → System → Sound → your mic → Audio enhancements or Voice clarity, where available |
| Zoom, Teams, Meet, Discord | Background noise suppression in audio settings |
Lower the noise in your room
- Turn off fans and air conditioning while you record
- Close windows and doors
- Soft things (curtains, a bed, a sofa) absorb echo
- Put the laptop on a soft surface to stop keyboard and fan noise traveling through the desk
Check the gain
If the mic gain is too high, it picks up everything. Lower it until your voice is clear but the room is quiet. In Windows, adjust the input volume; in recording apps, adjust the gain.
Clean the mic
A blocked mic hole can make your voice weak, so you raise the gain and pick up more noise. See phone microphone not working for safe cleaning tips.
Common questions
Why do people hear echo from me?
Your speaker sound is going back into your mic. Use headphones or lower your speaker volume.
Is a USB mic better than a laptop mic?
Usually yes, because you can place it close to your mouth.
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