Mic works in steam test and voice chat but not in games

Troubleshooting Guide: Microphone Not Working in Steam Games Despite Functionality in Other Applications

Introduction

Many gamers encounter issues where their microphone functions perfectly in applications like Discord or voice chats but fails to work within Steam-enabled games. If you’re experiencing a situation where your headset’s microphone is detected and operational in external applications but not in Steam games, this comprehensive troubleshooting guide is designed to help you identify and resolve the problem.

Scenario Overview

A user has recently purchased a JBL Quantum 100 headset and is using it via an audio splitter. While the microphone functions correctly in Discord, Valorant, and Steam’s microphone test, it does not work within actual games run through Steam. The user has already attempted several common fixes, including setting the microphone as the default device, updating drivers, disabling/enabling it in Windows Sound settings, disabling exclusive mode, and adjusting thresholds. Notably, their other headset, Redragon Hylas, functions seamlessly across all applications and games, indicating the issue is specific to the JBL headset configuration.

Possible Causes

1. Exclusive Mode Settings: Improper configuration can sometimes interfere with Steam’s access to the microphone.
2. Steam Microphone Settings: Incorrect or misconfigured input device settings within Steam.
3. Application Priority and Permissions: Privacy settings or application restrictions can block microphone access.
4. Hardware Compatibility or Splitter Issues: Using an audio splitter may cause signal or detection problems.
5. Conflicts Between Multiple Audio Devices: Multiple devices connected simultaneously can sometimes lead to conflicts.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting

1. Verify Steam Voice Input Settings
2. Open Steam and navigate to Settings > Voice.
3. Ensure the correct microphone device (JBL Quantum 100) is selected.

4. Test the microphone within Steam to confirm detection.

5. Check In-Game Microphone Settings

6. Access the audio or voice settings within each game.
7. Make sure the correct input device is selected.

8. Adjust any sensitivity or threshold settings as needed.

9. Review Windows Privacy Settings

10. Go to Settings > Privacy > Microphone.
11. Ensure “Allow apps to access your microphone” is enabled.
12. Check that “Allow desktop apps to access your microphone” is also turned on.

13. Verify that Steam and your games are permitted to use the microphone.

14. Confirm Hardware and Connection Integrity

15. Test the headset without the splitter to eliminate potential issues caused by the splitter.
16. Connect the JBL headset directly to the PC