How to connect a microphone to a computer: 3 common types explained

How to connect a microphone to a computer? Connecting a mic to your Windows or Mac computer is usually quick and simple—until a technical hiccup gets in the way.

Microphones connect in different ways. A wired model might use USB, XLR, or a 3.5 mm plug, while a wireless mic like the Moman C2 offers multiple options on its receiver, including USB-C and 3.5 mm ports for plugging into your computer.

In this guide, we’ll explain how to connect each type:

• USB microphones
• 3.5 mm microphones
• XLR microphones

Just scroll to the section that matches your setup and follow the steps.

How to connect a USB microphone to a computer?

USB microphones are among the easiest to connect to a computer thanks to their universal compatibility. You simply need a functional USB port—no external sound card or adapter required. Just plug it in, and it’s ready to use. This hassle-free setup makes USB mics a great option for both beginners and professionals.

🎙️ Tool List

• A USB mic
• A USB cable

🖥️ Connection Steps

If you have a USB microphone such as the Moman EMR, follow these steps to connect it to your computer:

1. Unbox the microphone and place it near your computer or laptop.
2. Plug one end of the USB cable into the microphone.
3. Insert the other end into your computer’s USB port.
4. Ensure the connection is secure and not loose.

Your computer should recognize the microphone automatically. In some cases, the manufacturer may require you to install a driver, but most USB mics work as plug-and-play devices.

How to connect a microphone with a 3.5mm jack to a desk computer?

The 3.5 mm jack is one of the most common and widely recognized microphone connection types. These mics are typically plug-and-play, requiring no extra software, and can connect directly to most laptops and desktops without additional gear.

The main compatibility issue comes down to your computer’s audio ports. Some machines have separate headphone and microphone jacks, while others use a single combo port for both.

In the latter case, your 3.5 mm mic may not work unless you use an adapter—this is because combo ports accept TRRS connectors, whereas most 3.5 mm microphones use a TRS connector. With a dedicated mic port, however, a 3.5 mm TRS microphone will be recognized instantly.

🎙️ Tool List

• A 3.5mm microphone
• A TRS to TRS cable
• A TRS to TRRS adapter (needed when the computer features a combo port)

🖥️ Steps to Connect

Follow these steps to connect a mic with a 3.5mm TRS connector to your computer:

1. Position the microphone close to your PC’s microphone or headphone jack, making sure the cable can easily reach the port.
2. Insert the microphone’s 3.5mm plug into the computer’s mic input.
   💡Note: If your computer has a non-standard port, it may not detect the microphone.
3. If you have a TRS to TRRS adapter, connect the 3.5mm TRS plug to the adapter first, then plug the adapter into your computer’s headphone or mic port for proper detection.

If you have a Moman C2 wireless mic, the connection can be simpler. It offers a TRS to TRS and a TRS to TRRS cables in the package. No matter what audio ports your computer has, you can connect the C2 to your PC with only one cable. In addition, the C2 features a digital USB-C port. You can also connect it to the USB port with the supplied USB-C to USB-A cable.

How to connect XLR microphone to computer?

XLR microphones are typically professional-grade, delivering high-quality audio. They are widely used in broadcasting, live performances, and studio recording.

Unlike USB or 3.5 mm mics, their larger XLR connectors offer more stable and reliable sound transmission.

To connect an XLR mic to a computer, you’ll need an audio mixer or audio interface. These devices act as a bridge, converting the mic’s analog signal into a digital format your computer can process.

🎙️ Tool List

• XLR microphone
• XLR cable (male-to-female connectors)
• Audio interface

💡 Tip: Audio interfaces can connect to your computer via USB or 3.5 mm. For easier setup, a USB audio interface is recommended.

🖥️ Connection Steps

1. Connect this mic to your computer or PC by:
2. Gather all the necessary equipment.
3. Connect one end of the USB cable to the audio interface and the other to your computer’s USB port (or through a USB switch).
4. Plug the female end of the XLR cable into the microphone, ensuring it’s securely seated.
5. Connect the male XLR end to the audio interface.
6. Switch on the audio interface. The setup is now ready. Some models may require driver installation, but most work without additional software.

Want to know how to connect external microphone to Android phone? Click the link to get the guide.

What to do after successfully connecting a microphone to your computer?

It is now time to set up the microphone and test if it works normally on the computer.

Adjust the microphone settings on your computer

After connecting your microphone to a Windows or Mac computer, you may still need to adjust the audio settings, even if the device is detected.

For Windows:

• Power on your PC and click the Windows icon.
• From the menu, open the Control Panel.
• Select Hardware and Sound.
• Click Sound to access audio playback and recording settings.
• In the pop-up window, go to the Recording tab.
• Find your microphone in the list, click to highlight it, and then select Properties.
• In Microphone Properties, open the Levels tab.
• Adjust the slider or type 100 to maximize the mic level.
• Click Apply and then OK to save your changes.

For Mac:

• Connect your external microphone and click the ‘Apple’ icon at the top-left of the screen.
• Choose ‘System Preferences…’ from the menu.
• Click the ‘Sound’ icon (speaker symbol).
• Go to the ‘Input’ tab and locate your external microphone under ‘Sound Input Devices’.
• If you have more than one microphone, select the one you want to use.
• Adjust the ‘Input volume’ slider to increase the microphone level.

💡 Note: Avoid setting the volume to the maximum to maintain good audio quality.

Test the mic to ensure it records properly

To check if an installed microphone is working:

• Ensure your microphone is plugged into your PC.
• Go to Start > Settings > System > Sound.
• Under Input, choose the microphone you want to test.
• Speak into the microphone and observe the Input volume meter. If the bar moves, the microphone is functioning correctly.
• If the bar doesn’t move, go to Test your microphone and click Start test.

Troubleshoot common connection issues

Even after correctly following all the steps, you might still encounter common microphone connection issues, such as poor audio quality or no sound at all. To resolve these problems, try the following troubleshooting tips.

When the microphone produces low sound quality

If your microphone delivers poor audio quality despite being a top-rated model, there might be some issues affecting its performance. Possible causes include faulty cables, damaged ports, or anything disrupting the audio signal. Check all wires, connectors, and ports, and replace any that are defective.

Also, when speaking, keep an appropriate distance from the microphone—not too close or too far—to avoid distorted or muffled sound.

If the microphone produces no sound

If your microphone doesn’t pick up any sound when you speak, first verify that it is set as the ‘Primary’ recording device. Additionally, check the microphone volume settings, since the audio might be muted or set too low by mistake.