How To Fix Steam Link Audio and Mic Not Working [2025 Full Guide]

Summary

This video guides viewers through a simple and efficient process to fix audio and microphone issues with Steam Link. Starting with the Control Panel, it shows how to set the correct playback and recording devices. The tutorial then covers Steam’s settings, including selecting and testing the microphone. Viewers are encouraged to adjust audio levels for optimal sound quality. By following these steps, users can resolve common audio problems, ensuring a smooth gaming experience without interruptions.

Takeaways

• 😀 Ensure the Steam speakers are selected in the 'Playback' tab of your control panel to hear audio through Steam Link.
• 😀 Make sure the Steam microphone is selected in the 'Recording' tab of the control panel for proper voice input.
• 😀 Navigate to your control panel by typing 'Control Panel' in the desktop search bar to manage your audio settings.
• 😀 Log into Steam and open the settings menu to adjust your audio and microphone preferences for Steam Link.
• 😀 In the Steam settings, go to the 'Voice' tab to choose your preferred microphone device.
• 😀 Always test your microphone in the Steam settings to ensure the input levels are working properly.
• 😀 Adjust the volume levels of your microphone and output audio in the Steam settings to get the right balance.
• 😀 Proper microphone and audio setup ensures a seamless gaming experience without audio issues.
• 😀 Test the microphone input levels by speaking into the mic and verifying the levels move correctly.
• 😀 If you're not hearing anything or your microphone isn’t working, double-check that the correct devices are selected in both the control panel and Steam settings.
• 😀 Following these steps will help resolve any Steam Link audio or microphone issues efficiently.

Q & A

Why is it important to select 'Steam Speakers' in the Control Panel playback settings?

Selecting 'Steam Speakers' ensures that your system routes audio through Steam Link, allowing you to hear game sounds and chat. If not selected, you won't hear anything from your games or voice chats.

What should I do if I can't find 'Steam Microphone' in the Control Panel recording tab?

Make sure Steam Link is connected and properly set up. If the 'Steam Microphone' option still doesn't appear, try restarting Steam or checking your device's microphone settings.

What is the purpose of testing the microphone in Steam settings?

Testing the microphone allows you to confirm that your system is detecting the microphone correctly. It also helps you check if the input levels are functioning properly before starting your game.

What should I do if my microphone input levels aren’t responding in the test?

Ensure your microphone is selected as the default device in both the Control Panel and Steam settings. Also, check for any physical issues like microphone disconnections or system conflicts.

How can I adjust the input or output volume levels in Steam?

In the Steam settings under the Voice tab, you can adjust the input and output volume levels until they reach a comfortable balance that works for your needs.

What happens if I skip selecting 'Steam Speakers' and 'Steam Microphone'?

Skipping these selections means that your system won’t route the audio or microphone input properly, which can result in no sound from games or chat, and your voice won’t be transmitted correctly.

How do I access the Control Panel on my computer?

You can access the Control Panel by typing 'Control Panel' in the desktop search bar and pressing Enter. This opens the system settings where you can manage audio and other settings.

What is the first thing to check if my Steam Link audio or microphone isn’t working?

First, check your system's audio settings in the Control Panel to ensure that 'Steam Speakers' and 'Steam Microphone' are selected. These are crucial for proper audio output and input.

What should I do if Steam is not detecting my microphone?

Make sure your microphone is connected properly, then go to Steam settings and select it in the 'Voice' tab. If it still doesn’t work, try restarting Steam or your computer.

Why do I need to test the microphone before starting a game?

Testing the microphone ensures that your voice input is being detected properly and helps adjust the input levels to avoid issues during gameplay, such as not being heard in voice chat.