In the ever-evolving space of portable gaming, the Steam Deck has emerged as a frontrunner, setting new standards with its powerful features and innovative design. As its brand-new cousin, the Steam Deck OLED, joins the gaming landscape, fans are diving into a world of immersive gameplay on the go. However, like every other gaming platform, the Deck too can encounter minor hiccups. One such concern users might face is the mic not working on their Steam Deck. So, in this guide, we have shared all the details regarding how to fix this issue for good.
Mic issues can be particularly frustrating for gamers, especially in an era where seamless communication is integral to multiplayer experiences. Whether coordinating strategies in team-based games or engaging in lively conversations with friends during co-op adventures, a malfunctioning mic can disrupt the immersive and social aspects of gaming. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial to ensuring that players can fully enjoy the collaborative and interactive nature of their favorite games on the Steam Deck and Steam Deck OLED. That being said, to fix the mic not working issue on your Steam Deck, here are a few workarounds worth trying.
Steam Deck mic not working: How to fix it?
While fixing mic issues on the Steam Deck and Steam Deck OLED, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. Different factors can affect microphone functionality, making it essential to try a variety of solutions. This guide offers a range of potential fixes, recognizing that what works for one user might not work for another. Experimenting with these options allows users to find the solution that best suits their specific circumstances.
First things first
On the Steam Deck LCD, using the 3.5mm audio plug renders the built-in microphone inaccessible. Users opting for headphones with only a 3.5mm audio plug are advised to use models with built-in microphones for voice communication. Conversely, the Steam Deck OLED model allows simultaneous use of the built-in microphone and 3.5mm audio plug, offering a more versatile setup. Additionally, both LCD and OLED models maintain access to the built-in microphone when using a Bluetooth audio device. With this vital piece of information, let’s move forward with the potential fixes.
Restart
The initial workaround to address mic issues on the Steam Deck is to restart the device. Before restarting, ensure that any wired and wireless headphones are disconnected. This simple step aims to reset potential configurations and troubleshoot any temporary glitches affecting the microphone functionality.
Update Audio Drivers (LCD Versions only)
For the Steam Deck LCD version, updating audio drivers is a recommended step to troubleshoot microphone issues. Just head over to this official website and try downloading and installing both of the available audio drivers. After installing them, restart your Deck once more and then see if that fixes the issue.
Steam OS
Another workaround is checking for updates on Steam OS. Confirm that no updates are pending, as an outdated system might contribute to audio-related bugs. If the problem persists and a recent update is suspected to be the cause, patience becomes key. Waiting for subsequent updates may offer a solution, as developers often release patches to address newly discovered bugs and enhance system compatibility. But if your Steam Deck is running on version 3.5.5 and you’re encountering microphone issues, this is a known common error. An effective workaround is to activate Experimental Versions and download the 3.5.6 unstable version, which includes a hotfix addressing the microphone not working.
Roll Back Updates
If the microphone issues persist and are suspected to be linked to a recent Steam OS update, a potential workaround is to roll back to a previous version of Steam OS. This involves reverting to a system version that was stable before the reported problems emerged. While this step can be effective, it’s important to approach it with caution and ensure compatibility with other system components.
Use Desktop Mode
Utilizing Desktop Mode on the Steam Deck serves as an alternative workaround for resolving microphone issues. Switching to Desktop Mode provides a different operating environment and may circumvent certain bugs or glitches affecting the microphone’s functionality. While you are in desktop mode, head to the audio mixer and see if the system mic is detected. Also, while you are in the Desktop mode, locate the sound icon in the bottom left corner and change the input to the internal microphone. Once done, switch back to gaming mode, and your microphone should function seamlessly.
Contact Support
Finally, if all previous workarounds fail to resolve the microphone issues on your Steam Deck, reaching out to official support is the final step. Contacting support allows you to report the specific problem you’re facing, providing details about your device, OS version, and any troubleshooting steps you’ve taken. Support channels can offer personalized assistance, potential solutions, or insights into upcoming fixes that may address the microphone issue on your Steam Deck.
We hope that these workarounds helped you resolve the mic issue with your Deck. Now, before you try these methods out, don’t forget to keep visiting DigiStatement for more gaming reads like this. Read more: Best Back 4 Blood Steam Deck Settings for High FPS & performance
