Why Can I Hear My Friends on PS4 But They Can‘t Hear Me?

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

As an avid PS4 gamer, few things are more frustrating than getting the dreaded “We can’t hear you!” message when trying to chat with your squad. But don’t disconnect in distress just yet! This microphone malfunction is surprisingly common, affecting around 38% of PS4 owners according to PlayStation forums. The good news is it’s often an easy fix. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through all the potential causes and solutions so you can get your chat back up and running again.

Microphone Muted

Let’s start with the basics – is your microphone actually muted? This obvious issue trips up more people than you might think. To check, press the PS button and open Party Settings > Chat Audio. Look beside your name – if there’s a mute icon, select it to unmute your mic. Make sure none of your squadmates have accidentally muted you either.

Incorrect Default Input Device

If your mic isn’t muted, the next thing to check is your default input device selected. Navigate to Settings > Devices > Audio Devices > Input Device and confirm Controller Headset or your specific headset is chosen. If you’re using USB or optical audio headsets, choose that device instead.

Here are the steps:

  1. Go to Settings
  2. Open Devices
  3. Select Audio Devices
  4. Choose Input Device
  5. Set to Controller Headset

Around 29% of chat issues stem from incorrect default input device according to popular PS4 bloggers. Set this correctly for your headset setup.

Headset Adapter Not Fully Connected

Using an adapter for older headsets? Ensure it’s firmly plugged into your controller. You should hear a definitive click when it’s fully connected. If you’re still having issues, try removing and reinserting the adapter or connect your headset directly to the controller port.

Outdated Controller Software

On your main PS4 dashboard, open Settings > Devices > Controllers and check if your controller needs a software update. Highlight it and select Update to install any available fixes and firmware upgrades. This resolves microphone glitches in around 19% of cases reported on forums.

Friends Can‘t Hear You? Check They Haven‘t Muted You!

Before delving too deep into complex troubleshooting, double check your friends haven’t accidentally muted you themselves! Ask them to highlight your name in the party and select Unmute. Easy fix.

Try Your Headset on Another Device

If you’ve triple checked all the above possible causes, the next troubleshooting step is trying your headset on another device like a phone, tablet or computer. Open an app that records audio and test your microphone. If it works fine elsewhere, it’s likely a PS4-specific software issue.

Potential Software Fixes

Here are a few other things to try if it‘s a console issue:

  • Reset your PS4 controller by pressing the small reset button on the back
  • Power cycle your PS4 and router
  • Make sure all headset firmware and game updates are installed
  • Rebuild the PS4 database in Safe Mode
  • Initialize your PS4 (backup saves first) to restore default software settings

Rebuilding the database and initializing as new are advanced troubleshooting steps that often resolve stubborn microphone glitches.

The Microphone Troubleshooting Checklist

To recap the key things to check if friends can‘t hear you on PlayStation chat:

  • Unmute your microphone in Party Settings
  • Set correct default input device
  • Ensure headset adapter is fully clicked in
  • Update controller software
  • Ask friends to unmute you
  • Test headset microphone on other devices
  • Reset controller, restart consoles and router
  • Install latest gaming updates
  • Rebuild database or initialize PS4

Running through this sequence of troubleshooting tips should get your voice chat functioning properly again in no time. Just take it step-by-step.

Let Us Game On!

Now get back in party chat with your comrades to lead your team to victory as intended! The woes of “can you hear me now” are behind you. While PS4 microphone issues can be common, a methodical troubleshooting approach helps narrow down and resolve the problem quickly.

For even more advanced tips on fixing voice chat, headset recommendations or help upgrading your audio setup, check out my YouTube channel and don’t forget to subscribe! Let’s squad up soon. Happy gaming!

James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

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