How to Make a Microsoft Teams Test Call Before a Meeting

To make a Microsoft Teams test call, open the desktop app and go to Settings and more (...) > Settings > Devices. Under Audio settings, select Make a test call, then follow Test Call Bot's prompts to record and hear a short message.

Microsoft documents this feature for the Windows and Mac desktop apps, not Teams on the web. The instructions below follow Teams for work or school; personal accounts can have different options. Microsoft's call settings guide explains the supported test-call workflow.

Make a Teams test call in four steps

Connect the headset or speakers you plan to use for your meeting. Check any physical mute switch before starting. The interface examples below show the relevant controls; your layout and device names may differ.

1. Open your device settings

Sign in to the Teams desktop app. Select Settings and more (...) beside your profile picture, choose Settings, then select Devices. Use the three-dot menu rather than looking for Settings inside your profile menu.

If the settings list is difficult to navigate, use its search box to find device settings.

2. Select your microphone and speakers

Under Audio settings, check both the Speaker and Microphone dropdowns. Select the devices you actually want to use. For example, choosing a USB headset as the speaker does not mean you should leave the microphone set to your laptop's built-in mic.

Select Make a test call. Microsoft's audio settings instructions also explain how to change these selections before or during a meeting.

3. Record a short message and listen back

Listen to Test Call Bot and speak when prompted. A simple sentence such as “I'm checking my microphone before the meeting” is enough. Wait for the recording to play back, then review the test summary.

Hearing the bot checks audio output; hearing your own message checks microphone capture and playback. Listen for missing words, low volume, or distortion. If something sounds wrong, change the relevant device setting and repeat the call.

Microsoft says the test recording is deleted immediately after the call. Its microphone troubleshooting guide currently lists the test-call feature as English-only.

4. Check your camera preview

You can inspect your camera without running another test call. Return to Settings > Devices, find Video settings > Camera, and choose the webcam you want to use. Check the preview for framing, lighting, and an unobstructed lens.

A visible preview confirms that Teams can receive video from the selected camera. It does not confirm what another participant can see in a live meeting.

What if “Make a test call” is missing?

First, check whether you are using a browser. The bot test is unavailable in Teams on the web; use the Windows or Mac desktop app for the documented workflow. Update Teams if your desktop interface differs substantially.

Do not assume Teams Free or a personal account includes the same test-call button. Microsoft documents personal-account device settings separately. If the bot is unavailable, select your devices there and arrange a brief call with someone who can confirm your sound and video. A camera preview alone cannot confirm microphone audio.

Fix problems found during the test

On Windows 11, check Settings > Privacy & security > Microphone or Camera. Allow access for Teams and desktop apps as applicable. On a Mac, review the corresponding permissions in System Settings > Privacy & Security.

For persistent issues, use Microsoft's speaker troubleshooting or camera troubleshooting. Contact your IT administrator if permissions are locked or devices remain unavailable.