Tips to Improve Audio Quality in Zoom and Other Online Meetings

Audio quality is the most important factor in the overall success of a Zoom meeting. Here’s how to get the best audio out of a meeting

• While your laptop’s webcam and built-in mic/speakers can work, call quality can be improved by using a Bluetooth or wired (USB or headphone jack-style) headset for better results. Alternatively, consider pairing a Bluetooth speaker (an Amazon Echo or similar device can also serve as a Bluetooth speaker.) 
  • Whichever method you choose, you may need to switch your microphone and speaker option when joining the Zoom call. Once you’ve joined, click the arrow next to the audio/mute icon to choose your audio source. 
• Mute yourself or others to avoid background noise.
  • If you’re in a noisy location like a coffee shop, mute when you’re not talking.
  • If you’re hosting a meeting and other participants’ backgrounds are noisy, politely inform them and ask them to mute or offer to mute them. 
• If your internet connection is not high quality, you may find the audio quality suffers.
  • Try disabling video to preserve your internet bandwidth for audio. 
  • Also avoid downloading software or doing heavy web browsing if you notice your audio quality starting to suffer. 
  • Prefer a wired ethernet connection to a wireless one.  Wired connections are generally more reliable and stable.
  • Avoid using unencrypted wireless networks (like DavidsonGuest).
• If all else fails, use a mobile phone or landline to dial in. You can stay connected to the internet conference for video and screen sharing.