Q&A for How to Use a Microphone on a PC

You will probably be fine with a standard phone connector (usually the 3.5mm jack) or USB mic. Keep the microphone at a distance where the sound is loud enough to be heard but not too loud (some microphones are made for guitars). Change the positioning and test a few times until you reach a level you like. However, if you want to go pro-am, there are many guides and videos about choosing budget microphone options for aspiring artists.

The mic should have a port that looks a lot like a headphone jack. Simply plug it into the port that has a mic drawing below it. The port is usually on your PC case or monitor.

Some ports are made for both a microphone or headphone, so in those cases, you can. They are usually labeled with an icon to show their functions. An external mic won't work in a regular headphone input, though.

Check your microphone to see if it has any volume adjustment sliders or dials. If there are, record yourself while actively adjusting the slider. You should notice an increase as you move in one direction. Check which level will be perfect for you to record and keep it there. If you do not have a slider, then try moving the microphone closer, speaking louder, or manually increase the volume using a separate application.