About noise reduction
Noise reduction tools help reduce or remove background sounds, making it easier to hear speech clearly during calls, meetings, and audio playback.
These tools can work through both software settings, built into Windows and apps like Teams, and hardware – such as headsets with noise-cancelling features.
Who this can help
Noise reduction can be useful for:
- Hearing impairments: makes speech clearer by reducing background noise
- Auditory processing difficulties: helps separate speech from other sounds
- Neurodivergent users: reduces distracting or overwhelming background noise
- Fatigue or concentration difficulties: reduces listening effort during long calls
- People working in busy environments: improves focus and communication
Built-in noise reduction in Windows
Windows includes settings to help improve audio clarity:
Improve microphone quality
- Open Settings
- Go to System then Sound
- Select your microphone device
- Look for options like:
- Enhance audio (if available)
- Input volume (adjust to a clear, comfortable level)
This helps ensure your voice is clear and easy to understand.
Reduce background noise in applications
In applications like Teams, noise suppression is built in:
- Go to Settings then Devices in Teams settings
- Look for Noise suppression
- Choose a level:
- Auto (recommended)
- Low or High depending on your environment
This reduces sounds like typing, background chatter, or traffic noise.
Headsets and microphones
Some hardware such as headsets and microphones include built-in noise reduction:
- Noise-cancelling headsets reduce background sound around you
- Microphones with noise filtering focus on your voice and reduce unwanted noise
- USB or Bluetooth headsets often provide better clarity than built-in laptop microphones
These work alongside software settings for the best results.
Choose a quiet location
- Find a space with minimal background activity
- Avoid areas near open windows, busy corridors, or shared spaces
- If working from home, close doors and windows where possible