Driver FixRecommendedSound, Wi-Fi or graphics acting up? Check drivers firstFind missing or outdated drivers fast.Check DriversHalloween DealsAmazon USHalloween week deals: useful picks before month-endAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsSlow PC?RecommendedPC slow today? Run a repair scan before it gets worseResolve common Windows issues and optimize system performance.Scan Now×
FREEDOM251

Freedom251 › Blog › controller troubleshooting

How to Fix Voice Chat and Controller Issues in THE FINALS (PC, PS5, and Xbox)

By Freedom251 Team · · 9 min read

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

If voice chat or a controller is failing in THE FINALS, start with the platform-specific setting that blocks it most often. On PC, grant Windows microphone access and choose the correct input in Settings > Social > Chat > Voice Chat. On PlayStation 5, disable Mute Game Voice Chat and allow voice sharing in Game Base. On Xbox, permit communication outside the Xbox network. For controller problems, verify bindings, update the game, and check Steam Input on PC.

The steps below cover PC, PS5, and Xbox, including network checks, patch-related controller bugs, fallback communication, and the information support needs if nothing restores input or voice.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

First, identify which problem you have

“Voice chat is broken” can mean that nobody hears you, you cannot hear teammates, your microphone works in other apps but not in the game, or the chat cuts out during a match. Controller problems are similarly varied: no buttons work, only one action is missing, the controller works in menus but not in a contract screen, or Steam Input appears to interfere.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Symptom Start here Why this check matters
Teammates cannot hear you on PC Windows microphone permission, then Voice Chat Input Device The game may be denied access or listening to a different microphone
You cannot hear game voice on PS5 Game Base > Game Base Settings > Voice Chat Settings “Mute Game Voice Chat” can suppress in-game audio
Xbox voice chat is blocked Xbox Privacy > Communication & Multiplayer The privacy control can prohibit communication outside Xbox
Controller does nothing on PC Update the game, inspect bindings, and review Steam Input Game updates have fixed specific Steam Input and focus failures
Controller works except in one screen Check the affected action and game version A patch can fix a menu or focus-specific defect without changing general input

Voice chat is enabled by default in THE FINALS. The default mode is Push to Talk on PC and Voice Activated on consoles, so a silent microphone does not necessarily mean the feature is disabled.

#1 Best Overall
Sale
Ozeino Gaming Headset for PC, Ps4, Ps5, Xbox Headset with 7.1 Surround Sound Gaming Headphones with Noise Canceling Mic, LED Light Over Ear Headphones for Switch, Xbox Series X/S, Laptop, Mobile White
  • Immersive 7.1 Surround Sound: This gaming headset delivering stereo surround sound for realistic audio. Whether you're in a high-speed FPS battle or losing yourself RPG adventures, this Ps5 headset provides crisp treble, punchy bass, and precise directional cues, giving you a competitive edge
  • Great Humanized Design: Comfortable and breathable permeability protein over-ear pads perfectly on your head, adjustable headband distributes pressure evenly, you’ll enjoy lasting comfort during hours of gaming and suitable for all gaming players of all ages
  • Sensitivity Noise-Cancelling Microphone: 360° omnidirectionally rotatable sensitive microphone, premium noise cancellation, sound localisation, your voice comes through loud and natural, ensuring your teammates catch every callout, even in chaotic battle scenes.
  • Universal Compatibility: This gaming headphone support for PC, Ps5, Ps4, Xbox one, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, Laptop, Mobile Phone and other devices with 3.5mm jack.Note 1: When you use headset on your PC, be sure to connect the "1-to-2 3.5mm audio jack splitter cable" (Red-Mic, Green-audio). (Please note you need an extra Microsoft Adapter when connect with an old version Xbox One controller)
  • Cool style gaming experience: Colorful RGB lights create a gorgeous gaming atmosphere, adding excitement to every match. Heightening immersion for FPS, MOBA, and action titles. These eye-catching lights give your setup a gamer-ready look while maintaining focus on performance. (*Note: The USB connector is for LED lighting only)

Fix voice chat on Windows PC

Work through these checks in order. Restart the game after changing Windows permissions; otherwise the running session may retain the old permission state.

1. Allow desktop applications to use the microphone

  1. Press Windows + I to open Windows Settings.
  2. Open Privacy & Security > Microphone.
  3. Turn on Let Desktop Apps to Access Your Microphone.
  4. Confirm that THE FINALS appears among the applications using microphone access when Windows lists recent desktop use.
  5. Close and restart THE FINALS.

If the permission switch is off, changing an in-game voice mode cannot make the microphone available. If Windows does not show the game as using the microphone after a fresh test, continue with the device-selection check rather than assuming the headset is defective.

2. Select the intended input in the game

  1. Launch THE FINALS and open Settings.
  2. Choose Social > Chat > Voice Chat.
  3. Under Voice Chat Input Device, select the microphone or headset you actually want to use. Do not leave an unintended webcam, monitor, virtual cable, or disconnected headset selected.
  4. Speak and watch for the game’s microphone activity indication, if shown.

Windows can expose several inputs with similar names. Selecting the device explicitly is more reliable than leaving the game on an automatically chosen default, especially after plugging in a USB headset or changing audio hardware.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

3. Test every voice mode

In the same Voice Chat settings, test each available mode:

  • Push to Talk: hold the configured talk key while speaking. This is the PC default, so verify the key and that another action has not replaced it.
  • Toggle to Talk: activate the talk state once, then speak without holding a key. This separates a key-binding problem from a microphone problem.
  • Open Mic: speak without a talk key. If Open Mic works but Push to Talk does not, focus on the talk-key binding or keyboard focus rather than the microphone.

Change only one mode at a time and test in a party or match so you can tell whether the input indicator and teammate audio respond.

Rank #2
Sale
Logitech G432 Wired Gaming Headset - Black | DTS Headphone:X 2.0, 50 mm audio drivers, USB and 3.5 mm jack, Flip-to-Mute mic, PC compatible
  • Enjoy expansive cinematic sound. Big 50 mm audio drivers deliver an incredible sound experience
  • Hear Enemies From All Sides. DTS Headphone:X 2.0 surround sound(1) lets you hear enemies sneaking behind you, special ability cues, and immersive environments. It’s positional clarity that can make the difference between victory and defeat. Experience three-dimensional audio that goes beyond 7.1 channels to make you feel like you’re right in the middle of the action. (1) DTS Headphone:X 2.0 requires Logitech G HUB Software.
  • Be Heard Loud and Clear. The big 6 mm boom mic makes sure you’re heard by gaming partners and mutes when flipped up.
  • Use One Headset For Most Game Platforms. Your headphones work with your PC or Mac via USB DAC or 3.5 mm cable, mobile devices with 3.5 mm cable or with gaming consoles including PlayStationⓇ 5 and PlayStationⓇ 4 (USB wireless stereo sound only), Nintendo Switch (wireless stereo sound when docked)
  • Game for Hours in Comfort. Everything about these headphones is about comfort: The deluxe lightweight leatherette ear cups and headband are made to keep pressure off your ears. Ear cups rotate up to 90 degrees for convenience.

4. Release the microphone from other applications

Close Discord, video-call software, recording tools, browser meetings, and any other program that may be using the microphone. Then relaunch THE FINALS. Another application can hold the device, change its input level, or leave the game attached to a virtual input. If voice returns after those programs are closed, reopen them one by one to identify the conflict.

5. Check the physical device and drivers

  • Reconnect a USB headset directly to the computer rather than through an unpowered hub.
  • Make sure a headset mute switch, inline button, or boom sensor is not muting the microphone.
  • Use Windows sound settings to confirm that the microphone receives a signal before launching the game.
  • Update the audio and microphone drivers if Windows detects the device but input remains unreliable.

A USB gaming headset with a microphone can be useful as a diagnostic replacement: if a second headset works immediately, the original microphone, cable, or adapter is the likely fault. This is a hardware isolation step, not a requirement to buy a particular model.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

6. Try the documented network remedies

When the device and permissions are correct but voice still fails or drops, Embark documents network troubleshooting that includes disabling IPv6 temporarily and switching to a public DNS server. Apply one network change at a time, record the original setting, and restart the game (and, for DNS changes, the network connection) before retesting. These steps address connection resolution and routing; they cannot repair a muted microphone or an incorrect input device.

Fix voice chat on PlayStation 5

PS5 system controls can mute game voice independently of the game’s own setting. Check them before changing network configuration.

1. Unmute game voice and allow your voice to be shared

  1. Press the PS button.
  2. Open Game Base.
  3. Open Game Base Settings > Voice Chat Settings.
  4. Turn Mute Game Voice Chat off.
  5. Set Share Your Voice to Allow.
  6. Return to THE FINALS, restart it, and test with a party member.

“Mute Game Voice Chat” affects hearing in-game voice, while “Share Your Voice” controls whether your microphone can be transmitted. Both must permit communication for a normal two-way test.

Rank #3
JBL Quantum 100M2 Wired Gaming Headset, Detachable Mic - Black | Memory Foam Ear Cushions And 3.5 Mm Jack Work With PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch For Immersive PC Gaming Sessions
  • JBL QUANTUMSOUND SIGNATURE: From the faintest footsteps to the loudest explosion, this wired gaming headset puts you at the center of every scene—immersive, accurate audio that turns every match into a competitive edge.
  • DETACHABLE DIRECTIONAL MICROPHONE: Rally your squad without repeating yourself. The voice-focus directional microphone detaches when you're flying solo and includes a mute option—because this mic headset knows when to talk and when to stay quiet.
  • MEMORY FOAM COMFORT: Marathon sessions hit different in these over-ear headphones—lightweight build, breathable fabric ear cushions, and memory foam padding keep you locked in without the fatigue. Game longer. Complain less.
  • SPATIAL SOUND COMPATIBILITY: Hear exactly where sound is coming from. This wired headset is fully compatible with Windows Sonic spatial sound on Windows 10 PCs and Xbox ONE—so the game world feels like it's happening around you.
  • CROSS-PLATFORM READY: One 3.5mm jack, every platform—PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Mobile, Mac, and VR. This cross-platform gaming headset goes wherever the game is.*

2. Confirm the headset itself

Check the headset’s physical mute control and reconnect it before launching the game again. If possible, test a second headset or the controller’s headset jack. A second device helps distinguish a console privacy setting from a failed microphone or cable.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

3. Test connection stability with manual DNS

If voice is permitted but connection stability appears to be the problem, Embark documents manual public DNS values. Use either pair, then restart the console:

Provider Primary DNS Secondary DNS
Google Public DNS 8.8.8.8 8.8.4.4
Cloudflare DNS 1.1.1.1 1.0.0.1

DNS changes are a connection test, not a guaranteed voice fix. If the problem is unchanged, restore automatic DNS or keep the setting only if it improves your wider connection.

Fix voice chat on Xbox

1. Permit communication outside Xbox

  1. Press the Xbox button.
  2. Open Profile & System > Settings > Account > Privacy & Online Safety.
  3. Choose Xbox Privacy > View Details and Customize > Communication & Multiplayer.
  4. Set You can communicate outside of the Xbox network with voice & text to Everybody.
  5. Restart THE FINALS and test voice chat.

This setting is the key Xbox privacy check for cross-network voice and text. A headset can work in the console interface while the game remains unable to communicate if the privacy value is restrictive.

2. Check the headset and game session

Make sure the headset is not muted, reconnect it, and fully restart the game after changing privacy controls. Test with a teammate so you can distinguish “I cannot hear anyone” from “nobody can hear me.”

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Rank #4
Sale
IMYB A36 Gaming Headset with Mic Stereo Headphones for Pc PS5, Xbox
  • 【Multi-platform Compatible】 Gaming headset with microphone for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One Series X/S (older version requires adapter), Nintendo 3DS, Switch, Laptop, PSP, Tablet, iPad, Computer, Mobile Phone, 3.5mm jack device.
  • 【Surrounding Stereo Subwoofer】 Gaming headset with high power 50mm neodymium magnet drivers, greatly enhance the expressiveness and sense of depth of voice playback details, powerful sound quality provide you immersive gaming experience.
  • 【Noise Isolating Microphone】Headset integrated onmi-directional microphone can transmit high quality communication with its premium noise isolating function, which enables you to clearly deliver or receive messages while you are in a gamer.
  • 【Humanised Design】 Soft and skin-friendly ear cushions, flexible headband with thickening pads, headset weight is only 0.77lb, lightweight and comfortable design provides you with a long-lasting excellent gaming experience.
  • 【Professional Gaming Headset】Gaming headphones with 6.5ft high tensile strength, anti-tangle braided cable, rotary volume control and button microphone mute.

3. Try manual DNS when connection quality is suspect

  1. Open System > All settings > Network > Network settings > Advanced settings > DNS settings.
  2. Choose the manual option and enter a documented public DNS pair, such as Google’s 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4, or Cloudflare’s 1.1.1.1 and 1.0.0.1.
  3. Restart the Xbox and retest voice chat.

If DNS does not change the symptom, return to automatic DNS and continue with the privacy, headset, and game-device checks.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Repair controller problems on every platform

1. Verify bindings in the game

Open Settings > Controller > Controller Bindings. Confirm that movement, jump, interact, attack, menu navigation, and any action that fails have a button assigned. A missing or changed binding can look like a dead controller even when other inputs work.

Test the specific action immediately after saving the binding. If only one command fails, concentrate on that binding; if every command fails, continue with connection and platform checks.

2. Update THE FINALS before changing advanced settings

Patch level matters because the developer has fixed controller-specific defects. Update 7.9.0 recorded a fix for an issue that prevented gamepads and controllers from working when Steam Input was enabled. Update 2.10.0 recorded a separate fix for selecting contracts with a controller breaking the selected focus. Those fixes explain why a controller may work in general play yet fail in a particular menu or screen.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

After an update, close and relaunch the game, then test the exact menu or action that previously failed. Do not assume that a Steam Input switch is a universal remedy: behavior can vary with the controller, storefront, and installed game version.

Best Value
Sale
BENGOO G9000 Stereo Gaming Headset for PS4 PC Xbox One PS5 Controller, Noise Cancelling Over Ear Headphones with Mic, LED Light, 7.1 Surround Sound, Soft Memory Earmuffs for Nintendo Xbox Series X|S
  • 【Multi-Platform Compatible】Support PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo 3DS, Laptop, PSP, Tablet, iPad, Computer, Mobile Phone. Please note you need an extra Microsoft Adapter (Not Included) when connect with an old version Xbox One controller.
  • 【7.1 Surround Sound】Clear sound operating strong brass, splendid ambient noise isolation and high precision 40mm magnetic neodymium driver, acoustic positioning precision enhance the sensitivity of the speaker unit, bringing you vivid sound field, sound clarity, shock feeling sound. Perfect for various games like Halo 5 Guardians, Metal Gear Solid, Call of Duty, Star Wars Battlefront, Overwatch, World of Warcraft Legion, etc.
  • 【Noise Isolating Microphone】Headset integrated onmi-directional microphone can transmits high quality communication with its premium noise-concellng feature, can pick up sounds with great sensitivity and remove the noise, which enables you clearly deliver or receive messages while you are in a game. Long flexible mic design very convenient to adjust angle of the microphone.
  • 【Great Humanized Design】Superior comfortable and good air permeability protein over-ear pads, muti-points headbeam, acord with human body engineering specification can reduce hearing impairment and heat sweat.Skin friendly leather material for a longer period of wearing. Glaring LED lights desigend on the earcups to highlight game atmosphere.
  • 【Effortlessly Volume Control】High tensile strength, anti-winding braided USB cable with rotary volume controller and key microphone mute effectively prevents the 49-inches long cable from twining and allows you to control the volume easily and mute the mic as effortless volume control one key mute.

3. Isolate Steam Input on PC

On PC, review the game’s Steam Input configuration after updating. If the controller is not recognized, test the current configuration and then test the alternate Steam Input state available for the game, restarting THE FINALS between changes. The official patch history establishes that Steam Input-related failures have existed, but it does not establish one permanent on-or-off setting for every controller.

Disconnect other gamepads, fight sticks, steering wheels, and virtual controller utilities while testing. Multiple active devices can make the game bind to a different device than the one in your hands.

4. Check the connection and the controller itself

  • For USB controllers, try another port and avoid an unpowered hub.
  • For wireless controllers, charge the battery, reconnect the wireless adapter or Bluetooth pairing, and keep the controller close during the test.
  • Test the controller in another game or in the platform’s controller diagnostic screen. If it fails there too, the problem is outside THE FINALS.
  • Reconnect the controller before starting the game so the session detects it from launch.

These tests separate a game binding or patch issue from a cable, battery, pairing, or hardware failure without changing unrelated settings.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

5. Handle menu-only and focus failures

If gameplay controls work but a menu does not respond, note the exact screen and action. The Update 2.10.0 contract-selection fix shows that focus handling can fail in one interface while the rest of controller input remains functional. Updating first is safer than deleting all bindings or installing third-party remapping software.

Use a symptom-based decision path

What you observe Next action
Microphone indicator never reacts on PC Recheck Windows desktop-app permission, select the input device explicitly, then test another headset
You can transmit but cannot hear teammates Check PS5 “Mute Game Voice Chat,” Xbox privacy, or the selected output/headset connection
Open Mic works but Push to Talk does not Inspect the talk-key binding and keyboard focus
Voice fails only while another app is open Close the competing app and relaunch the game; identify which application holds the microphone
Controller fails everywhere in the game Reconnect it, verify bindings, update the game, and test Steam Input or another controller
Controller fails only in contracts or one menu Install the latest update and retest that screen, noting the exact action
Voice remains unstable after permission checks Try the documented IPv6 or public-DNS troubleshooting, then restart the platform

Communicate while troubleshooting

THE FINALS provides text chat for players without a microphone or while voice is unavailable. The ping wheel can mark locations and coordinate strategy without speaking. Use those tools to keep a match organized while you test permissions, devices, or network settings.

When to contact Embark support

Escalate after you have updated the game, confirmed the platform privacy or microphone permission, checked bindings, and tested the headset or controller in another context. Include details that let support reproduce the fault:

  • Platform and operating-system version.
  • Connection type: USB, Bluetooth, wireless adapter, or console headset jack.
  • Headset and controller model.
  • Whether teammates cannot hear you, you cannot hear them, or both occur.
  • The selected Voice Chat Input Device and voice mode on PC.
  • The exact menu, contract screen, or action where controller input fails.
  • What changed after updating, restarting, changing permissions, or testing another device.

Describe one symptom per report and include the precise steps that reproduce it. That is more useful than reporting only that “voice chat” or “the controller” is broken.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

controller troubleshootingPC gamingPS5Steam InputTHE FINALSVoice ChatXbox

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan
Crashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?Free driver scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.