If sound is not working on Windows 11, first select the intended output in Settings > System > Sound, then check mute, volume, and the physical connection. If that does not restore audio, run the Get Help audio troubleshooter and work through Windows updates and driver repair. These are practical troubleshooting steps—not a measured ranking or a guarantee that any one fix will work.
Try these nine checks in order
Start with settings and connections before changing drivers. Microsoft says its general troubleshooting recommendations are listed in order; the nine checks below organize those recommendations into a usable sequence.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
1. Select the output device you want to hear
Open Settings > System > Sound. Under Output, select the speakers or headphones you are trying to use. Windows may be sending sound to a different available output, such as a USB or HDMI audio device.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →2. Check mute and volume
Make sure Windows is not muted and raise the volume to a testable level. Also check any physical controls on your speakers or headphones. A normal-looking volume icon does not prove sound is reaching the device you intend to use.
#1 Best Overall
- Digital Stereo Sound: Fine-tuned drivers provide enhanced digital audio for music, calls, meetings and more
- Rotating Noise Canceling Mic: Minimizes unwanted background noise for clear conversations; the rotating boom arm can be tucked out of the way when you’re not using it
- Handy In-line Controls: Simple in-line controls on the headset cable let you adjust the volume or mute calls without disruption
- Plug-and-Play USB Computer Headset: Simply plug the USB-A connector into your computer and you’re ready to talk or listen without the need to install software
- Padded Comfort: Comfortable headphones with adjustable headband features swivel-mounted, leatherette ear cushions for hours of comfort and is easy to clean
3. Check the physical connection
For wired speakers or headphones, reseat the plug or cable and check that it is connected to the correct port. Confirm powered speakers are switched on. Microsoft notes that loose cords or cables can cause sound problems.
4. Turn off audio enhancements
Open the selected output device’s settings under Settings > System > Sound and switch Audio enhancements off, if the option is available. Test audio again. Enhancements can sometimes interfere with playback.
5. Run the Get Help audio troubleshooter
Open the Get Help app and run its automated audio troubleshooter. Microsoft identifies this as the starting diagnostic for audio problems on Windows 11. Follow any prompts it provides, then test the output device again.
Rank #2
- Versatile headset: Great for Internet calls and listening to music from your Mac or Windows computer
- Plug-and-play USB connection: Simply plug the headset into your PC for quick and easy stereo audio
- Clear digital sound: Pure USB digital audio for crystal clear music and calls
- Rotating boom microphone: Reduces background noise for clear chats, rotates up and hides away when you’re listening to music
- Comfortable design: Lightweight adjustable headband and foam ear cups for a feel-good fit
6. Check for Windows updates and restart
Check Windows Update for available updates and install relevant updates. Restart the PC after installing updates, as well as after driver changes when prompted. If the problem began immediately after an update, note that timing; rolling back an audio driver may be more appropriate than repeating an update.
7. Update the audio driver in Device Manager
- Right-click Start and open Device Manager.
- Expand Sound, video and game controllers.
- Right-click the relevant audio device and choose Update driver.
- Follow the available prompts, then restart if needed and test sound.
8. Repair the driver or roll it back
If updating does not help, Microsoft’s options include uninstalling and reinstalling the audio driver, using the generic Windows audio driver, or rolling back the driver if the issue started after an update. In Device Manager, open the audio device’s properties to review the available driver actions. The options shown can depend on the device and installed driver.
9. If the output device is missing, check whether Windows detects it
If you see the message “No audio output device is installed,” or no intended device appears under Output, check Device Manager before assuming the speakers have failed.
Rank #3
- [Wide Compatibility] This professional gaming headset for PC gamers is compatible with PC (Windows 7/8/10), PS4/PS5 console, laptops, and other devices with a USB audio port.(Note: EKSA E1000 is not compatible with game controllers.)
- [Driver-free 7.1 Surround Sound] Enjoy an instant immersive gaming experience with its 7.1 surround sound. EKSA PC gaming headset has a built-in USB audio sound chip and 50mm magnetic neodymium driver that gives you a vivid surrounding sound field. No extra downloads or hassle to get the best experience, just plug and play.
- [Noise Cancelling Microphone] The EKSA gaming headset for PS5 reduces distracting background noise and guarantees loud and crystal-clear communication with its 120° adjustable high-sensitive microphone. The headset’s omnidirectional noise reduction tech allows you to enjoy quality sound when gaming or in-game chats.
- [Comfortable Ergonomic Design] Premium soft memory protein earmuffs ensure ultimate comfort even for a prolonged period. In addition, there’s absolute comfort during lengthy gaming sessions with an adjustable headband designed for balanced weight distribution and reduced clamping force. Short cables are also not your problem anymore as its 2.2m extremely durable cable allows you to enjoy your game with no boundary.
- [2 Years Warranty] EKSA gaming headsets are under strict quality inspection on each production line. We offer 24-hour customer support and a 2-year warranty. We will make our most incredible effort to take responsibility for your shopping experience.
- In Device Manager, look under Sound, video and game controllers for the audio device. If it is present but disabled, enable it.
- If it is not listed, use Device Manager’s View > Show hidden devices, then choose Action > Scan for hardware changes.
- If Windows still does not detect it, get the appropriate audio driver from the computer manufacturer or sound-card manufacturer, install it, and restart.
Microsoft’s missing-device guidance covers detection checks and manufacturer drivers; a missing listing is a different problem from sound playing through the wrong output.
When Bluetooth is connected but silent
A Bluetooth device can be paired or connected without being the active playback output. Select it under Settings > System > Sound > Output. If it remains silent, use this Bluetooth-specific sequence:
- Run the Bluetooth troubleshooter in Get Help.
- Remove the device from Bluetooth settings, then pair it again.
- Turn Bluetooth off and back on, then reconnect the device.
- Check for Bluetooth and audio driver updates.
- If Advanced sound properties is available for the connected device, try the documented format of 2 channel, 16 bit, 48,000 Hz.
That format is one troubleshooting option for a connected Bluetooth device, not a universal setting required for every device.
Rank #4
- High-quality, premium headset brings your PC calls and music to life
- Easy plug-and-play USB Connection
- Laser-tuned drivers and a built-in EQ deliver superior, unrivaled Audio quality and rich bass
- Volume and bass level control as well as the ability to instantly mute the mic
- Soft, padded leatherette headband and earcups feel good even after hours of listening
Use the symptom to narrow down the cause
| What you notice | First check | Next step |
|---|---|---|
| The intended speakers or headphones are listed, but there is no sound | Output selection, Windows volume, physical volume controls, and cable or power | Turn off audio enhancements and run the Get Help audio troubleshooter |
| Windows shows “No audio output device is installed” or the device is absent | Device Manager, including hidden devices and hardware scan | Install the appropriate driver from the PC or sound-card manufacturer |
| Bluetooth says connected, but playback is silent | Whether the Bluetooth device is selected under Output | Run Bluetooth diagnostics, re-pair, and check Bluetooth and audio drivers |
| The problem started after an update | Whether a driver update coincides with the first failure | Review the driver’s rollback option in Device Manager |
When another output path may help
If troubleshooting points to failed built-in output hardware, a USB audio adapter may provide an alternate output path, provided Windows detects it and lists it under Output. It will not correct a muted setting, wrong output selection, or every driver or hardware fault, so treat it as a conditional workaround rather than a first troubleshooting step.
Microsoft guidance
- Microsoft Support: Fix sound or audio problems in Windows
- Microsoft Support: Fix missing or undetected audio output device in Windows
- Microsoft Support: Fix Bluetooth connected but no sound issue on Windows
- Microsoft Support: Fix audio issues when no sound plays from speakers or headphones in Windows
Microsoft Support describes a common symptom this way: “Sometimes, you don’t hear any sound from your speakers or wired headphones, even though the volume icon appears normal.”
Recommended Free Tools
Quick Recap
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.
