Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →If a YouTube video has sound in your browser but not in VLC, check VLC’s mute and volume controls, confirm an audio track is selected, and verify the output device. If sound is missing in other apps too, troubleshoot your computer or device audio first. For YouTube-only trouble in VLC, the stream handler may be incompatible with changes to YouTube delivery; update VLC before considering older handler instructions.
First, find out where the audio problem starts
Test the same YouTube video in a browser or another player, then play a local audio or video file in VLC. These two checks separate system-wide sound problems from VLC-specific ones, and YouTube-stream problems from problems affecting all VLC playback.
- No sound in the browser or other apps: check system volume, device sound settings, and the selected output. YouTube Help also recommends restarting the browser or device when YouTube audio is missing. YouTube’s no-sound troubleshooting covers these checks.
- Local media and other apps have sound, but the YouTube stream in VLC does not: check VLC’s playback and output settings, then consider stream-handler compatibility.
- All VLC media is silent: focus on VLC’s audio track, output device, and audio output module.
Check VLC’s playback controls and audio track
- Make sure VLC is not muted and raise its volume. Also check that the operating system’s volume mixer has not muted or turned down VLC specifically.
- Confirm that the video has an audio track and that the intended track is selected. VLC’s labels and menu paths vary by version and operating system, so look in the player’s audio or track controls rather than relying on a universal menu path.
- If the video has multiple audio tracks, try another track. A selected track may be silent or may not be the one you expect.
Verify the sound output device
Check that the operating system is sending sound to the intended speakers, headphones, monitor, or other output. If the output changed after connecting or disconnecting a device, select the intended device again and retry playback.
On Windows, VideoLAN’s FAQ recommends trying a different VLC audio output module, saving the change, and restarting VLC. It names DirectX and Win32 waveOut as options that should work in most cases. This recommendation is Windows-specific; the available modules and labels can differ across VLC versions and platforms. See the VideoLAN Windows FAQ for its guidance.
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#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
If only YouTube streams fail in VLC
If local media plays with sound in VLC but a YouTube stream does not, the issue may be VLC’s ability to handle YouTube’s current delivery protocols rather than your speakers. VideoLAN’s documentation notes that protocol changes can prevent VLC from streaming YouTube videos. It describes updating VLC or replacing the YouTube Lua handler as possible approaches.
- Check that you are using a current official VLC release for your operating system, then retry the stream.
- If the problem continues, consult current VideoLAN documentation for your installed version before changing stream-handler files.
- Do not treat the file paths or replacement steps in older VideoLAN instructions as universal. They are version-dependent legacy guidance and may not apply to your installation.
The VideoLAN VLC FAQ discusses YouTube streaming problems and the Lua handler, but its instructions do not establish a current procedure for every operating system or VLC version.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Common symptoms and what to try
| What you observe | What it suggests | What to try |
|---|---|---|
| YouTube and other apps are silent | The issue may be at the device or operating-system level. | Check system and device volume, confirm the selected output, then restart the browser or device. |
| Other apps have sound, but every VLC file is silent | VLC playback, track selection, or audio output configuration may be involved. | Check mute, volume, track selection, output routing, and—on Windows—try another audio output module and restart VLC. |
| Local files have sound in VLC, but YouTube streams do not | YouTube stream-handler compatibility may be involved. | Update VLC and consult version-appropriate VideoLAN guidance before attempting any handler-file change. |
| Sound works after changing output, then disappears again | The system or player may be routing audio to a different device. | Recheck the active system output and VLC’s output configuration while the intended device is connected. |
Or let it run in the cloud
If you were trying to keep a pre-recorded YouTube stream running rather than fix VLC playback, StreamNeo is a separate option: upload your video, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. Nothing has to stay on at home; it loops uploaded videos in the cloud, supports any quality up to 4K 60fps at one price per slot, and automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly pricing is $9.99 per month. It streams uploaded videos to YouTube, not from a camera. Learn about StreamNeo, or start the free day.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
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.
