Laptop Audio Is Not Working on Windows 10? Try These Fixes

Jun. 22, 2025 / Updated by Seraphina to Windows 10

laptop-audio-is-not-working-fixes

Some Windows 10 laptop users may suddenly encounter audio issues such as no sound or unresponsive headphones. These problems not only affect usage but can also be mistaken for hardware failure. This article will explain the common causes and offer simple, effective solutions to help you quickly restore sound.

I. Common Audio Issue Symptoms

No sound from the computer even when the volume is turned up
Headphones have no sound or are not recognized when plugged in
System displays "No audio output device is installed"
Volume icon shows a red X or appears greyed out
Media players are running but no sound is heard

II. Common Causes of Audio Not Working

Corrupted or missing audio drivers:

Driver issues are the most common cause. Windows updates or third-party software can damage or remove drivers.

Audio services not running:

If Windows audio services are stopped or fail to start, the system may lose sound output.

Incorrect default output device:

If the default sound output device is set incorrectly, audio may be routed to an invalid device.

Hardware interface issues:

Loose headphone jacks, poor speaker connections, or damaged internal speakers can affect audio output.

System settings or update conflicts:

Audio compatibility issues may arise after certain Windows updates.

III. Solutions to Fix Audio Not Working

Method 1: Update Audio Drivers

Outdated or incompatible drivers are a common cause of sound problems in Windows. For users unfamiliar with manual driver installation, it is recommended to use Driver Talent, a tool that automatically detects and updates drivers, reducing the risk of downloading or installing the wrong version.

Download Driver Talent

Download the latest version of Driver Talent and install it. Open the software and click "Scan".
After scanning, it will show drivers that are missing or need updates. Find the audio driver in the list and click the "Update" button.

driver-update

Once the update is complete, restart your computer to ensure the new driver works properly.

Method 2: Check Audio Settings

Check volume mixer:

Right-click the speaker icon on the bottom right of the taskbar and choose "Open Volume Mixer".
Make sure all volume sliders are turned up and none are muted, including the main system volume.

check-volume-mixer

Check output device:

Right-click the speaker icon again and select "Open Sound Settings".
Under "Output", make sure the selected device is "Speakers" or the headphones you are currently using.

Method 3: Re-enable the Audio Device

Right-click the Start button and choose Device Manager.

Expand "Sound, video and game controllers", right-click your speaker device, and select "Enable".

If it is already enabled, try clicking "Uninstall device", then restart your system. Windows will automatically reinstall the driver.

Method 4: Check Windows Audio Services

Press Win + R, type "services.msc", and press Enter.

Find "Windows Audio" and "Windows Audio Endpoint Builder".

check-windows-audio-services

Right-click each and select "Restart".

If either service is stopped, right-click and choose "Start", then set the startup type to "Automatic".

Method 5: Run the Audio Troubleshooter

Open Settings, go to "Update & Security", and select "Troubleshoot".

Click "Additional troubleshooters", find "Playing Audio", and click "Run the troubleshooter".

run-the-audio-troubleshooter

The system will automatically detect and attempt to fix any audio issues.

Method 6: Check Headphone/Speaker Hardware

Try using different headphones, cables, or ports to check for physical issues.
Test the headphones or speakers with another device to ensure they work properly.
Clean the headphone jack to remove dust and ensure a good connection.