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Audio plays a pivotal role in enhancing the multimedia experience, particularly in video games where effective communication is crucial while gaming. However, the issue of no sound in games on Windows 10/11 can disrupt this immersive experience. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this problem and provide practical solutions to rectify it effectively.
Why does my game audio keep cutting out?
If you find that your game audio is not coming through your headset or speakers while gaming, it’s possible that you haven’t configured your audio device correctly. Start by checking your audio mixer to ensure that your game volume is not muted. In many cases, outdated or incorrect drivers are the root cause of this issue. Therefore, updating your audio drivers may be necessary to resolve the problem.
Here are some common errors related to audio reported by users:
- Game audio not working in StreamLabs: If you have added desktop audio to the mixer but still cannot hear the game sound, it is likely that the audio is being played through a different source than the desktop audio.
- Game audio not working in OBS: Ensure that the Audio Track you have selected is accurate; otherwise, OBS won’t capture the game audio.
- Game audio not working with Discord: This problem occurs when you mistakenly select the default device as Stereo Mix instead of your headset microphone.
- Audio cuts out when playing games on Windows 11: You can reset sound drivers in Windows 11 by accessing the Device Manager, right-clicking on the driver you want to reset, expanding “Sound, video, and game controllers,” and choosing the “Disable device” option.
- Grounded game audio not working: Launching Grounded from scratch can fix this error.
- Game audio not coming through the headset in Windows 10: Navigate to the Sound tab in the System menu. Check that the headphones are properly plugged in and ensure that the volume slider in the Output menu is not set to zero.
- No sound in games Windows 10
- Audio cuts out when playing games Windows 10
It’s important to note that audio issues can affect almost any game, with many gamers reporting audio problems in popular games like Fortnite. Fortunately, this comprehensive guide will help you troubleshoot and fix all your sound-related issues.
How can I fix game audio if it stops working in Windows?
1. Disable and enable your speakers
To fix the “no sound in games” issue on Windows 10/11, follow these steps:
- Right-click the speaker icon in the Taskbar and select “Open sound settings” from the menu.
- Scroll down and select “Sound Control Panel.”
- Right-click in the empty space and ensure that both “Show Disabled Devices” and “Show Disconnected Devices” options are checked.
- Right-click on your audio device and choose “Disable.”
- Your audio device should now be grayed out. Right-click it again and select “Enable.”
- Click “Apply” and “OK” to save the changes.
Some users have found that the game audio issue can be fixed by disabling and enabling their speakers. Follow these simple steps to try this solution.
2. Update your drivers
Outdated audio drivers are often the cause of audio problems in games. To update your audio drivers, visit your motherboard manufacturer’s website and download the latest audio drivers specifically for your motherboard. If you are using a dedicated sound card or a laptop, download the audio drivers from your sound card or laptop manufacturer.
2.1. Update drivers automatically
If you prefer a hassle-free approach to driver updates, you can use a specialized tool that will automatically find and install the correct version of drivers for your system. This will save you time and reduce the risk of PC damage. Once your drivers are up to date, the issue of no sound in games on Windows 10/11 should be resolved.
3. Adjust the audio buffer
If your game audio stops working on your computer, you can try adjusting the audio buffer. Follow these steps:
- Open the Focusrite Audio Control Panel or a similar tool.
- Increase the number of milliseconds in the buffer.
By adjusting the audio buffer size, you can prevent audio from cutting out or not working at all. If the buffer size is too low, audio glitches can occur.
4. Use the audio troubleshooter
Windows 10 has a built-in audio troubleshooter that can help diagnose and fix audio-related issues. Here’s how to use it:
- Go to Settings, navigate to Update & Security, and select Troubleshoot from the left pane.
- Click on “Additional troubleshooters” in the right pane.
- Find “Playing Audio” and click “Run the troubleshooter.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
- Restart your computer.
Using the Windows 10 audio troubleshooter can be an effective way to resolve game audio issues. Follow the above steps to get started.
5. Check in-game sound settings
It may sound obvious, but ensure that you haven’t disabled the sound in the in-game settings. Sometimes, you may have accidentally muted the game, and this can easily be overlooked. Consider all possible scenarios before proceeding to the next solution.
6. Reinstall the game
If none of the previous solutions have resolved the game audio issue, you can try reinstalling the game. Sometimes, installation errors can cause audio problems. However, before reinstalling, make sure to access the saved games folder and back up your progress in a different location to restore it after the reinstallation.
7. Reinstall the audio driver
To restore game audio by checking and reinstalling the sound driver, follow these steps:
- Right-click the Start icon and select “Device Manager.”
- In Device Manager, locate your audio device, right-click it, and select “Uninstall device.”
- Confirm and uninstall the audio driver, then restart your computer.
- Visit your audio device manufacturer’s website and check if there is a new driver available for Windows 10/11.
8. Make sure audio service is enabled
To ensure that the audio service is enabled, follow these steps:
- Press Windows + R and enter “services.msc”. Press Enter or click OK.
- In the Services window, locate “Windows Audio” and double-click it to open its properties.
- Set the “Startup type” to “Automatic,” then click the “Start” button to start the service. Click Apply and OK to save the changes.
Audio cannot function without the audio service. If this service is disabled, you won’t hear any audio. Make sure to follow the steps above to check if the audio service is enabled. If it is already running and set to Automatic startup, try restarting it by right-clicking the “Windows Audio” service and selecting Restart from the menu.
Why can’t I hear anything on my PC?
If you are unable to hear any audio on your PC, ensure that your external speakers are activated and the volume is turned up to the maximum level. Sound cards can switch between different output sockets, so try connecting the speaker cord to another available audio jack on your computer if necessary.
Additionally, double-check that the audio cord is securely plugged into the speaker’s rear. Some speakers have multiple inputs, so make sure to choose the correct one. If all of these steps are in order, proceed with the solutions provided above to address any potential software issues with your PC or audio.
Why is my computer audio glitching?
If your computer audio is glitching, it may be due to connectivity issues or problems with your cable or audio jack. Outdated drivers or software issues could also contribute to audio glitches. Therefore, it’s crucial to thoroughly check all potential areas causing the problem.
What can I do if game audio stops working on Windows 11?
If you encounter game audio issues on Windows 11, follow these steps:
- Press Windows + I, scroll down to the Troubleshoot section, and click it.
- Select “Other troubleshooters.”
- Finally, click the “Run” button next to the “Playing Audio” troubleshooter.
Audio problems can significantly impact our multimedia experience, causing inconvenience and frustration. However, as demonstrated in this comprehensive guide, you can quickly fix game audio issues on your PC. For additional solutions or advice, please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Note: This article is brought to you by NokiaMA Headset Design
