Symptoms
- No sound from any app
- Sound icon shows muted or very low
- Sound works with headphones but not speakers
- Sound worked yesterday, nothing changed physically
Likely causes
- CommonWrong playback device selectedComputers can list several audio outputs (speakers, HDMI, headphones) and the wrong one may be active.
- CommonVolume muted or turned down in softwareSystem volume, app volume, and speaker volume can each be muted independently.
- CommonLoose or disconnected cableA speaker cable or power cord can work its way loose without being obviously unplugged.
- PossibleOutdated or corrupted audio driverA driver problem after a Windows update commonly breaks sound output.
- Less commonFailed speakers or amplifierSpeakers can fail electronically, especially cheaper powered speakers.
What to do
- Check the system volume and make sure it isn't muted, then check the volume on the speakers themselves.
- In sound settings, confirm the correct speaker is selected as the default output device.
- Check all cable connections: power to the speakers, audio cable to the computer, and that the speaker is turned on.
- Test sound with headphones plugged into the same jack to see if the computer is producing audio at all.
- Restart the computer, since this often resolves a stuck audio driver.
- Update the audio driver through Device Manager or the manufacturer's website.
- Test the speakers on another device (like a phone) using their aux input if available, to isolate speaker vs. computer.
Tools and parts
- None
Replacement computer speakersSearch: “USB or aux powered computer speakers”
When to call a pro
If sound works through headphones but never through the speakers on any device, the speakers themselves have likely failed and should be replaced.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.