When HDMI audio cannot work, first check the basic settings: make sure that the HDMI cable is connected normally, the monitor input source is correct, and manually select the correct playback device in Windows; secondly make sure that the HDMI audio device is not disabled, which can be enabled through the sound settings; then update or reinstall the audio driver, which can be operated in Device Manager; then run Windows Audio Troubleshooting; finally check the graphics card settings, such as the audio output options of NVIDIA or AMD. Checking one by one in order can solve most problems.

HDMI audio not working in Windows is a common issue, especially after updates or driver changes. The problem usually lies somewhere between your display settings, audio drivers, or device configuration. Here's how to troubleshoot and get sound back through HDMI.

Check the Basics First

Before diving into advanced fixes, make sure you've covered the basics:

• Is the HDMI cable properly connected?
• Is your monitor or TV set to the correct input source?
• Have you selected the right playback device in Windows?

To check the last point:

1. Right-click the volume icon in the taskbar.
2. Go to Sounds settings or Open Sound settings .
3. Under Output , select the correct HDMI audio device from the list.

Sometimes Windows doesn't automatically switch audio output when you connect via HDMI — manually selecting it can fix the issue instantly.

Make Sure HDMI Audio Device Is Enabled

Windows might have disabled the HDMI audio device without notice.

Here's how to check:

1. Press Win R , type mmsys.cpl , and hit Enter.
2. In the Playback tab, look for devices like Digital Output (HDMI) or something similar.
3. If you see it but it's grayed out, right-click and choose Enable .
4. If there's no HDMI device listed, move on to checking drivers.

Also, some laptops have separate audio outputs for internal speakers and external displays — make sure the right one is active.

Update or Reinstall Audio Drivers

Outdated or corrupted audio drivers are often the root cause of HDMI audio issues.

Try these steps:

• Open Device Manager ( devmgmt.msc ).
• Expand Sound, video and game controllers .
• Right-click entries like High Definition Audio Device , Intel(R) Display Audio , or anything with “HDMI” in the name.
• Choose Update driver > Search automatically for updated driver software .

If that doesn't help:

• Uninstall the HDMI-related audio device(s).
• Restart your PC — Windows will reinstall them automatically.

Alternatively, download the latest audio drivers directly from your motherboard or laptop manufacturer's website for best compatibility.

Run the Windows Audio Troubleshooter

Windows includes built-in tools that can detect and fix common audio problems.

To use it:

1. Go to Settings > System > Sound .
2. Scroll down and click Troubleshoot under "Related settings".
3. Let it run and apply any suggested fixes.

This won't always solve HDMI-specific issues, but it's worth trying before moving to manual fixes.

Check Your Graphics Driver Settings

Some graphics cards (especially NVIDIA and AMD) have separate audio components that need to be enabled.

For NVIDIA users:

1. Open NVIDIA Control Panel .
2. Go to Display > Set up digital audio .
3. Make sure your display is selected and that Enable audio output is checked.

If you're using an AMD card, go into the AMD Catalyst Control Center or newer Radeon Software , and look for similar options under display or audio settings.

Fixing HDMI audio issues in Windows usually come down to ensuring the right device is selected, updating drivers, and checking hardware connections. Most of the time, it's not complicated — just a matter of going through each step carefully.

The above is the detailed content of How to fix HDMI audio not working in Windows?. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!