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Realtek Sound not Working in Windows 10: How to Fix it
These are some quick fixes to try if Realtek audio is not working
7 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
Sound issues are not new in Windows operating systems. Almost every new version of Windows brought sound problems to some users, and Windows 10 is no different.
So, because you can’t usually use your computer without sound, here’s a solution that might help.
As I said, some users might experience flaws in their sound settings, especially no sound with their Realtek sound card, which can prevent Windows 10 from playing any sound.
This flaw won’t be fixed even if your sound drivers are updated. The article will also cover this issue: Realtek speakers not working with Windows 10.
So to fix this issue, you can follow the solutions mentioned in this guide to help you overcome the no sound with the Realtek sound card on Windows 10 problem. So let us get right into it.
Why does my computer suddenly have no sound?
After some research, we have deduced a list of common reasons you may experience no sound from your PC.
Well, if your PC comes installed with a Realtek sound card and you are facing Realtek audio problem on your PC, then below are some of the common reasons why you will come across this error.
How do I fix the audio not working on Windows 10 PC?
1. Install the latest drivers
In case you need to install or update your drivers manually, the guide below explains this process with simple steps for your Windows 10 device.
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Right-click on theStartmenu.
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SelectDevice Managerfrom the list.
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Expand theSound, audio, and game controllersoption.
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Right-clickon your sound driver and select theUpdate driveroption.
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Select the option to check forupdates over the internet.
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After the update is installed,reboot your PCand check if this fixes the issue or not.
According to users, sometimes sound problems can occur due to outdated drivers. Sometimes, the generic driver can’t fix the problem, and your only option is to download and install the latest drivers.
You can either follow the above steps to manually install the latest drivers on your PC or use a reliable third-party tool that will update all device drivers in one go.
Outbyte Driver Updater
2. Change the default sound format
Since the Technical Preview, the wrong sound format has caused audio errors in Windows 10. So, just change the default sound format to get your sound back.
If the issue is still unresolved, you can try the following method and restart the sound drivers.
3. Re-install your sound drivers
Sometimes your current drivers might be buggy, and in some cases, it might be better that you use the default driver instead. To do that, first, you need to uninstall your current driver.
After that, Windows will install the default audio driver, and the issue should be resolved.
4. Make sure that the proper output device is selected
If you’re getting no sound on your Windows 10 PC, the problem might be because the wrong output device is selected.
This isn’t a significant problem; you can fix the issue simply by changing a single setting.
After making these changes, your default output device will be changed, and the issue should be permanently resolved.
5. Use a Generic High Definition Audio Device driver
In some cases, you might be able to fix sound problems in Windows 10 simply by switching to the generic driver.
Your current driver might not be fully compatible with Windows 10, leading to various sound issues.
To fix the problem, you need to install the generic driver. Once you install the default driver, check if the sound issue is resolved.
6. Check the Windows Audio service
You must ensure that the Windows Audio service is enabled for your audio to work correctly. So if you’re getting no sound on Windows 10, the most likely cause is the Windows Audio service.
7. Disable the audio enhancements
The issue might be related to audio enhancements if there’s no sound on your Windows 10 device. Of course, many users like to use them to get better sound, but sometimes they can lead to specific issues.
Once you disable the enhancements, the issue should be entirely resolved, and the sound will start working again.
8. Check if your speakers are correctly connected
The issue might be your cable if you’re getting no sound on Windows 10. To diagnose the problem, check if your speakers are correctly connected.
Sometimes you might connect your speakers to the wrong port on your PC, which can lead to many other problems.
Inspect the cable for damage if your speakers are connected to the correct port. Lastly, check the power supply cable and ensure it’s properly secured.
9. Check if your speakers are muted
Sometimes if you’re getting no sound on your Windows 10 PC, the issue might be volume control. In some instances, your speakers might be muted, which can lead to many other problems.
To check if the volume control is the problem, check your speaker’s volume knob. Next, you must check your audio mixer to see if the volume is up.
In addition, if you have another software for volume control, you should also check and see if the volume control is configured correctly.
Specific drivers will install their volume control software, so check it out.
10. Enable Onboard Audio in BIOS
Enabling the Onboard Audio fromBIOShas worked for some of our readers, so make sure you try it. Feel free to revert to this setting if it doesn’t work for you.
That’s it; we hope these solutions helped you to get your sound in Windows 10 back. However, check out our best fixes if you also experienceno sound from headphones in Windows 10.
More about the topics:Fix audio issues,realtek,windows 10
Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Passionate about all elements related to Windows and combined with his innate curiosity, Ivan has delved deep into understanding this operating system, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
When he’s not tackling diverse driver-related problems, Ivan enjoys watching good movies and spending time hiking with his family and friends.
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Ivan Jenic
Windows Hardware Expert
Ivan has delved deep into understanding the Windows OS, with a specialization in drivers and driver troubleshooting.
Reviewed byVlad Turiceanu
Coming from a solid background in PC building and software development, he’s a Windows 11 Privacy & Security expert.More about Vlad ›
