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Headphones Not Working on Windows? Complete Fix Guide

Headphones not working on PC? See how to fix: driver, default device, settings and more. Works for Bluetooth and wired.

Headphones Not Working — Causes and Solutions

Your headphones stopped working on PC? This is one of the most frustrating problems, but usually has a quick fix.

1. Set Headphones as Default Device

Windows may be sending sound to another device:

  • Right-click sound icon → Sound settings
  • Under "Output", select your headphones
  • If it doesn't appear, click Add device

    • 2. Check Physical Connection (Wired)

  • Unplug and reconnect the headphones
  • Try another port (front ↔ back)
  • Clean the 3.5mm jack with compressed air

    • 3. Reconnect Bluetooth Headphones

  • Go to Settings → Bluetooth & devices
  • Remove headphones from paired devices list
  • Put headphones in pairing mode
  • Add them again

    • 4. Update Audio Driver

  • Device Manager → Sound controllers
  • Right-click → Update driver

    • 5. Check Volume Mixer

    Headphones might be muted in a specific app:

  • Right-click sound icon → Volume Mixer
  • Check if your app has zero volume

    • 6. Disable Audio Enhancements

    Audio enhancements can cause conflicts:

  • Sound device properties → Enhancements tab
  • Check "Disable all enhancements"

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Why won't my Bluetooth headphones connect to PC?
    Check if Bluetooth is on, remove headphones from paired devices and pair again. If it persists, update the Bluetooth driver in Device Manager.
    Headphones work in one app but not another, why?
    Each app can have its own output device. Check the app's sound settings or the Windows Volume Mixer.

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