First check whether HDMI audio is set as the default device. If it is not displayed, proceed to the next step; 2. Enable or reinstall the HDMI audio driver in the Device Manager (such as NVIDIA/AMD/Intel HD Audio); 3. Update the graphics card driver to ensure that the HDMI audio is working properly; 4. Check the HDMI cable connection, interface, and TV/monitor settings to ensure that the audio input source is correct and enable HDMI audio reception; 5. Run the built-in audio playback troubleshooting tool in Windows 10; 6. Disable the audio enhancement function of the HDMI audio device and turn off exclusive control permissions; 7. Enter BIOS/UEFI to confirm that the integrated audio and HDMI audio output is enabled, and confirm that the hardware supports HDMI audio. Most problems are caused by missing drivers, incorrect default settings, or improper audio settings for display devices. Priority checking for default playback devices and updating graphics card drivers can solve most of the situations.

HDMI audio not working in Windows 10 is a common issue, especially when connecting your PC to a TV, monitor, or home theater system. The screen might work fine, but there's no sound — which can be frustrating. Here's how to fix it step by step.

1. Check if HDMI Audio is Set as Default Device

Sometimes Windows doesn't automatically switch audio output to HDMI.

• Right-click the speaker icon in the taskbar and select "Open Sound settings" .
• Under Output , look for your HDMI device (it might say “Digital Output (HDMI)” or the name of your TV/monitor).
• If it's listed, click it to set it as the default.
• If it's not showing up, proceed to the next steps.

? Tip: You can also go to Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Sound > Playback tab to see all audio devices. Right-click and choose "Set as Default Device" .

2. Enable or Reinstall HDMI Audio Driver

HDMI audio relies on your graphics driver (Intel, NVIDIA, or AMD), not your regular audio card.

• Press Win X and select Device Manager .
• Expand "Sound, video and game controllers" .
• Look for entries like:
  • NVIDIA High Definition Audio
  • AMD High Definition Audio Device
  • Intel(R) Display Audio
• If any of these are missing, grayed out, or have a yellow triangle:
  • Right-click and choose Update driver .
  • Or uninstall it, then restart your PC — Windows will reinstall it automatically.

? After reinstalling, check if HDMI audio appears in the playback devices.

3. Update Graphics Driver

Since HDMI audio is handled by your GPU, outdated graphics drivers can break audio.

• For NVIDIA : Use GeForce Experience or download from the official site.
• For AMD : Use AMD Radeon Software .
• For Intel : Use Intel Driver & Support Assistant .

After updating, restart your computer and test again.

4. Check Physical Connection and TV/Display Settings

Even if software is fine, hardware issues can block audio.

• Make sure the HDMI cable is securely plugged in .
• Try a different HDMI port or cable .
• On your TV or monitor:
  • Go to audio settings.
  • Ensure the input source is correct.
  • Check if it's set to accept audio from HDMI (some monitors mute external audio by default).
  • Try setting audio output to "HDMI ARC" or "External Speakers" if applicable.

? Example: Some Samsung TVs default to "TV Speaker" even on HDMI input — switch it manually.

5. Run Audio Troubleshooter

Windows 10 has a built-in tool that can detect common issues.

• Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot .
• Select "Playing Audio" and run the troubleshooter.
• Follow the prompts and apply any recommended fixes.

6. Disable Audio Enhancements (if HDMI shows but no sound)

Sometimes audio effects interfere with HDMI output.

• Go to Control Panel > Sound > Playback tab .
• Right-click your HDMI device and choose Properties .
• Go to the Enhancements tab and check "Disable all enhancements" .
• Also, in the Advanced tab, uncheck "Allow applications to take exclusive control" .

7. Check BIOS/UEFI and Hardware Compatibility

Rarely, HDMI audio can be disabled at the motherboard level.

• Restart and enter BIOS/UEFI (usually by pressing F2, Del, or Esc during boot).
• Look for settings like:
  • HD Audio Controller
  • Integrated Audio
  • HDMI Audio Output
• Make sure they are Enabled .

Also, confirm your GPU and motherboard support HDMI audio — most do, but older integrated graphics sometimes don't.

Basically, HDMI audio issues are usually due to missing drivers, incorrect defaults, or display settings. Start with checking playback devices and updating your graphics driver — that solves most cases.

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