Troubleshooting Discord Voice Not Working: Can't Hear Friends
Are you facing issues where you can't hear your friends on Discord? You're not alone. This common problem can be frustrating, but don't worry, we've got you covered. In this guide, we'll explore various reasons why you might be experiencing audio issues and provide practical solutions to help you get back to gaming and chatting with your friends.
Understanding Discord's Audio Settings
Before we dive into troubleshooting, let's ensure you understand Discord's basic audio settings. Discord uses two main audio channels: Input (your microphone) and Output (your speakers/headphones). If you can't hear your friends, the issue likely lies in the Output channel. Here's how to check your Output settings:
- Click on the gear icon next to your volume slider to open User Settings.
- Select Voice & Video from the left-hand menu.
- Under Output Settings, ensure your desired output device (speakers/headphones) is selected.
Check Your Device Settings
Sometimes, the issue might not be with Discord itself but with your device's audio settings. Here's how to check:

Windows
- Right-click on the volume icon in your taskbar and select Sounds.
- Under the Playback tab, ensure your speakers/headphones are enabled and set as the default device.
macOS
- Click on the Apple menu and select System Preferences.
- Click on Sound, then the Output tab. Ensure your speakers/headphones are selected.
Update Discord and Your Device Drivers
Outdated software can often cause compatibility issues. Make sure your Discord app and your device drivers are up-to-date:
- To update Discord, click on the gear icon in the lower-left corner, then Advanced. Under Appearance, click Update Discord.
- To update your device drivers, visit your device manufacturer's website and download the latest drivers for your sound card.
Check for Background Applications
Sometimes, other applications can interfere with Discord's audio output. Try closing any unnecessary background applications, especially those related to audio or gaming.
Reinstall Discord
If all else fails, it might be time to reinstall Discord. Before you do, make sure to backup any important data, such as your server settings or custom themes. Here's how to reinstall:

- Uninstall Discord through your device's control panel.
- Restart your device.
- Download and install the latest version of Discord from the official website.
Still Having Trouble? Contact Discord Support
If you've tried all the troubleshooting steps above and you're still having trouble hearing your friends on Discord, it might be time to reach out to Discord's support team. They can provide further assistance and help you resolve the issue.
| Contact Method | Link |
|---|---|
| Discord Support | https://support.discord.com/hc/en-us |
| Discord Community | https://discord.gg/discord |