Windows 10 won't play sound through HDMI is a common complaint among PC users who rely on their devices for entertainment and productivity. HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is a popular connectivity option for transferring high-quality video and audio signals between devices. However, many Windows 10 users have reported issues with playing sound through HDMI, which can be frustrating and disrupt their workflow.
Understanding the Problem

The issue of Windows 10 not playing sound through HDMI can be caused by a variety of factors, including outdated graphics drivers, incorrect HDMI settings, or compatibility issues with the display device. To resolve this problem, it's essential to identify the root cause and take corrective action.

Some users have reported that their Windows 10 device is not detecting the HDMI output, while others have encountered issues with sound not playing through the connected display. In some cases, the issue may be related to the graphics driver or the HDMI cable itself.
To troubleshoot the problem, you'll need to check your Windows 10 settings, graphics drivers, and display device compatibility. Let's start by exploring the possible causes and solutions for this issue.

Graphics Drivers: The Culprit Behind HDMI Audio Issues
Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers can cause Windows 10 to malfunction when trying to play sound through HDMI. If your graphics drivers are outdated, you may experience issues with audio playback or display quality.

To update your graphics drivers, follow these steps:
- Go to the Device Manager (Press Windows + X and select Device Manager)
- Expand the "Display Adapters" section
- Right-click on the graphics driver and select "Update driver"
- Choose to search automatically for updated driver software
This will update your graphics drivers to the latest version, which may resolve the HDMI audio issue.

Check Your HDMI Settings
Incorrect HDMI settings can also prevent Windows 10 from playing sound through HDMI. To check and adjust your HDMI settings, follow these steps:
- Go to the Start menu and search for "Display settings"
- Click on "Display settings"
- Scroll down to the "Multiple displays" section
- Make sure that the HDMI output is set to "Extend" or "Duplicate" mode

If your HDMI output is set to "PC only" mode, it may not be detecting the connected display. Try changing the mode to "Extend" or "Duplicate" and see if it resolves the issue.
Display Device Compatibility




















Some display devices may not be compatible with Windows 10's HDMI audio output. If you're using a specific display device, try checking the manufacturer's website for any known compatibility issues or updates.
Additionally, you can try switching to a different HDMI port or using a different HDMI cable to see if it resolves the issue.
Other Troubleshooting Tips
Here are some additional troubleshooting tips to help you resolve the Windows 10 HDMI audio issue:
- Disable any unnecessary audio devices
- Check for any conflicts with other audio devices or software
- Try resetting the Windows 10 audio settings
By following these troubleshooting steps and tips, you should be able to resolve the Windows 10 HDMI audio issue and enjoy high-quality sound through your connected display.
Comparison of HDMI Audio Issues in Windows 10 Versions
Let's compare the HDMI audio issues in different versions of Windows 10:
| Windows 10 Version | HDMI Audio Issues |
|---|---|
| Windows 10 1903 | Users reported issues with sound not playing through HDMI after upgrading from Windows 10 1809 |
| Windows 10 1909 | Some users experienced HDMI audio issues due to corrupted graphics drivers |
| Windows 10 2004 | Users reported issues with sound not playing through HDMI after upgrading from Windows 10 1909 |
As you can see, the HDMI audio issue has been present in various versions of Windows 10. However, by following the troubleshooting steps and tips outlined above, you should be able to resolve the issue and enjoy high-quality sound through your connected display.