How to Fix HDMI and DisplayPort Audio on Windows 11

HDMI and DisplayPort cables are designed to transmit both high-definition video and multi-channel audio simultaneously, but Windows 11 may occasionally fail to route sound to your external monitor or TV. This issue typically stems from incorrect default playback settings, disabled audio endpoints, outdated graphics drivers, or misconfigured display hardware. This guide provides direct, step-by-step solutions to diagnose and fix HDMI and DisplayPort audio output failures in Windows 11.

1. Verify Physical Connections and Monitor Settings

Before modifying software settings, rule out hardware and monitor configuration issues:

• Inspect Cable Connections: Unplug and firmly reconnect both ends of the HDMI or DisplayPort cable.
• Check Monitor Volume: Use the physical buttons on your monitor or TV to ensure the built-in speakers are not muted and the volume is turned up.
• Select the Correct Audio Source: Some monitors feature multiple inputs (e.g., HDMI 1, HDMI 2, DP, 3.5mm Aux). Access the monitor’s on-screen display (OSD) menu and confirm the audio input source matches your active video connection.

2. Set the Display as the Default Output Device

Windows 11 may fail to automatically switch audio output to your external display.

1. Press Windows Key + I to open Settings.
2. Navigate to System > Sound.
3. Under the Output section, select your HDMI or DisplayPort monitor from the list labeled Choose where to play sound.
4. If your monitor does not appear, click More sound settings at the bottom of the page to open the legacy Sound Control Panel.
5. In the Playback tab, right-click an empty area and ensure both Show Disabled Devices and Show Disconnected Devices are checked.
6. Right-click your display device, select Enable (if disabled), and then click Set as Default Device.
7. Click Apply, then OK.

3. Run the Windows Sound Troubleshooter

Windows 11 includes a built-in automated diagnostic tool to detect and resolve audio routing errors.

1. Open Settings (Windows Key + I).
2. Go to System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
3. Locate Audio and click the Run button next to it.
4. Follow the on-screen prompts, select your HDMI/DisplayPort device when asked, and apply any recommended fixes.

4. Update or Reinstall Graphics Drivers

HDMI and DisplayPort audio controllers are integrated directly into your graphics processing unit (GPU). Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers frequently cause digital audio failures.

1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
2. Expand the Sound, video and game controllers section.
3. Locate your audio driver corresponding to your GPU (e.g., NVIDIA High Definition Audio, AMD High Definition Audio Device, or Intel Display Audio).
4. Right-click the device and select Update driver.
5. Choose Search automatically for drivers.
6. If no update is found, visit the official website of your GPU manufacturer (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) to download and perform a clean installation of the latest graphics driver package, which includes the necessary display audio drivers.

5. Restart Windows Audio Services

Glitching background audio services can prevent audio streaming over digital outputs.

1. Press Windows Key + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Scroll down and locate Windows Audio.
3. Right-click Windows Audio and select Restart.
4. Locate Windows Audio Endpoint Builder, right-click it, and select Restart.
5. Test your audio playback again.

6. Adjust Audio Format and Sampling Rate

Certain monitors cannot decode high-bitrate or surround-sound audio formats.

1. Open Settings > System > Sound.
2. Click the arrow (>) next to your HDMI/DisplayPort output device to access its properties.
3. Under Output settings, locate the Format drop-down menu.
4. Lower the format to 24-bit, 48000 Hz (Studio Quality) or 16-bit, 44100 Hz (CD Quality).
5. Click Test to check if sound output is restored.