How to fix no sound in headset on Xbox

This guide helps you restore audio to your headset when connected to your Xbox console. You'll troubleshoot common hardware and software issues step by step. Success means hearing game audio and chat clearly through your headset again.

Note: Steps can vary by console generation, system software, region, and account type. This guide uses safe, general methods.

Quick Answer

Firmly reconnect your headset to the controller's 3.5mm jack or USB port.
Power cycle your Xbox console by holding the power button for 10 seconds, then restarting.
Check that your headset is not muted via its physical mute button or dial.
Navigate to Settings > General > Volume & audio output and ensure "Headset audio" is set to "Headset format" and not "Off".
Test the headset on another device (like a phone) to rule out a hardware fault.

If this doesn’t work, jump to Diagnose the issue below.

What you need

Before you start

Your Xbox console (turned on).
The headset that isn't producing sound.
The controller you're using (if headset is wired).
If wireless, the headset's USB wireless dongle or pairing knowledge.
A basic understanding of your console's settings menu.
A second audio device (like a phone) to test the headset.
Any original headset cables or adapters.

Good to know

Some settings affect game audio and chat audio separately.
Controller firmware updates can affect headset audio.
Wireless headsets may require a console restart after pairing.
Audio from streaming apps may have different output rules.
Using a headset adapter adds another potential point of failure.
Very low battery on a controller or wireless headset can cause audio dropouts.
Xbox party chat settings can mute audio independently.

Diagnose the issue in 2 minutes

Check 1 — Is there absolutely no sound, or just no chat/game audio?

Determine if the problem is with all audio or a specific type. Try listening to game sounds and join a party to test chat.

What you should see: You should be able to identify if one audio stream is missing.

Check 2 — Does the headset work on another device?

Plug your headset into a phone or PC and play audio. This checks for a faulty headset.

What you should see: Audio plays normally from the other device if the headset is functional.

Check 3 — Is the controller updated?

Outdated controller firmware is a common cause of audio issues with wired headsets.

What you should see: The controller should be on the latest firmware available.

Check 4 — Are you in an Xbox party?

Party chat settings can mute all non-chat audio. Leave the party to test.

What you should see: Game audio should return when you leave the party if this was the issue.

Check 5 — Is the headset properly assigned?

If multiple controllers or headsets are connected, your audio might be routed to the wrong one.

What you should see: In the guide, under Audio, your headset should be selected.

If you identify the branch that matches your case, follow the steps below and use the scenario cards for faster fixes.

Step-by-step guide

Step 1 — Restart your console and hardware

A full power cycle clears temporary glitches and resets audio drivers.

Hold the power button on your Xbox console for about 10 seconds until it turns off.
Unplug the power cord from the console for 30 seconds.
Power your console back on. Also power cycle your headset if it has its own power.

What you should see: A fresh startup sequence. Test audio immediately after.

Step 2 — Check physical connections and power

Loose connections, drained batteries, or mute switches are easy to miss.

For wired headsets: Unplug and firmly reinsert the 3.5mm jack into the controller. Try a different controller if possible.
For USB headsets: Try a different USB port on the console.
For wireless headsets: Ensure the dongle is firmly connected or that the headset is correctly paired.
Check all physical mute switches and volume wheels on the headset and cable.
Ensure your controller has sufficient battery charge.

What you should see: A secure connection and any headset indicator lights behaving normally.

Step 3 — Update controller and console software

Updates fix bugs and improve compatibility with audio devices.

Go to Settings > Devices & connections > Accessories.
Select your controller and check for a firmware update.
For system updates, go to Settings > System > Updates.

What you should see: The system will search for and install any available updates.

Xbox Series X|S: The process is identical to the steps above. Ensure you check for updates in the same settings locations.

Xbox One: The settings path is the same: Settings > Devices & connections > Accessories.

Xbox app / Web: You cannot update controller firmware via the app. This must be done on the console.

Step 4 — Review audio and volume settings

Incorrect or muted audio settings are a very common cause.

Press the Xbox button to open the guide.
Go to Profile & system > Settings > General > Volume & audio output.
Under "Headset audio", ensure "Headset format" is not set to "Off". "Windows Sonic" or "Dolby Atmos" are common working selections.
Also check "Party chat output" to ensure it's set to "Headset".
Adjust the "Chat mixer" slider to be in the middle for a balance.

What you should see: Settings configured to output audio to your headset.

Step 5 — Check party chat and game-specific settings

Some settings within parties or individual games can override system audio.

If you are in an Xbox party, open the party menu and ensure you are not muted and that audio is routing to the headset.
Check the in-game audio settings. Some games have separate output device selections or master volume sliders.
Try a different game or app to see if the problem is application-specific.

What you should see: Proper audio routing within the party and game menus.

Step 6 — Test with a different headset

This is the definitive test to see if the problem is with your original headset or the console.

If possible, connect a different, known-working headset to your Xbox controller or console.
If the second headset works, your original headset is likely faulty.
If the second headset also has no sound, the issue is with your console settings or hardware.

What you should see: Clear audio from the second headset, helping you isolate the cause.

Common scenarios and fixes

Scenario: Game audio works, but I can't hear chat (or vice versa)

Likely cause: Audio routing is set to output chat to speakers, or the chat mixer is set all the way to "Game Audio".

Fast fix: Go to Guide > Audio & music (underneath the volume icon) and adjust the chat mixer. Also check Settings > Volume & audio output > Party chat output.

When to escalate: If settings are correct and the issue persists across all games and parties.

Scenario: Headset was working and just stopped

Likely cause: A recent console update, controller battery drop, or loose connection.

Fast fix: Perform a full power cycle of the console and controller. Check for controller firmware updates.

When to escalate: If a power cycle and update don't help, consider a console factory reset (keeping games & apps).

Scenario: Audio is crackly, distorted, or cuts in and out

Likely cause: Wireless interference, a dying battery, a damaged cable, or a dirty/faulty 3.5mm port.

Fast fix: For wireless, move closer to the console and away from routers. For wired, try a different controller and clean the jack with compressed air.

When to escalate: If cleaning and changing controllers doesn't help, the headset's internal wiring may be damaged.

Scenario: Using a third-party headset or adapter

Likely cause: Compatibility issues or the adapter needs specific configuration.

Fast fix: Consult the headset manufacturer's guide for Xbox setup. Ensure any adapter is fully seated and buttons are configured correctly (e.g., game/chat balance).

When to escalate: If the headset works on other devices but not your Xbox, contact the headset manufacturer for support.

Scenario: No sound only in a specific game or app

Likely cause: The application's internal audio settings are misconfigured.

Fast fix: Go into the game or app's settings menu and look for audio or sound options. Reset them to default.

When to escalate: If it's a widespread issue with that specific app, check for game updates or known issues from the developer.

Scenario: New headset was never detected

Likely cause: The headset isn't properly paired (wireless) or the console needs a restart to recognize it.

Fast fix: Follow the headset's pairing instructions exactly. For USB or wired headsets, restart the console with the headset connected.

When to escalate: If the headset is not recognized after a console restart and works on other devices.

Quick reference

Key concepts for this topic

Item	What it means	Why it matters
Headset Format	The spatial audio technology used for headset output (e.g., Stereo, Windows Sonic, Dolby Atmos).	If set to "Off", you will get no audio. Must be set to a format for sound to play.
Chat Mixer	A slider that balances the volume between game audio and party chat audio.	If slid all the way to "Game Audio", you won't hear chat. If all the way to "Chat Audio", you won't hear the game.
Controller Firmware	The software that runs on the controller, managing inputs and features like the 3.5mm audio jack.	Outdated firmware is a frequent cause of headsets not being detected or producing sound.
Party Chat Output	The device where party chat audio is sent (Headset or Speakers).	If set to "Speakers", you won't hear anyone talking in your headset.

Safe defaults

Setting	Safe default	When to change
Headset format	Stereo uncompressed (or Windows Sonic for Headphones if free spatial sound is desired)	If you purchase a license for Dolby Atmos or DTS:X and want that enhanced experience.
Chat mixer	Balanced (middle of the slider)	If you need to prioritize hearing the game over chat, or vice versa, in a specific situation.
Party chat output	Headset	If you want to listen to party chat through your TV or speakers instead.
Mic monitoring	Medium level (to hear yourself speak slightly)	If you find it distracting or need to hear your own voice more clearly to avoid shouting.

Mind map summary

No Sound in Headset
  -> Check Physical Layer
      -> Is headset connected/powered? -> No -> Reconnect/Charge
      -> Is it muted? -> Yes -> Disable mute
      -> Works on another device? -> No -> Headset is faulty
  -> Check Software Layer
      -> Headset audio set to "Off"? -> Yes -> Change to a headset format
      -> Controller firmware outdated? -> Yes -> Update
      -> In a Party? -> Yes -> Check party output & mixer settings
  -> Isolate the Issue
      -> Does a different headset work? -> Yes -> Original headset problem
      -> Does it work in another game/app? -> Yes -> App-specific settings
  -> Last Resorts
      -> Full console power cycle
      -> Factory reset (keep games & apps)
      -> Contact Xbox or headset manufacturer support

Troubleshooting checklist

Console

Perform a full power cycle (hold power 10 sec).
Check for system updates.
Update controller firmware.
Check Volume & audio output settings (Headset format not "Off").
Try a different USB port for wireless dongles.
Test with a different user profile.
Perform a factory reset (keep games & apps) as last resort.

Headset & Hardware

Ensure headset is firmly plugged in or paired.
Check all physical mute switches and volume wheels.
Test headset on another device (phone/PC).
Try a different controller.
Clean the 3.5mm jack and port with compressed air.
Ensure headset/controller batteries are charged.
Try a different headset on your Xbox.
For adapters: ensure all connections are tight.

Software & Context

Adjust the Chat Mixer in the guide audio menu.
Leave any Xbox party to test game audio.
Check in-game audio settings.
Try a different game or app.
Check party settings (output device, mute status).
For wireless headsets: re-pair according to manual.
Move closer to console to reduce wireless interference.
Disconnect other Bluetooth devices nearby.

When to escalate

Contact headset manufacturer if the headset doesn't work on any device, or if it's a compatibility issue specific to their product.
Try a reset or recovery if all troubleshooting fails and the problem appears to be with the console's software. Choose "Reset and keep my games & apps" as a last resort before full support.
Contact Xbox support if a different headset also fails on your console (indicating a potential hardware issue with the controller port or console itself), or if you need help with warranty service.

What to collect before escalating

Headset make and model.
Controller model and firmware version.
Console model and system version.
Exact steps you've already tried.
Whether the issue happens in all games/apps or just one.
Any error messages or unusual behavior.

FAQ

Why does my headset work on my phone but not my Xbox?

This usually points to an Xbox-specific setting or hardware issue. The most common culprits are the "Headset format" being set to "Off", outdated controller firmware, or a problem with the Xbox's controller jack.

Do I need to buy a special headset for Xbox?

Not necessarily. Most wired headsets with a 3.5mm jack will work with the Xbox controller. Wireless headsets need to be specifically designed for Xbox or use the Xbox Wireless protocol, unless they use a USB dongle that is compatible.

Can a dirty controller port cause no sound?

Yes. Dust and debris in the controller's 3.5mm audio jack can prevent a proper connection. Gently clean the jack with a can of compressed air.

Why is my chat audio so quiet compared to game audio?

Adjust the "Chat mixer" in the guide's audio menu. Sliding it towards "Chat Audio" will increase party chat volume relative to game sound.

Does using a keyboard or other USB device interfere with my USB headset?

It's possible, especially if you're using a USB hub. Try connecting the headset directly to a different USB port on the console.

Will resetting my console delete my games?

No, if you choose the "Reset and keep my games & apps" option. This refreshes the system software without removing your installed content.

My headset uses optical audio. What should I check?

Ensure the optical cable is securely connected at both ends. On Xbox Series X|S, note that the optical port was removed; you'll need an HDMI audio extractor or a headset that uses USB or the controller jack.

Can other people not hear me, but I can hear them?

This is a separate mic issue. Check your headset's physical mute, the party mute settings, and your privacy settings under Settings > Account > Privacy & online safety.

Sources and references

Official Xbox support documentation and help articles
Microsoft accessory setup and troubleshooting guides
General audio hardware diagnostics concepts (wired/wireless connections, impedance)
Controller firmware update procedures and release notes
Spatial audio technology documentation (Windows Sonic, Dolby Atmos)

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How to fix no sound in headset on Xbox

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