I connected a monitor using hdmi and the audio stopped working on the laptop

peter morrison 5 Reputation points
2026-01-23T17:31:24.81+00:00

the audio worked but was not very loud, but after connecting to external monitor via hdmi, it stopped. The monitor lacks speakers.

Windows for home | Other | Devices and drivers

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  1. AI answer

    2026-01-23T17:31:30.1766667+00:00

    When you connect a monitor via HDMI that lacks speakers, your laptop may automatically switch the audio output to the monitor. Since the monitor does not have audio capabilities, this can result in the audio stopping altogether. To resolve this issue, you can try the following steps:

    1. Check Sound Settings: Right-click the speaker icon in the system tray and select "Playback devices". Ensure that your laptop's internal speakers are set as the default playback device.
    2. Reconnect the HDMI: Sometimes, disconnecting and reconnecting the HDMI cable can prompt the system to recognize the correct audio output.
    3. Update Audio Drivers: Make sure your audio drivers are up to date. You can do this through Device Manager.
    4. Use the Troubleshooter: Run the audio troubleshooter by going to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters and selecting the audio troubleshooter.

    These steps should help restore audio functionality on your laptop after connecting to an external monitor.

    AI-generated content may be incorrect. Read our transparency notes for more information.

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