How to Fix Sound on Chromebook – A Comprehensive Guide

After a long day of classes or work, you decide to unwind with a movie on your Chromebook, only to discover that there’s no sound. The absence of the usual audio accompaniment can be frustrating, especially if you’re looking to finish off the day with some relaxation or entertainment.

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Before you start contemplating whether to purchase a new device, there are a few things you can try to troubleshoot and fix the sound on your Chromebook. In this guide, we’ll delve into the common causes of sound issues on Chromebooks and provide you with step-by-step solutions to restore the sweet sound of music, movies, and notifications to your device.

No Sound on Your Chromebook? Here’s How to Fix It! | Mos Tech Tips
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How To Fix Sound On Chromebook

Troubleshooting Common Sound Issues

1. Check Device Volume:
First and foremost, confirm that the device volume isn’t muted or set too low. Press the volume up button on your Chromebook’s keyboard or swipe up from the bottom of the screen and adjust the volume slider accordingly.

2. Ensure Headphones are Properly Connected:
If you’re using external speakers or headphones, double-check that they are securely plugged into the appropriate audio jack on your Chromebook. Make sure the cables and jacks are not damaged or loose.

3. Disable/Enable Audio Output:
If adjusting the volume and checking connections don’t resolve the issue, try disabling and enabling audio output. To do this:

  • Go to Settings (the gear icon in the Quick Settings panel).
  • Click on “Sound” in the left-hand menu.
  • Toggle the “Output” option to “Mute,” then back to the desired audio device (i.e., Internal Speakers, Headphones).

4. Select Correct Audio Device:
Sometimes, your Chromebook might not be set to output sound through the correct device. Open the Sound settings as described earlier and click on the “Output” drop-down menu. Select the device you want to use for audio output, whether it’s Internal Speakers, Headphones, or an external audio device.

5. Powerwash Your Chromebook (Factory Reset):
If all else fails, consider performing a powerwash, which is essentially a factory reset for your Chromebook. While it will wipe your device clean, it can resolve software glitches that could be causing the sound issue.

  • Log out of your Chromebook.
  • Press and hold the “Esc” + “Refresh” keys.
  • While holding those keys, press the “Power” button.
  • You’ll see a screen asking if you want to perform a powerwash. Press the “Ctrl” + “D” keys.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the powerwash.

Remember, before performing a powerwash, back up any important files stored on your Chromebook.