Upon investigating the issue, we discovered that several potential causes could lead to unusually low volume output on Windows 11: With the potential causes outlined, let’s move on to the solutions that have helped other users resolve low volume issues on Windows 11.
1. Run the Audio troubleshooter
Troubleshooting this issue should begin with testing whether Windows 11 can automatically fix the problem. Microsoft has acknowledged this issue, and their engineers have rolled out automated fixes aimed at resolving the low volume problem on Windows 11. To utilize these automated fixes, run the Audio troubleshooter and apply the recommended fix. This has been confirmed effective by many users, especially those who upgraded to Windows 11 from Windows 10 instead of performing a clean installation.
2. Update the Audio driver
Generally, Windows Update should maintain your driver up to date automatically. However, sometimes you might find yourself stuck with an older version not compatible with your operating system. A number of users who faced this problem reported fixing it by using the Device Manager to force an update of the driver from the Properties screen of the High Definition Audio Device.
3. Install the dedicated Sound Card driver
If you’re using a generic driver, you should install the dedicated sound card driver from your PC or motherboard’s manufacturer’s website. This is particularly recommended if you’re using a laptop from brands like MSI or Lenovo, as they often utilize proprietary audio hardware that may not perform optimally with generic drivers. Note: Avoid generic drivers if you’re using a dedicated sound card. Be aware that the process of finding and installing the appropriate sound card driver will vary based on the specific manufacturer of your device.
4. Uninstall audio driver (use a generic equivalent)
Another scenario that might cause low audio volume on Windows 11 involves using a dedicated audio driver that was ported from Windows 10 or Windows 8.1 following an OS upgrade. In such cases, your dedicated driver might not be fully compatible with Windows 11. To solve this, uninstall the current dedicated driver and switch to a generic audio equivalent. In case the issue continues, move on to the next suggested fix.
5. Disable all enhancements from Sound Properties
If your problem hasn’t been solved thus far, the next step is to look at the Sound Enhancements you currently have active. Several Windows 11 users who experienced low audio volume reported that they resolved the issue by disabling all audio enhancements. Note: If you’re using a dedicated audio card, it likely comes with its own audio enhancement options. In this case, disable them from the dedicated utility, as disabling the Windows settings won’t remedy the issue. Note 2: Users of SRS Premium Sound or SRS Premium Sound should uncheck the box next to Audio Enhancement within the dedicated application to resolve the issue. Continuing to experience low-volume audio despite the deactivation of all virtual enhancements means you should try the next potential fix.
6. Change the BitRate sound format
If you’ve yet to find a successful fix and you’re using a premium sound system or headset, the low-volume audio might be due to inadequate Windows settings related to stream format quality for the active playback device. You can likely solve the problem by heading to the Sound settings and altering the Default format to use the highest sample rate available (24 bit, 48000 Hz, Studio Quality). Many users encountering this issue after updating to Windows 11 from Windows 10 reported resolving it as soon as they increased the default stream format to Studio Quality. If the problem continues despite trying the above instructions, consider the next potential solution.
7. Use a System Restore point
If you suspect the issue is due to a recent change (new driver installation, app update, etc.), using System Restore could revert your computer to a state before the issue began. Note: System Restore typically stores snapshots at critical system events. Unless you altered the default settings, you should have several to choose from. For instructions on how to use System Restore, follow this guide on accessing previously saved System Restore points. This process will allow you to turn back the clock to a point when the low volume issue was not present. After restoring your PC using the above guide, check if the low volume issue persists on Windows 11. If the problem is still unresolved, proceed to the next method.
8. Deploy SFC and DISM scans
If all else fails, consider that system file corruption might be affecting your computer’s audio outputs. When faced with such issues, two built-in tools—System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM)—can often help. These utilities can fix common corruption issues that potentially interfere with Windows Update’s functionality. Ideally, start with an SFC scan, which doesn’t require an internet connection. Note: The SFC tool uses a locally stored cache to replace corrupted files with intact ones. Let this process complete fully to avoid additional complications. SFC scans can take a while, especially on HDDs, so exercise patience during this process. Important: If the SFC scan seems to freeze, wait for the tracking to resume instead of closing the window. Once the SFC scan is complete, reboot your PC and check for the low audio issue. Should the issue persist, proceed with a DISM scan. Note: DISM relies on Windows Update to replace damaged files with clean versions. Thus, ensure a stable internet connection before starting this operation. After completing both the SFC and DISM scans, restart your PC and assess if the audio issues with your Windows 11 computer have been addressed.
9. Revert back to Windows 10
If you’re within the 10-day rollback period, you can easily downgrade to Windows 10 by following this guide: reverting to Windows 10. If reverting isn’t an option, enhancing audio volume on Windows 11 might be impossible with your current hardware configuration.
