Windows 10: My computer won't recognize my headphones plugged in and sound is broken unless I restart.

This is happening on a new computer, every time I plug in headphones, sound completely stops, even if I unplug the headset. The headphones don't show up in output settings and switching the output device fixes the sound for a few seconds. Nothing shows up on the troubleshooting audio page. When I restart with the headphones plugged in the sound works for a while, but still doesn't recognize the headset in output.

:)

 

Headphones not being recognized - unless ...

Typical Case:

When I plug my new headphones into my laptop (Windows 10), they are not recognized. If I play a sound it comes through the speakers. I have tried going into audio devices. An option for headphones is listed and enabled, but shows as disconnected.

Other computers:

The headphones work normally in my desktop and Surface Go (both Windows 10). For my desktop, when I plug the headphones in, I get a message asking what I have plugged in. I can switch between headphones and speaker by clicking on the speaker icon and using
the up arrow to see both choices

Weird Case:

If I have my headphones plugged in when I restart my laptop - THEY WORK. Until I unplug them, then only the speaker works. Until I again restart the computer with the headphones plugged in

What is going on?

 

no sound in headphones

Hi Mary,

If your headphones stops working in Windows devices, you can try solutions below to fix the problem. The issue can be caused by incorrect sound settings, faulty audio drivers, etc. We suggest that you follow below simple instructions to troubleshoot the
problem.

• Check if the sound is muted. If it is muted, the headphone won’t have sound.
• Check the connection. Try unplugging the headphone and firmly plug it back in.
• Check the port. If you are using a USB headphone, try a different USB port.
• Try the headphone on another computer. Use your headphone on another computer. If it doesn’t work on that computer, the headphone might be broken. In that case, you need to replace it with a new one.

We're just here if you have further questions.

Regards.

 

Computer Won't Auto Change the Playback Device When Headphones Plugged In/Out

Hi Michael,

I understand your concern and will be happy to assist you.

Is the issue specific to only Headphones/ Does External Speaker play when plugged in?

I suggest you to try resetting the default device as shown in the steps given below and check if the issue persists.

• 
  Plug in the Headphones in the machine.
  
• 
  Go to Start and Control Panel.
  
• 
  Select 'Hardware and Sound'.
  
• 
  Click 'Change system sounds'.
  
• 
  Click 'Playback' tab. (It should then show you your headphones in the list).
  
• 
  Select your proper Headphone device from the list, then Click 'Set Default'.
  
• 
  Now unplug your Headphones and select speakers from the list, then Click 'Set Default'.
  

Hope it helps. Please reply for further queries on this.