Crackling or Popping Audio
Intermediate
Sound & Audio
Applies to: Windows 7, Windows 10, Windows 11
Sound & Audio
Applies to: Windows 7, Windows 10, Windows 11
Sound plays but with intermittent static, crackles, or pops.
Before you start: save any open work and note down what you were doing when the problem started — that context helps if you need to search further or ask for help.
- Update the audio driver first — this fixes the majority of crackling issues, especially after a Windows Update.
- Disable audio enhancements: right-click the speaker icon > Sounds > select your device > Properties > Enhancements tab > check "Disable all enhancements."
- Change the audio format: same Properties window > Advanced tab > try a lower sample rate/bit depth like 16-bit, 44100 Hz.
- If it's Bluetooth audio, crackling often means interference or a weak connection — move closer to the PC or reduce nearby Wi-Fi/Bluetooth congestion.
- Check for a power management setting disabling the USB audio device: Device Manager > find your audio device under USB, Properties > Power Management > uncheck power-saving.
Still not fixed? Send us the details and we'll help you dig further, or browse related guides in Sound & Audio.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is crackling audio a sign of a failing speaker or headphone?
It can be, but it's more often a software or driver issue — audio enhancements, an outdated driver, or a sample rate mismatch are all common causes worth ruling out before assuming the hardware itself is failing.
Does this happen more with Bluetooth or wired audio?
Bluetooth audio is somewhat more prone to this due to signal interference and power-saving settings, but wired audio can crackle too, usually from a driver or enhancement setting rather than the cable itself.