This issue could affect speakers and headsets alike, both built-in and external. And since Windows 11 is relatively new, the chances of encountering the issue are even higher. We went through several such forums where users have shared their problems but couldn’t find many effective solutions. Therefore, we have dedicated this guide to walk you through the Windows 11 sound distorted issue, and the fixes for it.

Why am I facing the distored sound problem in Windows 11?

This is one of the issues where the list of underlying causes is endless, which makes troubleshooting even more difficult. Improper connections are still one of the most common causes for Windows 11 USB audio not working problem. Apart from that, if you started facing the problem right after upgrading to Windows 11, it could be that the current set of audio drivers is not compatible with the latest iteration. In which case, updating them seems like the ideal solution. Misconfigured settings too are known to lead to Windows 11 bad audio quality. The problem is generally faced by those who keep reconfiguring the settings in order to get the optimal output and end up messing things. Several users have also reported that the issue started as soon as they updated Windows 11 which points to a bug in the current version of the OS. This basically covers the most common underlying causes for distorted sound in Windows 11. Let’s now head to the most effective fixes for it.

How do I fix Windows 11’s audio crackling and sound distortion?

1. Check connections (for external speakers)

If you are using an external set of speakers or headsets, your primary approach should be to check for issues with the connection itself. Many users proceed with making changes to the settings, only to later realize that the connection was improper. Disconnect the speakers or headsets, clean the jack or USB, blow light air into the port, and then reconnect it. Now, check if the sound is still distorted in Windows 11. In case it is, connect the peripheral to another system and verify the same. If it works fine on the other computer, reconnect the speaker or headset to the first system, and execute the fixes listed below to eliminate the error. However, if the problem persists, it’s most likely that the headsets or speakers are malfunctioning and you have to get them replaced. But before you do that, we do recommend giving a shot at the methods listed below. In case you are using wireless speakers or headphones, learn how to fix problems with a Bluetooth connection.

2. Run the Playing Audio troubleshooter

The built-in troubleshooters offered by Microsoft are more than capable of identifying and fixing a plethora of errors, both with the Windows device and connected peripherals. After running the Playing Audio troubleshooter, check if the Windows 11 sound distorted problem is eliminated.

3. Update the sound drivers

Drivers play a critical role in the effective functioning of every piece of hardware by relaying commands between it and the OS. And hence, it’s recommended that you keep them updated. If the Device Manager is unable to find an updated version for the peripheral, you can check for the latest driver version in Windows Update or download the setup from the manufacturer’s website and install it on the computer. SPONSORED Or, you can use DriverFix, a dedicated third-party tool, to automatically keep the installed drivers up-to-date. Updating the relevant driver should eliminate the Windows 11 distorted sound problem. In case the audio playback does not improve, try the next method.

4. Modify sound settings

Even though you may not have manually modified the properties, making certain changes here could get things up and running like before. After saving the changes, check if Windows 11 bad audio quality problem is fixed.

5. Reconfigure audio services

6. Uninstall recent Windows 11 updates

If you started encountering distorted or bad quality sound in Windows 11 after updating it, uninstalling that particular update could help, since it could be a bug in the update itself. But, do thorough research to identify whether the update is indeed causing the error. If that’s the case, other users too should be facing the problem and you would find them posting about it on several dedicated forums.

7. Restore or reset Windows 11

If none of the fixes listed above have worked, you are left with no option but to perform a system restore in Windows 11. The idea here is to take your computer back in time to a point when the error did not exist. This is achieved by making certain modifications to the system, namely removing apps and reconfiguring the settings, according to the restore point. The restore process will not affect the files stored on the drive. Also, find out how to undo a system restore, in case it’s unable to fix the Windows 11 sound crackling error. If the system restore too fails to work, most likely because no restore points exist or they were created after you first encountered the error, you can always reset Windows 11 to its factory settings. Remember that reset will wipe all the data on the system, be it apps or settings, and the computer will be as good as new once the process is complete.

What are the best earphones, headphones, and speakers for high-quality audio output?

The methods listed above would, in all certainty, eliminate problems causing crackling or distorted sound in Windows 11. But, you may still want to upgrade the headset or speaker for high-quality audio output. So, check out the best earbuds and headphones available in the market, and choose the one that suits your requirement and fits your budget. For those of you planning to get a new set of speakers, take a look at our curated list including the best ones. Some of these may even be available at discounted rates, so make sure to check them out. With the bad audio quality and distorted sound problem in Windows 11 fixed, you can resume playing videos or games, and enjoy the audio output the way it’s meant to be. In case you encounter distorted sound in Windows 10, check this guide. Also, find out what to do if there’s no sound in Windows 11. Besides, if no audio output devices are found, learn how to solve the problem. Do not hesitate to tell us which fix worked for you in the comments section below.

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