CPU: How to Fix PUBG No Sound Issues?

If PUBG has no sound, the problem is almost always in Windows audio settings, the game’s own audio options, or outdated drivers—not your CPU. This guide walks you through the most common fixes, from checking the default playback device to verifying game files, so you can restore audio quickly.

Why Your CPU Isn’t the Cause

The CPU processes game logic and audio data, but it doesn’t generate sound directly. Audio is handled by your sound card or motherboard’s built-in audio chip, then sent to speakers or headphones. When PUBG goes silent, it’s typically because:

• The game is outputting to a different device than your speakers (e.g., a monitor with no speakers).
• Windows has the wrong default playback device or the device is muted.
• Audio drivers are outdated, corrupted, or incompatible with the game.
• PUBG’s in-game audio settings are misconfigured or the game files are corrupted.
• Third-party software (like Discord or a voice changer) is interfering with the audio stream.

Quick Fixes to Try First

Before diving into deeper troubleshooting, try these simple steps—they resolve most no-sound issues in PUBG:

1. Check the mute button: Press Ctrl+M in PUBG to toggle mute. Also check your keyboard’s mute key and the volume mixer (right-click the speaker icon in the taskbar).
2. Verify the default playback device: Right-click the speaker icon → Open Sound settings → under Output, ensure the correct device is selected. If you’re using headphones, make sure they’re set as default, not your monitor.
3. Restart the game: Sometimes a simple restart re-initializes the audio engine. Close PUBG completely and relaunch it.
4. Check in-game audio settings: Go to Settings → Sound in PUBG and verify the master volume isn’t at zero and the correct output device is selected (if the option exists).

Update or Reinstall Audio Drivers

Outdated or corrupted audio drivers are a leading cause of no sound in games. Here’s how to update them:

1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
2. Expand Sound, video and game controllers.
3. Right-click your audio device (e.g., Realtek High Definition Audio) and select Update driver.
4. Choose Search automatically for drivers. If Windows finds nothing, go to your motherboard or laptop manufacturer’s website and download the latest audio driver for your model.
5. If updating doesn’t work, right-click the device and select Uninstall device (check Delete the driver software if prompted), then restart your PC. Windows will reinstall a generic driver automatically.

Disable Audio Enhancements and Exclusive Mode

Windows audio enhancements can sometimes mute or distort game audio. Disabling them often fixes the issue:

1. Right-click the speaker icon → Open Sound settings → Sound Control Panel (on the right).
2. Select your playback device → Properties.
3. Go to the Enhancements tab and check Disable all enhancements.
4. Go to the Advanced tab and uncheck Allow applications to take exclusive control of this device.
5. Click Apply and OK, then restart PUBG.

Verify PUBG Game Files

Corrupted game files can cause missing audio. Verifying the integrity of the game files will replace any damaged files:

• Steam: Right-click PUBG in your library → Properties → Local Files → Verify Integrity of Game Files.
• Kakao Games (Korean client): Open the launcher, go to settings or the game’s menu, and look for a “Repair” or “Verify” option.

This process can take a few minutes. After it completes, launch PUBG and check if sound is restored.

Common Misconception: CPU Overload Cuts Audio

Some players believe that high CPU usage causes PUBG to drop audio. While a severely overloaded CPU can cause stuttering or frame drops, it doesn’t directly mute the game. If your CPU is maxed out, the game may freeze, but the audio won’t disappear on its own. If you’re experiencing both high CPU usage and no sound, the issue is more likely a driver conflict or a background process hogging resources—not the CPU itself.

When to Check Hardware

If none of the software fixes work, the problem could be with your physical audio hardware. Test your speakers or headphones on another device (like your phone). If they work, try a different USB port or audio jack on your PC. If you’re using USB headphones, try a different USB port. If the sound still doesn’t work, there may be a hardware failure in your audio output device or motherboard audio chip, which would require a repair or replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does PUBG have sound in the lobby but not in-game?

This usually points to an in-game setting. Check PUBG’s sound settings for any “Mute” options or ensure the master volume isn’t accidentally turned down. Also, verify that your Windows volume mixer has PUBG’s volume set to a reasonable level (right-click speaker → Open Volume Mixer).

Can a VPN cause no sound in PUBG?

No, a VPN affects your network connection, not audio. However, if the VPN software includes a virtual audio device (rare), it could change your default playback device. Check your sound settings to ensure the correct device is selected.

Does reinstalling PUBG fix sound issues?

Reinstalling the game can fix issues caused by corrupted game files, but it’s a last resort. Try verifying game files first, as that’s faster and often sufficient. If you do reinstall, back up your settings if you want to keep them.

Why is my sound crackling or static in PUBG?

Crackling is often due to outdated audio drivers, high CPU load, or a sample rate mismatch. Update your drivers, close background programs, and in Windows Sound settings, try changing the default format from 48000 Hz to 44100 Hz (or vice versa) in the Advanced tab of your playback device properties.

Should I disable Spatial Sound in Windows to fix PUBG audio?

Sometimes. Spatial Sound (like Windows Sonic) can interfere with games that have their own 3D audio engine. In the Spatial Sound tab of your playback device properties, set it to Off and test PUBG again.

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