Sound not working on your MacBook Pro? How to fix it

⚡ Fast fix

• Restart first. Audio services and temporary macOS glitches often clear up after a reboot.
• AirPods stealing sound? macOS loves auto-switching audio devices when Bluetooth headphones are nearby.
• Muted browser tab? Safari and Chrome tabs can mute audio separately from your MacBook volume.
• Wrong output selected? Your MacBook Pro may be sending sound to a monitor, dock, or TV instead of its speakers.

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Whether you're trying to stream your favorite show or participate in a virtual meeting, there's never a convenient time for the sound to suddenly stop working on your MacBook Pro®.

But don't worry, we've got you covered. At Asurion, we help people repair and resolve issues with their tech every day. This guide will walk you through some simple steps to try when your MacBook Pro sound is not working so you can get back to your tunes, your calls, or your binge-watching in no time.

Why did the sound suddenly stop working on my Mac?

There can be several reasons why the sound is not working on your MacBook Pro. Here are some common culprits:

• Volume settings: It might seem obvious, but sometimes the simplest solution is the most overlooked one. Check your volume settings by clicking on the volume icon in the menu bar or going to System Settings > Sound. Ensure that the volume is turned up and not muted.
• Bad connection with audio output device: The sound might not be working because your MacBook Pro is not correctly connected to the audio output device.
• Software updates: Outdated software can cause issues with sound playback.
• Faulty audio drivers: Outdated or incompatible audio drivers can lead to sound not working on your MacBook Pro.
• Hardware issues: In some cases, the problem might be related to hardware malfunctions. A loose or damaged audio jack, faulty speakers, or even a defective logic board can all contribute to sound-related problems.
• Incompatible third-party applications: Certain third-party applications can conflict with your sound settings and cause audio issues.

6 ways to fix no sound on MacBook Pro

Now you know some of the common causes, let's dive into some things you can try to fix audio issues on your MacBook Pro:

1. Plug in and unplug your headphones

Sometimes an error with the headphone jack can cause the laptop to respond as though a headset is plugged in even when it's not, meaning no sound will come through the speakers. Try plugging in your headphones, then unplugging them—and any other external devices—to see if that corrects the issue.

AirPods and other Bluetooth headphones can also reconnect automatically—even when you’re not actively using them.

2. Check the headphone port

Sometimes MacBook Pro speakers stop working because there's something in the headphone port. Inspect the port for dust and other tiny debris, and remove it to see if that's the problem.

3. Restart your MacBook Pro

Restarting your laptop has the power to fix all kinds of issues, including the sound. Just click on the Apple® logo in the top-left corner, then select Restart.

4. Check your sound settings

Take a look at your sound settings. First, remove all external audio devices, like wireless earphones and external speakers. Then follow these steps to check and adjust your settings:

• Click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner, select System Settings, then select Sound.
• Click on the Output tab, then select MacBook Pro Speakers to test the internal speakers.
• If the Output volume slider is set low, move it to the right and test your sound again.
• If the Mute checkbox is selected, clear it and test your sound again.

If your MacBook Pro is connected to an external monitor, docking station, or TV with HDMI or USB-C, macOS may automatically switch audio output away from your internal speakers.

5. Try a different app

Make sure an app you're using isn't the reason your speakers aren't working. Try closing all applications and see if the sound starts working. If it does, gradually reopen them to identify the culprit and consider updating or removing the problematic app.

• Check whether the browser tab itself is muted.
• Video meeting apps like Zoom®, Microsoft Teams®, and Discord® can sometimes take control of audio devices or reduce other app volumes.
• Make sure the correct microphone and speaker are selected inside the app’s own audio settings.

For more help, check out how to fix crackling speakers on a laptop and why your laptop volume is low.

6. Check for a software update

Make sure your MacBook Pro is running on the latest version of macOS to help alleviate any sound issues. To check for updates, go to the Apple menu > System Settings > General > Software Update. Install any available updates and restart your computer.

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FAQ

How do I reset sound on my MacBook Pro?

Restart your MacBook Pro, check System Settings > Sound, disconnect Bluetooth audio devices, and confirm the correct output device is selected.

Why is my MacBook Pro connected to headphones with no sound?

macOS may still be routing audio to another device or app. Disconnect and reconnect the headphones, then reselect them under Sound settings.

Why are my MacBook Pro speakers so quiet?

Low speaker volume can be caused by app-specific volume controls, communication apps lowering audio, or outdated macOS software.

Can macOS updates fix audio problems?

Yes. macOS updates often include fixes for audio bugs, Bluetooth issues, and speaker compatibility problems.

Why is only one app not playing sound on my MacBook Pro?

The issue may be isolated to the app’s own audio settings, muted browser tabs, permissions, or output selection inside the application itself.