Likely fix
Fix: Wired headphones not working
Wired headphones usually fail because the plug is not fully inserted, the wrong audio jack is used, the device output is wrong, the cable is damaged, or the jack is dirty.
Quick answer
Push the plug in fully, check the output device, try the headphones on another device, and inspect the cable and jack.
Important warning
A phone case or laptop case can stop the headphone plug from seating fully.
Try this
- 1 Unplug and firmly reconnect the headphone plug.
- 2 Make sure the plug is fully inserted.
- 3 Check that you are using the headphone jack, not a microphone-only jack.
- 4 Select headphones as the output device if your device asks.
- 5 Raise volume on the device.
- 6 Try the headphones on another phone, laptop, or tablet.
- 7 Try another pair of headphones on the same device.
- 8 Check for lint, dust, or damage inside the headphone jack.
Common causes
Plug is not fully inserted.
Wrong audio jack.
Output device is wrong.
Cable is damaged.
Headphone jack is dirty.
Headphones are muted or have inline controls set low.
What to check next
- Check whether the plug clicks in fully.
- Check whether a case blocks the plug.
- Check whether the headphones work on another device.
- Check whether another pair works on this device.
- Check inline volume or mute controls.
This might need a cable or adapter
If this fix points to a cable issue, check the related cable guide before buying the wrong one.
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