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How To Fix Xbox One Headset Volume Issues

Xbox headsets produce impressive sound output, perfect for gaming and viewing content. However, if your Xbox One headset is faulty or not appropriately configured, the volume produced can be faint.

If your Xbox One headset volume is too low, try manually setting the volume control button on the headset to the highest setting. Also, check if you’re running the latest device firmware and reset your Xbox console. And if none of these options work, you may need a new headset.

So, if you have an Xbox One headset and want to get the most out of it, but the volume is too low, don’t worry because we’ve got you covered. We will highlight why your headset volume is low and offer solutions to help you resolve this issue. Let’s begin!

Why Is Your Headset Really Quiet on Xbox One?

Here are three reasons why your headset is quiet on Xbox one.

1. Low Volume Setting

Most headsets include a button, wheel, or knob to control the volume setting. As a result, if the volume control on the headset is set too low, even if the system volume is high, the headset will produce a muted sound.

Furthermore, most games include volume control settings that can impact the volume level. So, if you notice a change in volume while playing games or watching videos on your Xbox console, check the application volume.

2. Driver Error

Outdated Xbox drivers can cause various performance issues, including low sound output. So, if your headset produces muted sound even after the system and headset volume settings are at the maximum level, you need to install the most recent drivers.

3. Faulty Hardware

A faulty headset could also be the reason your headset produces low sound. Unfortunately, troubleshooting won’t help you here. You’ll need to get a new headset. However, if you have an active warranty, visit a Microsoft store and request a replacement.

How Do You Increase the Volume on Your Xbox One Headset?

Are you wondering how to increase your headset’s volume? Here are four tips to help you out.

1. Check the Xbox Headset

Damaged or improperly fitted components could be why your headset produces low sound. For this reason, you need to search for any signs of damage. Begin by inspecting the headset, the connector, and the cord to see if there is any noticeable damage.

Use a cotton pad doused in alcohol to clean the connector if it’s dusty. It is crucial that dirt does not accumulate in the headset connector. When done, properly insert the headset’s connector into the expansion port on the controller.

Also, to ensure that the problem is not due to faulty hardware, connect the Xbox headset to another device and see if the sound output improves.

For a better audio experience, an Xbox One Stereo Headset Adapter is ideal. If you’re connecting the headset to an adapter, ensure it is properly done.

Finally, replace the controller’s batteries. Low batteries affect the sound output from the headset. Swap out the batteries on the controller and check if the sound from the headset is better.

2. Review the Console Settings

Inspect your Xbox One’s privacy settings. When playing games on the Xbox network, these settings enable you to choose who you want to hear. So, incorrect settings can stop you from hearing anyone.

To inspect these settings:

  1. Navigate to Settings and select Account 
  1. Then click on Privacy & online safety and select View details & customize
  1. Finally, select Communicate with voice and text and click on everybody.

Additionally, if you use an Xbox One headset adapter, it includes a built-in mixer. So, check if the mixer’s volume toggle favors the game sound over the chat sound or vice versa. If this is the case, it will appear like the headset isn’t working. Adjust the mixer’s volume toggle to balance the audio output.  

3. Power Cycle the Console

Power cycling the Xbox console resets all the network connections and configurations of the Xbox controllers. This reset can positively impact the headset’s sound output.

If you want to try this solution as well:

  1. Hold down the Xbox button on the Xbox controller for a few seconds to switch off the controller.
  1. Then, switch off the Xbox console by pressing the Xbox button.
  1. Disconnect the power cord from the Xbox One console.
  1. Wait for 5 minutes before reconnecting the power cable.
  1. Lastly, switch on the Xbox controller and console and check if the sound output has improved.

4. Update the Xbox Controller

Another way to increase the volume of an Xbox One headset is by updating the Xbox controller. Updating the controller can fix bugs that might be tampering with the headset’s volume. To do this:

  1. Click on the Xbox button to access the Xbox guide. 
  1. Navigate to Profile & system and select Settings.
  1. Then, click on Devices & connections, select Accessories, and pick the controller you wish to update.
  1. Next, select “…” from the Xbox Wireless Controller screen to check the firmware version of the Xbox controller.
  1. If it displays “Update,” click on the Firmware version and carefully follow the on-screen instructions.

5. Adjust the Volume

You can adjust the volume of your Xbox One headset through the settings menu. To do this:

  1. Click the Xbox button on your controller, then navigate to Parties & Chats.
  1. Begin a party and navigate to the Options section.
  1. Click on Audio settings, and adjust the headset volume. In addition, to increase the volume, slide the bar to the right. 

Alternatively, to manually adjust the volume of your Xbox Wireless headset:

  • Turn the dial on the right earcup and rotate the dial clockwise to increase the headset volume.
  • Also, rotating the dial anticlockwise will decrease the volume.
  • Rotate the dial on the left earcup to adjust the balance between chat and game audio.
  • Turning the dial anticlockwise increases the game audio.
  • Rotating the dial clockwise increases the chat audio.

Why Won’t My Xbox One Controller Recognize My Headset?

Black joystick in hands isolated on white background

If your Xbox One controller doesn’t recognize your headset, make sure it’s not muted, and check the console’s audio input and headset volume. To properly test the headset, use the Xbox One Skype app.

And if the problem persists, try updating the controller’s firmware, rebooting the console, and cleaning the headset and controller.

Conclusion

If the volume on your Xbox One headset is low, look into all possible causes to see what’s causing this annoying issue. Then, try out all the solutions we discussed.

However, if the volume of the Xbox headset is still low, even after increasing the volume level to the maximum, it may indicate your headset is faulty. At this point, you’ll need to get a new Xbox headset.