Recommended Free Tools
If a YouTube video has sound in your browser but not in VLC, check VLC’s mute and volume controls, selected audio track, and output device first. If other apps are silent too, troubleshoot your device’s audio settings. If local files have sound in VLC but YouTube streams do not, the stream handler may be incompatible with YouTube’s current delivery; update VLC before considering older handler instructions.
First, find out whether the problem is VLC or your device
Play the same YouTube video in a browser, then play audio in another application. YouTube recommends checking browser and device volume, sound settings, and restarting the browser or device when sound is missing. YouTube’s no-sound troubleshooting guide covers those checks.
- No sound in other apps either: check the system’s selected output and volume, and confirm speakers or headphones are connected and working.
- Sound works elsewhere, but not in VLC: check VLC’s playback controls and output routing.
- Local files have sound in VLC, but YouTube streams do not: investigate YouTube-stream compatibility as well as VLC’s audio output.
These comparisons help narrow the cause; none by itself proves a particular fault.
Check VLC’s playback state and audio track
- Make sure VLC is not muted and raise its volume. Check both VLC’s volume control and the computer’s system volume.
- Check that the video has an audio track selected. If VLC offers multiple tracks, try the intended language or track.
- Play a local media file in VLC. If it also has no sound, focus on VLC’s audio output or the system’s sound settings rather than YouTube compatibility.
Menu names and locations vary across VLC versions and operating systems, so use the controls available in your installed build rather than relying on a universal menu path.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchPC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Verify the audio output device and VLC output module
Confirm that the operating system and VLC are sending sound to the speakers, headphones, or other device you intend to use. A connected monitor, headset, or other audio device may be selected instead.
VideoLAN recommends trying a different VLC audio output module, saving the change, and restarting VLC. Its Windows FAQ says DirectX and Win32 waveOut should work in most cases; that guidance is specific to Windows, not a universal recommendation for every platform or build. See the VideoLAN Windows FAQ for its instructions.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- In VLC’s audio settings, locate the output module option. The exact path and available choices depend on the installed version and operating system.
- Try another available module; on Windows, VideoLAN names DirectX and Win32 waveOut as options that should work in most cases.
- Save the change and restart VLC, then test the same video again.
If only YouTube streams are affected, update VLC
When local media plays with sound but YouTube streams are silent or fail, YouTube delivery changes may have made VLC’s YouTube stream handler incompatible. VideoLAN’s VLC FAQ describes updating VLC or replacing its YouTube Lua handler as possible approaches.
Start by installing a current official VLC release for your operating system and testing again. The handler-replacement guidance on VideoLAN’s page is legacy, version-dependent documentation; do not assume its old file paths or replacement procedure apply to your installation. Verify any procedure against documentation for your VLC version and operating system. The available guidance does not establish one current handler-replacement path that works across versions.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Or let it run in the cloud
StreamNeo is a separate option for keeping uploaded videos live on YouTube; it is not a fix for missing audio in VLC. Upload a recording or build a playlist, add your YouTube stream key, and go live. The cloud keeps the stream running without a computer left on at home. It streams the upload as made, up to 4K 60fps, at one price per slot, and automatically recovers if YouTube drops the stream. The first day is free with no card. Monthly: $9.99 per month. See StreamNeo or start your free day.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential:Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.




