Laptop Sound Crackling and Popping (with speakers and headphones)

Hi Greg, 

I tried most of the things you listed above, and I also had Geek Squad take a look at it in addition, but Geek Squad wasn't able to find the problem (couldn't reproduce it apparently), and the crackling sound is still present. But I have managed to narrow down the problem - the audio crackles only when it's plugged in and charging. I don't think it's the outlet that's bad since I tested in several locations. Could it be a faulty charger, or possibly some other issue software/hardware-wise that clashes with the charger?

Thanks, and happy holidays!

Hi WJD. I'm Greg, an installation specialist and 9 year Windows MVP, here to help you.

Does the same thing happen in Safe Mode with Networking, or Safe Mode: https://www.digitalcitizen.life/4-ways-boot-saf...?

If it does and all of the following steps fail, I'd contact the manufacturer if it's under warranty as the Sound device may be failing and need replacement.

For sound problems first try this checklist: https://support.microsoft.com/en-in/help/402699...

Then if necessary work through the following steps:

1. Update the sound driver from the PC maker's Support Downloads webpage for your exact model, if it is newer than the one presently installed in Device Manager reached by right clicking the Start button. While there compare to make sure you also have the latest BIOS, Chipset, Display, Network and all other drivers.
2. Right click the volume icon in System Tray at right end of task bar, to Troubleshoot Problems.
3. Run the Playing Sound troubleshooter at Start button > Settings>Update & Security>Troubleshoot.
4. Try rolling back the sound driver in Device Manager reached by right clicking the Start button. Choose Sound controller device, then Driver tab, then Roll back if available.

While there make sure you also have the latest Chipset, Display, Network, USB and all other drivers, comparing with the version presently installed in Device Manager.

5. If no newer driver then uninstall the one presently installed in Device Manager, reached by right clicking the Start Button. Restart PC to reinstall.
6. Try other and older drivers for your model Sound controller, too. For example, try the next oldest driver in the model's online Support Downloads list. To try all previous drivers installed on your system, in Device Manager choose Sound controller's Driver tab, then Update Driver, then Browse, then Let Me Pick.
7. If this was caused by Windows Updates then you can check which were installed at Settings>Update & Security>Windows Update under Installed Updates, then uninstall them from the link there, and hide with the Hide Updates tool downloaded from here: http://download.microsoft.com/download/f/2/2/f2...
8. You can also use System Restore to get before the problem began, then check for Updates with the Hide Update tool and hide them: http://home.bt.com/tech-gadgets/computing/how-t...
9. Go over this checklist to make sure the install is set up correctly, optimized for best performance, and any needed repairs get done: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/wiki...

Start with Step 4 to turn off Startup freeloaders which can conflict and cause issues, then Step 7 to check for infection the most thorough way, then step 10 to check for damaged System Files. Then continue with the other steps to go over your install most thoroughly.

10. If nothing else helps then run a Repair Install by installing the Media Creation Tool and choosing from it to Upgrade Now. This solves many problems and will also bring it up to the latest version which you need anyway and by the most stable method. http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-10/m...

But remember that Factory or Upgrade installs are inferior installs which most enthusiasts won't even run because they'd expect endless issues. Consider doing the Clean Install in this link which compiles the best possible install that will stay that way as long as you stick with the tools and methods given: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/wiki...

There is also an automated Refresh that reinstalls WIndows while shedding corrupting factory bloatware, saves your files, but doesn't clear the drive to get it cleanest: https://www.howtogeek.com/265054/how-to-easily-...

I hope this helps. Feel free to ask back any questions and let us know how it goes. I will keep working with you until it's resolved.

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Standard Disclaimer: There are links to non-Microsoft websites. The pages appear to be providing accurate, safe information. Watch out for ads on the sites that may advertise products frequently classified as a PUP (Potentially Unwanted Products). Thoroughly research any product advertised on the sites before you decide to download and install it.

Alright, I will set some time aside later to go through your list. I'll keep you updated, thanks.

I'd proceed with the steps which might find the fault.

But if you are still under one year warranty then I'd use it to contact their Support to get it repaired or replaced before it expires.

Hello Greg,

Thanks for the fast reply. I booted my laptop in safe mode to check the audio, but the audio symbol on the taskbar had the red circle with a x on it that usually appears if no audio drivers are installed? I've exited safe mode since, and the red circle/x is no longer there. I didn't try any of the next steps you listed because I wasn't sure if they'd work or not, and if this was a problem only my manufacturer could help with?