When your Roku Express is playing video but you're getting no sound, it's usually a simple setting or connection issue. The problem can be with the Roku itself, your TV's audio settings, or the HDMI connection between them. Let's get your audio back.
Check Your TV and Roku Volume
First, grab your TV remote and press the volume up button. Make sure the TV isn't muted. Then, use your Roku remote to press the volume up button on the side of the screen. It's easy to accidentally mute one device while adjusting the other.
Remember, the Roku Express remote uses infrared (IR). You need to point it directly at the front of the Roku Express box, not at your TV, for the volume commands to work.
Restart Your Roku Express
A quick restart can clear up temporary software glitches that cause audio to drop. Go to Settings > System > System restart on your Roku home screen.
If you can't navigate the menu because you have no picture either, you can perform a physical restart. Just unplug the power cable from your Roku Express, wait about 10 seconds, and plug it back in.
Check Your TV's Audio Output Mode
This is a very common fix. Using your TV remote, open your TV's sound or audio settings. Look for an option called "Audio Output," "Sound Output," or "Speakers."
Make sure it's set to TV Speakers or Internal Speakers. If it's set to an external audio system like "ARC" or "Optical" and you don't have one connected, you won't hear any sound.
Try a Different HDMI Port and Cable
Unplug the HDMI cable from both your Roku and your TV. Take a look at the connectors for any bent pins or debris. Firmly plug the cable back in.
Now, try a different HDMI port on your TV. Sometimes a specific port can have issues. If you have another HDMI cable handy, try swapping it in to rule out a faulty cable.
Adjust the Roku Audio Mode
Your Roku has audio settings that can conflict with your TV. On your Roku home screen, go to Settings > Audio.
Here, you'll find the Audio mode setting. Try changing this. I'd start by setting it to Stereo or Auto (Stereo), as this is the most compatible. If it's set to Dolby Digital and your TV doesn't support it, it can result in no sound.
Check for Roku System Updates
Outdated software can sometimes cause audio bugs. Let's make sure your Roku is running the latest version. Navigate to Settings > System > System update.
Select Check now. If an update is available, let it install. Your Roku will restart automatically afterward. This has resolved audio issues for many users after a new app or system update.
Test a Different Channel or App
Open a different channel, like The Roku Channel or YouTube. If you get sound there, the problem is isolated to the first app you were using.
For that specific app, try closing it completely. Press the Home button twice to bring up the app switcher, highlight the app, and press the Asterisk (*) button on your remote to close it. Then reopen the app.
Change Your TV's Digital Audio Format
This setting is in your TV's menu, not Roku's. In your TV's sound settings, look for "Digital Sound Out," "Audio Format," or "HDMI Audio Format."
Change this setting to PCM. This is a universal format that always works. Settings like "Auto" or "Bitstream" can sometimes send a format your TV's speakers can't decode, leading to silence.
Use the Roku Mobile App as a Remote
If you suspect your physical remote is part of the issue, the Roku mobile app is a great tool. Download the Roku app on your smartphone, make sure your phone is on the same Wi-Fi network, and connect to your Roku Express.
You can now use your phone to navigate menus and change settings. This is also helpful if you need to adjust settings but can't see the screen clearly.
Perform a Factory Reset
If you've tried everything else, a factory reset will return your Roku Express to its original settings. Be aware this will remove all your channels and log you out of all your accounts.
You can do this through the menu at Settings > System > Advanced system settings > Factory reset. Alternatively, there's a small physical reset button on the side or back of the Roku Express device. Press and hold it with a paperclip for about 10 seconds until the status light blinks.
