Test your headphones using Windows built-in tools, Sound settings, and third-party apps.
Windows provides several built-in ways to test if your headphones are working correctly. This guide covers all methods — from quick system tests to stereo channel verification.
Use our online headphone test to instantly check left and right channels. Just click Play — no downloads or sign-ups required.
Why online test first?
It works on any browser, tests both channels separately, and helps you quickly identify if the issue is with headphones or your Windows settings.
Open Sound settings:
Right-click the speaker icon in the taskbar (bottom-right)
Select "Sound settings" or "Open Sound settings"
Test output device:
Under "Output", make sure your headphones are selected
Click on your headphones to open device properties
Click the "Test" button to play a test sound
If you hear the test sound, your headphones are connected and working with Windows.
Open Sound Control Panel:
In Sound settings, scroll down and click "More sound settings"
Or type "mmsys.cpl" in the Run dialog (Win+R)
Test stereo channels:
In the Playback tab, right-click your headphones
Select "Test" from the context menu
You'll hear a sound play in the left channel, then right channel
What to listen for:
The test plays a chime in the left ear, then the right ear. If you only hear one side, you may have a faulty cable, driver issue, or balance setting problem.
Open Realtek Manager:
Search for "Realtek" in the Start menu
Or look for the Realtek icon in the system tray (taskbar)
Or open it from Control Panel → Hardware and Sound
Test headphones:
Select the "Headphones" tab or output device
Click the Play button on the speaker diagram
Sound will play through left and right channels
Realtek Manager also lets you configure jack detection, audio enhancements, and environment effects.
Discord:
Go to Settings → Voice & Video
Under "Output Device", select your headphones
Click "Let's Check" to test microphone (plays back your voice)
Zoom:
Go to Settings → Audio
Click "Test Speaker" to play a test tone
Adjust volume slider if needed
Games:
Most games have audio settings with test options. Look in Settings → Audio or Sound for speaker configuration and test tones.
Test failed?
If you don't hear sound during any of these tests, check our troubleshooting guides:
