No sound in CS2: how to fix it
What to do if CS2 has no sound, sound cuts out or plays through the wrong headphones: output device, game settings, drivers and Windows.
You cannot play CS2 without sound: you will not hear footsteps or shots. The problem usually takes a couple of minutes to fix.
🔧 1. Output device
Click the sound icon in the Windows taskbar and choose the correct headphones or speakers.
Make sure CS2 is not muted in the Volume Mixer (right-click the sound icon → Volume mixer).
📌 2. CS2 settings
Settings → Audio: check the master volume is not at zero.
Via the console:
volume 0.5
🎧 3. Sound goes to the wrong headphones
Set the right device as the default device in Windows before launching the game.
Restart CS2 after changing devices — the game may not switch on the fly.
🖥️ 4. Drivers and software
Update your audio driver (Realtek, headset driver) from the manufacturer's site.
Disable virtual audio programs and "enhancers" (equalizers, virtual 7.1) if sound broke after installing them.
Turn off Windows spatial sound if it causes problems.
📁 5. Game files
Steam → right-click CS2 → Properties → Installed Files → Verify integrity of game files.
⚠️ If sound cuts out mid-game
The usual culprit is a loose cable or a Bluetooth headset. Connect your headphones by wire and test again.