What to Do If Your iPad Has No Sound or Low Volume

When your iPad suddenly goes silent, or the volume barely moves the needle, even at full blast, it can throw off everything from streaming your favorite shows to joining important video calls. Fortunately, this is a common issue with several quick, reliable fixes.

Whether your iPad’s sound isn’t working at all or just feels unusually quiet, this guide will walk you through the most likely causes and how to fix them. From setting tweaks and headphone mode bugs to speaker cleaning and reset options, we’ve got you covered, and no tech expertise is required.

Why Does My iPad Have No Sound?

There are a few common reasons your iPad might not have sound. The issue could be as simple as the device being stuck in headphone mode or tied to a settings glitch or hardware issue. Sometimes, the sound works only with headphones, or the iPad behaves like it’s still connected to an audio device that’s no longer there.

It’s also possible that the mute switch or volume settings were accidentally changed or that Bluetooth is routing your audio to another device without you realizing it. For most users, the fix involves just a few quick steps.

iPad Sound Settings Troubleshooting: Step-by-Step

If your iPad sound isn’t working, start with these basic troubleshooting steps to rule out common issues:

1. Check Silent Mode and Volume

Look at the Control Center to make sure Silent Mode isn't on. You can access it by swiping down from the top-right corner of the screen. Also, use the volume buttons or the volume slider to ensure your iPad isn’t turned down too low. You'll know the volume buttons are working when the speaker icon appears on the side of your screen when pressed.

2. Restart Your iPad

Sometimes, a quick restart can resolve temporary software bugs affecting the speakers.

• Press and hold the top button until the power-off slider appears

• Drag the slider to turn off.

• Wait a few seconds, then press and hold the top button to turn your iPad back on.

3. Check Bluetooth Settings

If your iPad sound is going to a Bluetooth device like headphones or a speaker, you might not hear sound through the built-in speakers.

• Open Settings

• Tap Bluetooth

• If a device is connected, disconnect it and test your system sounds again.

How to Fix iPad Audio Issues When the Sound Is Too Low

If the volume on your iPad is too low, even at full volume, the problem might be more specific. Here are some fixes you can try:

First, inspect the speaker grills for dust or debris. Gently cleaning your iPad speakers with a dry, soft-bristled brush can improve sound quality. Use case wipes to ensure debris hasn't built up between your device and its protective case. Avoid cleaning with liquids, which could damage the internal components.

Next, check your Sound Settings:

• Go to Settings

• Tap Sounds

• Make sure the Ringer and Alerts slider is turned up.

• Under Audio/ Visual in Accessibility settings, ensure that mono audio or noise cancellation settings aren’t interfering with output.

Alt text: A flatlay of an Ipad in a Zugu stand case with headphones, a gaming console and watch also on the table. 

How to Fix iPad Headphone Mode Issues

One common reason iPads have no sound is that they get stuck in headphone mode even when no headphones are plugged in. This can happen due to a glitch or physical debris in the headphone port (on older iPads) or a miscommunication with a Bluetooth headset.

Here’s how to fix it:

• Plug in a pair of headphones and remove them again.

• Restart your iPad

• If using Bluetooth headphones, unpair and forget the device from Bluetooth settings.

If your iPad sound only works with headphones plugged in and not through speakers, there may be a deeper hardware issue. But this fix usually resolves the problem.

How Do I Reset My iPad Sound Settings?

If all else fails, resetting your iPad’s settings can often resolve deeper software issues related to audio. This won’t erase your data, but it will reset preferences like Wi-Fi passwords and device settings.

To reset:

• Go to Settings

• Tap General

• Scroll down to Transfer or Reset iPad

• Select Reset > Reset All Settings.

After your device restarts, test the sound again. This often fixes iPad volume problems that persist despite other changes.

When to Seek Help for Persistent Sound Issues

If your iPad still has no sound after following these steps, or if the volume is unusually low and none of the above solutions work, you may be dealing with a hardware issue. Speaker components can wear out, especially after exposure to dust, moisture, or impact.

In that case, contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for a diagnostic. If you're under warranty or have AppleCare+, repairs may be covered.

Prevent Sound Problems

If your iPad has no sound or the volume is too low, even at full volume, don’t panic. Whether it’s a settings misconfiguration, a headphone mode glitch, or a Bluetooth connection hijacking your audio, most issues are quick to resolve at home.

From cleaning your iPad’s speakers to resetting sound settings or disconnecting Bluetooth devices, there are several reliable ways to fix iPad audio issues. And if you're still stuck? A trusted professional can help you get back to full volume.

Want to protect your iPad from damage that could cause speaker issues? A high-quality, protective case from Zugu will keep your device safe, functional, and frustration-free.