If you’ve been enjoying Helldivers 2 but can’t stand the annoying audio crackling, you’re definitely not alone. Many players have reported sound distortions, popping effects, or inconsistent volume levels—especially during intense combat or cutscenes. The good news is that there are several reliable fixes that can help restore crisp, immersive sound to your missions.
Here are seven proven solutions to fix audio crackling issues in Helldivers 2 on PC and consoles.
1. Update or Reinstall Your Audio Drivers
Audio crackling often comes down to outdated or corrupted drivers. If you’re playing on PC, head to your sound device’s manufacturer website—such as Realtek or your motherboard brand—and grab the latest audio driver.
After installation, restart your computer and launch Helldivers 2 again to test whether the crackling persists.
2. Switch to a Different Audio Output
Sometimes the issue isn’t the game itself, but the output device. Try switching from headphones to speakers, or from one audio interface to another (for example, from HDMI to your sound card).
You can do this easily from your Windows sound settings or console audio menu. Many players have found this immediately clears up distortion.
3. Adjust Audio Settings in the Game
Open the in-game audio settings and experiment with the sound quality or sample rate. Lowering the sample rate from 48 kHz to 44.1 kHz—or disabling surround sound—has helped some users eliminate crackling.
You can also try resetting the audio settings to default, which can resolve conflicts caused by previous tweaks or updates.
4. Verify or Repair Game Files
Corrupted or missing files can cause unexpected audio issues. On Steam, right-click Helldivers 2 in your library, go to Properties → Installed Files, and select Verify Integrity of Game Files.
This process replaces any damaged sound files that might be responsible for crackling or static noise during gameplay.
5. Disable Exclusive Mode (Windows Only)
Exclusive mode allows apps to take full control of your audio device, but it can sometimes create sound glitches.
To disable it:
- Right-click the speaker icon → Sounds → Playback tab.
- Select your device and click Properties.
- Under Advanced, uncheck both exclusive mode boxes.
After applying the changes, relaunch Helldivers 2 to see if the issue improves.
6. Reduce CPU and GPU Load
High system load can cause audio buffering problems, especially on lower-end setups. Try lowering the game’s graphics settings or closing background applications before launching.
A cleaner performance environment can also help prevent random frame drops that lead to crackling sound output.
7. Reinstall the Game or Update System Firmware
If all else fails, a clean reinstall of Helldivers 2 might solve deeper sound file corruption.
For console players, make sure your system firmware is up to date—Sony and Microsoft often include audio performance improvements in system patches.
Helldivers 2 is best experienced with its intense explosions, squad chatter, and chaotic battlefield sounds. Audio crackling can break immersion, but with these fixes, you should be able to restore the rich sound design the game is known for.
As you optimize your setup, many players also explore ways to enhance their gameplay progress. Sites like U4GM are well-known in the gaming community for reliable in-game resource trading, where you can buy Helldivers 2 medals cheap or buy Helldivers 2 super credits safely to upgrade your loadouts faster.
