In this guide
Yes, USB-C to HDMI carries both audio and video — but only when your USB-C port supports DisplayPort Alt Mode or Thunderbolt. If those are missing, no audio (or video) will pass through.
- Your USB-C port supports DP Alt Mode or Thunderbolt
- Your cable or adapter is quality-built with audio pass-through
- Your device audio output is set to HDMI in system settings
- Your USB-C port is power-only and lacks DP Alt Mode
- You are using a cheap or uncertified adapter without full audio support
- Audio output is still defaulting to internal speakers
Why USB-C Can Carry Audio to HDMI
HDMI natively carries audio and video together on a single cable. When a USB-C port supports DisplayPort Alt Mode, it converts that signal — including audio — into HDMI format. Thunderbolt ports work the same way. The result is a full audio and video feed reaching your TV or monitor without a separate audio cable.
To confirm your port supports DP Alt Mode, check your device specs or look for a Thunderbolt or DisplayPort symbol next to the port. You can also check our guide on whether your USB-C port supports video output for a full breakdown.
What Audio Formats Are Supported?
The audio formats you get depend on your adapter or cable quality and your source device. Most setups support at least stereo PCM. Better adapters and cables can handle:
- Stereo PCM (standard)
- 5.1 and 7.1 surround sound
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X (on supported hardware)
Cheap or uncertified adapters often cap out at stereo PCM only, cutting off surround sound. According to Anker’s USB-C to HDMI guide, adapter quality directly affects audio pass-through capability, so it is worth spending a little more on a certified option.
Common Setups at a Glance
| Setup | Works? | Need | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| USB-C (DP Alt Mode) to HDMI TV | Yes | Quality cable or adapter | Set output to HDMI in settings |
| USB-C (Thunderbolt) to HDMI monitor | Yes | Thunderbolt-compatible adapter | Supports advanced audio formats |
| USB-C (power-only) to HDMI | No | Different port or dock | No signal at all — not just audio |
| USB-C with cheap no-name adapter | Partial | Certified adapter | May get stereo only or dropouts |
Audio Not Coming Through? Check This First
The most common reason audio does not work over USB-C to HDMI is that the device is still routing sound to its internal speakers. On Windows, right-click the volume icon and select your HDMI output device. On macOS, go to System Settings → Sound → Output and choose your HDMI display. On Android or ChromeOS, audio typically switches automatically once a display is detected.
If you have confirmed the correct output is selected and still get no audio, the adapter may not support audio pass-through. Try a different, certified adapter. If audio and video are both missing, read our full troubleshooting guide on why USB-C to HDMI is not working.
Bottom line: USB-C to HDMI does carry audio as long as your USB-C port supports DP Alt Mode or Thunderbolt and you use a quality adapter. If your port is power-only or your adapter is uncertified, you will not get audio — or any signal at all. Always check your port specs first and pick a reputable cable.