Are you experiencing Xbox One headset crackling noise while playing? This guide has the solutions you’re looking for!
Your headset could constantly be crackling, and you’re having a hard time hearing your game and chat sounds.
The microphone can also crackle, giving you a difficult time communicating with your friends. It’s likely a connectivity issue that you need to look at.
To fix the crackling noise on your Xbox headset, you must connect the controller to your console via a USB cable. If it persists, you will need to update your controller’s software. Clearing your Xbox’s MAC address is also a step you can take to resolve this issue.
Let’s take a closer look at the source of this particular issue. Then we can move forward to fix it with our full troubleshooting guide.
Why Xbox One Headset Mic Making Crackling Noise
Whenever you experience your Xbox One headset making crackling noises, it could stem from several sources.
You want to make sure that your controller is in good condition by checking its wireless connectivity.
If problems are present, it could affect your headset and console connection.
1. Wireless Connectivity Issue
Your headset’s performance can affect your controller’s connections. If there’s something wrong with the wireless module, you will be experiencing crackling noise from your headset and even your mic.
2. Not Enough Power
If your controller does not have sufficient power, it can affect the transmissions of signals, especially the audio.
3. Outdated Controller Software
Xbox’s controller needs to be updated once in a while. If you’re running an older version, there is a possibility that there can be incompatibilities between it and your headphones causing the issue.
4. Persistent Glitches
Bugs and glitches can happen to just about any device, including your Xbox. It could be on your controller, headset, or the system itself.
These are all the issues that can cause this problem with your console. We can now proceed to the full troubleshooting steps so you can fix this once and for all!
How to Fix Xbox One Headset Crackling Noise
Before we proceed with the rest of this fix guide, we recommend restarting your console and network devices.
The issue can be temporary, such as a bug or glitch, that can quickly be resolved by rebooting your Xbox.
If it doesn’t work out, we can move on with the next steps here that will help you get rid of this problem:
Solution #1: Connect the Controller to Your Xbox via a USB Cable
Since your Xbox controller works wirelessly, there are instances when the connection between it and the console is not ideal.
This can cause issues, especially when you plug in a pair of headphones to the controller.
The best way to test and resolve this is to connect your controller to your console using a USB cable. This will stabilize the connection and allow it to catch up so you can use it again wirelessly.
Here’s how to connect the controller to your console:
- Get your USB cable that comes with your Xbox.
- Plug one end of the cable to the power port of the controller.
- Plug the other end into your console.
- Wait for the controller to power up.
Tip: If you connect your controller via a USB cable, you will not need to use batteries to power it.
Solution #2: Change Your Controller’s Batteries
If you choose to simply reset your controller’s connection with the console, you will want to make sure that it has enough power to link a pair of headphones.
Using a controller with a low charge can compromise its performance, including you hearing strange crackling noises.
Here’s how to change your controller’s batteries:
- Open the battery compartment at the back of your controller.
- Remove the old batteries.
- Install new batteries lining up the positive and negative ends.
- Replace the battery compartment.
- Turn on your Xbox controller.
Note: You can also power cycle your controller by pressing the Xbox button for 5 to 10 seconds, then turning it back on again.
Solution #3: Update Your Xbox Controller
You don’t need to upgrade your entire console’s software to get rid of this problem. Updating your Xbox controller to the latest software version is usually enough to resolve the crackling noise problem.
Doing it should clear up any bugs or glitches that are stuck to your controller and prevent it from operating optimally.
Here are the steps to update your Xbox controller:
- Press the Xbox button on your controller.
- Go to Profile & system, then Settings.
- Select Devices & connections, then Accessories.
- Choose the controller you want to update.
- Select the latest Firmware version for your controller.
Tip: Your Xbox controller is capable of updating wirelessly, so you can get to it as soon as possible without needing a USB cable.
Solution #4: Clear Your Xbox MAC Address
Sometimes the cause of the crackling noise problem is a fault in your network connections. You want to reset your console’s network settings by clearing its MAC address.
It’s a way to refresh the link with your router so you can connect fresh without this particular issue.
Here’s how to reset the network settings of your Xbox:
- Press the Xbox button, then go to Settings.
- Select General, then Network Settings.
- Choose Advanced settings.
- Go to Alternate MAC address, then select Clear.
Note: After resetting the network settings, it will ask you to reboot your console. We recommend you do it and then reconnect to the network.
Solution #5: Perform a System Reset
You can consider this as a last resort option. However, it does a lot of wonders since it effectively resolves issues like hearing crackling noises on your headset.
It may not be the most elegant of solutions, but it should get rid of the problem as soon as you reset it.
You’re going to completely delete files and preferences, allowing you to start fresh on your console.
Here’s how to perform a system reset with your Xbox One:
- Go to your Xbox’s Settings.
- Choose Profile & system, then Settings.
- Select System, then Console info.
- Click on Reset console.
- Pick an option that should work for you.
Note: You will be able to reset and remove everything or keep your installed apps. The choice is going to be up to you, so you’ll be able to select the best one for your situation.
Xbox One Headset Still Producing Crackling Noise?
Consider contacting Microsoft support if you continue to hear crackling noise on your headset and mic even after performing these steps.
You’re likely dealing with a hardware problem that can require repair or replacement.
Read Next: Can an Xbox One Get a Virus?
Bottom Line
Now that you know how to troubleshoot the Xbox One headset crackling noise, you should be able to figure out the steps to fix it quickly.
As long as you follow the instructions we described, you should be able to resolve this problem in no time.
You will not even need any technical expertise or experience since the steps are easy enough to follow.
Kevin has over five years of experience working in various Tech startups and providing Technical solutions. He has contributed to many Tech publications and websites.