If your headset volume wheel is not adjusting audio correctly, feels inconsistent, or causes sound to cut in and out, the issue may be caused by dust, software settings, or a hardware fault. Before you call it a boss fight, try the steps below.
Common symptoms
You may notice:
- Volume jumps up or down unexpectedly
- Audio only works at certain wheel positions
- Sound cuts out when the wheel is moved
- One ear gets quieter than the other
- The wheel feels loose, stuck, or unresponsive
Try these steps
1. Move the volume wheel fully up and down
Slowly scroll the volume wheel all the way up and down a few times.
This can help clear minor dust or contact issues inside the wheel.
2. Clean around the wheel
Use a soft brush or short bursts of compressed air around the volume wheel.
Avoid using liquids, sprays, or sharp tools, as these may damage the headset.
3. Check your system volume
Make sure the device volume is turned up on your PC, console, or mobile device.
If you use SteelSeries GG or Sonar, also check that the output device and volume levels are set correctly.
4. Update the headset firmware
Open SteelSeries GG and check for any available firmware updates.
Software or firmware issues can sometimes act like hardware problems in disguise.
5. Test the headset on another device
Try the headset on a different PC, console, or mobile device.
If the issue follows the headset across multiple devices, it is more likely related to the headset hardware.
6. Reconnect all cables
For wired headsets, unplug and reconnect the headset cable on both ends.
Make sure the cable is fully seated. A loose connection can cause low volume, audio imbalance, or sound cutting out.
7. Reset the headset
If your headset model has a hardware reset button, try resetting it and testing again.
The reset button is usually located under one of the ear cushions, depending on the model - you can find the proper guide for your model here.
8. Make sure you’re using the correct wheel
Some headset models have more than one wheel. For example, one wheel may control volume, while the other may control Sidetone or another feature.
For audio volume, make sure you are using the wheel on the left side of the headset — this is always the volume wheel. On some models, the wheel can also be clicked to switch between ChatMix control and regular volume control. If the wheel is not changing your headset volume, click the wheel to make sure it is set to volume control mode, then try adjusting it again.
Nothing helped? Please reach out to our Support Team via our help center.