Windows 11 Video Editor is a handy tool for creating and editing videos quickly. Sometimes, users face issues where the custom audio feature doesn’t work as expected. This can be frustrating when you want to add your own background music or voiceovers.
Fortunately, there are straightforward ways to fix the custom audio not working error. This guide will walk you through simple steps to troubleshoot and resolve this problem.
Each solution is explained clearly, so even if you’re new to Windows 11 or video editing, you’ll find it easy to follow. Let’s start with some quick checks before moving to detailed fixes.
By the end, you’ll know how to get your custom audio working smoothly in Windows 11 Video Editor.
Quick Note: Prerequisites and Initial Checks
- Check Audio File Format: Ensure your custom audio is in a supported format like MP3 or WAV. Unsupported formats can cause issues.
- Verify Volume Settings: Make sure your system volume and video editor audio sliders are not muted or too low.
- Update Windows: Keep Windows 11 updated, as updates often fix bugs in built-in apps.
- Restart the App: Close and reopen Windows Video Editor before trying again.
Step 1: Verify Your Audio File and Its Location
Before diving into system fixes, confirm that the audio file you want to use is accessible and not corrupted. To do this:
- Play the audio file using the default Windows Media Player or another music player.
- If the file doesn’t play properly, try using another audio file that you know works.
- Make sure the file is saved locally on your PC and not on a removable drive or network folder, as this can cause loading issues in the editor.
Why this matters: A corrupted or unsupported audio file will not load correctly in the video editor, causing the custom audio feature to fail.
Step 2: Check Windows Video Editor App Permissions
Windows apps require certain permissions to access your files. If the Video Editor app doesn’t have permission to access your audio files, it won’t be able to add them.
- Open Settings by pressing
Windows + I. - Go to Privacy & Security > File system.
- Make sure File system access is turned on.
- Scroll down and ensure that the Video Editor app (often included as part of the Photos app) has permission enabled.
Why this is important: Without file access permission, the app cannot import your custom audio files.
Step 3: Update or Reinstall the Photos App (which includes Video Editor)
The Video Editor is embedded in the Photos app on Windows 11. If the app is outdated or corrupted, audio features may not work properly.
- Open the Microsoft Store.
- Search for Microsoft Photos.
- If an update is available, click Update.
- If you suspect corruption, uninstall and reinstall the app:
- Press
Windows + Xand select Windows Terminal (Admin). - Run this command to uninstall Photos:
winget uninstall Microsoft.Photos - After uninstalling, reinstall it from the Microsoft Store.
Why update or reinstall: Updates fix bugs and reinstalling resets the app settings, often resolving unexpected errors.
Step 4: Reset the Video Editor App
If updating or reinstalling didn’t help, resetting the app can clear any corrupted cache or settings that might block audio functionality.
- Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
- Find Photos in the list and click the three dots next to it.
- Select Advanced options.
- Scroll down and click Reset.
- Confirm by clicking Reset again.
Why reset: This restores the app to its default state, fixing many common glitches.
Step 5: Check System Audio Drivers
Audio problems may also be caused by outdated or faulty sound drivers.
- Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.
- Expand the Sound, video and game controllers section.
- Right-click your audio device and choose Update driver.
- Select Search automatically for drivers.
- If an update is found, install it and restart your PC.
Why update drivers: Drivers connect your hardware to Windows. Faulty drivers can cause audio playback issues in apps.
Step 6: Use Alternative Methods to Add Audio
If the default custom audio feature is still not working, try these alternatives:
- Use a Different Video Editing App: Apps like Clipchamp or Adobe Premiere Rush may provide better audio support.
- Convert Audio Files: Use free tools to convert your audio to MP3 or WAV to ensure compatibility.
- Add Audio After Export: Export the video without audio, then use another app to add your custom audio.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why won’t my custom audio play in Windows 11 Video Editor?
Common causes include unsupported audio formats, app permission issues, outdated app versions, or sound driver problems.
What audio formats does Windows 11 Video Editor support?
It generally supports MP3, WAV, and some AAC formats. Using other formats may cause errors.
Can I add multiple custom audio tracks?
Currently, Windows Video Editor supports adding one custom audio track per video project.
Why is my audio out of sync after adding it?
This can happen if the audio sample rate or length differs from the video. Try trimming or converting the audio file.
Is there a way to reset only the audio settings in the Video Editor?
No, but resetting the entire app clears all settings, which can help resolve audio issues.
When Nothing Works
If you’ve tried all the steps above and your custom audio still doesn’t work, consider these final options:
- Contact Microsoft Support: Visit the official Windows Support page for personalized help.
- Use Windows Feedback Hub: Submit a bug report via the Feedback Hub app to alert Microsoft developers.
- Try Third-Party Editors: Temporarily switch to other free video editors like Shotcut or OpenShot until the issue is resolved.
Conclusion
Fixing the custom audio not working error in Windows 11 Video Editor is often a matter of checking file compatibility, app permissions, and updating software. Simple steps like verifying your audio file and resetting the app solve most problems.
If the problem persists, updating drivers or using alternative video editing tools can help keep your projects moving forward. Remember, keeping your system and apps current prevents many common issues.
With these solutions, you should be able to enjoy adding custom audio to your videos smoothly and efficiently.