The short answer
Compare two known-working playback routes. If headphones work while built-in speakers do not, that narrows the question to speaker selection, jack detection, manufacturer tuning or speaker hardware; it does not automatically prove an outdated audio driver.
Gather a useful comparison
Use a familiar local audio clip, a second pair of headphones or powered speakers if available, and the correct connection type. Passive 3.5 mm headphones normally use the PC's sound chip; USB headphones have their own digital audio device. Start at low volume and avoid exposing ears to unexpected gain.
Read the comparisons accurately
If built-in speakers and analog headphones both fail but USB headphones work, the analog host path deserves closer inspection. That does not distinguish a muted controller from a failed jack or amplifier on its own. Check endpoint selection and the PC maker's diagnostics before deciding that a driver package is responsible.
If one headset fails on the laptop and on another suitable device while a second headset works on both, the first headset or its cable is the more likely problem. If both fail only at the laptop jack, the jack or its configuration is a better next target. Do not force connectors into another port to manufacture a comparison.
When headphones play but internal speakers remain silent after unplugging, watch whether the endpoint changes back to Speakers. A stuck jack-detection state, disabled speaker endpoint, model-specific audio component or failed speaker could explain the pattern. Record whether restarting changes it, and use exact-model support if the condition recurs.
Compare output paths deliberately
Check whether plugging and unplugging an analog headset changes the endpoint shown in Windows 11 Sound settings. Verify the plug is fully seated in the appropriate jack. For powered speakers, check supply and their own volume. A USB headset should be selected as its own output, not mistaken for the analog Speakers endpoint.
- Play the same local sound through the built-in speakers at a safe level.
- Connect a known-working headset or speaker and explicitly select its output in Sound settings.
- Inspect the cable, plug and device power; try another appropriate port only if the device supports it.
- Compare results and note whether the failure follows the speaker, the jack or the selected endpoint.
Caution: Do not insert a plug into a port that is not intended for audio or force a connector.
Choose a narrow follow-up
If both routes play, review the original app's route. If external headphones play but built-in speakers do not, inspect internal speaker selection and the exact PC model's audio support; a speaker fault is also possible. If neither analog device plays but USB sound works, inspect the host analog path.
If a known-good device fails on a port repeatedly, or there is visible damage, seek official manufacturer diagnostics or service rather than repeating driver installations.