Published on Apr 28, 2025 5 min read

Simple Ways to Resolve Audio Video Delay: A Beginner’s Guide

There’s nothing quite as frustrating as watching a video where the lips and words don’t match up. It’s distracting, it ruins the experience, and whether you're trying to follow a movie or attend an online class, it can make you want to give up altogether. The good news? Fixing the sync issue between audio and video isn’t as complicated as it seems. But before we get to the fixes, let’s talk about what’s going on behind the scenes.

Step-by-Step Fixes: Local Files, Streaming, and Devices

1. When You’re Watching a Downloaded or Local Video

If your video file is out of sync, the problem may lie within the file itself or the media player you're using.

Use a Better Media Player

Not all players handle video the same way. Some are better equipped to keep things synced.

• Try VLC Media Player. It’s free and works across systems. It also has shortcut keys to adjust the delay.
  • Press J to delay the audio.
  • Press K to speed it up.
• You can also go to Tools > Track Synchronization and manually tweak the delay settings.

Re-Encode the File

If the problem keeps coming back every time you open the same file, the issue might be permanent. Use a program like HandBrake or Avidemux to re-encode it and fix the sync during conversion.

Check File Integrity

Corrupted files or incomplete downloads can cause timing issues. If you suspect this might be the case, try downloading the file again or getting it from a different source.

2. When You’re Streaming Online

Watching YouTube, Netflix, or something similar? Streaming issues can get trickier because you're dealing with the internet, not just your device.

Pause and Let It Load

Sometimes, the delay is temporary and caused by buffering. Letting the video load for a bit might fix it.

Refresh or Reopen

Yes, it sounds basic, but a simple refresh can reset the sync. If that doesn’t work, close the tab or app and open it again.

Switch Browsers or Apps

Some browsers or apps handle video better than others. If it’s off in Chrome, try Firefox. If your Netflix app is acting up on your tablet, switch to a smart TV or laptop and check if the issue persists.

Check Internet Speed

Slow or unstable internet can mess with how audio and video are delivered. If you're on Wi-Fi, try moving closer to the router. Or switch to a wired connection for more stable playback.

3. When You’re Watching on TV or External Devices

If you're casting a video to a smart TV or using something like Apple TV or Chromecast, the delay might be between your source device and the output.

Check HDMI Cables and Ports

Loose or low-quality cables can cause sync problems. Try unplugging and reconnecting them or switching to a different HDMI port.

Use a Direct Connection

Wireless casting introduces a tiny delay that can build up. If you can, connect your device directly to the TV using a cable.

Adjust Audio Delay on TV

Most modern TVs have audio delay settings hidden in the sound menu. You can tweak the sync manually by setting a positive or negative delay until everything lines up.

Audio Sync Problems in Video Calls or Recordings

When you're on Zoom, Google Meet, or recording with OBS, sync issues are especially annoying—and can be embarrassing. They often show up during live situations, and the cause is usually a mix of processing delays and software lag.

For Video Calls

Close Background Apps

Heavy background processes can slow down your CPU and mess with timing. Shut down any programs you're not using.

Check the Audio Input Source

If your mic and camera are connected through different devices (like an external webcam and a Bluetooth mic), latency differences can appear. Try using a single source or match devices that are built to work together.

Update the Software

Make sure your video call app is up to date. Developers often patch these issues in newer versions.

Switch to Wired Equipment

Wireless devices are more prone to delays. Use wired earphones and microphones when possible.

For Recordings

Sync in Editing

If the recording already has sync issues, fix it during editing. Most video editors like Adobe Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve let you slide the audio track forward or backward until it matches the visuals.

Test Before Recording

Always do a quick sync check before hitting the record. Clap your hands or snap your fingers and check if the sound matches the action in your preview.

How to Prevent It from Happening Again

Fixing the issue is great. Preventing it from showing up in the first place? Even better.

1. Keep Drivers Updated: Outdated audio or video drivers can cause a delay.
2. Restart Regularly: Letting your device run for days without restarting can lead to memory issues that affect playback.
3. Use Quality Equipment: Especially for recording, low-end mics and webcams tend to have sync issues.
4. Keep Software Updated: Apps, media players, and browsers improve over time. Let them update.

Wrapping It Up!

When audio and video fall out of sync, the experience becomes more frustrating than enjoyable. But most of the time, the fix is within reach. Whether you're streaming, watching a downloaded file, or recording something yourself, all it takes is a bit of trial and error to line everything up again. And once you've dealt with it a few times, you’ll know exactly where to look the next time something sounds off. Hope you find this piece of information worth reading. Stay tuned for more useful yet interesting guides.