Realtek Digital Output Better -

The Realtek Digital Output (Optical/SPDIF) is only "better" if you are connecting your computer to a high-end external device, such as a home theater receiver dedicated DAC

Yes, if: You are connecting to a good external DAC or AV receiver. The Realtek Digital Output will sound identical to a $200 sound card because both are sending the same digital data.
No, if: You are relying on the Realtek chip’s internal DAC (using the 3.5mm jacks). In that case, an external DAC or sound card would be a major upgrade.

Windows configuration

If you have plugged an optical cable from your PC to a soundbar and thought, "This sounds hollow and lifeless," you are not alone. The issue is rarely the hardware; it is . realtek digital output better

If you aren’t getting the "high-def" vibe you expected, try these optimization steps: 1. Enable Sound Enhancements The Realtek Digital Output (Optical/SPDIF) is only "better"

Optical (TOSLINK): A square port with a flap or red light inside.
Coaxial (RCA): An orange RCA-style port labeled "SPDIF Out."

To understand why one output might be better than the other, you must understand the Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC). Yes, if: You are connecting to a good

Blacker backgrounds (no hiss or electrical noise)
Tighter bass (less jitter)
Wider soundstage (better channel separation)
Bit-perfect playback for hi-res audio

Conclusion:

Realtek digital output is "better" for reducing analog noise and for feeding external decoders/receivers; it’s not necessarily better for audiophile listening or professional audio—usecase and external equipment determine the winner.