To change Windows 11’s default playback device, open Start > Settings > System > Sound, then select the device you want under Output. Windows uses the selected speaker, headphones, or other playback device as the system default.
Set the default output in Windows 11 Settings
- Open Start > Settings > System > Sound.
- Under Output, select the speaker, headphones, monitor, or other playback device you want. Selecting it also makes it the default playback device, as Microsoft Support explains.
- Play audio to confirm it comes from the intended device.
Use Output for playback. Input controls recording devices such as microphones.
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Switch outputs from the taskbar
For a quick change, select the taskbar’s Speakers or volume icon, then select the arrow beside the volume control to see available connected outputs. Choose the device you want sound to play through. This is a convenient device selector; use the Sound settings Output control above when you want the direct route to set the system default. See Microsoft’s Windows audio guidance.
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Set the default in the classic Playback panel
- Open Settings > System > Sound > More sound settings.
- Select the Playback tab.
- Right-click the device you want and choose Set as Default Device.
This alternative uses the classic sound control panel rather than the modern Output list. The steps are documented in Microsoft Support’s Windows sound instructions.
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Change the output for one app
If Windows system sounds play through the right device but a particular app does not, that app may have a separate output selection. Open Settings > System > Sound > Volume mixer. Under Apps, find the app and check that it is not muted, its volume is raised, and its Output device is set to the device you want. App-specific routing can differ from the system default; see Microsoft’s guidance for app audio problems.
Troubleshoot output problems
No sound after selecting a device
Check that the intended device remains selected, then check mute and volume settings. If sound still does not play, follow Microsoft’s audio troubleshooting steps.
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The device is missing from Output
Windows can select only devices it detects and lists. Check Device Manager for a disabled or undetected device; if appropriate, show hidden devices or scan for hardware changes. You can also run the Windows audio troubleshooter. If a driver is needed, get the one for your Windows version from your PC or device manufacturer. See Microsoft’s steps for resolving audio or sound problems.
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Confirm that the selected output is the device you intend to hear. For example, an HDMI monitor without built-in speakers can be selected as the default even though it cannot produce audible sound. Choose another listed output with speakers, or check the monitor’s audio capabilities. Microsoft describes this possibility in its Windows audio troubleshooting guidance.
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Audio is distorted or crackling
Changing the default may not fix distortion. Microsoft lists audio enhancements, audio format, drivers, and audio services among the areas to investigate. Use the relevant steps in Microsoft’s Windows audio troubleshooting guide.
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