In Windows, choose your playback device under Output and your microphone under Input in Settings > System > Sound. Selecting a device in either section sets it as the default for that type of audio. If a call still uses the wrong device, check the app’s audio settings too; apps can have their own speaker and microphone selections.
Set default speakers, headphones, and microphone in Windows 11
- Connect, pair, or turn on the audio devices you want Windows to use.
- Open Start > Settings > System > Sound.
- Under Output, select the speakers or headphones for playback.
- Under Input, select the microphone or other recording device.
The Output and Input sections show different kinds of devices: Output is where sound plays, while Input is where Windows captures audio. You can change one without changing the other.
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Test the selected microphone
In Sound settings, select the microphone under Input to open its properties. Choose Start test, speak, then choose Stop test and Play to hear the recorded sample. This helps distinguish a microphone-selection problem from a signal or level problem. See Microsoft’s microphone setup and test instructions.
Choose default audio devices in Windows 10
- Open Start > Settings > System > Sound.
- Under Output, select the playback device.
- Under Input, select the microphone or recording device.
If Settings does not show the control you need, open Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Sound. Use the Playback tab for speakers or headphones, or the Recording tab for a microphone. Select the device and choose the option to set it as the default.
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If a call uses a different speaker or microphone
First confirm the Windows defaults in Sound settings, then open the meeting or calling app’s audio settings and select the intended speaker and microphone there. Windows and an app can have separate device choices. Microsoft also documents setting a separate communications device for use with communications apps in its Surface sound and audio accessories guidance.
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If the app cannot access the microphone, check Windows permissions: in Windows 11, open Settings > Privacy & security > Microphone. In Windows 10, check the microphone controls under Settings > Privacy. Make sure microphone access and the relevant app’s access are allowed. The individual app may also have a mute control or its own microphone selection.
Troubleshoot when the selected device does not work
Identify whether the device is selectable, enabled, detected, permitted for the app, and producing a usable signal. The right fix depends on which of those conditions is failing.
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Device is listed, but the wrong one is active
Select the intended item under Output or Input in Sound settings. For a quick playback switch in Windows, use the sound selector on the taskbar; use Sound settings when you also need to choose or confirm the microphone.
Device is listed but disabled
Open the device’s properties or the Playback or Recording tab in the legacy Sound Control Panel. If Windows offers an enable option, enable the device and select it as the default.
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Device is missing from the list
- Check that it is plugged in, powered on, or paired with the PC.
- Open Device Manager and inspect Sound, video and game controllers. If appropriate, show hidden devices or scan for hardware changes.
- Install a compatible audio driver from the PC or audio-device manufacturer.
Microsoft’s instructions for missing or undetected audio devices cover detection and driver troubleshooting. Repeatedly changing the default cannot help if Windows does not detect the device.
No sound from the selected output
- Check that Windows and the device are not muted and that the volume is turned up.
- Confirm the selected output is actually connected and can play sound. For example, a monitor selected as the output may not have built-in speakers.
- Check the device properties and audio enhancements; if the issue persists, investigate the driver.
Microsoft lists an incorrect output selection, mute, audio enhancements, and driver problems among possible causes. See its speaker and headphone no-sound troubleshooting steps.
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Microphone is selected, but the app cannot hear it
- Check the microphone’s physical mute switch and its input level in Windows.
- Confirm Windows microphone access is allowed for the app.
- Check the app’s selected microphone and any in-app mute control.
- Run the microphone test in its properties to see whether Windows can record and play back a sample.
Microsoft’s microphone troubleshooting guide covers default recording devices, app access, and common microphone issues.
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