Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Windows 11 lets you control each app’s volume separately from the main system volume. You can keep music playing quietly in the background, mute a game without muting a video call, or send one app to headphones while another uses your monitor speakers.
The controls are in Settings > System > Sound > Volume mixer. The same page also lets you choose a different output device for individual apps.
After adjusting per-app volume, Outbyte Driver Updater can optionally check audio drivers if individual application sound remains inconsistent.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
How to adjust the volume for one app in Windows 11
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to System > Sound.
- Select Volume mixer.
- Scroll to the Apps section.
- Find the app you want to control.
- Drag its Volume slider left or right. You can also select the speaker button to mute that app.
The app volume is independent of the main Windows volume. For example, if the system volume is set to 60% and a browser is set to 20% in Volume mixer, the browser remains quieter than other audio sources. Raising the system volume does not remove an app-specific mute or restore a lower app slider.
Open Windows 11 Volume mixer directly
You do not have to navigate through Settings every time. Press Windows + R, enter the following command, and press Enter:
#1 Best Overall
- TRIFORCE TITANIUM 50 MM DRIVERS — Our cutting-edge proprietary design divides the driver into 3 parts for the individual tuning of highs, mids, and lows—producing brighter, clearer audio with richer highs and more powerful lows
- HYPERCLEAR CARDIOID MIC — An improved pickup pattern ensures more voice and less noise as it tapers off towards the mic’s back and sides, with the sweet spot easily placed at the mouth because of the mic’s bendable design
- ADVANCED PASSIVE NOISE CANCELLATION — Sturdy closed earcups fully cover the ears to prevent noise from leaking into the headset, with its cushions providing a closer seal for more sound isolation
- LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN WITH MEMORY FOAM EAR CUSHIONS — At just 240 g, the headset features thicker headband padding and memory foam ear cushions with leatherette to keep gaming in peak form during grueling tournaments and training sessions
- WORKS WITH WINDOWS SONIC — Make the most of the headset’s powerful drivers by pairing it with lifelike surround sound that places audio with pinpoint accuracy, heightening in-game awareness and immersion
ms-settings:apps-volumeWindows opens the Volume mixer page directly. You can create a shortcut using this same Settings URI if you frequently adjust per-app sound levels.
Choose a different output device for an app
An app may be loud enough but still appear silent because Windows is sending its audio to another device. This commonly happens after connecting an HDMI monitor, Bluetooth headset, USB audio device, docking station, or virtual audio application.
- Open Settings > System > Sound > Volume mixer.
- Under Apps, locate the affected application.
- Expand or inspect the app’s controls.
- Find Output device.
- Select the speakers, headphones, monitor, USB device, or other destination you want to use.
An app can use a different output device from the Windows system default. This is useful when, for example, you want a music player on speakers while a communications app uses a headset.
Use the taskbar to reach Volume mixer
There is a quicker route from the desktop:
- Select the Speakers icon on the taskbar.
- Select the arrow to the right of the speaker volume slider to view available output devices.
- Select the settings icon beside the Volume mixer slider. Its tooltip is More mixer settings.
- Windows opens the Volume mixer page in Settings.
If you cannot see the speaker icon, select Show hidden icons in the taskbar overflow area. The exact icons shown there depend on your taskbar and notification-area settings.
Why an app is missing from the Apps list
Volume mixer does not show every installed program. It lists active audio sessions, not simply every application that is open. An app normally appears after it starts an audio stream.
Rank #2
- 【Amazing Stable Connection-Quick Access to Games】Real-time gaming audio with our 2.4GHz USB & Type-C ultra-low latency wireless connection. With less than 30ms delay, you can enjoy smoother operation and stay ahead of the competition, so you can enjoy an immersive lag-free wireless gaming experience.
- 【Game Communication-Better Bass and Accuracy】The 50mm driver plus 2.4G lossless wireless transports you to the gaming world, letting you hear every critical step, reload, or vocal in Fortnite, Call of Duty, The Legend of Zelda and RPG, so you will never miss a step or shot during game playing. You will completely in awe with the range, precision, and audio quality your ears were experiencing.
- 【Flexible and Convenient Design-Effortless in Game】Ideal intuitive button layout on the headphones for user. Multi-functional button controls let you instantly crank or lower volume and mute, quickly answer phone calls, cut songs, turn on lights, etc. Ease of use and customization, are all done with passion and priority for the user.
- 【Less plug, More Play-Dual Input From 2.4GHz & Bluetooth】 Wireless gaming headset adopts high performance dual mode design. With a 2.4GHz USB dongle, which is super sturdy, lag＜30ms, perfectly made for gamers. Bluetooth mode only work for phone, laptop and switch. And 3.5mm wired mode (Only support music and call).
- 【Wide Compatibility with Gaming Devices】Setup the perfect entertainment system by plugging in 2.4G USB. The convenience of dual USB work seamlessly with your PS5,PS4, PC, Mac, Laptop, Switch and saves you from swapping cables.
Start playback before checking the list. A browser may not appear until a tab is actively playing audio, and an open game may not be listed until it produces sound. Some programs create multiple audio sessions, so you may see more than one related control.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesAn application can also deliberately hide its audio session from the Windows mixer. In that case, Volume mixer cannot provide an app-level slider for it. The app’s own audio settings may be the only available control.
Reset per-app volumes and output assignments
If an app keeps using the wrong device or retains an unexpected volume level, reset the per-app settings:
- Open Settings > System > Sound > Volume mixer.
- Scroll to the bottom of the page.
- Select Reset next to the option to reset sound devices and volumes for all apps to the recommended defaults.
This removes the per-app volume and routing overrides. It does not reinstall, replace, or repair your audio driver. After resetting, check the system output device and test the application again.
What to check when one app has no sound
If system sounds work but a particular app is silent, check the controls in this order:
Rank #3
- Immersive 7.1 Surround Sound: This gaming headset delivering stereo surround sound for realistic audio. Whether you're in a high-speed FPS battle or losing yourself RPG adventures, this Ps5 headset provides crisp treble, punchy bass, and precise directional cues, giving you a competitive edge
- Great Humanized Design: Comfortable and breathable permeability protein over-ear pads perfectly on your head, adjustable headband distributes pressure evenly, you’ll enjoy lasting comfort during hours of gaming and suitable for all gaming players of all ages
- Sensitivity Noise-Cancelling Microphone: 360° omnidirectionally rotatable sensitive microphone, premium noise cancellation, sound localisation, your voice comes through loud and natural, ensuring your teammates catch every callout, even in chaotic battle scenes.
- Universal Compatibility: This gaming headphone support for PC, Ps5, Ps4, Xbox one, Xbox Series X/S, Switch, Laptop, Mobile Phone and other devices with 3.5mm jack.Note 1: When you use headset on your PC, be sure to connect the "1-to-2 3.5mm audio jack splitter cable" (Red-Mic, Green-audio). (Please note you need an extra Microsoft Adapter when connect with an old version Xbox One controller)
- Cool style gaming experience: Colorful RGB lights create a gorgeous gaming atmosphere, adding excitement to every match. Heightening immersion for FPS, MOBA, and action titles. These eye-catching lights give your setup a gamer-ready look while maintaining focus on performance. (*Note: The USB connector is for LED lighting only)
- Open Settings > System > Sound > Volume mixer.
- Under Apps, verify that the app is not muted.
- Raise the app’s Volume slider.
- Confirm that its Output device is the device you are actually using.
- Check the app’s own volume control. Media players, games, browsers, and chat programs can have separate audio settings.
- If the settings look correct, select Reset at the bottom of Volume mixer.
- Restart the audio services if the app is still silent.
To restart the relevant services:
- Press Windows + R.
- Enter
services.mscand press Enter. - Right-click Windows Audio and select Restart.
- Right-click Windows Audio Endpoint Builder and select Restart.
- Test the application again.
Other possible causes include an incorrect output device, an audio driver problem, or a Windows audio service that is not working correctly.
When the app volume is still too quiet
The per-app slider is only one part of the audio path. Check all of these controls:
| Control | Where to check it | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| System volume | Volume mixer or the taskbar speaker control | Sets the overall Windows output level. |
| App volume | Settings > System > Sound > Volume mixer | Can reduce or mute one application independently. |
| App audio setting | Inside the game, player, browser, or communication app | Many apps have their own master, music, voice, or media sliders. |
| Output device | Volume mixer and the app’s own settings | Audio may be going to a monitor, headset, dock, or virtual device. |
| Physical volume | Speaker, headset, monitor, amplifier, or inline control | The hardware may be turned down even when Windows shows a high level. |
Fix generally quiet or distorted audio
If every app is quiet or the sound is distorted, the problem is probably not limited to one app. Open Settings > System > Sound, select the active output device, scroll to Advanced settings, and set Audio enhancements to Off. Audio enhancements can sometimes cause low or distorted output.
Also check whether the output device is enabled:
- Go to Settings > System > Sound > More sound settings.
- Open the Playback tab.
- Select the affected device and choose Properties.
- Under Device usage, make sure Use this device (enable) is selected.
Windows 11 names that differ from older guides
Many instructions online use Windows 10 terminology. In current Windows 11 versions, the page is called Volume mixer. Older guides may call it App volume and device preferences.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
The older instruction to right-click the taskbar speaker icon and choose Open Volume mixer may also not match the current interface. Use Settings > System > Sound > Volume mixer, or open the taskbar sound flyout and select More mixer settings.
Rank #4
- Enjoy expansive cinematic sound. Big 50 mm audio drivers deliver an incredible sound experience
- Hear Enemies From All Sides. DTS Headphone:X 2.0 surround sound(1) lets you hear enemies sneaking behind you, special ability cues, and immersive environments. It’s positional clarity that can make the difference between victory and defeat. Experience three-dimensional audio that goes beyond 7.1 channels to make you feel like you’re right in the middle of the action. (1) DTS Headphone:X 2.0 requires Logitech G HUB Software.
- Be Heard Loud and Clear. The big 6 mm boom mic makes sure you’re heard by gaming partners and mutes when flipped up.
- Use One Headset For Most Game Platforms. Your headphones work with your PC or Mac via USB DAC or 3.5 mm cable, mobile devices with 3.5 mm cable or with gaming consoles including PlayStationⓇ 5 and PlayStationⓇ 4 (USB wireless stereo sound only), Nintendo Switch (wireless stereo sound when docked)
- Game for Hours in Comfort. Everything about these headphones is about comfort: The deluxe lightweight leatherette ear cups and headband are made to keep pressure off your ears. Ear cups rotate up to 90 degrees for convenience.
Finally, changing the main Windows volume is not enough to guarantee that every app will produce sound. A per-app mute, a low app slider, or an app-specific output device can override the system setting.
FAQ
Can I mute one app without muting all Windows audio?
Yes. Open Settings > System > Sound > Volume mixer, find the app under Apps, and select its mute control or move its Volume slider to zero. Other apps and system sounds can continue playing.
Why does my browser not appear in Windows 11 Volume mixer?
Windows lists active audio sessions rather than every installed or open app. Start audio playback in a browser tab, then return to Volume mixer. The browser should appear after it creates an audio session.
Recommended Free Tools
Can one app use headphones while another uses speakers?
Yes. In Settings > System > Sound > Volume mixer, locate the app and set its Output device to the headphones, speakers, monitor, or other device you want.
What does Reset do in Windows 11 Volume mixer?
Reset restores recommended per-app volumes and output-device assignments for all apps. It removes routing overrides but does not repair or reinstall the audio driver.
The Bottom Line
For individual app sound control in Windows 11, open Settings > System > Sound > Volume mixer. Adjust the app’s Volume slider, mute it independently, or assign it a different Output device. If an app is missing, start playback first; if it remains silent, verify its output device, reset the mixer assignments, and restart the Windows audio services.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
