To change speakers or headphones in Windows 10, select the taskbar speaker icon, open the audio-device list, and choose the output you want. For volume, app routing, enhancements, and other options, go to Start > Settings > System > Sound. If audio still goes to the wrong place or sounds quiet, use the checks below in order.
Choose the speakers or headphones that should play sound
- Click the speaker icon in the taskbar. If it is not visible, check the taskbar overflow area.
- Open the list of audio devices and select the connected speakers, headphones, or other output you want to use.
- Play a sound and confirm it comes from the selected device.
If you use a USB or HDMI audio device, Windows may need it selected as the default playback device. For the older playback-device controls, open Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Sound > Playback and set the intended device as default. Microsoft’s sound troubleshooting guide covers both output selection and playback devices.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Check system and app volume
Windows system volume and individual app volume are separate. Right-click the taskbar speaker icon and open Volume mixer. Check that the system and the app you are using are not muted and that their sliders are at usable levels.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →- For external speakers, check that they are powered on and that their cable is connected securely.
- Check physical volume controls on speakers or headphones, as well as any volume control inside the app.
- If other sounds work but one app is silent, check that app’s own volume and output selection in Settings > System > Sound > Volume mixer. The app may be routed to a different device than the system default. Microsoft’s app-audio troubleshooting steps describe this separate routing check.
Turn off audio enhancements if sound is distorted
Enhancements can sometimes interfere with playback. In Control Panel, open Hardware and Sound > Sound, select the playback device, and choose Properties > Enhancements. Select Disable all enhancements, or the equivalent option available for that device, apply the change, and test again. Depending on the device and Windows build, an audio-enhancements control may also appear under Settings > System > Sound. See Microsoft’s sound troubleshooting guide and its low or quiet sound guidance.
#1 Best Overall
- IMPORTANT UPDATE NOTICE -- Based on extensive customer advises, we’ve rolled out two major upgrades to this desktop speaker. First, volume control buttons have been added. Second, we increased the product thickness for a larger sound cavity, bringing moderate improvements in sound quality and volume.
- HIGH-QUALITY SOUND -- This laptop speaker is equipped with Dual 3W High-Excursion Drivers & Passive Radiator, delivering louder sound, wider dynamic range, enhanced bass and reduced distortion.
- ONE CABLE FOR BOTH AUDIO & POWER -- No 3.5mm AUX jack needed. Just one USB cable delivers both audio signal and power for the computer speaker to cut down cable clutter.
- WIDE SYSTEM COMPATIBILITY -- This upgraded PC speaker works with Windows, macOS, Linux and ChromeOS laptops & PCs, compatible with HP, Lenovo, ThinkPad, ASUS, Dell, Samsung, Acer, LG and more. Simply install the latest audio driver for smooth audio playback.
- PLUG-N-PLAY FOR SIMPLE SETUP -- For Windows PCs: Plug the speaker into your computer’s USB port, click the taskbar “Speaker” icon, then select “USB Speakers” as your playback device, and you’re ready.
Try another default audio format only if needed
If audio remains quiet or distorted, try a different format rather than assuming one setting is best for every device. Open the playback device’s properties, select the Advanced tab, choose another option under Default format, and test playback. The available choices depend on the device; Microsoft recommends testing another format as a troubleshooting step, not as a universal upgrade. Microsoft’s low or quiet sound guide includes this check.
When the audio output device is missing
- Right-click Start and open Device Manager.
- Expand Sound, video and game controllers and check whether the audio device is disabled. If so, enable it.
- If it is not listed, use Device Manager’s option to show hidden devices, then scan for hardware changes.
- If Windows still does not detect it, download the audio driver for your Windows version from the computer or sound-card manufacturer’s support site, install it, and restart the PC.
Use the driver intended for your specific computer or sound hardware. Microsoft’s instructions for a missing or undetected audio output device explain these recovery steps.
Rank #2
- [COMPATIBLE WITH USB DEVICES] - Our USB Speakers are compatible with Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, and Linux, making them ideal for PC, laptop, and desktop computer. Incompatible Devices: Monitors TVs and Projector.
- [COMPATIBLE WITH USB-C DEVICES] - Thanks to the built-in USB-C to USB Adapter, our USB-C speakers are now compatible with devices that only have USB-C interface, such as the latest MacBook, Mac mini, iMac, iPad, Android phones, and tablets.
- [INCREDIBLE LOUD SOUND WITH RICH BASS] - Our small computer speaker is equipped with dual ultra-magnetic drivers and dual passive radiators, providing high-quality stereo sound with powerful volume and deep bass for an incredible audio experience.
- [ADAPTIVE-CHANNEL-SWITCHING WITH G-SENSOR] - Ensures the left and right sound channels remain correctly positioned whether the speaker is clamped to the top or bottom of your monitor.
- [CONVENIENT TOUCH CONTROL] - Three intuitive touch buttons on the front allow for easy muting and volume adjustment.
Optional: enable spatial sound for headphones
Spatial sound is an optional listening setting, not a required fix for missing or quiet audio. To try Windows Sonic, open Start > Settings > System > Sound, select the playback device, open Device Properties, choose Windows Sonic for Headphones under spatial sound, and apply the setting if prompted. Microsoft also names Dolby Access and DTS Sound Unbound as other options available from Microsoft Store. Its spatial sound instructions describe Windows Sonic as a way to enhance movie or gaming audio.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Windows 10 support status
Microsoft says Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025. After that date, Microsoft no longer provides free Windows Update software updates, technical assistance, or security fixes for Windows 10. This does not change the audio-setting steps above, but it is relevant when considering the security and support status of a Windows 10 PC. Microsoft’s sound support page includes this notice.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- USB-powered (5V) speakers plug directly into your computer for portable convenience
- Turn the speakers on and adjust the volume using one simple control (located on the front of the speakers); volume control includes On/Standby
- Simple plug-and-play setup (no drivers needed); can be used with headphones via the 3.5mm jack connector
- Frequency range of 103 Hz - 20 KHz; 2.2 watts of total RMS power (1.1 watts per speaker)
- Measures 2.76 by 3.55 by 5.3 inches (LxWxH); weighs approximately 1.4 pounds;
Rank #4
- Balanced audio sound with depth - 2 Watts Peak/ 1.2 Watts RMS power produces immersive and crystal clear sound.
- Simple and quick USB connection. Just plug the speakers into your computer USB-A port. An orange LED stays lit when your speakers are on. Disconnect the USB-A cable to power off.
- Easy controls. You can easily control the volume or mute on the front of the right speaker to get great audio experience.
- They are slim, lightweight and easy to move around so you can accommodate your setup and get perfect sound wherever you are.
- Your long lasting product set with a solid build quality.
Rank #3
- External computer speaker in Black (set of 2) for amplifying PC or laptop audio
- USB-Powered from USB port of PC or Laptop
- In-line volume control for easy access
- Blue LED lights; metal finish and scratch-free padded base
- Bottom radiator for “springy” bass sound
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.
