To set up Narrator in Windows 10 or 11, open its settings with Windows logo key+Ctrl+N, turn it on, choose when it starts, and adjust its voice and feedback. Then use scan mode to practice moving through apps and webpages with the keyboard.
Open Narrator settings and turn it on
- Press Windows logo key+Ctrl+N to open Narrator settings.
- Switch on Narrator. To use the keyboard shortcut to start and stop it, also enable the Narrator keyboard shortcut setting. Once enabled, press Windows logo key+Ctrl+Enter to toggle Narrator.
- On a touch device, Microsoft documents Windows button+Volume up as the corresponding shortcut.
These controls are documented in Microsoft’s Narrator customization guide. The keyboard shortcut only works as a start/stop control when its setting is enabled.
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Choose when Narrator starts
Expand the startup options in Narrator settings and select the behavior that fits your needs:
- Before sign-in: Narrator is available at the Windows sign-in screen.
- After sign-in: Narrator starts automatically when you sign in.
Choose the first option if you need spoken assistance to reach or use the sign-in screen. Choose the second if you want Narrator to begin once your Windows session starts. Microsoft’s setup instructions describe both options.
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- Versatile headset: Great for Internet calls and listening to music from your Mac or Windows computer
- Plug-and-play USB connection: Simply plug the headset into your PC for quick and easy stereo audio
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Set the voice, speed, and volume
In Narrator settings, select an available voice, then adjust speed, pitch, and volume until speech is comfortable to follow. Compare voices for clarity and language or accent availability; the options depend on what is installed and supported for your language.
Microsoft says the natural-sounding US English voices Jenny, Aria, and Guy can be installed using the Add control. Their availability is not guaranteed in every language configuration. The same living customization guide says Narrator voices average a maximum of approximately 400 words per minute, and that English Microsoft David, Microsoft Zira, and Microsoft Mark can reach approximately 800 words per minute. Those are stated voice capabilities, not recommended listening speeds; begin at a pace you can comfortably understand.
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- High-quality, premium headset brings your PC calls and music to life
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Adjust how much Narrator announces
If Narrator feels too chatty or leaves out useful context, change one feedback setting at a time and test it in the app or webpage you use most. Settings include:
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- Typing announcements: Choose what Narrator says as you type.
- Verbosity and control details: Adjust how much information it provides about buttons and other controls.
- Other-app audio: Choose whether Windows lowers other apps’ audio while Narrator speaks.
- Punctuation: Set how much punctuation Narrator reads aloud.
Microsoft’s Narrator settings guide covers feedback options. If you hear what seem like silent pauses while scanning, punctuation announcements may be the cause: Narrator may be waiting through punctuation that is not being spoken at the selected level. You can change punctuation verbosity in settings or press Narrator+Alt+[ to decrease it and Narrator+Alt+] to increase it, according to Microsoft’s command list.
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- USB plug-n-play: designed to work with standard USB ports, perfect for Windows PC, Mac or Chromebooks.
- Durable design: Hard-wearing headset is long lasting, with an adjustable headband, easy to clean soft leatherette ear cushion for a comfortable fit. Designed for use in schools, classrooms, or work., Includes: Cyber Acoustics AC-840 Headset and User Guide.
Learn the Narrator keys and commands
Caps Lock and Insert are the default Narrator keys, also called the Narrator modifier. Commands written as Narrator+ another key mean hold one of those modifier keys and press the other key. Microsoft documents Standard and Legacy keyboard layouts; if a shortcut does not work, check which layout is active and consult the current keyboard command and touch gesture appendix.
- Press Narrator+F1 to show commands available in the current command set.
- Press Narrator+1 to toggle input learning, which announces keys you press and associated Narrator commands.
- Press Ctrl to stop Narrator from reading.
Microsoft’s command appendix covers Windows 10 and Windows 11. Its command set can change: the complete Narrator guide describes scan-mode additions for list items and long lists or tables in a February 2025 release-note section. Use the current appendix for commands that depend on your Windows release or keyboard layout.
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- Digital Stereo Sound: Fine-tuned drivers provide enhanced digital audio for music, calls, meetings and more
- Rotating Noise Canceling Mic: Minimizes unwanted background noise for clear conversations; the rotating boom arm can be tucked out of the way when you’re not using it
- Handy In-line Controls: Simple in-line controls on the headset cable let you adjust the volume or mute calls without disruption
- Plug-and-Play USB Computer Headset: Simply plug the USB-A connector into your computer and you’re ready to talk or listen without the need to install software
- Padded Comfort: Comfortable headphones with adjustable headband features swivel-mounted, leatherette ear cushions for hours of comfort and is easy to clean
Practice reading and navigating with scan mode
Scan mode is designed to help you move through apps and webpages using the keyboard. Start with a page or window where you can practice without needing to complete a task.
- Press Narrator+Spacebar to toggle scan mode.
- Use the Up and Down arrow keys to move through the content.
- When the item you want is focused, press Enter or Space to activate it.
- When focus moves into an edit field, scan mode can switch off so you can type. Press an arrow key to resume navigation.
Microsoft explains these behaviors in its scan mode guide.
When a braille display is part of your setup
A refreshable braille display is an optional way to use Narrator; it is not required for spoken setup or keyboard navigation. If you already use braille, check that a display supports your Windows version and fits your preferred braille workflow. Microsoft’s Narrator command appendix links to information about supported displays. Compatibility is specific to the device, so do not assume all displays work alike.
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