On your Windows xi PC, you might have several dissimilar audio output devices hooked upwardly, such as speakers, headphones, headsets, or otherwise. Here'southward how to tell Windows eleven which sound device you want to use as the default for audio and communications.

Beginning, open up Settings (printing Windows+i) and navigate to System > Sound. Or, you can right-click the speaker icon in your taskbar and select "Audio Settings."

In Sound settings, locate the "Output" section and click the pointer abreast the audio output device that y'all'd like to set up equally your default.

Click the caret arrow beside the sound device you want to configure.

On the Properties page for the sound device that you selected, look for the "Set equally default sound device" option, which includes a drib-downwardly menu labeled "Not used equally a default," "Is default for audio," or "Is default for communications" beside it.

(If you don't see this choice, then this device is already set as the default for both audio and communications.)

Click the "Not used as a default" drop-down menu.

If the device isn't a default for either audio or communications nonetheless, click the "Set equally default sound device" drop-downwardly menu and select either "Use as default for audio" or "Use equally default for communications." Here's what each option does:

  • Utilise equally default for audio: This sets the sound output device as the default for music and video playback, system sound playback, games, and other typical audio sources.
  • Use equally default for communications: This sets the sound output device as the default for video calls, phonation chats, and other audio-related communications programs.

Select "Use as default for audio" or "Use as default for communications."

If you run into a different pick in the "Set up as default audio device" driblet-downwardly carte du jour, such as "Likewise use as default for audio" or "Also utilise as default for communications," then the device is already the default for one of those two. Selecting that option volition arrive the default for both sound and communications.

If you'd like to brand another device the default for audio or communications (but go along the electric current device as the default for one of those), you'll need to return to the System > Sounds page and select another sound device, and then set it as the default for audio or communications on its own Backdrop page. Happy listening!

RELATED: How to Choose Speakers for Sound Output in Windows 11

The above commodity may contain affiliate links, which help support How-To Geek.