A Tour of Windows 11 Audio Settings
Windows 11 audio settings live under Settings > System > Sound, a single page that covers output devices, input devices, the app volume mixer, and advanced options like spatial sound formats. Knowing the layout helps you find the right control quickly instead of hunting through menus.
Here's a section-by-section tour of what's on that page and how the pieces relate to each other.
Opening the Sound settings page
For the sliders themselves and the shortcuts that reach them fastest, see Windows 11 volume control.
- Right-click the taskbar speaker icon and choose Sound settings.
- Or press Win+I to open Settings, then select System, then Sound.
- Or type "sound settings" into taskbar search and press Enter.
Output section
At the top, the Output section lets you choose your default playback device and adjust its master volume. A Properties link exposes device-specific options like sample rate and enhancements.
Input section
Below Output, the Input section covers microphones — choosing a default input device, testing input volume, and adjusting input sensitivity.
Volume mixer entry point
Further down is the Volume mixer link, which opens the per-app slider page described in the Windows 11 volume mixer guide. It can also be reached directly with Win+Ctrl+V.
Advanced sound options
Near the bottom, an Advanced section includes app volume and device preferences carried over conceptually from Windows 10, plus links to spatial sound settings and the classic Sound Control Panel for legacy device properties.
Troubleshooting shortcuts on this page
- "Troubleshoot common sound problems" — launches the built-in audio troubleshooter
- "More sound settings" — opens the classic Sound Control Panel dialog
- Device properties Levels tab — adjusts hardware volume and balance for a specific device
When to use Settings vs quick settings
Use the full Settings > System > Sound page for device selection and per-app routing; use the taskbar quick settings flyout only for fast volume changes. See Windows 11 volume settings for more on the quick controls.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I find audio settings in Windows 11?
Go to Settings > System > Sound, or right-click the taskbar speaker icon and choose Sound settings.
How do I change my default microphone in Windows 11?
In Settings > System > Sound, use the dropdown under the Input section to pick a different device.
What is spatial sound in Windows 11 settings?
It's a format option under Output device properties that simulates surround or 3D audio on compatible headphones and speakers.
Can I access the legacy Sound Control Panel from Settings?
Yes, the Advanced section on the Sound settings page includes a link to the older Sound Control Panel for device properties.
How do I run the built-in audio troubleshooter?
On the Sound settings page, look for "Troubleshoot common sound problems" and follow the prompts.
Where do I adjust hardware volume balance between left and right speakers?
Open the device's Properties from the Output section, then go to the Levels tab.
For per-app control without navigating Settings, try EarTrumpet.