How to switch audio output on Windows 11

Speakers, headphones, a monitor or a soundbar: here are four ways to change the sound output device in Windows 11, from the built-in options to a one-click shortcut.

1. Quick Settings (fastest built-in way)

1. Press Win + A, or click the sound and network icons on the right of the taskbar.
2. Click the arrow next to the volume slider.
3. Select your device from the list.

2. Windows Settings

1. Open Start → Settings → System → Sound.
2. Under Output, select the device you want to use.

You can also set the volume of each device here.

3. The classic Sound panel

1. Press Win + R, type mmsys.cpl and press Enter.
2. On the Playback tab, right-click the device you want.
3. Choose Set as Default Device.

4. One click with AudioSwitch

If you switch between the same two devices every day, for example speakers and headphones, the steps above get tedious. AudioSwitch is a tiny, free tray app: pick your two devices once, then left-click the tray icon to switch. The icon shows which device is active.

Frequently asked questions

How do I switch between speakers and headphones in Windows 11?

Use Quick Settings (Win + A) and choose the device in the sound output list, or use AudioSwitch to toggle between two devices with a single click.

How do I change the default audio output device in Windows 11?

Go to Settings → System → Sound and select a device under Output. Alternatively, open mmsys.cpl and use Set as Default Device.

Why does Windows not switch to my headphones automatically?

That depends on the device, the driver and whether the headphones were already connected. If Windows keeps the old output, pick the device manually using one of the methods above.

Is AudioSwitch safe?

AudioSwitch is free and open source. The executable is not code-signed, so Windows SmartScreen may show a warning on first run. You can verify the file with the SHA-256 checksum on the download section, check the VirusTotal report, or build the app yourself from the source code.

Does AudioSwitch work on Windows 10?

AudioSwitch is built for Windows 11 and will likely work on Windows 10 as well, but Windows 10 already has a faster built-in output menu on the taskbar.

Do I need to install it?

No. It is a single portable executable with no installer and no .NET installation required.