How to Change Audio Output Device for Specific Applications in Windows 11

Windows 11 includes a built-in tool called the Volume Mixer, which allows you to manage both volume levels and output devices for individual applications. This means each running app can use a different audio device at the same time.

This feature is particularly helpful in scenarios like:

Using Zoom or Teams with a headset while playing music on speakers
Streaming games while monitoring sound through headphones
Separating work and entertainment audio for better focus
Routing audio through recording or editing tools

The best part is that you do not need any third-party software. Everything is available within the Windows Settings panel.

Before proceeding, make sure all the audio devices you want to use are properly connected and recognized by your system

Table of Contents

How to Change Audio Output Device for Specific Applications in Windows 11?

To change the audio output device for specific apps in Windows 11, open Settings, go to System, select Sound, then scroll down to Volume Mixer. Under the Apps section, choose the desired output device for each application using the dropdown menu. Changes apply instantly without restarting the app.

Now, let’s go for detailed steps!

Step 1: Open the Settings App

The first step is to access the main configuration area of Windows 11.

Click on the Start menu and select Settings. You can also press the keyboard shortcut Windows + I to open Settings instantly.

Once inside the Settings window, you will see several categories like System, Bluetooth and Devices, Network, and more. Since audio settings are part of system configuration, click on System from the left panel.

After selecting System, look for the Sound option on the right side and click it. This will open all sound-related settings, including input and output controls.

Step 2: Navigate to Advanced Sound Settings

Inside the Sound section, you will find options to manage output devices, input devices, and general sound behavior.

Scroll down until you find the section labeled Advanced. Under this section, click on Volume Mixer.

The Volume Mixer in Windows 11 is different from earlier versions. It provides a more detailed and user-friendly interface that lets you control audio behavior per app instead of just system-wide.

Once you open Volume Mixer, you will see multiple sections such as Output Device, Input Device, and Apps.

Step 3: Locate the Application You Want to Modify

In the Volume Mixer window, scroll down to the Apps section.

Here, you will see a list of currently running applications that are producing sound. Each app will have its own controls, including volume level and output device selection.

If you do not see your desired app in the list, make sure it is open and actively playing audio. Windows only shows apps that are currently using sound.

For example, if you want to change the audio for a browser, play a video or music file in that browser first.

Step 4: Change the Audio Output Device for the App

Next to each application, you will see a dropdown menu under the Output Device column.

Click on this dropdown and select the device you want the app to use. Options may include:

Speakers
Headphones
Bluetooth audio devices
External sound cards
Virtual audio devices

Once you select a new output device, the change is applied immediately. You do not need to restart the application or your computer.

You can repeat this process for multiple applications, assigning different output devices to each one.

Step 5: Test and Adjust the Audio Settings

After assigning the output device, it is important to test whether everything is working correctly.

Play audio in the selected app and verify that the sound is coming from the correct device. If not, double-check the selected output device in the Volume Mixer.

You can also adjust the volume slider for each app individually to fine-tune the audio experience.

If the sound is not playing as expected, ensure that the selected device is properly connected and set up as a functional output device in Windows.

Step 6: Set a Default Output Device if Needed

Although this guide focuses on app-specific settings, it is also helpful to understand the default output device.

At the top of the Sound settings page, you will find the system-wide output device selection. This is the device that Windows uses by default for all apps unless overridden in the Volume Mixer.

If you want most apps to use a specific device, set it as the default, and only customize exceptions through the Volume Mixer.

Step 7: Reset Audio Settings if Something Goes Wrong

If you encounter issues or want to revert all changes, you can reset the audio settings.

In the Volume Mixer section, look for the Reset button. Clicking this will restore all apps to use the default output device.

This is useful if audio routing becomes confusing or stops working correctly.

FAQs

Can I assign different audio devices to multiple apps at the same time?

Yes, Windows 11 allows you to assign different output devices to each application simultaneously. This is one of its most useful audio features.

Why is my app not showing in the Volume Mixer?

An app only appears in the Volume Mixer when it is actively producing sound. Make sure the app is open and playing audio.

Do I need to restart the app after changing the output device?

No, changes take effect instantly. You can switch output devices without restarting the app.

Can I use Bluetooth headphones for one app and speakers for another?

Yes, as long as both devices are connected and recognized by Windows, you can assign them to different apps.

What should I do if the selected device is not working?

Check if the device is properly connected, enabled, and set up in the Sound settings. You may also try reconnecting the device or updating drivers.

Is third-party software required for this feature?

No, Windows 11 provides built-in support for per-app audio output control through the Volume Mixer.