- The volume mixer of Windows 11 allows you to adjust the sound by application and choose the specific audio output for each one.
- The system remembers your audio preferences for each program, and you can easily reset them if needed.
- There are third-party apps like Ear Trumpet or WALE for even more advanced audio control on your computer.
If you've ever felt that certain applications are too loud while others are barely noticeable on your Windows 11 computer , you're not alone. Many users look for ways to manage the volume of each program individually to enjoy the most personalized experience possible, whether for gaming, working, listening to music, or watching videos. Windows 11 offers a number of hidden tools and settings that allow you to control these aspects, although they aren't always as obvious as we'd like.
In this article, we'll explain, step by step and in detail, how to adjust and configure the volume of each application individually on your Windows 11 PC . We'll also show you alternative solutions using third-party programs and some tips and tricks to get the most out of your computer's audio system, with a special focus on advanced options and how to use them effectively. Whether you're a beginner or looking for professional-level customization, you'll find everything you need to know here.
What is a sound mixer and why is it so useful?
The sound mixer is a built-in feature in Windows 11 that lets you manage the sound volume of all active applications, as well as choose the output device for both system sound and individual apps. With this utility, you can decide that one application, for example your browser, plays only through the speakers, while your music player uses headphones. This way, you can avoid interruptions, annoying noises, or unexpected sound effects when playing multimedia content in different programs simultaneously.
The sound mixer is especially useful in situations like online meetings, listening to music, and simultaneously receiving notifications, allowing you to adjust the volume of each source or even mute specific applications as needed. This makes the Windows 11 experience much more convenient and tailored to your usage style.
How to Access and Use the Volume Mixer in Windows 11
Accessing the volume mixer has changed slightly compared to previous versions of Windows , but it's still very easy to find. There are several ways to get to it and take advantage of all its features. Here are the detailed steps:
- Right-click on the speaker icon in the taskbarThis icon is usually located at the bottom right of the screen.
- Select the “Open Volume Mixer” optionA window will open showing the overall volume and the volume of each active application.
The volume mixer window will display all applications currently playing sound, along with a slider to adjust the volume individually, and the option to mute any of them. Each application will have its own volume control and access to change the output device if your computer allows it.
In some cases, especially if the open window doesn't display all the apps, you may need to first open the app whose volume you want to adjust and play a sound (a video, music, etc.) for it to appear in the mixer.
You can also access the volume mixer from Settings:
- Press the key combination “Windows + I” to open Settings.
- Click on “System” and then on “Sound”.
- Scroll to the bottom and select “Volume Mixer” or “Device & App Volume Preferences.”
From here you'll have a much more advanced panel , where you can adjust not only the volume but also the output or input device (if you have multiple speakers or microphones connected) for each active application.
Advanced input and output device configuration
One of the great advantages of the volume mixer in Windows 11 is the ability to assign a different output device to each application . For example, you can specify that the Chrome browser plays through the main speakers, while Spotify plays through Bluetooth headphones.
To set this up:
- Make sure the app is running and playing sound.
- Open the volume mixer as explained before.
- In the column of each application you will see two drop-down menus: one for output (speakers, headphones, HDMI, etc.) and one for input (microphones, etc.) apps that allow it).
- Choose the desired output or input device for each program.
This setting is only saved for apps that are currently active . When you reopen the app, Windows 11 will remember your preferences as long as the devices remain properly connected. If they don't appear for some reason, check that they are properly connected or try restarting the app.
How to adjust the volume of each application in detail
The volume level you select on the mixer is based on a percentage of the overall system volume . For example, if the overall volume is at 20% and an application is set to 50%, it will play at 10% of the total. Keep this in mind when adjusting sounds , especially if the main system volume is low or high.
You can repeat this process for each app you want. If an app doesn't appear in the list, it's because it's not active or isn't playing audio at the moment. To mute specific apps, move the slider all the way down or tap the speaker icon until it says "mute ."
Reset sound settings and troubleshoot
Windows 11 also lets you revert to the default audio and volume settings for each application if you've made adjustments and aren't entirely satisfied with the result. It's as simple as clicking the "Reset" button in the volume mixer menu, where the option to reset sound devices and volumes for all apps to their default values is explicitly indicated. This way, you can start fresh if something didn't go as planned.
If an application still doesn't appear in the mixer, make sure it's running and playing audio. If audio devices aren't showing up, check that they're enabled in the "Playback" tab of the Sounds panel by right-clicking the speaker icon and selecting "Sounds." From there, you can enable any device that appears disconnected.
Customizing with sound card software
Often, when you install your sound card drivers (for example, Realtek or Creative), a control center from the manufacturer is added , giving you access to many more audio functions for your computer. From these applications, you can adjust sound effects, equalize audio, change audio quality, and even choose the output for each program.
In some cases, if you have multiple peripherals connected, this software allows you to thoroughly customize the operation of each one, choosing which devices are active, disabled, or assigning audio profiles. For some advanced users, this method is more comprehensive than the standard Windows options, although it does require a thorough understanding of the available options and the sound card's control panel interface.
External solutions: third-party applications to control volume by program
Although Windows 11 has improved significantly in this area, some users still want more flexibility and control. Several free and third-party programs allow for even more precise audio management , adding advanced features not available in the standard volume mixer.
audio routers
Audio Router is a free, portable application that lets you select the audio output for each active app. It's as simple as downloading, extracting, and running the file. Once open, you'll see a list of programs playing audio and can assign your preferred output (speakers, headphones, HDMI, etc.).
In addition to selecting the audio path, you can adjust the volume with independent sliders, mute specific apps, and even duplicate audio outputs. The program saves your preferences automatically and lets you check the changes instantly . However, for an application to be managed in Audio Router, it must be open and emitting some kind of sound.
On the positive side, its interface is clear, with applications on the left and possible outputs on the right; however, those with prior knowledge of audio management in Windows will benefit most from it.
Ear Trumpet
Ear Trumpet is another very popular tool, especially because of its integration with the Windows 11 taskbar.
When you install and run it, it adds a new volume icon. Clicking on it lets you control the individual volume of each application currently playing sound. Ear Trumpet stands out for its ease of use, keyboard shortcut support , and stability , as it integrates seamlessly with Windows without causing conflicts or consuming minimal resources.
The icon can be moved so it's always visible, and while it doesn't have as many advanced features as other programs, it's more than enough to manage the sound of active apps very quickly. It's a free download from the Microsoft Store.
Background Music
Background Music is a completely free and open-source option that also focuses on regulating the volume of all open applications on your computer , whether they are browsers, media players, or even games and messaging apps. Its main advantage is that it contains no ads, consumes very few resources, and does not require a constant internet connection to function.
The app is lightweight and runs in the background, allowing you to manage each app separately and, if desired, mute some of them. It's ideal for those looking for a hassle-free solution, although it doesn't offer many advanced options beyond individual volume management.
WALE
WALE stands out for offering advanced audio management options . You can not only control the individual volume of each application, but also of each browser tab, control maximum levels per program, and, best of all, equalize the sound to achieve the best possible quality at all times.
Among its features is the ability to prevent certain apps from exceeding a certain volume, ideal for those seeking maximum control. Its learning curve is a bit steeper, so you'll want to be prepared to dedicate some time if you want to take advantage of all its features. WALE is frequently updated and is free to download from GitHub.
Third-party applications can give you that extra control and customization you're looking for when Windows' native options fall short. They're especially useful for those who manage many audio sources, handle multiple outputs simultaneously, or simply want to work with different sound profiles depending on the situation.
Among the main advantages are ease of use, system integration, low resource consumption, and the ability to automate routines . However, some require additional knowledge, and it's important to keep in mind that not all applications work equally well with all connected systems or devices. It's advisable to try several and stick with the one that best suits your needs.
Tips for optimal audio control in Windows 11
If you really want to get the most out of your computer's sound capabilities, here are some useful tips:
- Keep your sound card drivers and operating system up to date to ensure maximum compatibility and take advantage of the latest improvements.
- Periodically check the volume mixer to ensure that each application maintains the correct sound level and output device, especially if you install new peripherals or change your computer settings.
- Consider using third-party applications if you have very specific needs., but don't worry if you just need simple tweaks: the native Windows 11 mixer has improved a lot and is usually sufficient for most users.
- Feel free to reset your audio settings if you encounter any conflicts.. Sometimes small changes can cause unexpected results.
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