You can access the Volume Control icon in your taskbar across different Windows versions, especially Windows 10 and 11. However, it’s easier to access the advanced sound settings in older versions like Windows 7.
So, if you’re having trouble locating the volume mixer or volume control buttons for specific apps in Windows 10 and 11, worry no more. This post covers guides on adjusting sound and using the mixers on both operating systems.
We’ll also show you how to get the sound control and mixer working if you’re experiencing problems with them.
Commonly Asked Questions about the Volume Controls of Windows
Why has the Windows 10 Volume Control icon gone missing? – A lot of users complained about the Volume Control option disappearing from their PC. In most cases, this issue can be resolved easily. However, it will keep you from adjusting your sound volume.
Why is Volume Control not opening in Windows? – Users also reported that they couldn’t open the Volume Control settings whenever they clicked the icon. Don’t worry because this is a common issue that you can fix easily, using one of the solutions below.
How do I adjust the volume levels on Windows 10 if they are greyed out? – When the volume levels are grayed out, you will not be able to change them. We’ve also provided a useful resolution for this problem.
How do I fix the Volume Control keys not working on Windows 10? – Many users prefer tapping the keyboard controls to change the sound volume on their computer. However, sometimes, the keys for controlling the audio levels can malfunction. This problem is typically caused by outdated or corrupted drivers.
We’re going to share various ways to adjust the sound levels on your Windows PC. Moreover, we will teach you how to resolve the common problems associated with the Volume Control settings.
First Option: Using the Keyboard Buttons
One of the easiest ways to adjust the volume levels of your PC is to press the appropriate keys on your keyboard. Doing so will prompt the Volume overlay to appear on your computer screen. Keep in mind that this method only applies to you if you have the Volume Up and Volume Down keys on your laptop or keyboard.
Some Windows laptops also have a key for Mute. Pressing this key will prompt the Volume overlay to show up on your screen. You can use your mouse pointer to slide the volume level to your desired position.
It all depends on your keyboard layout. For example, the volume control keys, including the mute button, may be housed under some function keys. In other cases, they may be integrated with the arrow keys. You’ll have to use the FN (function) key to activate these buttons in most cases.
However, some modern computers come with dedicated volume keys and even sliders on the keyboard area.
Second Option: Using the Volume Control Icon
You can also access the Volume Control icon to adjust the sound levels on your computer. Many users prefer this option because for them, it is the simplest and fastest way to change the volume of their PC. You can adjust your sound levels via the Volume Control icon by following these steps:
Go to the bottom-right corner of your taskbar, then click the Volume Control icon.
A small window will pop up, and it will offer access to the volume level control.
Slide the bar to set the volume to your preferred level.
This may be one of the quickest and easiest ways to change the volume level of your computer. However, it is worth noting that it does not offer options for adjusting the volume for individual apps.
Option 3: Using the Volume Mixer
You can use the Volume Mixer to change the volume level of apps individually. This is useful when you want to increase the sound level of one program, then turn the volume down for another app. For example, you can get full audio experience from the game you’re playing while still hearing the notifications from Skype sufficiently.
So, here’s how to open the volume mixer in Windows 10:
Go to the bottom-right corner of your taskbar, then right-click the Volume Control icon.
Select Open Volume Mixer from the options.
A new window will pop up. Here, you will see the running applications and their audio levels. You can move the slider up or down for each app if you want to adjust their volume. When you change the sound levels for one app, you won’t affect the audio for the other programs.
If you’re running Windows 11, go to the taskbar, right-click on the sound icon, and select Open Volume Mixer. The operating system will redirect you to the System > Sound > Volume Mixer page where you can adjust the volume for specific applications.
Option 4: Opening the Sound Settings Page
The sound settings page is where you can control almost everything related to your system’s sound. You can adjust your system’s volume and choose your audio output device.
You can use the Windows search button to access the sound page or go through the Settings application.
Open the Start menu and type “sound settings.” Click on Open under Sound Settings. Alternatively, you can tap the Win + I shortcut, click on System on the Settings page, and select Sound.
You can now use the slider under Master Volume to adjust your system’s sound. If you want to change your output device, go to the drop-down menu under “Choose your output device.”
Opening Sound Settings in Windows 11
Windows 11’s sound settings page also provides the same functions. It allows you to choose your input and output audio devices. However, you can also access the volume mixer on the same page.
Option 5: Using your Driver Software
Another option for adjusting your volume levels is using a third-party software program. There are sound cards and audio drivers that come with their own volume controls. These volume controls are a lot similar to Windows’ Volume Mixer. So, it will be easy for you to navigate through the features.
Most third-party software programs also contain options for sound enhancements. So, if you wish, you can add different effects to the audio. Moreover, these tools come with equalizers that let you optimize the quality of the sound.
Some of these third-party software programs also allow you to save different audio and equalizer settings. With a single click, you can switch between your various sound presets. So, if you are more tech-savvy and you prefer to fine-tune your audio, this option is ideal for you. On the other hand, if you are an average user who simply wants to have an audible sound on their PC, using the Volume Mixer will suffice.
Resolving Common Volume Control Issues
Many users complained about the Volume Control missing or malfunctioning on their computer. In most cases, this issue has something to do with outdated or corrupted sound drivers. One of the best ways to resolve this problem is by updating your drivers. You can perform this task manually, but the process can be time-consuming and even risky. You’d have to go to the manufacturer’s website and look for the right drivers compatible with your system version. If you happen to install the wrong drivers, you might harm your computer.
As such, we recommend opting for a more reliable and convenient solution — Auslogics Driver Updater. Once you activate this program, it will automatically recognize your system version. You only have to click a button and Auslogics Driver Updater will find the right drivers for your computer.
Keeping Your System Optimized
You can also take measures to avoid other PC issues that could potentially affect audio settings. These measures include clearing out junk files and fixing or removing broken registry keys.
Junk files can clutter your hard drive overtime and cause system slowdowns. Leftover and problematic registry keys can mess up your operating system’s settings and cause various glitches. However, getting rid of them can be a daunting task, since you have to repeat the process from time to time.
Thankfully, you can save yourself the stress by installing Auslogics BoostSpeed. The tool performs regular PC maintenance by finding these system-slowing elements and removing them. Its integrated CleanUp tool is one of many others that optimize your system performance and help you interact with your OS better.
