Adjust App Volume Windows - Control Sound Per App
Adjusting Application Volume in Windows
Beginning with the release of Windows Vista, the operating system has included a Volume Mixer feature. This functionality enables users to independently control the audio output level of each running application.
This is particularly helpful when certain applications consistently exhibit audio that is either excessively loud or too quiet in relation to other programs.
Accessing the Volume Mixer
Windows provides multiple methods for configuring sound settings and achieving sound volume normalization. However, a quick adjustment is often needed for situations like overly loud video playback or a difficult-to-hear voice call.
The ability to make these adjustments is readily available with a simple right-click action.
Quick Volume Control
Sometimes, a more direct approach to volume control is desired. Rather than navigating through system settings, a faster solution exists.
A right-click on the volume icon in the system tray provides immediate access to these controls.
- Adjust individual application volumes on the fly.
- Quickly mute or unmute specific applications.
Related: 3 Ways to Normalize Sound Volume on Your PC
The Volume Mixer offers a convenient way to fine-tune your audio experience without disrupting your workflow.
Managing Application Volume Using the Windows Volume Mixer
Accessing the Volume Mixer is straightforward. Simply right-click on the speaker icon located in your system tray and choose the "Open Volume Mixer" option.
Upon initial launch, the Volume Mixer typically displays only two controls: the Device slider, which governs the overall system volume, and System Sounds. Applications will not be visible until they actively produce audio output.
Once an application begins playing sound, it will become visible within the Volume Mixer interface. Individual application volumes can then be adjusted by manipulating their respective sliders.
The Device slider functions as the master volume control. Each application’s volume is set in relation to this master level; therefore, adjustments to the master volume will proportionally affect all application volumes. However, it’s important to be aware of certain limitations when utilizing individual application volume settings:
- These adjustments are not saved permanently. Upon each application launch, the relative volume will need to be reset. System Sounds are an exception, retaining their setting until a system restart, at which point they revert to 100% of the master volume.
- Only traditional desktop applications are displayed within the Volume Mixer. Individual volume control for universal Windows apps is not supported.
- Modern web browsers, such as Google Chrome, which employ a separate process for each tab, will exhibit a distinct volume control for each tab generating audio. These controls are identified by the respective page title.
Given these constraints, the Volume Mixer is best suited for temporary volume modifications. It may not provide a long-term solution for persistent volume management needs.
Enhance Application Volume Management in Windows 10 Using Ear Trumpet
For Windows 10 users seeking refined control over application volumes, Ear Trumpet presents a valuable solution. This application functions as a volume mixer, specifically designed to preserve individual app volume configurations.
A Persistent Volume Mixer
Ear Trumpet is a compact, open-source program hosted on GitHub. A key benefit of this tool is its ability to remember volume levels for each application, even following a system reboot.
Simplified Volume Control
Accessing Ear Trumpet is straightforward. Simply click its icon within the system tray to reveal individual volume sliders for all currently active applications.
Universal and Desktop App Compatibility
Unlike some volume control tools, Ear Trumpet provides control over both universal Windows apps and traditional desktop applications. This comprehensive compatibility streamlines the volume adjustment process.
The application offers a more direct approach to volume management compared to the standard Windows Volume Mixer. It eliminates the need to navigate through multiple settings to adjust individual application volumes.
With Ear Trumpet, users gain a more intuitive and persistent method for managing audio output from various applications within the Windows 10 environment.