So, you’ve connected two monitors to your Windows 11 PC—great for multitasking, gaming, or work setups. But here’s the problem: by default, Windows 11 only outputs audio to one device at a time. That means while both monitors may have built-in speakers, only one plays sound.
The good news? There are workarounds to make both monitors output sound at the same time. In this guide, we’ll go step by step and cover different methods so you can choose the best one for your setup.
Why Windows 11 Doesn’t Play Sound on Two Monitors by Default
Microsoft designed Windows 11 to output audio through a single default device. This avoids confusion (like hearing doubled sound with a delay). But if you need sound from both monitors—for streaming, presentations, or immersive setups—you’ll need to adjust settings or use third-party tools.
Method 1: Using Windows Stereo Mix
Windows has a hidden feature called Stereo Mix, which allows you to duplicate audio across multiple devices.
Steps
- Right-click the Sound icon in the taskbar → Select Sound settings.
- Scroll down and click More sound settings (opens classic Sound Control Panel).
- Go to the Recording tab.
- Right-click on Stereo Mix → Enable it.
- Right-click again → Select Properties.
- Under the Listen tab, check Listen to this device.
- Choose your second monitor (or secondary audio output) from the dropdown.
- Click Apply and OK.
Now, your audio should play through both monitors at once.
Method 2: Duplicate Sound with Sound Settings (App Output)
Windows 11 has a feature to set different audio outputs per app.
Steps
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Go to System > Sound > Advanced sound options (App volume and device preferences).
- For each app (like Chrome, Spotify, or VLC), choose a different output device.
👉 This doesn’t duplicate sound but lets you send audio from specific apps to different monitors.
Method 3: Use Third-Party Software
If Stereo Mix isn’t available, you can use software to output to multiple devices. Popular tools include:
- Voicemeeter Banana – Free, powerful audio mixer.
- Audio Router – Lightweight tool for routing sound.
- CheVolume – Paid option for controlling multiple outputs.
These tools give you more control over routing sound to both monitors.
Method 4: Use HDMI Audio Splitter (Hardware Solution)
If software solutions don’t work, a hardware fix might be easier.
- An HDMI splitter with audio extraction can duplicate sound to both monitors.
- Simply plug your PC’s HDMI into the splitter, then connect both monitors.
This ensures both monitors get the same audio feed.
Method 5: Duplicate Sound Using OBS (For Streaming/Recording)
If you’re streaming or recording with OBS Studio, you can duplicate your desktop audio.
Steps
- Open OBS Studio.
- Go to Settings > Audio.
- Under Advanced, select Monitor and Output for your desktop audio.
- Choose both monitors as outputs.
This method is ideal for streamers who want audio across multiple devices.
Troubleshooting Sound Issues
Sometimes, things don’t go smoothly. Here’s how to fix common problems:
1. No Stereo Mix Option
- Right-click inside the Recording tab → Check Show Disabled Devices.
- Update your audio drivers.
2. Sound Delay on One Monitor
- Delay happens if devices process sound differently.
- Use Voicemeeter Banana for better sync.
3. Only One Monitor Plays Audio
- Make sure both monitors support audio via HDMI/DisplayPort.
- Check the Playback tab in sound settings.
When You Shouldn’t Use Dual Monitor Sound
Sometimes playing audio on both monitors isn’t ideal.
- Gaming: Can cause echo/delay, ruining immersion.
- Video calls: Creates feedback loops.
- Music: May sound out of sync depending on monitor speakers.
In these cases, it’s better to use external speakers or headphones.
Best Alternatives to Monitor Speakers
Let’s be honest—most monitor speakers aren’t great. For better sound:
- External Speakers: Plug into your PC’s audio jack.
- Soundbar: Place under your monitors for balanced audio.
- Headphones: Best for gaming, meetings, or private listening.
How to Set a Default Audio Device in Windows 11
If you just want to quickly switch between monitors:
- Right-click the Sound icon in the taskbar.
- Click Sound settings.
- Under Output, select the monitor you want.
Advanced Tip: Create a Virtual Audio Cable
If you’re comfortable with more advanced setups, you can install VB-Audio Virtual Cable.
- It creates a virtual device that routes audio to multiple outputs.
- Pair it with Voicemeeter Banana for full control.
Performance Impact of Dual Audio
Running audio on multiple devices uses slightly more CPU, but on most modern PCs it’s negligible. If you notice lag, switch to a hardware splitter for smoother performance.
Final Thoughts
Getting sound from both monitors in Windows 11 isn’t as straightforward as it should be, but with the right settings or tools, it’s totally possible.
- For simple setups: Use Stereo Mix.
- For more control: Try Voicemeeter Banana.
- For guaranteed results: Use an HDMI splitter.
Just remember—playing audio on both monitors might introduce delay, so for serious audio needs, external speakers or headphones are still the best bet.
FAQs
1. Can Windows 11 natively play sound on two monitors at once?
Not by default—you’ll need to use Stereo Mix or third-party software.
2. Why is there a delay when playing sound on two monitors?
Different monitors process audio at different speeds, causing sync issues.
3. Does HDMI always carry sound?
Yes, but only if the monitor has built-in speakers.
4. Is Voicemeeter Banana free?
Yes, it’s donationware—you can use it for free with optional donations.
5. What’s the best option for gaming?
Use headphones or external speakers instead of dual monitor sound to avoid echo.