If you’ve recently upgraded to Windows 11 and noticed that your laptop or PC speakers don’t sound as loud as you’d like, you’re not alone. Many users experience low audio levels on Windows 11, even when the volume is set to 100%. The good news? There are several ways to boost your system’s sound.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through step-by-step methods to increase volume on Windows 11—from basic settings tweaks to advanced tricks. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to get louder, clearer sound whether you’re watching movies, listening to music, or gaming.

Why Is the Volume Low on Windows 11?

Before diving into solutions, let’s understand why this happens. Some common reasons include:

🔇 Default audio settings may limit volume output.
🎧 Headphone or speaker drivers may not be optimized.
🎚️ Enhancement features might be disabled.
🖥️ Windows updates occasionally reset sound preferences.

Think of it like your TV remote—sometimes the volume limit isn’t the TV’s fault but a setting buried deep in the menu.

Basic Ways to Increase Volume on Windows 11

Let’s start with the simplest fixes.

1. Use the Volume Icon in Taskbar

Click the speaker icon on the taskbar.
Drag the slider up to 100%.
Test with a video or music file.

👉 It sounds obvious, but sometimes the issue is as simple as the system volume being turned down.

2. Check App-Specific Volume Levels

Windows 11 lets you control volume for each app separately.

Right-click the speaker icon → Select Open Volume Mixer.
Look under Apps.
Ensure all apps (e.g., Chrome, Spotify, Zoom) are set to high volume.

This is like having separate remotes for each device—you need to adjust each one.

3. Use Keyboard or Laptop Hotkeys

Most laptops have function keys (like F1–F12) with volume controls. Press them along with the Fn key to adjust sound.

Advanced Ways to Boost Volume on Windows 11

If the basics didn’t work, let’s dig deeper.

4. Enable Loudness Equalization

This hidden Windows feature can make your audio much louder.

Right-click the speaker icon → Sound settings.
Under Output, click Device properties.
Scroll to Enhancements (or Advanced).
Enable Loudness Equalization.

👉 Think of this as a “turbo boost” for your speakers.

5. Update Audio Drivers

Outdated drivers often cause weak sound.

Press Win + X → Select Device Manager.
Expand Sound, video and game controllers.
Right-click your audio driver → Update driver.
Choose Search automatically for drivers.

If that doesn’t work, download the latest drivers from your manufacturer’s website.

6. Use Windows 11 Sound Settings

Go to Settings > System > Sound.
Select your output device (speakers/headphones).
Adjust Advanced sound options for better output.

7. Adjust Equalizer Settings

Some PCs come with built-in equalizers (especially if using Realtek drivers).

Open Control Panel > Sound.
Select your playback device → Properties.
Go to Enhancements or Equalizer.
Increase bass/treble for a fuller sound.

8. Turn Off Audio Enhancements That Lower Volume

While some enhancements boost volume, others do the opposite.

Right-click speaker icon → Sound settings.
Select output device → Properties.
Disable all unnecessary enhancements.

External Methods to Increase Volume

If you still find Windows 11 too quiet, consider external solutions.

9. Use Third-Party Volume Booster Software

Some apps can increase volume beyond 100%. Popular ones include:

Equalizer APO – Advanced audio adjustments.
Boom 3D – Great for music and gaming.
FxSound – Simple volume boosting.

These tools are like adding an amplifier to your computer’s audio system.

10. Try External Speakers or Headphones

Let’s be real—sometimes your laptop speakers just aren’t strong enough. An affordable pair of external speakers or Bluetooth headphones can make a world of difference.

11. Update Windows 11

Microsoft frequently fixes sound issues in updates.

Go to Settings > Windows Update.
Click Check for updates.
Install any available updates.

12. Increase Browser or Media Player Volume

If you’re watching videos on YouTube, Netflix, or VLC:

On YouTube, check the in-player volume slider.
On VLC Media Player, you can boost sound up to 200%.

Troubleshooting Low Volume Issues

Still not getting louder sound? Try these fixes.

13. Restart Audio Services

Press Win + R, type: services.msc
Find Windows Audio → Right-click → Restart.

14. Change Default Audio Device

Sometimes Windows sends sound to the wrong device.

Right-click speaker icon → Sound settings.
Select the correct device under Choose where to play sound.

15. Run Windows Troubleshooter

Go to Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters.
Run the Playing Audio troubleshooter.

This will automatically detect and fix common sound problems.

Pro Tips for Louder and Better Sound

🎵 Use VLC Media Player for videos—it lets you boost sound beyond limits.
🎧 Invest in noise-canceling headphones for a richer experience.
🔊 Place speakers on a hard surface (like a desk) for natural amplification.
🛠️ Regularly update drivers for best performance.

Conclusion

Getting louder sound on Windows 11 isn’t complicated once you know where to look. Start with basic adjustments like volume sliders and hotkeys, then move to advanced options like Loudness Equalization and driver updates. If that still doesn’t cut it, external speakers, headphones, or third-party software can give you the boost you need.

Remember: sometimes it’s not Windows that’s holding you back, but your hardware. So, try these methods step by step, and you’ll be surprised at how much louder and clearer your system can sound.

FAQs

1. Why is my laptop volume so low even at 100%?
Because of default sound limits, outdated drivers, or disabled enhancements. Enabling Loudness Equalization usually fixes this.

2. Can I increase volume above 100% in Windows 11?
Yes, with apps like VLC Media Player (up to 200%) or third-party boosters.

3. Does Windows 11 have a built-in equalizer?
Some systems with Realtek Audio drivers include an equalizer. Otherwise, you’ll need third-party software.

4. Will updating drivers really improve sound?
Absolutely! Outdated or generic drivers often reduce sound performance.

5. Can I damage my speakers by boosting volume too much?
Yes—pushing volume beyond limits with software may distort sound and harm speakers. Use carefully.

How to Increase Volume on Windows 11: A Comprehensive Guide