How to Make Laptop Speakers Louder on Windows 11: Easy Tips

By / September 22, 2025

Does your laptop sound too quiet even when the volume is at 100%? You’re not alone. Many Windows 11 users feel their built-in speakers aren’t loud enough, especially when watching movies, attending Zoom meetings, or listening to music.

The good news? You don’t need external speakers to fix this. With a few settings tweaks and tricks, you can easily boost your laptop’s sound. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to make laptop speakers louder on Windows 11 using simple, effective tips.

Why Are Laptop Speakers Often Too Quiet?

Laptop speakers are compact. To fit inside a slim body, manufacturers often sacrifice sound power. As a result:

  • Smaller drivers = lower maximum volume.

  • Default settings may reduce sound output.

  • Audio drivers could be outdated or misconfigured.

  • Dust and blockages can muffle sound.

Quick Fixes Before Adjusting Settings

Before diving deep, try these quick fixes:

  • Make sure volume is turned up on both Windows and your media player.

  • Disconnect any Bluetooth headphones that may be stealing audio.

  • Ensure your laptop speakers are set as the default output device.

If it’s still quiet, move on to the following methods.

Method 1: Check and Maximize Volume Settings

It sounds obvious, but many users miss hidden volume controls.

Steps:

  1. Click the sound icon on the taskbar.

  2. Drag the volume slider to maximum.

  3. Right-click the sound icon → Volume Mixer.

  4. Ensure all apps (like Chrome, Spotify, Zoom) are set to 100%.

âś… Best for: Quick fixes when one app is quieter than others.

Method 2: Enable Loudness Equalization in Windows 11

This feature balances sound levels and makes quiet audio louder.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + R, type mmsys.cpl, and hit Enter.

  2. Select your speakers → Properties.

  3. Go to the Enhancements tab.

  4. Check Loudness Equalization.

  5. Click Apply, then OK.

💡 You’ll notice an immediate volume boost.

Method 3: Use Sound Enhancements

Windows offers extra enhancements to improve output.

Steps:

  1. Open Settings → System → Sound.

  2. Under Output, click your speakers.

  3. Scroll down to Enhance audio.

  4. Toggle it On.

Method 4: Adjust Volume Mixer for Individual Apps

Sometimes only specific apps (like YouTube in Chrome) are too quiet.

Steps:

  1. Right-click the speaker icon → Open Volume Mixer.

  2. Adjust the sliders for individual apps.

  3. Make sure they’re not muted or too low.

Method 5: Update or Reinstall Audio Drivers

Outdated drivers can limit sound output.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + X → Device Manager.

  2. Expand Sound, video and game controllers.

  3. Right-click your audio device → Update driver.

  4. Select Search automatically for drivers.

If updating doesn’t help, uninstall and restart your laptop to reinstall drivers automatically.

Method 6: Boost Volume with Windows Spatial Sound

Spatial Sound (Windows Sonic) enhances audio depth and can make it seem louder.

Steps:

  1. Right-click the speaker icon on the taskbar.

  2. Select Spatial Sound → Windows Sonic for Headphones.

  3. Even if using speakers, some users report noticeable volume improvements.

Method 7: Use Third-Party Audio Booster Software

If built-in options aren’t enough, software can help:

  • Boom 3D – Adds volume boost + equalizer.

  • Equalizer APO – Free, powerful audio customization.

  • FxSound – Enhances volume and clarity.

⚠️ Only download from trusted sources.

Method 8: Adjust Equalizer Settings (Manual Tuning)

Boosting mid and high frequencies can make sound clearer.

  • Open your sound card’s audio manager (often Realtek HD Audio).

  • Use the equalizer to raise mid/high ranges.

  • Save your settings for louder, crisper sound.

Method 9: Clean Your Laptop Speakers

Dust and dirt can block speaker grills.

  • Use compressed air to blow dust out.

  • Gently clean grills with a soft brush.

  • Avoid liquids that could damage the speakers.

Method 10: Consider External Solutions for Louder Sound

If you need significantly louder audio:

  • External Bluetooth speakers – Portable and powerful.

  • USB-powered mini speakers – Compact yet louder than built-ins.

  • Quality headphones – For personal listening without disturbing others.

Best Practices for Clearer and Louder Audio

  • Avoid covering the speakers (especially when using the laptop on soft surfaces).

  • Keep drivers up to date.

  • Use headphones for better clarity in noisy environments.

  • Enable enhancements only if they don’t distort sound.

Key Takeaways

  • Laptop speakers are naturally quieter, but Windows 11 offers ways to boost them.

  • Start with built-in tools: Loudness Equalization, Sound Enhancements, Spatial Sound.

  • Update drivers regularly for the best audio performance.

  • Use third-party software or external speakers for maximum sound.

FAQs

1. Why are my laptop speakers still too quiet even at 100%?

It may be due to weak built-in speakers, outdated drivers, or disabled sound enhancements.

2. Does Windows 11 have a built-in sound booster?

Yes, features like Loudness Equalization and Enhance Audio can boost volume.

3. Will third-party sound boosters damage my speakers?

Not if used moderately. Avoid extreme boosts to prevent distortion or hardware strain.

4. Can dirty speakers affect sound volume?

Yes. Dust and debris can muffle sound, so regular cleaning helps.

5. What’s the easiest way to instantly make my laptop louder?

Enable Loudness Equalization from sound settings — it works for most users immediately.

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