How to Make Volume Louder on Windows 11: Boost Sound Effectively

By / September 25, 2025

Struggling with low sound on your Windows 11 PC or laptop? You’re not alone. Whether you’re watching a movie, listening to music, or attending an online meeting, low audio can ruin the experience. The good news is that Windows 11 has several built-in tools and settings to help you boost volume effectively, plus a few external tricks that can make your sound louder and clearer.

This guide walks you step by step through how to make volume louder on Windows 11, covering system settings, sound enhancements, third-party apps, and even hardware fixes.

📝 Key Takeaways

  • You can boost volume on Windows 11 by adjusting system settings, sound enhancements, and app-specific options.

  • Third-party apps and external speakers/headphones can further improve audio quality.

  • Troubleshooting sound issues ensures you get the most out of your device’s audio system.

Why Does Sound Feel Low on Windows 11?

Before fixing the issue, it’s important to understand why your PC volume feels too quiet. Common reasons include:

  • Low system or app volume settings.

  • Outdated or incorrect audio drivers.

  • Disabled sound enhancements.

  • Weak built-in laptop speakers.

  • Poorly optimized third-party apps.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Volume Louder on Windows 11

1. Adjust the System Volume

Sometimes the simplest fix is overlooked.

Steps:

  1. Click the sound icon in the taskbar.

  2. Drag the volume slider to the maximum level.

  3. Check whether sound improves.

👉 Also check app-specific volume in Settings > System > Sound > Volume mixer.

2. Use the Volume Mixer to Control App Sound

Different apps may have their own volume settings.

Steps:

  1. Right-click the sound icon → Select Open Volume Mixer.

  2. Adjust sliders for each app (like Chrome, Spotify, or Zoom).

  3. Ensure none are muted or too low.

3. Enable Loudness Equalization

Windows includes a hidden feature that can instantly make sound louder.

Steps:

  1. Press Win + R, type mmsys.cpl, and press Enter.

  2. Select your default playback device → Click Properties.

  3. Go to the Enhancements tab.

  4. Check Loudness Equalization → Click Apply and OK.

💡 This balances sound levels and boosts overall volume.

4. Update or Reinstall Audio Drivers

Outdated drivers can cause low sound issues.

Steps:

  1. Press Win + X → Choose Device Manager.

  2. Expand Sound, video and game controllers.

  3. Right-click your audio device (e.g., Realtek, Intel, NVIDIA) → Select Update driver.

  4. Restart your PC.

📌 If updating doesn’t help, reinstall the driver from the manufacturer’s website.

5. Increase Sound via Advanced Sound Settings

Windows 11 allows custom audio tweaks.

Steps:

  1. Go to Settings > System > Sound.

  2. Under Advanced, select All sound devices.

  3. Choose your device and tweak available enhancements.

6. Use Equalizer Settings in Windows 11

An equalizer helps boost specific frequencies (like bass or vocals).

  • Some devices have built-in Realtek Audio Console or Dolby Atmos software.

  • Boosting mid and high frequencies can make volume appear louder.

7. Check App Settings (YouTube, VLC, Spotify, Zoom)

Each app often has its own volume settings:

  • VLC Media Player → Volume slider goes up to 200%.

  • YouTube/Streaming apps → Check in-player volume controls.

  • Zoom/Teams → Enable “Automatically adjust volume.”

8. Use Sound Enhancements Software

Windows supports third-party audio enhancers like:

  • Equalizer APO

  • Boom 3D

  • FxSound

These apps can boost volume beyond system limits.

9. Use Headphones or External Speakers

Built-in laptop speakers are often too weak. Upgrading to:

  • USB or Bluetooth speakers.

  • Headphones with built-in amplifiers.

…can dramatically increase loudness and quality.

10. Use Keyboard or Function Keys

On many laptops, volume keys (Fn + F1/F2) adjust sound levels separately from system sliders. Ensure they’re set to maximum.

Troubleshooting Low Volume on Windows 11

If your sound is still too quiet, try these:

  • Run Audio Troubleshooter → Settings > System > Troubleshoot > Other troubleshooters > Playing Audio.

  • Check Audio Output Device → Make sure you’re not sending sound to the wrong device (e.g., HDMI output instead of speakers).

  • Disable Audio Effects → Sometimes enhancements interfere with sound.

Comparison: Best Ways to Boost Volume

Method Difficulty Effectiveness Best For
Volume Mixer Easy Medium Per-app sound
Loudness Equalization Easy High Overall boost
Driver Update Medium High Fixing issues
Equalizer Settings Medium High Custom sound
Third-Party Software Easy Very High Max boost
External Speakers/Headphones Easy Very High Long-term fix

Tips to Maintain Good Audio Quality

  • Avoid over-boosting, which may distort sound.

  • Use high-quality speakers or headphones for the best results.

  • Keep drivers updated regularly.

  • Use apps like VLC for louder media playback.

Conclusion: Boosting Volume on Windows 11 Made Easy

Making volume louder on Windows 11 isn’t complicated once you know where to look. From basic settings adjustments to sound enhancements, equalizers, and external devices, there are plenty of ways to boost your PC audio effectively.

👉 Next time your movie sounds too quiet or your Zoom call is hard to hear, you’ll know exactly how to fix it.

FAQs: How to Make Volume Louder on Windows 11

1. Why is my Windows 11 volume so low even at 100%?
It could be due to weak laptop speakers, outdated drivers, or disabled sound enhancements.

2. How do I make my laptop speakers louder without software?
Enable Loudness Equalization in the audio settings.

3. Can third-party apps safely boost volume?
Yes, apps like Equalizer APO and Boom 3D are safe when downloaded from official sites.

4. Does VLC really increase volume to 200%?
Yes, VLC allows volume boosting beyond system limits, but overuse can distort sound.

5. Will boosting volume damage my speakers?
If pushed too far, yes. Stick to moderate enhancements and consider external speakers for long-term use.

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