How to Set Default Camera in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / October 4, 2025

In today’s digital world, webcams have become essential. Whether you’re attending online classes, joining work meetings, live streaming, or recording content, having the right default camera set up in Windows 11 is crucial.

If your device has multiple cameras (like a built-in laptop webcam plus an external USB camera), Windows may automatically pick the wrong one. This can lead to blurry video quality, wrong camera angles, or even a completely black screen during calls.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to set default camera in Windows 11 step by step. We’ll cover system settings, app-specific configurations (Zoom, Teams, Skype, etc.), troubleshooting, and advanced tips.

📝 Key Takeaways

  • Windows 11 doesn’t have a universal “set default camera” button, but you can configure it via Device Manager, Settings, and app preferences.

  • Disable or prioritize cameras to force Windows to use the one you want.

  • Most video apps (Zoom, Teams, Skype) let you choose your default camera separately.

  • If the wrong camera keeps showing, update drivers and check privacy settings.

Why Do You Need to Set a Default Camera in Windows 11?

You may need to set a default camera if:

  • Your laptop has a built-in webcam but you prefer an external HD camera.

  • Windows automatically picks the wrong camera during calls.

  • Apps default to a virtual camera (like OBS VirtualCam) instead of your physical device.

  • You want consistent video quality across all apps.

Methods to Set the Default Camera in Windows 11

There are multiple ways to control which camera Windows 11 uses. Let’s go through them step by step.

1. Check Available Cameras in Windows 11

Before setting the default, identify all installed cameras.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows Key + I to open Settings.

  2. Go to Bluetooth & devices > Cameras.

  3. Here, you’ll see a list of all connected cameras (built-in + external).

2. Disable the Camera You Don’t Want

The simplest way to force Windows to use a specific camera is to disable the others.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows Key + X and choose Device Manager.

  2. Expand Cameras (or Imaging devices).

  3. Right-click the camera you don’t want → select Disable device.

  4. Confirm when prompted.

✅ Windows will now use the remaining enabled camera by default.

3. Prioritize Cameras in Settings

Windows allows limited control through the Cameras settings panel.

Steps:

  1. Open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Cameras.

  2. Select the camera you want to prioritize.

  3. Click Set as default (if available).

👉 This option may vary depending on your hardware and drivers.

4. Set Default Camera in Video Apps

Even if Windows doesn’t let you pick globally, most apps let you set a default camera.

In Zoom:

  1. Open Zoom.

  2. Go to Settings > Video.

  3. Under Camera, choose your preferred one.

In Microsoft Teams:

  1. Open Teams.

  2. Click your Profile > Settings > Devices.

  3. Under Camera, select the correct device.

In Skype:

  1. Open Skype.

  2. Go to Settings > Audio & Video.

  3. Select your default camera.

In Google Meet (Browser):

  1. Click the lock/permissions icon in Chrome/Edge next to the site URL.

  2. Under Camera, choose your preferred device.

5. Use the Camera App to Test Default Camera

You can test which camera Windows 11 is using with the built-in Camera app.

Steps:

  1. Open Camera from the Start menu.

  2. If multiple cameras are available, use the switch camera icon to cycle through.

  3. Close the app — Windows often remembers the last used camera.

6. Change Default Camera with Registry Editor (Advanced)

For advanced users, you can tweak registry keys.

⚠️ Warning: Editing the registry incorrectly can cause issues.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + R, type regedit, and press Enter.

  2. Navigate to:

    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows Media Foundation\Platform

  3. Add or adjust camera preferences (varies by driver support).

  4. Restart your PC.

7. Update Camera Drivers

If Windows doesn’t let you choose the right camera, outdated drivers may be the issue.

Steps:

  1. Open Device Manager.

  2. Expand Cameras.

  3. Right-click your camera → Update driver.

  4. Choose Search automatically for drivers.

8. Control Camera Access in Privacy Settings

Sometimes apps can’t see the right camera because of privacy restrictions.

Steps:

  1. Go to Settings > Privacy & security > Camera.

  2. Toggle Camera access On.

  3. Scroll down and enable camera access for specific apps.

Troubleshooting: Camera Still Not Switching?

If your preferred camera isn’t being used:

  • Disable the unwanted camera in Device Manager.

  • Unplug and replug your external camera.

  • Restart Windows after making changes.

  • Test in multiple apps to confirm.

  • Reinstall camera drivers if necessary.

Security Tip: Disable Cameras You Don’t Use

For privacy, disable unused cameras so they can’t be hijacked by malicious apps.

  • Use Device Manager > Disable device.

  • Or cover built-in laptop cameras with a webcam cover slider.

Comparison: Internal vs. External Cameras in Windows 11

Feature Internal Laptop Webcam External USB Camera
Convenience Always available Requires plugging in
Video Quality Often low (720p) Can be HD/4K
Flexibility Fixed position Adjustable angles
Best For Quick calls Streaming, meetings

Conclusion

Setting the default camera in Windows 11 ensures you always look your best in calls, meetings, and recordings. While Windows doesn’t offer a single global “set default” button, you can:

  • Disable unused cameras in Device Manager.

  • Choose cameras in Settings and apps.

  • Update drivers and check privacy settings.

By following these steps, you’ll always have the right camera ready for Zoom, Teams, Skype, and beyond.

FAQs About Setting Default Camera in Windows 11

1. How do I set my external webcam as the default in Windows 11?
Disable the internal camera in Device Manager, or select the external one in app settings.

2. Why does my laptop keep using the built-in camera instead of my USB webcam?
Windows often prioritizes built-in devices. Disable the laptop webcam in Device Manager.

3. Can I change the default camera for all apps at once?
Not directly. You must disable other cameras or set preferences in each app.

4. How do I check which camera is active in Windows 11?
Open the Camera app or check app video settings (Zoom, Teams, etc.).

5. Is it safe to disable my built-in camera?
Yes, disabling it in Device Manager won’t harm your system. You can re-enable anytime.

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