Kate Mills 
Dec 08, 2023
Microsoft always adds new features to Windows 11 with each new update, and sometimes, small helpful changes can get overlooked among all the updates.
Luckily, a neat trick in the Windows 11 23H2 update has recently been uncovered: by pressing Ctrl + Win + V, you can access the improved volume mixer. It's a simple shortcut that has saved me a lot of time, and if you use your PC like I do, it might be a handy time-saver for you too.
Read more: Windows 12 might launch in June 2024 with new "AI PCs"
How to use volume mixer in Windows 11
Here's a quick tip: Press Ctrl + Windows + V to change your audio settings faster. It's quicker than clicking around or searching for the settings.
Why use Volume Mixer in Windows 11
If you often switch between audio outputs to use during the day while working or while gaming, this shortcut could be immensely helpful.
In case you didn't know, Microsoft introduced a better volume mixer in the taskbar earlier this year, but it became available only for this 23H2 update.
Besides hurling away so much hassle from your Windows experience, what makes it more compelling is that when you open Windows 11, the system actually tells you the shortcut to access the new volume mixer.
Switch output devices in Windows 11 with a shortcut
This improved mixer allows you to easily pick your output device, turn virtual surround sound on or off, and control the volume of each app separately. You can do that using the taskbar as well.
You could perform these tasks earlier too, but that used to require going into the sound settings page. Now, everything is right there on your taskbar. There's even a button you can click to go to the sound settings page if you want more choices. This is a good thing, especially since searching for a setting in Windows 11 often brings up the wrong thing.
Don’t miss out on this important feature, and grab yours now by updating to the latest version.
