To set up speakers on a Windows 10 PC, plug them in (the green 3.5 mm jack, USB, HDMI, or pair them over Bluetooth), then open Settings > System > Sound and pick them under Choose your output device. Play a sound to test the volume. If you have surround speakers, configure them in the classic Sound control panel.
Windows 10 reached end of support on October 14, 2025. Consumer Extended Security Updates (ESU) now run until October 12, 2027.
Quick Answer
Connect speakers > Settings > System > Sound > Choose your output device > select them.
Step 1: Connect the Speakers
| Speaker type | How to connect |
|---|---|
| Wired (3.5 mm) | Green audio-out jack on the PC; power the speakers on |
| USB | Any USB port; Windows installs the driver |
| Monitor or TV speakers | HDMI or DisplayPort from the graphics card |
| Bluetooth | Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices > Add Bluetooth |
Step 2: Choose Them in Windows
- Open Settings > System > Sound.
- Under Output, select the speakers in Choose your output device.
- Raise the Master volume and play something to test.
Step 3: Configure Surround Sound (Optional)
- Press Windows + R, type mmsys.cpl, and press Enter.
- On the Playback tab, select the speakers and click Configure.
- Choose Stereo, Quadraphonic, 5.1 or 7.1 and follow the test steps.
- Click Set Default so Windows always uses them.
Troubleshooting
- No sound: Check power, volume knobs, the plug color, and that the right device is selected. Run Settings > Sound > Troubleshoot.
- Speakers not listed: Update the audio driver, or check the Playback tab for disabled devices (right-click > Show Disabled Devices).
- Sound on the wrong speaker: Front-panel jacks may need enabling in the audio maker’s app.
- More sound fixes: See fixing sound on Windows 10 and testing your mic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use speakers and headphones at the same time?
Not by default. Switch the output device, or use app-specific output in Settings > Sound > App volume and device preferences.
Do I need drivers?
Usually not; Windows installs them automatically.
Summary
- Connect and power the speakers.
- Select them in Settings > Sound.
- Configure surround in mmsys.cpl if needed.
- Troubleshoot drivers and cables if silent.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.