How to switch audio output with a hotkey on Windows 11

Build a KeyRoutines routine with a Hotkey trigger, an If that uses the Audio device is the default condition, and a Set default audio device step in each branch. One key press then switches Windows between your headset and your speakers, and a Show banner step tells you which one is active.

Steps

1. 1

   Add a Hotkey trigger

   Pick a chord such as Ctrl+Alt+H in the Hotkey trigger. The keys are kept from the app in front so they don't type anything.

2. 2

   Check which device is active

   Add an If with the Audio device is the default condition and choose your headset.

3. 3

   Switch to the other device

   In the If branch, add Set default audio device with your speakers. In the Else branch, add Set default audio device with your headset.

4. 4

   Confirm the switch

   End each branch with Show banner, for example "Speakers on" or "Headset on", so you can see the change without opening Settings.

Tips

• Set default audio device changes the playback default for sound and calls, so most apps follow it right away. Apps that pin their own output device in their settings keep using that device.
• Want to cycle through three devices? Add a second If inside the Else branch for the third one.