SMALL STEPS. USEFUL SKILLS.
Choose where sound plays
Switch sound between speakers, headphones or a monitor.
Use the pictures where shown. Follow the short instructions between them.
STEP 1 OF 6
Open the Apple menu
Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner of the screen.
Prefer to see all the steps together?+
STEP 1
Open the Apple menu
Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner of the screen.
STEP 2
Open System Settings
Click System Settings.
STEP 3
Open Sound
In the sidebar on the left, click Sound.
STEP 4
Open Output
Click Output to see the available speakers, headphones and other sound devices.
STEP 5
Choose the device
Select the device you want to hear. Wired headphones may simply be called Headphones.
STEP 6
Check the volume
Raise the output volume slowly and make sure Mute is not selected.
Some digital devices control volume themselves. If the Mac slider is unavailable, use the speaker or monitor’s own controls.
IF SOMETHING LOOKS DIFFERENT
A little help along the way.
Your menus may look different after an update. Look for the same control name and take your time.
I cannot find that option+
Check that this guide covers your device and software. If the names do not match, use the manufacturer’s instructions linked below for your model.
I need to go back a step+
Use Previous step or select a step number above. This changes the guide only; it does not undo anything on your device.
Are these pictures of my device?+
They are example screens showing exactly where to click. Your names, apps, wallpaper and layout may look a little different, but the options you need are the same. Some pictures show what you should see after a step.