How to enable spatial sound on Windows 11

You can use spatial sound for a more immersive experience on Windows 11, and here's how to enable it for your headphones.

Windows 11 spatial sound
Windows 11 spatial sound

On Windows 11, spatial sound is an audio format that provides a more immersive experience. As you turn on the spatial sound using the “Windows Sonic for Headphones” feature, you will feel like the sound is playing around you instead of directly coming from the speakers.

Spatial sound is what Microsoft refers to as 3D sound, and you can use it on virtually any headphones, but on supported hardware works best.

In this guide, you will learn the steps to use headphones with the spatial sound format available on Windows 11.

Enable spatial sound on Windows 11

To enable spatial sound for headphones on Windows 11, use these steps:

  1. Open Settings on Windows 11.

  2. Click on System.

  3. Click the Sound page on the right side.

  4. Under the “Output” section, click the Speakers page.

    Sound settings
    Sound settings
  5. Under the “Spatial sound” setting, use the Type drop-down menu and select the Windows Sonic for Headphones option to enable spatial sound on Windows 11.

    Windows 11 enable spatial sound
    Windows 11 enable spatial sound

Although you can use spatial sound with any headphones, it is recommended to use headphones that support the feature.

About the author

Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert and founder of (est. 2010). With over 21 years as a technology writer and IT Specialist, Mauro specializes in Windows, software, and cross-platform systems such as Linux, Android, and macOS.

Certifications: Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), VMware Certified Professional (VCP), and CompTIA A+ and Network+.

Mauro is a recognized Microsoft MVP and has also been a long-time contributor to Windows Central.

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