How to Change Default Printer in Windows 10
Changing the default printer on Windows 10 is a breeze. You can do this through the Settings app with just a few clicks. Simply navigate to the Devices section, locate the Printers & scanners tab, and select your desired printer as the default. This process ensures that all your print jobs are automatically sent to your preferred printer unless you specify otherwise.
Step-by-Step Tutorial: How to Change Default Printer Windows 10
Want to make sure your documents always go to your favorite printer? Follow these steps to easily change the default printer in Windows 10.
Step 1: Open Settings
Click on the Start menu and select the gear icon to open Settings.
The Settings app is like the control center of your Windows 10. It’s where you tweak and customize to your heart’s content.
Step 2: Go to Devices
Once in Settings, click on Devices.
Devices is where you find all things related to printers, mice, keyboards, and more. It’s the hub for your connected gadgets.
Step 3: Click on Printers & Scanners
On the left sidebar, choose Printers & scanners.
This tab lists all the printers installed on your computer, showing which one is currently set as the default.
Step 4: Select Your Printer
Find the printer you want to set as default, click on it, and choose Manage.
The Manage button opens up options specific to that printer, letting you set it as default with ease.
Step 5: Set as Default
Click on Set as default to make your selected printer the default one.
This final step ensures that your chosen printer gets all your print tasks by default, saving you time and clicks in the future.
After you complete these steps, Windows 10 will automatically send your print jobs to your newly selected default printer. This change will apply to all applications that rely on the default printer setting.
Tips for Changing Default Printer Windows 10
- Make sure your printer is connected and turned on when setting it as default.
- If you frequently use different printers, you might want to change this setting often.
- Consider naming your printers based on location or use to easily identify them.
- Check for any available driver updates for your printer for the best performance.
- If you encounter issues, try restarting your computer and printer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which printer is the default?
In the Printers & scanners section, the default printer will have a label indicating it as the default.
Can I set a network printer as default?
Yes, any printer listed in Printers & scanners can be set as the default, including network printers.
What if my printer isn’t showing up?
Ensure that your printer is properly connected and turned on. You may need to reinstall the printer driver.
Is it possible to use multiple default printers?
Windows 10 allows only one printer to be set as the default at any time.
Can I change the default printer using a shortcut?
Yes, consider creating a desktop shortcut that opens the Printers & scanners settings for quick access.
Summary
- Open Settings.
- Go to Devices.
- Click on Printers & scanners.
- Select your printer.
- Set as default.
Conclusion
Changing the default printer in Windows 10 is as simple as pie, and it can save you a ton of hassle in the long run. By following the easy steps outlined in this guide, you ensure your print jobs go to the right place every time. This little tweak can enhance your workflow and save you from the annoying task of selecting a printer every time you click ‘Print.’
If you’re juggling multiple printers, it’s a good idea to remember these steps or even bookmark this guide for future reference. Whether you’re printing homework, office documents, or family photos, having the right default printer set up makes the process smoother and more efficient.
Looking for more tech tips? Keep exploring to discover other ways to optimize your Windows 10 experience. And remember, the key to tech success often lies in these small adjustments that make everything else run just a bit smoother. Now, why not give it a try and change that default printer today?
Matthew Burleigh has been a freelance writer since the early 2000s. You can find his writing all over the Web, where his content has collectively been read millions of times.
Matthew received his Master’s degree in Computer Science, then spent over a decade as an IT consultant for small businesses before focusing on writing and website creation.
The topics he covers for MasterYourTech.com include iPhones, Microsoft Office, and Google Apps.
You can read his full bio here.