Stop Skype Lowering Computer Volume: Fix Guide
If Skype is lowering your computer’s volume when you get a call or notification, the fix is to disable the automatic volume adjustment in Skype’s settings. This guide explains exactly where to find that setting, why Skype does this, and how to stop it permanently.
Why Skype Automatically Lowers Your Volume
Skype (like many communication apps) uses a Windows feature called “communications activity” to reduce the volume of other sounds while you are in a call. This is designed to make the person on the other end easier to hear, but it can be annoying when you are listening to music, watching a video, or playing a game. The behavior is controlled by Windows, not Skype itself, so the fix often involves both Skype and Windows settings.
How to Disable Skype’s Automatic Volume Adjustment
Skype has its own setting that tells it to lower the volume of other applications when you are in a call. Turning this off is the first step.
- Open Skype and click on your profile picture or the three-dot menu (â‹®) at the top left.
- Select Settings (the gear icon).
- Go to Audio & Video (or Call Settings in older versions).
- Look for a section called Audio or Call.
- Find the option “Automatically adjust mixer levels” or “Lower the volume of other applications when I make or receive calls”.
- Toggle it off.
If you don’t see that exact wording, look for anything related to “automatically adjust” or “mixer levels.” In some versions, it’s under Call Settings > Audio.
Windows Communication Activity Settings
Even after disabling Skype’s own setting, Windows might still lower the volume. Windows has a separate system setting that does the same thing for all communication apps.
- Open Control Panel (search for it in the Start menu).
- Click Hardware and Sound.
- Under Sound, click Manage audio devices.
- Go to the Communications tab.
- Select “Do nothing”.
- Click OK.
This tells Windows to never reduce other sounds when a communication app (like Skype) is active. This is the most reliable way to stop the volume drop.
Why Does It Still Happen Sometimes?
If you’ve turned off both settings and the volume still drops, there are a few other possibilities:
- Skype notifications: Skype can play a sound for incoming messages or calls. That sound itself might be loud, but it shouldn’t lower other volumes. Check Skype’s notification settings and lower the notification volume if needed.
- Another app: Other apps like Discord, Zoom, or your web browser might have their own automatic volume adjustments. Check those apps’ settings as well.
- Driver issue: Sometimes your audio driver can cause unexpected volume changes. Updating your sound driver from the manufacturer’s website might help.
- Skype version: The exact setting name varies between Skype versions. If you can’t find it, update Skype to the latest version.
How to Choose the Right Fix
If you only want to stop Skype from lowering volume during calls, disable Skype’s own setting. If you want to stop all apps from doing this, change the Windows Communications setting. If you’re not sure which one is causing it, try the Windows setting first because it overrides everything.
Common Misconception: It’s Not Skype’s Fault
Many people blame Skype, but the automatic volume reduction is a Windows feature. Skype just uses it. That’s why the Windows setting is the ultimate fix. However, Skype also has its own independent control, so you need to turn both off.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Skype lower my volume when I get a call?
It’s a Windows feature designed to make calls clearer by reducing background noise. It can be disabled in both Skype and Windows settings.
Will disabling this affect my call quality?
No. It only stops the automatic volume reduction. You can still manually adjust your volume during calls.
Does this work for the new Skype for Web?
Yes, the same Windows Communications setting applies to Skype for Web, but the Skype-specific setting may not be available in the web version. The Windows setting is the main one to change.
What if I don’t see the “Communications” tab?
Make sure you are looking at the Playback tab. The Communications tab is only there when you are viewing your speakers/headphones, not your microphone.
Can I set it to reduce volume by 50% instead of 80%?
Windows only offers four options: Do nothing, Reduce by 50%, Reduce by 80%, and Mute all other sounds. You cannot set a custom percentage.
Will this also stop Spotify from lowering volume when I use Discord?
Yes, the Windows Communications setting affects all apps that use the communication feature, including Discord, Zoom, and Teams.
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