How to Set a Different Volume Level for Each App on Your Mac

Managing audio on macOS can be frustrating when multiple apps play sound simultaneously—think Spotify blasting while a Zoom call whispers. As of early 2026, macOS does not natively support true per-app volume control like Windows does, meaning all apps share the system-wide output by default.[5][6] However, you can achieve precise control using built-in tools for basic management, app-specific sliders, and powerful third-party apps. This guide walks you through every method, from simple tweaks to advanced solutions, ensuring balanced audio without chaos.

Native macOS Options: Quick but Limited Fixes

Start with what’s built into macOS (like Sonoma, Sequoia, or the latest macOS 26 previews). These handle global volume and some app oversight but won’t let you dial down one app independently.[2][4][5]

1. Master Volume Controls

Adjust overall output first to set a baseline:
– Use keyboard keys: Press F10 to mute, F11/F12 to lower/raise volume. Visual feedback appears near the menu bar.[2][4]
– Menu bar or Control Center: Click the sound icon (speaker) in the menu bar or swipe down to Control Center, then drag the slider.[2]
– Enable menu bar sound: Go to System Settings > Control Center > Sound and set to “Always Show in Menu Bar” or “Show When Active.”[3][4]

This affects all apps equally, so it’s ideal for quick global tweaks.[1][2]

2. Now Playing in Control Center

For multitasking audio:
– Open System Settings > Control Center > Now Playing and set to “Show When Active” or “Always.”[5]
– When apps play sound, their icons appear in the menu bar or Control Center. Click to pause/stop individual playback, switch outputs, or mute—but no volume sliders per app.[5][6]

Great for stopping a rogue app, but volume stays unified.[5]

3. App-Internal Volume Sliders

Many apps have their own controls, bypassing system volume:
– Spotify/Apple Music: Slider next to the play button adjusts playback independently.[1]
– Zoom/Teams: Go to app Settings > Audio for speaker output sliders.[1]
– Media players: Check menu bar icons or preferences for gear icons with volume options. Keyboard shortcuts like F11/F12 often work here too.[1]

This covers 80% of casual use but fails when apps lack sliders or overlap.[1][5]

The Game-Changer: Third-Party Apps for True Per-App Control

For genuine independent volume per app, turn to apps like SoundSource (from Rogue Amoeba), the gold standard in 2026.[6] macOS’s limitations stem from its audio routing design, which funnels everything to one output—third-party tools intercept this.[5][6][7]

Step-by-Step: Using SoundSource

1. Download and Install: Search the Mac App Store or Rogue Amoeba’s site for SoundSource (free trial, ~$40 one-time).[6]
2. Launch and Grant Permissions: Open it; approve microphone/system audio access in System Settings > Privacy & Security.[6]
3. View Apps: It lists all audio-playing apps (e.g., Chrome, Spotify) with individual sliders. Drag to set levels—say, 20% for browser tabs, 80% for music.[6]
4. Advanced Features:
   • Per-app output routing (speakers for music, headphones for calls).
   • EQ, effects, and mute toggles.
   • Menu bar mini-controller for instant access.[6]
5. Test: Play audio in two apps; adjust sliders live. Audio balances perfectly.[6]

Other options:
– Loopback (same developers): For complex routing, like sending apps to virtual devices.[6]
– Free alternatives like Background Music (open-source, GitHub): Similar sliders but lighter on features.

Users report SoundSource transforms workflows, especially for musicians or multitaskers.[6][7]

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• No on-screen volume UI? Update macOS; reset via System Settings > Menu Bar > Sound > Always Show.[4]
• Apps too quiet overall? Check System Settings > Sound > Output for device selection and master slider.[1][2]
• Post-Update Glitches (macOS 26): Volume feedback hides under notches; enable menu bar display.[4]
• Browser Audio: Embedded players often lack sliders—use extensions or SoundSource.[7]

Pro Tip: Combine methods—set app-internal sliders low, then fine-tune with SoundSource for ultimate control.

Why macOS Lags and What’s Next?

Apple prioritizes simplicity over granular control, routing all audio through Core Audio without native mixers.[5][7] Rumors suggest future updates might add it via Control Center expansions, but as of February 2026, third-party reigns.[5] For now, these steps deliver pro-level audio management.

Implement today: Start native, upgrade to SoundSource for power. Your Mac’s sound will never clash again.

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Original source: Lifehacker – How to Set a Different Volume Level for Each App on Your Mac