Spotify has become one of the most popular music streaming platforms, offering a wide range of music and podcasts for users to enjoy. Many people like to listen to Spotify while playing games on their computers, but one common issue that arises is how to change the volume of the Spotify app without having to minimize the game. In this blog post, we will explore different methods to change the Spotify volume while in a game, allowing you to easily adjust the audio level without interrupting your gaming experience.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
Before we delve into the methods, there are a few things you will need:
- A computer or laptop running Windows or macOS
- The Spotify app installed on your device
- A game you want to play
What Requires Your Focus?
When trying to change the Spotify volume while in a game, there are a few aspects that require your attention:
- Accessibility to the volume control
- The method’s ease of use
- Compatibility with your operating system
- Whether the method works in fullscreen mode
Method 1. Using the Windows Volume Mixer
One of the easiest ways to adjust the Spotify volume while in a game is by using the Windows Volume Mixer. This method works on both Windows 10 and older versions of Windows.
Steps:
- Right-click on the speaker icon in the taskbar and select "Open Volume Mixer."
- Locate the Spotify icon in the Volume Mixer.
- Adjust the volume slider for Spotify to your desired level.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Easy and quick access to the Spotify volume control. | 1. Only works on Windows operating systems. |
| 2. Allows you to adjust the volume without minimizing the game. | 2. Volume adjustment affects all other apps using the default audio device. |
Method 2. Via Keyboard Shortcuts
If you have multimedia keys on your keyboard, this method provides a convenient way to change the Spotify volume without leaving your game.
Steps:
- Open the Spotify app and start playing your music.
- While in the game, locate the volume control keys on your keyboard.
- Use the designated keys to increase or decrease the volume.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Simple and convenient method if you have multimedia keys. | 1. Limited to keyboards with multimedia keys. |
| 2. No need to leave the game. | 2. Volume adjustment affects global volume and not exclusive to Spotify. |
Method 3. Using the Spotify Web Player
If you prefer using the Spotify Web Player instead of the desktop app, this method allows you to control the volume directly from the web player interface.
Steps:
- Open your preferred web browser and go to https://open.spotify.com/.
- Log in to your Spotify account or create a new one if you don’t have an account.
- Start playing your music on the web player.
- Switch back to your game, and you can control the volume using the browser tab or window.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Works on both Windows and macOS. | 1. Requires a stable internet connection. |
| 2. Volume control is seamlessly integrated into the Spotify web player. | 2. Cannot use media keys on the keyboard to control the volume. |
Method 4. Via the Spotify Mobile App
If you have the Spotify mobile app and your computer and phone are connected to the same network, you can use the app to control the Spotify volume on your computer.
Steps:
- Make sure the Spotify app is installed on both your computer and mobile device.
- Open the Spotify app on your mobile device and connect it to the same Wi-Fi network as your computer.
- On your computer, click on the "Connect" button at the bottom-right corner of the Spotify app.
- Select your mobile device from the list of available devices.
- Start playing music on your mobile device and use the volume controls on your phone to adjust the volume.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Works on both Windows and macOS. | 1. Requires installation and setup of the Spotify app on both computer and mobile device. |
| 2. Provides a wireless solution without needing to leave the game. | 2. Requires a stable Wi-Fi connection between the computer and mobile device. |
Why Can’t I Change the Spotify Volume?
There could be several reasons why you might not be able to change the Spotify volume while in a game. Here are a few common issues and their fixes:
1. The game has exclusive control over the audio device:
Some games take control of the audio device and prevent other apps from adjusting the volume. To fix this issue, try the following:
- Alt+Tab out of the game to bring the Spotify app to the forefront and adjust the volume. Then, return to the game.
- Check the game’s audio settings and see if there are any options to disable exclusive control over the audio device.
2. Incorrect audio output settings:
Make sure the Spotify app is set to the correct audio output device. Follow these steps to check:
- Open the Spotify app and go to the "Settings" page.
- Scroll down to the "Playback" section and check the "Device" setting.
- Select the desired audio output device.
3. Audio driver issues:
Outdated or incompatible audio drivers can cause issues with volume control. To fix this, update your audio drivers to the latest version by visiting the manufacturer’s website or using a driver update utility.
Implications and Recommendations
Based on the methods discussed, here are three recommendations for changing the Spotify volume while in a game:
- Use the Windows Volume Mixer for quick and easy access to the Spotify volume slider.
- If you have multimedia keys on your keyboard, take advantage of them to adjust the volume without leaving the game.
- If you prefer using the Spotify Web Player, control the volume directly from the web player interface. Ensure you have a stable internet connection.
5 FAQs about Changing Spotify Volume While in a Game
Q1: Why can’t I change the Spotify volume directly within the game?
A: Some games have exclusive control over the audio device, preventing other apps from adjusting the volume. In such cases, you may need to try one of the alternative methods mentioned in this blog post.
Q2: Are the methods mentioned in this blog post applicable to all operating systems?
A: No, some methods are specific to certain operating systems. For example, the Windows Volume Mixer method is only applicable to Windows, while the Spotify Web Player method works on both Windows and macOS.
Q3: Do I need a Spotify premium account to control the volume using the mobile app?
A: No, a Spotify free account is sufficient to control the volume using the Spotify mobile app.
Q4: Can I use a different music streaming service to change the volume while in a game?
A: Yes, some of the methods mentioned in this blog post can be adapted to work with other music streaming services that have dedicated apps or web players.
Q5: How can I minimize audio interruptions while changing the Spotify volume?
A: To minimize audio interruptions, make sure you adjust the volume during less critical moments in the game, such as during a loading screen or when pausing the game.
Final Words
Changing the Spotify volume while in a game doesn’t have to be a hassle. With the methods discussed in this blog post, you can easily adjust the audio level without interrupting your gaming experience. Whether it’s using the Windows Volume Mixer, keyboard shortcuts, the Spotify Web Player, or the mobile app, you now have various options at your disposal. Choose the method that works best for you and enjoy your favorite tunes while gaming!