How to Change Your Default Printer
To change your default printer on Windows, go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners, select your desired printer, and click 'Set as default'. On Mac, open System Settings > Printers & Scanners, select your printer, and click 'Set as Default'.
Changing your default printer sets which printer is automatically selected for printing jobs. This setting is persistent until you change it again. It does not affect printer availability or installed drivers.
Before you start
- Ensure all printers you want to select from are properly installed and connected.
- Make sure you have the necessary permissions to change system settings.
- Check that the printers are powered on and connected to the same network if wireless.
How to Change Your Default Printer
Open Settings on Windows
Click the Start menu and select the gear icon to open Settings. Alternatively, press Windows + I to open Settings directly.
Navigate to Printers & Scanners
In Settings, click on 'Bluetooth & devices' then select 'Printers & scanners' from the list of options.
Select Your Printer
Find the printer you want to set as default in the list of available printers. Click on it to select.
Set as Default
Click the 'Set as default' button. A checkmark will appear next to the printer indicating it is now the default.
Change Default Printer on Mac
Open System Settings, click on 'Printers & Scanners', select your printer, and click 'Set as Default'.
Tips & shortcuts
- You can quickly access the Printers & Scanners menu by searching for 'printer' in the Windows search bar.
- To confirm the change, print a test page from any application and verify the correct printer is used.
- If you have 'Let Windows manage my default printer' enabled, your default printer may change based on usage.
- On Mac, the 'Default' label will appear next to the selected printer in the Printers & Scanners list.
- Remember that changing the default printer affects all applications unless they have their own printer selection settings.
Troubleshooting
- If the 'Set as default' option is greyed out, ensure the printer is properly connected and installed.
- If your desired printer does not appear, check the printer's connection and ensure drivers are installed.
- If the change does not take effect, restart your computer and try again.
- For network printers, ensure your computer is connected to the correct network and the printer is online.
Frequently asked questions
Is changing the default printer permanent?
No, you can change it as often as needed by following the same steps.
Will I still be charged if I change my default printer?
Changing the default printer does not affect billing as it is just a system setting.
Does this work on iPhone and Android?
No, default printer settings are managed differently on mobile devices and depend on individual apps.
How long does it take for the change to take effect?
The change is immediate for new print jobs, but some applications may need to be restarted.
Can I set different default printers for different applications?
No, the default printer setting applies system-wide, but individual applications can override it.