Canonical: https://screensie.com/knowledge-base/printers/printer-setup/set-default-printer/

Choose which printer Windows uses by default. Turn off Windows automatic printer management, then select the printer and choose Set as default.

[← All guides](https://screensie.com/knowledge-base/)



Printers


# How to Set the Default Printer




## How do I set the Default Printer?




Turn off Windows automatic printer management, then select the printer and choose Set as default.




Choose which printer Windows uses by default.




Updated 
September 2, 2026
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 5 min
Applies to: Windows, Windows 10, Windows 11


 


Follow the steps in order and stop if the screen or target does not match what is described. Use administrator access only when the task requires it.




**Before you begin**


Save open work. Confirm that you are working on the intended computer and that you are authorized to make the change.




## Open Printers & scanners




Open Settings \> Bluetooth & devices \> Printers & scanners.




## Disable automatic selection




Turn off Let Windows manage my default printer if the option is enabled.




## Choose the printer




Select the intended printer, then select Set as default.




## Verify




The printer should display Default beneath its name.




**Verify the result**


Repeat the relevant check and confirm the intended result before considering the task complete.


 


## Related guides




[Printers

### How to View Installed Printers

See every printer and print queue configured on a Windows PC. 5 min · Easy](https://screensie.com/knowledge-base/printers/printer-setup/view-installed-printers/)




[Printers

### How to Share a Printer in Windows

Share a printer attached to one Windows PC with authorized users on a trusted network. 7 min · Easy](https://screensie.com/knowledge-base/printers/printer-sharing/share-printer-windows/)




[Printers

### How to Print a Windows Test Page

Confirm that Windows can communicate with a printer. 5 min · Easy](https://screensie.com/knowledge-base/printers/printer-troubleshooting/print-test-page/)




[Printers

### How to Add a Printer in Windows

Add a USB, Wi-Fi, or network printer from Windows Settings. 6 min · Easy](https://screensie.com/knowledge-base/printers/printer-setup/add-printer-windows/)