What's the differnce between "Set as Default Device" and "Set as Default Communications Device" in the Sound configuration in Windows 7?

Question

I noticed that there are two similar options in the "Sound" (Soundcard Configuration window->playback tab in the context menu) window in Windows 7.

What is the difference between these two options?

Jason Down · Accepted Answer · 2010-05-14 02:28:54Z

34

There is a blog about it here.

Set as default device - All programs will have their audio played through this device (unless otherwise configured)
Set as default communications device - All calls/video call audio will be played through this device (unless otherwise configured)

answered May 14, 2010 at 2:28

Jason Down

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5

This makes sense concerning playback devices. For recording devices and microphones, I do not understand the distinction.
– Ronnie Overby
Commented Jan 6, 2021 at 15:40
You could choose to use a high-quality microphone for conferencing, gaming, etc. but leave your laptop's microphone as the default for basic voice commands.
– Neman
Commented Jul 12, 2023 at 17:16

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