Skip to content
Follow
Windows 🟢 Beginner

How to let Windows 11 Set the last printer used as the default printer

Richard
Written by
Richard
Jun 19, 2026 Updated Aug 18, 2026 1 min read
Windows 11 settings screen displaying printers and scanners with options to add, manage, or remove devices
Windows 11 settings screen displaying printers and scanners with options to add, manage, or remove devices

Windows 11 features a built-in option called “Let Windows manage my default printer” that automatically switches your default printer to whichever device you used last. This handy setting saves you from picking the wrong machine every time you print.

You can turn on this feature in the Windows 11 Settings app in just a few clicks. It works best if you use more than one printer, like a home label maker and an office copier.

⚡ Quick Answer

Go to Settings Bluetooth & devices Printers & scanners and turn the “Let Windows manage my default printer” option to On. Windows will then automatically use the printer you last printed to as the default.

Make Windows Your Printing Helper

Letting Windows choose your last-used printer saves time when jumping between different locations and hardware.

Let’s learn how to set these options for better printing.

Option 1Windows Picks the Last Printer Used

This tells Windows to be smart about how you print. You don’t have to remember to change the default printer; Windows will remember for you. Think of it as having a helpful assistant who remembers you just printed a photo and might want to use the photo printer again.

Step 1Open Printer Settings

Open your Windows settings by clicking the Start button (usually bottom-left), then select Settings (the gear icon). Navigate to ‘Bluetooth & devices,’ and then click on ‘Printers & scanners.’

Windows 11 Printers and scanners settings tile in Settings app.
Windows 11 Printers and scanners settings tile in Settings app.

Step 2Let Windows Manage Your Default Printer

Scroll down the Printers & scanners menu and toggle the switch labeled 'Let Windows manage my default printer' to the on position. Turn this option On.

Windows 11 setting to let Windows manage the default printer.
Windows 11 setting to let Windows manage the default printer.

Step 3Confirm the Setting

Once you've turned on the 'Let Windows manage my default printer' option, your PC will automatically select the printer you last printed to as the default for your next print job.

Reference:

https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/set-a-default-printer-in-windows-e10cf8b8-e596-b102-bf84-c41022b5036f

Summary

Letting Windows manage your default printer means it will automatically pick the printer you used last, saving you the hassle of switching it manually.

Was this guide helpful?

100% of readers found this helpful (2 votes)

Tags: #Windows 11
Was this helpful?
Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

📚 Related Tutorials

How to Manually set the default printer in Windows 11
Windows How to Manually set the default printer in Windows 11
How to Set data limit on your Wi-Fi in Windows 11
Windows How to Set data limit on your Wi-Fi in Windows 11
Why Is My Default Printer Changing Automatically In Windows 11
Windows Why Is My Default Printer Changing Automatically In Windows 11
How to Change AutoPlay Settings in Windows 11
Windows How to Change AutoPlay Settings in Windows 11

1 Comment

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *