3 Best Ways to Set Default Apps on Windows 11

Setting default apps in Windows 11 can be confusing if you’re used to the old Windows 10 method. Microsoft changed the process, giving you more control — but also more clicks. Whether you’re trying to open PDFs in Adobe instead of Edge or set Chrome as your go-to browser, here are the three best ways to set default apps in Windows 11.

1. Use the Settings App (Per File Type or Protocol)

This is the most direct method but requires a bit of patience.

Steps:

1. Click Start and go to Settings.
2. Navigate to Apps > Default Apps.
3. Scroll down and click on the app you want to set defaults for (e.g., Google Chrome).
4. You’ll see a list of file types and protocols. Click each one (like .html, .pdf, or HTTP) and switch it to your preferred app.

Pros:

• Fine-grained control over every file type and protocol.
• Useful for power users who want to set defaults app-by-app.

Cons:

• Tedious if you need to change many defaults at once.

2. Right-Click Method (Quick Change for a File Type)

If you just want to change the default app for a specific file type, this is the fastest way.

Steps:

1. Right-click a file (e.g., a .jpg image).
2. Choose Open with > Choose another app.
3. Select the app you want.
4. Check the box that says Always use this app to open .jpg files.
5. Click OK.

Pros:

• Quick and easy.
• No need to dig into Settings.

Cons:

• Only changes the default for that one file type.

3. Set Defaults by App (Broad Changes Faster)

If you’ve just installed a new browser, email client, or media player, and you want it to handle everything it can, this is the way.

Steps:

1. Go to Settings > Apps > Default Apps.
2. Scroll down and select your preferred app.
3. Click the Set default button at the top (only available for some apps).
4. Or manually click each file type to assign it to this app.

Pros:

• A balanced mix of control and speed.
• Ideal when switching from default Microsoft apps.

Cons:

• Not all apps support bulk default settings.

Final Tip: Use “Default Apps” Search Shortcut

You can also type “Default apps” in the Start menu search bar and jump straight into the settings panel.

Bottom Line:
Windows 11 makes setting default apps a bit more complex than before, but once you know where to look, it’s easy to customize your setup. Use the right method for the job — quick right-clicks for one-offs, the full Settings app for detailed control, or app-wide changes when you’re starting fresh.

Want help setting up your system? Drop a comment or contact me — I’m happy to help.