This setup is not limited to Microsoft Teams. It also works with Zoom, Slack, Google Meet, and other meeting applications.

JAWS includes a layered command for separating its volume from Windows system audio: Insert+Space, followed by V, B, and the arrow keys. It works, but I find it tedious when I need to adjust both JAWS and meeting volume quickly.

For my docked laptop setup, I prefer using two separate audio devices with physical controls.

What you need

  1. Connect a pair of external speakers that has a physical volume control.
  2. In Teams, select the docking station's 3.5 mm audio jack as the speaker output. This keeps meeting audio routed to the external speakers.
  3. Pair Bluetooth headphones and set them as the default Windows audio device. I strongly prefer Apple AirPods for this setup. When the AirPods are connected and out of their charging case, the laptop's keyboard volume controls adjust the AirPods, and non-Teams audio is routed through them. (Note: AirPods Pro can control volume directly on the stem)

How it works

When the AirPods are not in use, Windows falls back to the next available audio device. In my setup, that is the docking station's 3.5 mm jack and external speakers.

When I join a meeting, I put in one AirPod—or both, if I want. Within a second, the AirPods connect and take over Windows system audio, including JAWS, NVDA, or Narrator. I can adjust that audio from the laptop keyboard or the headphones' own controls. On my Lenovo, for example, I use Fn+F2 and Fn+F3.

Teams meeting audio remains on the external speakers, where I can adjust it with the speaker's volume knob. That gives me two immediate, tactile volume controls: one for the meeting and one for everything else.

Why I prefer it

This arrangement makes it easy to shift my attention to whichever audio matters most without working through software volume controls. It also keeps screen reader speech out of the room, reducing the chance that it will bleed into the meeting and distract other participants.

It is especially convenient for incoming Teams Phone calls. I can take an AirPod from its case, put it in my ear, and have the audio split automatically within a second. The setup is wireless and discreet, and using one AirPod at a time makes it practical to keep going throughout the day.