Dum Question?: Should I let windows manage my default on my printer or set default printer myself ?

[BRASILEIRO]

Operating HP notebook (Win 10) and Dell laptop (Win 7) on same printer (HP Envy 114 e-all-in-one printer-D411c) and default has been set to let Windows my default printer on Hp Notebook and have left Dell alone as it was (they are both printing great as of this moment!). I am the only operator of both laptops, my main question is; for someone to explain what is the complete difference between the two (let Windows do it or choose my own default's): and what does both do in detail. I believe I chose the correct default for (me), but I would like to hear it from the community (Expert). Thank You !

[Dragon-Fur · Accepted solution]

@BRASILEIRO 

It is not a dumb question but the answer is one that you can decide for yourself based on your situation and your expectations.

Windows 10

Settings > Devices > Printers and Scanners

Scroll down to see the option (along with a box you can check): "Let Windows manage my default printer"

Windows provides the explanation under the selection:

When this is on, Windows will set your default printer to be the one you used most recently at your current location.

So?

In so much that I recall, this is the same (or similar) to the way the feature worked in Windows 7 (though I have not actually seen a Windows 7 system in a while).

Based on that assumption (that the feature is the same / similar to the old Windows 7 option):

• If you move around from office to home to friend's house to office to the local library - and each of these locations has a printer that you use AND you want Windows to fuss with your default printing device setting, then you might want to let Windows "have at it" and adjust the default printer as / when you change locations.

Comment:  I cannot attest to how well (current) Windows manages changing the device default - we no longer have a reason to use the feature.  Personally, I tend to manage my own settings as a matter of choice / control / expectations.

• If you primarily use your own printer in your own office / home and you are satisfied to manage the default printer setting if / when it is necessary, then retain control of the option.  For example, leave the box unchecked or use other (Windows 7) control to "opt out" of the feature.

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