To connect Bluetooth headphones to a Windows 10 PC, put the headphones in pairing mode, then open Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices, click Add Bluetooth or other device, choose Bluetooth, and click your headphones in the list. Windows connects them and usually switches the sound to them automatically. Next time, they should reconnect on their own when you turn them on.
Here’s the full process, how to make sure the sound comes out of your headphones, and fixes for the most common problems, like headphones that won’t show up or sound choppy.
Before you start
- Check that your PC has Bluetooth. Most laptops do. Many desktops don’t, but a small USB Bluetooth adapter adds it.
- Charge your headphones and keep them within a few feet of the PC.
- Disconnect them from your phone. Many headphones connect to one device at a time and won’t show up while they’re connected elsewhere.
How to pair Bluetooth headphones with Windows 10
- Put your headphones in pairing mode. On most models, hold the power or Bluetooth button for about 5 to 7 seconds until a light flashes. For AirPods, open the case and hold the setup button on the back (or double-tap the front of the case on AirPods 4) until the light flashes white.
- On your PC, press Windows + I and click Devices.
- Make sure Bluetooth is turned On.
- Click Add Bluetooth or other device, then click Bluetooth.
- Click your headphones when they appear, and click Done once they connect.
Some newer headphones support Swift Pair. If you see a notification asking to connect when you put them in pairing mode near your PC, just click Connect.
How to make sound play through your headphones
- Click the speaker icon in the taskbar.
- Click the name of the current output device above the volume slider.
- Choose your headphones. If you see two entries, like Headphones and Headset, pick Headphones for music and videos.
The Headset option turns on the microphone for calls but lowers the audio quality. Apps like Teams or Zoom switch to it automatically during calls.
How to reconnect headphones you’ve already paired
Turn the headphones on near your PC. They usually reconnect automatically. If not, go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices, click the headphones under Audio, and click Connect.
Related: How to Connect Google Pixel Buds to a Computer.
Troubleshooting
- Headphones don’t appear in the list: Put them back in pairing mode. Pairing mode usually times out after a minute or two. Also turn off Bluetooth on your phone.
- No Bluetooth option in Settings: Your PC may not have Bluetooth, or the driver may be missing. Open Device Manager and look for a Bluetooth section. Install the latest driver from your PC maker’s website, or use a USB Bluetooth adapter.
- Paired but no sound: Choose the headphones as the output device from the speaker icon. Check that they aren’t muted.
- Choppy or cutting-out audio: Move closer to the PC, away from Wi-Fi routers and USB 3 devices. Choose Headphones instead of Headset. Plugging a USB Bluetooth adapter into a front port can help desktops.
- They connected before but won’t now: Click the headphones in Bluetooth settings, choose Remove device, then pair them again.
- Still stuck: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters and run Bluetooth.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Bluetooth headphones and speakers at the same time?
Windows plays sound through one output device at a time. Some apps let you pick a different device for their audio in Settings > System > Sound > App volume and device preferences.
Why does the mic sound bad on Bluetooth headphones?
Classic Bluetooth uses a low-quality mode when the mic is on. For better call quality, use a wired headset or one with its own USB dongle.
Do I need to pair again after restarting my PC?
No. Paired headphones stay paired until you remove them.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.