How To Connect Airpods To Laptop

 

The AirPods were introduced on September 7, 2016. At that time, they featured the Apple W1 chip, which was primarily used to connect to Apple devices for optimal functionality. However, since they work on Bluetooth technology, you can also connect them to laptops and other devices. 

In this article, we will cover how to connect AirPods to notebooks and other Android mobiles. Is the procedure slightly different, or is it the same process as connecting to Apple devices?

Do AirPods Work Well With Laptops?

Yes, AirPods are compatible with laptops, but with them, you won’t get all the features. Some features can only be enjoyed when connected to Apple devices. For example, if you use them for listening to music, they are great, but on the other hand, features like automatic switching, battery indicator, and spatial audio don’t work. Let’s try to understand this in detail.

How to Connect AirPods to a Laptop?

Since AirPods are designed specifically for Apple devices, the recommendation is to choose wireless devices that are compatible with other devices. However, if you follow these easy steps to connect them, you will face fewer errors.

What To Keep In Mind Before Pairing

Before connecting, it's very important to keep some things in mind. First of all, make sure that your computer has the Bluetooth feature available in Windows 10 or 11. If this feature is available, you should have proper knowledge about it so that you can fix any errors that may occur. Your airpods should be fully charged. The operating system should also be fully updated, as it will not work on an outdated version.

Step-by-Step Process To Connect Airpods to Windows 10 PC's

Bluetooth Activation

  • Check if the Windows 10 PC's Bluetooth is activated. 
  • Click on Settings by pressing the Windows key + I or by tapping the gear icon within the Start menu. 
  • Go to "Devices" and then "Bluetooth & other devices". Check that the toggle switch for Bluetooth is on.

AirPods Preparation

Put your AirPods into their charging case and close the lid. It will reset their connection state & get them ready to pair. Wait about 15-30 seconds before continuing.

Pairing Mode

Open the cover of the AirPods case and find the small round button on the back of the case. Press and hold this button until the LED light starts flashing white. It means the AirPods are in pairing mode & ready to be connected.

Device Detection

  • Click on "Add Bluetooth or other device" in Windows Bluetooth settings. 
  • Choose "Bluetooth" from the listed options. 

Your computer will now scan for any Bluetooth devices that are within its reach.

Step-by-Step Process To Connect Airpods to Windows 11 PC's

Its process is the same as connecting on Windows 10 but with some minor differences.

Open Settings with command (Windows key + I)

Select "Bluetooth & devices" located on the left-side menu

Make sure Bluetooth is enabled

Click the "Add device" button

Choose the Bluetooth option

Follow the same AirPods case and button activation process

Which Features Work Well After Connecting AirPods to a Laptop?

Audio Playback Feature

The audio playback is one of the most useful devices for a laptop because laptops provide a good audio experience. Platforms like Shopify and YouTube, as well as similar platforms, offer high-quality sound features with AirPods on laptops. So, for audio features, AirPods are undoubtedly worth buying.

Media Control Functions

The core media control operations are well-rounded on Windows. Playing, pausing, and skipping music is easily accessible from the laptop or through system audio settings. 

Volume changes are also simple, and the overall control system seems intuitive. It implies that professionals handling presentations, students learning through online classes, or moviegoers and gamers can comfortably control their audio experience.

Microphone Performance

You can use AirPods for microphone functionality with a laptop without any issues. On Windows, you can use AirPods for video conferences, voice calls, and voice notes. They work well with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Skype, and other communication platforms, providing clear voice transmission.

Features That Do Not  Work Well After Connecting AirPods to a Laptop?

Yet, AirPods lose that bit of charm when they're separated from Apple products. Apple's ecosystem-like automatic ear detection does not apply to Windows. The earbuds will neither pause music by themselves when yanked out nor resume upon being put back in. It requires manual treatment from the listener, which slightly gets in the way for one used to the effortless experience that Apple provides.

Battery and Connectivity Challenges

If we use AirPods on Windows, there’s a main issue we face, which is battery information tracking. For example, when we connect to Apple devices, we get detailed information like the separate battery percentage for both AirPods and the charging case, whereas Windows offers limited visibility. 

Users have to rely on a third-party tool to get that information, which can be difficult and sometimes risky because it may allow viruses to enter the system. Additionally, Bluetooth connectivity can be less stable, often requiring manual reconnection.

Sound Customization Limitations

Users of Windows will experience notable restrictions on sound personalization. Spatial audio, which creates a rich audio experience on Apple products, is missing. SBC is normally the default audio codec employed, and this may cause slightly degraded sound quality when compared to Apple-optimized connections. Audiophiles may find this especially disheartening.

Third-Party Solutions and Workarounds

To improve the AirPods experience on Windows, a number of third-party programs have been developed. Connectivity is improved by tools such as ToothFairy, whereas apps such as PodsDot allow improved tracking of battery. Windows sound equalizer programs can also assist users in improving their audio experience to some level, closing the functionality gap.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you pair AirPods with Windows 11?

Yes. The procedure may appear slightly different from that for apple devices, but the process should remain the same.

Reasons Why Are Airpods Not Paired With A Pc?

Double-check that you have Bluetooth turned on in your PC settings. If you don't see a switch to turn Bluetooth on and off, your computer might not be Bluetooth-capable.

What To Do If AirPods Won't Enter Pairing Mode?

Ensure both AirPods are in the case and that the case is open. Your AirPods won't enter pairing mode if the case is shut.

Airpods Paired, But No Sound?

Ensure your audio output is turned to your AirPods. You can simply do this by clicking the tiny speaker icon from the taskbar and clicking on the name of your audio output device just above the volume indicator. You can select a different output device from there.

Final Words

You can connect your AirPods to a laptop running Windows 10 or 11. However, you might run into some issues during the connection. If you want to listen to audio files, AirPods are a good choice. To enjoy all features, make sure you use compatible devices.