How to pair AirPods with a Windows PC

AirPods connect to Windows PCs through the standard Bluetooth pairing process. The setup takes minutes and provides full audio functionality, though some advanced features like automatic switching remain exclusive to Apple devices.

1. Open Windows Settings. Press Windows key + I to open Settings. Click on 'Devices' in Windows 10, or 'Bluetooth & devices' in Windows 11. Ensure Bluetooth is turned on—the toggle should show 'On' with a blue background.
2. Put AirPods in pairing mode. Place both AirPods in their charging case and close the lid. Wait 30 seconds, then open the lid. Press and hold the setup button on the back of the case until the status light flashes white. The light will flash white continuously while in pairing mode.
3. Add Bluetooth device. In Windows Settings, click 'Add Bluetooth or other device' (Windows 10) or 'Add device' (Windows 11). Select 'Bluetooth' from the popup menu. Windows will begin scanning for available devices immediately.
4. Select your AirPods. Your AirPods will appear in the device list as 'AirPods', 'AirPods Pro', or 'AirPods Max' depending on your model. Click on your AirPods name. Windows will establish the connection and show 'Connected' when successful.
5. Set AirPods as audio device. Right-click the speaker icon in your system tray and select 'Open Sound settings'. Under 'Output', select your AirPods from the dropdown menu. Test the connection by playing audio from any application.
6. Configure audio quality. In Sound settings, click 'Device properties' next to your AirPods. Set the audio format to '2 channel, 16 bit, 44100 Hz (CD Quality)' for optimal performance. Click 'Apply' to save changes.