How to Use AirPods on a PC or Laptop

AirPods have become something of a flagship product for Apple, becoming almost synonymous with wireless earbuds. But that doesn’t mean they’re exclusive to Apple users.

If you’re not willing to part ways with your PC, don’t worry. Apple’s not going to force you. Granted, it’s not going to be quite as seamless as pairing them with your iPhone, but using AirPods with a PC isn’t difficult at all. Keep reading to find out how to pair your AirPods with a PC or laptop in a few easy steps.

Pairing AirPods to a Windows PC

To pair your AirPods on any Windows computer, you’ll treat them like any other Bluetooth peripheral.

Before you do anything, make sure your AirPods and their case are fully charged. If you’re using a desktop computer, it will need to have Bluetooth capability to pair it with the ‘Pods. Older motherboards won’t have a Bluetooth adapter, but you can buy a USB dongle online or at any tech retailer.

Make sure your Bluetooth is turned on and follow these steps:

1. Go to your PC’s “Settings.” You can access them by clicking on the gear icon in the Windows menu or type “settings” into the system search bar and select the first option.
2. In the Settings, click on “Devices.”
   
3. Next, click on “Add Bluetooth or other devices.” This will open another window.
4. From the Add Device window, select “Bluetooth” and you’ll open a window that shows you all the nearby devices you can pair with.
   
5. Place the AirPods in their charging case, then press and hold the button on the back of the case until the charging light on the case starts blinking white.
6. If they’re close enough to the computer, the AirPods should show up on your Add Devices screen. You’ll find them by the name that you set them up with. Click on the AirPods icon.

If they pair correctly, you will be able to use your AirPods right away. If you can’t, you may have to select them as the default audio device in the Sound Settings menu.

Using AirPods with Other Devices

That covers Windows users, but what about other systems and devices? Well, it’s pretty much the same procedure.

Whether you’re using an Android mobile device or a Linux-based laptop, the AirPods will be treated like any other Bluetooth peripheral. On your device, go to the Bluetooth settings and turn on your Bluetooth. Then, place the AirPods in the case and press the button until it starts pulsing. Your device should be able to detect them.

After the initial pairing process, if you disconnect, your PC or laptop should remember the Airpods just as it does any other device. When you’d like to use them again open the case and they should pair automatically. But, if for some reason they don’t, open the Bluetooth settings on your computer and select your Airpods with the case open and at least one Airpod in your ear.

Your Airpods will attempt to connect ot the most reasonable device within its range. So, if you need to connect to your computer but your phone is nearby, you may need to select the device from the computer.

Are They Worth the Hassle?

That’s a tough question to answer, and it largely depends on your personal style. Airpods, like most Apple products, are not cheap. However, there are a lot of reasons to love these earphones.

Apple’s Airpods are incredibly reliable, have a great battery life, have great sound quality, and they’re quite comfortable. You can still purchase the first and second-generation Airpods or the Airpods Pro depending on your preference. In terms of truly wireless earphones, you probably won’t find a better deal than the AirPods.

And if it means a little more work around pairing them with your PC, it’s probably not that big of a price to pay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Automatic Ear Detection work with Airpods on a PC?

One of the features that makes Airpods so great compared to other Bluetooth devices on the mark is automatic ear detection. When you put the buds in your ear your computer’s audio should begin to play through automatically. When you remove them; the audio should pause.

But, if this isn’t working for you, you’ll need an iPhone to correct the problem. Automatic ear detection is a feature that can be turned on then off. Head over to your iPhone and tap on ‘Bluetooth.’ Then, tap the ‘i’ next to your Airpods toggle the switch on and repair to your computer.

My computer doesn’t have Bluetooth. Can I still use Airpods?

Yes, actually. But you’ll need a Bluetooth dongle that plugs into a USB port. Just beware, before purchasing a dongle, ensure that it is compatible with Airpods.

Your AirPods, Your Rules

Don’t restrict yourself to Apple products if you own the AirPods or are considering getting a pair. They will work with just about anything that supports Bluetooth. It’s a simple process to pair them with your PC or laptop.

If you’re an AirPods owner, do you ever see yourself switching over to another brand or model? What would it take for you to make the switch? Let us know what you think in the comments below.