How to pair Apple AirPods with your PC

Apple AirPods have been out for years, but it still feels seamless to pair them up seamlessly within an ecosystem of iPads, Macs and other Apple devices. But even those with the best Windows laptops and desktop PCs can use Apple’s iconic white earbuds with over Bluetooth with a little bit of effort. While they won’t have all of the Apple magic — they won’t be able to automatically pause when you remove an AirPod — you’ll still get their comfort and quality audio.

While it only takes a few seconds to pair your AirPods with your iPhone and the rest of your Apple devices, pairing your Apple AirPods or AirPods Pro 2 with your Windows PC requires a few extra steps, but won’t take long. We’ll walk you through pairing your AirPods with your PC and how to reconnect. 

Read more: Best AirPods Deals: Bag Apple’s Best Earbuds and Headphones With Deep Discounts  

Pair AirPods with PC

On your PC, search for and open Settings and choose Devices from the main menu. At the top of the Bluetooth & other devices page or tab, ensure that the toggle switch for Bluetooth is on. Next, click Add Bluetooth or other device at the top above the Bluetooth toggle switch. On the Add a device window, click Bluetooth.

Put your AirPods in their case and open the lid. Press and hold the button on the back of the case until you see the status light between your two AirPods start pulsing white, and then let go (this might take several seconds, so keep it held down). Your AirPods should show up in the Add a device window. Click to pair and connect.

Reconnecting once paired

After first connecting your Windows PC and your AirPods, you’ll be able to reconnect your AirPods and your PC for listening to music, watching YouTube, video conferencing and so on by heading back to the Bluetooth & other devices page in Settings. 

You’ll see all of your paired audio devices listed under the Audio header. Select your AirPods from the list and click the Connect button.

Read more: Apple AirPods Pro 2 vs. AirPods 3: How to Decide Between Them