How to connect Bluetooth headphones to a PC

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To connect Bluetooth headphones to a PC, ensure that Bluetooth is enabled on your computer, put your headphones in pairing mode, and then select them from the Bluetooth settings on your PC. This process can vary slightly depending on your operating system version.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before connecting Bluetooth headphones to your PC, ensure you meet the following requirements.
  • •A PC with built-in Bluetooth capability or a Bluetooth USB adapter.
  • •Windows 10 or Windows 11 operating system.
  • •Bluetooth headphones that are charged and in pairing mode.
  • •Administrative access to change Bluetooth settings if required.

Method 1: Using Windows Settings

This method is straightforward and works for most users. It's recommended for those who prefer using the GUI.
  • •Step 1: Click on the 'Start' button (Windows icon) in the bottom-left corner of the screen.
  • •Step 2: Select 'Settings' (gear icon) from the Start menu.
  • •Step 3: In the Settings window, click on 'Devices'.
  • •Step 4: Select 'Bluetooth & other devices' from the left sidebar.
  • •Step 5: Toggle the Bluetooth switch to 'On' if it is off.
  • •Step 6: Click on 'Add Bluetooth or other device'.
  • •Step 7: In the 'Add a device' window, select 'Bluetooth'.
  • •Step 8: Put your Bluetooth headphones in pairing mode (usually by holding the power button until a light flashes).
  • •Step 9: Your headphones should appear in the list. Click on their name to connect.
  • •Step 10: Once connected, you will see a confirmation message and the headphones will be listed under 'Audio' devices.
  • •Step 11: To verify, right-click the sound icon in the taskbar, select 'Playback devices', and ensure your headphones are set as the default device.
  • •Step 12: If it doesn't work, ensure the headphones are in pairing mode and repeat the steps.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 has a slightly updated interface but follows a similar process.
  • •Step 1: Click on the 'Start' button and select 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'Devices' and then 'Bluetooth & devices'.
  • •Step 3: Ensure Bluetooth is turned on, then click 'Add device'.
  • •Step 4: Select 'Bluetooth' and follow the same steps as above.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users will find the process familiar but with slight variations.
  • •Step 1: Open 'Settings' from the Start menu.
  • •Step 2: Click on 'Devices' and then 'Bluetooth & other devices'.
  • •Step 3: Ensure Bluetooth is enabled, then click 'Add Bluetooth or other device'.
  • •Step 4: Select 'Bluetooth' and follow the same steps as above.

Method 2: Using Control Panel

This method is useful for users who prefer the traditional Control Panel interface.
  • •Step 1: Press 'Windows + R' to open the Run dialog.
  • •Step 2: Type 'control' and press 'Enter' to open the Control Panel.
  • •Step 3: Click on 'Hardware and Sound'.
  • •Step 4: Select 'Devices and Printers'.
  • •Step 5: Click on 'Add a device' at the top.
  • •Step 6: Wait for your Bluetooth headphones to appear, select them, and click 'Next'.
  • •Step 7: Follow any on-screen instructions to complete the pairing process.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter problems while connecting your Bluetooth headphones, consider the following solutions.
  • •Error: 'Device not found' - Solution: Ensure your headphones are in pairing mode and within range.
  • •Issue: 'Bluetooth not available' - Fix: Check if your Bluetooth drivers are up to date. Go to Device Manager, expand 'Bluetooth', right-click your Bluetooth device, and select 'Update driver'.
  • •Problem: 'Audio not playing through headphones' - Workaround: Right-click the sound icon in the taskbar, select 'Playback devices', and set your headphones as the default device.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some additional tips and shortcuts.
  • •Keyboard shortcut: 'Windows + I' - Opens Settings directly.
  • •Command line: 'devmgmt.msc' - Opens Device Manager for driver management.
  • •Hidden feature: 'Bluetooth Troubleshooter' - Access via Settings > Update & Security > Troubleshoot > Additional troubleshooters to resolve Bluetooth issues.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best experience, always keep your Bluetooth drivers updated and ensure your headphones are fully charged before use.