Buzzing in headphones? Here’s what’s causing it

⚡ Fast fix

• Unplug and reconnect wired headphones to your device.
• Restart your smartphone, laptop, or other audio source.
• Disable and re-enable Bluetooth on your device.
• Connect your headphones to a different port.

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You're working on a project while Mozart plays through your headphones. Then the buzzing starts. At first, you ignore it, but it gets louder. What causes buzzing in headphones, and how can you get it to stop?

Asurion Experts fix problems like this every day. From explaining common Bluetooth® issues to helping customers reset AirPods Max®, count on us for a straight answer. Here's how to fix a buzzing sound in headphones next time it happens to you.

Identify when the buzzing occurs

Try to determine whether there's a pattern to the buzz sound in headphones. If you're listening to audio, stop the sound to see if the buzzing continues. This can tell you whether the issue occurs only during playback or is constant.

Another test is plugging the headphones into a different device. You can take a similar approach with wireless earbuds—pair them via Bluetooth with another audio source. If the buzzing noise in your headphones goes away, there may be something wrong with your original audio device, and not the headphones themselves.

Adjust the volume up and down to see if that affects the buzz in your headphones. Does it go away at a certain audio level? You can also try moving around. If the buzzing sound stops and then comes back while you're moving, you could have a damaged headphone cord that's affecting your listening experience.

Check interference and connection conflicts

Great, you've narrowed down when the buzzing occurs—but how can you stop it?

Test for frequency interference

Wireless noise-canceling headphones use the same frequency band as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. When there's overlapping traffic through the frequency band, it can disrupt your connection.

There are a couple of things you can do to solve interference. If your Wi-Fi router, audio source, and headphones are in proximity, separate them. For example, if the router sits next to your laptop, place it in a different room.

You can also try moving closer to the router if it's too far away.

Use a private Wi-Fi network

Too much congestion in your Wi-Fi network may affect wireless headphone performance. This can happen if you're using Wi-Fi in a public place (like a coffee shop) where other people connect their devices. The buzzing should go away when you connect to a private Wi-Fi network.

Consider ground loops and mixed-signal devices

Sometimes, buzzing can come from ground loops. They arise when you connect devices with varying voltages to a single device. Excess voltage can leak into the connections, causing interference. To combat ground loops, detach extra peripherals from your audio source. Then retry your headphones.

Combining digital and analog devices can disrupt your sound experience. This is known as mixed-signal interference. Check whether your audio source uses digital or analog sound, and use headphones with the same setting. Most smartphones and laptops use digital audio, so you'd want headphones with the same digital setting.

Inspect hardware and cable issues

If troubleshooting frequency and signal issues doesn't resolve the issue, there may be a problem with your headphones or audio source hardware.

Examine the headphone cable

Start by inspecting the headphones for damage. Look for frayed wire or a bent cable. If you spot any obvious defects, it's time to replace your headphones.

Reinsert loose headphone jacks

It's a simple fix, but worth mentioning—double-check that your headphones are fully inserted into your audio device. A loose jack can prevent audio from reaching the speakers (and cause a buzzing noise). You can also try removing the jack and reinserting it.

Evaluate speaker problems

Headphones don't last forever, and one of the first signs they're on their way out is failing speakers. Constant playback disruptions, buzzing, and sound from only one ear could indicate that the speakers are faulty. If your headphones are covered under tech care plans, consider getting them repaired or replaced.

Test headphones with another device

The problem may not be your headphones, but your audio device. Plug the headphones into another audio source and check the sound. If the buzzing stops, the device may have a damaged port.

Internal software conflicts can sometimes interfere with audio drivers, too. This is common with smartphones, laptops, and PCs. Check whether your device has the latest system updates. If it doesn't, download and install any available ones.

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FAQ

Why do my headphones make a buzzing noise even when nothing is playing?

A constant buzz may indicate interference, a ground loop issue, or hardware damage. Try disconnecting other peripherals and testing the headphones with another device.

Can Bluetooth cause buzzing in headphones?

Yes. Bluetooth interference from Wi-Fi routers, nearby devices, or network congestion can cause audio disruptions, including buzzing.

How do I stop wired headphones from buzzing?

Make sure the headphone jack is fully inserted, inspect the cable for damage, and try plugging into another device or port to rule out hardware problems.

When should I replace my headphones?

If you notice consistent buzzing, sound from only one ear, or frequent playback disruptions—even after troubleshooting—it may be time to replace them.