How to fix laggy AirPods audio on a Windows PC

AirPods® are among the most popular wireless earbuds on the market. However, you may experience audio cutting out on your AirPods when using your Windows PC. This is because they’re optimized for Apple Devices.

Fortunately, with a few tweaks, you can fix laggy AirPods audio on your Windows computer.  If you’re experiencing other tech problems, check out our guides on connecting AirPods to a laptop, how to fix an AirPod case that won’t charge, and other AirPod audio issues. Read this guide to learn how to fix laggy AirPods audio on a Windows PC. 

Understand why Bluetooth audio can lag on Windows

Before troubleshooting a laggy AirPod, you should understand why Bluetooth audio can lag on Windows.

AirPods are designed for Apple devices

Apple products, including AirPods, default to AAC (Advanced Audio Codec), which provides higher-quality audio with minimal latency.

When AirPods are paired with Windows, however, AAC support is often inconsistent. As a result, your PC may default to the SBC codec instead—a lower-quality Bluetooth audio codec. This can lead to sound delays, distortion, or interruptions.

Compatibility issues with Windows

AirPods often default to Hands-Free mode instead of stereo mode. This can downgrade sound quality to prioritize microphone input.

Follow these instructions

Have you ever wondered, “Why are my AirPods glitching?” After connecting your AirPods to your Windows PC, follow these instructions to fix the problem.

Fix Bluetooth codec mismatches

Codec issues are one of the primary causes of laggy AirPods on Windows. Here’s how to fix them:

1. Check your Bluetooth connection: First, make sure your AirPods are fully charged and within a few feet of your PC. A weak Bluetooth connection or a low battery can cause audio delays.
2. Re-pair your AirPods: Remove the AirPods from your Bluetooth settings and reconnect them. To do this, go to Settings > Bluetooth. Then, click on the information icon (the circle with an I inside) and click "Forget This Device." Put your AirPods in pairing mode and connect again.
3. Clean your AirPods: Dirt or debris can interfere with sound quality. Use a soft, dry brush or cloth to clean the speaker mesh.
4. Use a Bluetooth adapter that supports AAC: If your PC’s built-in Bluetooth doesn't support AAC, use an external Bluetooth dongle that does. Some USB adapters offer better codec support and lower latency.

Adjust Windows sound settings

Windows may default to the wrong audio profile when connecting to AirPods. Follow these steps to fix it:

1. Open sound settings: Search for Sound in the taskbar and click it.
2. Choose the right output device: Under Output, select Headphones (AirPods Stereo) instead of Headset (AirPods Hands-Free). The stereo mode provides higher-quality audio and less latency than the hands-free profile, which is optimized for voice calls but compresses audio heavily.

Disable audio enhancements

Windows sound enhancements can interfere with audio playback. Disabling them can help reduce lag.

1. Go to System  > Sound > Playback tab.
2. Select your AirPods > Click Properties.
3. Navigate to the Enhancements tab.
4. Check “Disable all enhancements” and apply changes.

You can also try changing the default format. In System > Sound > All Sound Devices > Properties, experiment with formats like 16-bit, 48000 Hz (CD Quality) or 24-bit, 48000 Hz (Studio Quality) to see which sounds best.

Disable Handsfree Telephony

This often-overlooked setting can significantly affect sound quality:

1. Open Control Panel > Devices and Printers.
2. Right-click on your AirPods > Properties.
3. Go to the Services tab.
4. Uncheck Handsfree Telephony and click OK.

This forces Windows to stop treating your AirPods as a headset and instead as high-quality stereo headphones, which improves audio playback.

Update or roll back audio drivers

Outdated or faulty Bluetooth/audio drivers can also cause lag.

1. Open Device Manager: Right-click the Start button > Device Manager.
2. Update drivers: Expand Bluetooth and Sound, video and game controllers. Right-click your audio/Bluetooth device > Update driver.
3. Roll back if necessary: If the issue started after a recent Windows update, try rolling back the driver. Right-click the device > Properties > Driver tab > Roll Back Driver.

FAQ

Does switching audio output help with AirPods lag?

Yes. Make sure your PC is using AirPods Stereo rather than Hands-Free Audio. The latter is of lower quality and intended for calls.

Should I use a Bluetooth dongle for better AirPods performance?

Yes. A Bluetooth dongle can provide a more stable connection compared to built-in Bluetooth on your computer. They also support higher audio codecs, reducing the likelihood of laggy audio.

How do I update or reset Bluetooth on a Windows computer?

You can update your Bluetooth drivers via Device Manager. To reset, disable and re-enable Bluetooth in Settings, or remove and re-pair your AirPods.