Wireless Earphones Not Detected on Windows PC? Try These Simple Fixes

Having trouble connecting your wireless earphones to your Windows PC?

You’re not alone. Many users report issues where Bluetooth earphones are not recognized, produce no sound, or disconnect frequently—especially after system updates.

This guide walks you through simple steps to fix these problems, based on the latest Windows updates in 2025. Whether you’re a beginner or not, you’ll find clear instructions, common mistakes, and even some clever workarounds.

Start with the Basics

Is Your Earphone Turned On?

Make sure your wireless earphones are powered on. Check for blinking or steady LED indicators.

Are They in Pairing Mode?

When connecting for the first time, your earphones must be in pairing mode. Check your device manual—usually this involves holding down a button on the earbuds or charging case.

Is Bluetooth Enabled on Your PC?

Bluetooth must be turned on in Windows for your PC to detect devices.

How to check:
1. Go to [Start] → [Settings] → [Bluetooth & devices]
2. Make sure Bluetooth is turned ON
3. Also confirm that Airplane Mode is OFF under “Network & Internet”

Adjust Windows Bluetooth Settings

Remove Old Connections

If your PC previously connected to the same earphones, removing and re-pairing can help.

Steps:
1. Open [Settings] → [Bluetooth & devices]
2. Find your earphone’s name and click it
3. Choose [Remove device], then try pairing again

Temporarily Disable Bluetooth

Sometimes simply turning Bluetooth off and back on resets the connection.

1. Open [Settings] → [Bluetooth & devices]
2. Turn off Bluetooth
3. Wait 30 seconds and turn it back on
4. Try pairing your earphones again

Restart Windows

A basic restart can often solve invisible glitches. If you’ve changed settings, always reboot your system before testing again.

Update Your Bluetooth Driver

Outdated Bluetooth drivers can cause connection issues.

How to update:
1. Press [Start] and open [Device Manager]
2. Expand the [Bluetooth] section
3. Right-click your Bluetooth adapter and select [Update driver]
4. Choose [Search automatically for drivers]

If no updates are found, visit your PC or Bluetooth device manufacturer’s website for the latest driver.

If It Still Doesn’t Work

If all else fails, try these last-resort options:

① Reset Your Bluetooth Adapter:
1. Open Device Manager
2. Right-click your Bluetooth adapter → Uninstall device
3. Restart your PC → it will reinstall automatically

② Use an External USB Bluetooth Adapter:
If your built-in adapter is old or faulty, an external one can often solve the issue.

Bonus: Common Software Conflicts

Some apps may override your audio output settings. Check if sound works in other apps or check Windows’ volume mixer.

To adjust per-app output:
Right-click the speaker icon → “Volume Mixer” → Set output device for each app

⚠️ Disable “Fast Startup” if Connections Are Unstable

Windows’ Fast Startup feature can cause Bluetooth to fail after shutdown. Disable it like this:

1. Go to Control Panel → Power Options
2. Click “Choose what the power button does”
3. Select “Change settings that are currently unavailable”
4. Uncheck “Turn on fast startup (recommended)”

BIOS May Have Bluetooth Disabled

If Bluetooth doesn’t appear in Device Manager, it might be disabled in BIOS. On startup, press [F2] or [DEL] to enter BIOS and ensure Bluetooth is enabled under “Integrated Peripherals” or “Onboard Devices”.

After Windows Updates, Expect Trouble

Major Windows updates often reset drivers or audio settings. To avoid problems:

• Disconnect your earphones before updating
• Re-check audio settings and drivers after the update
• Use “Pause updates” if stability is important

Summary Table

Conclusion

If your Windows PC can’t detect or connect to Bluetooth earphones, don’t panic. Try each method above step by step—most problems are caused by small setting mismatches or temporary glitches.

Still no luck? The problem might be hardware-related, such as an aging Bluetooth module. In such cases, using a USB Bluetooth adapter or contacting support is a good next step.

🔎 Want to troubleshoot more Windows issues? Check out our full guide below:

▶ View all common Windows error codes and fixes

タグ: Windows 11, Bluetooth, Windows troubleshooting, wireless earphones, fast startup, pairing problems, sound not working, audio issues, Bluetooth driver