How to connect Bluetooth headphones to a Windows 11 PC

2 min read · 6 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Pairing is needed only once. After that the headphones connect by themselves when they are switched on near the PC. The same steps work for a Bluetooth mouse, keyboard or speaker.

These steps are for Windows 11. The pictures are simplified diagrams of the Settings window, not screenshots, so colours and spacing on your PC look a little different.

Step by step

1. Put the headphones in pairing mode

   Usually you hold the power or Bluetooth button for a few seconds until a light blinks. For earbuds, the button is often on the case. Check the manual if you are unsure.

   Done

2. Open Settings and choose Bluetooth & devices

   Press Windows + I and click Bluetooth & devices on the left. Make sure the Bluetooth switch at the top is on.

   Done

3. Click Add device

   A small window opens.

   Done

4. Choose Bluetooth

   It is the first option, for mice, keyboards, pens and audio devices.

   Done

5. Click the name of your headphones

   Wait until they appear in the list and click them. When the window says the device is ready, click Done.

   Done

6. Choose them as the sound output

   Click the speaker icon at the right end of the taskbar, then the sound output button to the right of the volume slider, and select the headphones.

   Done

Good to know

If there is no Bluetooth switch at all, the PC has no Bluetooth. A small USB Bluetooth adapter adds it.

If the headphones do not appear, switch them off and on, hold the pairing button again, and keep them away from the phone they were paired with before.

If the sound is poor during calls, that is normal for Bluetooth: the microphone mode uses lower sound quality. A wired headset or a separate microphone avoids it.

To remove a device, click the three dots next to it under Bluetooth & devices and choose Remove device.

In short: Pairing mode on the headphones. Settings, Bluetooth & devices, Add device, Bluetooth, pick the name.