Bluetooth headphones show as connected but no sound comes out
Windows is connected to your headphones but isn't using them for sound. Go to Settings → Sound and look at 'Output device'. Make sure your headphones are selected there, not 'Speakers'. If they're already selected, disconnect and reconnect the headphones in Bluetooth settings.
When Bluetooth headphones connect but don't play sound, it's because Windows sees them as connected but hasn't told the sound system to use them for audio. The fix is simple: go to Sound settings and tell Windows to send audio to the headphones instead of the speaker. If they're already selected, a disconnect and reconnect resets the connection and gets audio flowing.
- ✓Check if the headphones show 'Connected' in Bluetooth settings. If they show 'Not connected' or 'Disconnected', the problem is the connection itself.
- ✓Check if you can hear anything at all from the computer. Mute the volume in Windows and unmute to see if the speaker works.
- ✓Check if the headphones have their own volume control. Some wireless headphones can be muted on the earpiece itself.
Fix-IT-Bot will walk you through each step, just tap, no typing needed.
Skip, I just want a technicianCommon mistakes to avoid
- Looking for the headphones in the list but not realizing they have a different name than expected. The name is the brand and model, look for anything that sounds like your headphones.
- Assuming the headphones are broken when the connection is just stuck. Always try disconnecting and reconnecting before thinking about hardware problems.
- Forgetting to check if the headphones' own volume is turned up. Some wireless headphones have a physical volume button or wheel.
Signs you need professional help
- If you selected the headphones in Sound settings but still hear nothing, or if the headphones keep disconnecting even after you reconnect them, or if Sound settings shows the headphones but you can't click on them to select them, get in touch and we'll help.
Book a technician
We can fix most issues remotely in 15 minutes. Book your weekend slot and we handle the rest.
Was this guide helpful?
Can't fix it yourself?
Most issues are resolved remotely in 15 minutes. Weekend appointments only, no parts, no in-home visit needed.
