AirPods are often lumped into the larger Apple ecosystem, and for good reason: They’re easy to set up and connect to an Apple device, whether it’s an iPhone, iPad or Mac. However, you aren’t limited to using AirPods with Apple products. While only devices from Apple will support this near-instant setup, you can connect your AirPods to virtually any device that uses Bluetooth—Windows laptops included.
Before connecting your AirPods, you’ll want to make sure they have enough battery. Ideally, you’ll want your AirPods to have at least 20-30% battery life before pairing them, so pop them into their charging case for a few minutes if they’re looking a bit low.
Next, make sure your laptop’s Bluetooth is on, from Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & Other devices.
How to connect your AirPods to your Windows laptop
Near the top of the Bluetooth settings menu, you should see an option with a plus icon that says: Add Bluetooth or other device. Click that, and you’ll see three options under Add a device: Bluetooth, Wireless display or dock, and Everything else. Select the first option on the list.
Next, you’ll need to put your AirPods into pairing mode, which allows them to search for other Bluetooth devices to connect to. Make sure your AirPods are in their case, then press and hold on the button on the back until you see an LED light flash white. (The light might be inside the case or on the outside depending on your AirPods model.) The exception is AirPods Max: You’ll need to hold down the noise control button until you see this flashing light.
Now, on your laptop, you’ll see a list of available Bluetooth devices. One of these devices should be your AirPods. Click on the icon for your AirPods to pair your laptop with them. When you see a screen that says: “Your device is ready to go!,” you’re connected.
Unpairing AirPods from Windows
If you need to remove your AirPods from your laptop, go to the Bluetooth & Other devices menu, choose your AirPods from the Bluetooth list and click on Remove device.