Why Your AirPods Are Quiet and How to Fix It

Common Issues with AirPods and How to Fix Them

Apple's AirPods are a popular choice for wireless earbuds, but they come with a price tag that may not be ideal for everyone. Even the older models can cost around $179, which is a significant investment. When you spend this much on a product, it's reasonable to expect it to perform well in terms of battery life, sound quality, and Bluetooth connectivity. While AirPods typically deliver on these aspects, especially when paired with Apple devices, they are not immune to occasional issues.

One common problem users face is their AirPods suddenly sounding too quiet. This can be frustrating, especially if you're relying on them for work or entertainment. However, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take at home before considering a replacement or visiting an Apple store.

Your AirPods Might Be Dirty

One of the simplest reasons your AirPods might be quieter than usual is that they are dirty. Earbuds are often in your ears or stored in their case, making it easy to neglect cleaning them. Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate, affecting sound quality.

To address this, Apple recommends cleaning the meshes of your AirPods using micellar water and a soft toothbrush. Gently brush each mesh for about 15 seconds, then blot them with a paper towel. Repeat this process twice more. Afterward, rinse the brush with distilled water and repeat the same steps. Allow the AirPods to dry completely for two hours before using them again. If you have AirPods Pro models with silicone ear tips, you can remove and rinse them with water, then wipe them dry and reattach them.

Safety Settings Might Be Limiting Volume

Another possible cause of quiet AirPods is the built-in Headphone Safety settings. These features are designed to protect your hearing by limiting the maximum volume. The "Reduce Loud Audio" feature automatically lowers the volume when it detects high decibels. If this feature is enabled, it could make your AirPods seem quieter than they actually are.

To check this setting, go to Settings > Sounds & Haptics (or Sound on iPad) > Headphone Safety. If the toggle for "Reduce Loud Audio" is on, you can either turn it off or adjust the decibel limit. The maximum allowed is 100 decibels, which is as loud as an ambulance siren.

Audio Balance Might Be Off

If one AirPod sounds quieter than the other, it could be due to an imbalance in the audio settings. This often happens if you've adjusted the audio balance in the Accessibility settings on your iPhone or iPad. To fix this, go to Settings > Accessibility > Audio & Visual. Look for the Balance slider and move it back to the center so that the number reads zero. This ensures both AirPods receive equal sound output.

Device Volume Might Be Too Low

Sometimes, the issue isn't with the AirPods themselves but with the device you're using. Check the volume settings on your phone or laptop to make sure they’re not set too low. If you’ve accidentally lowered the volume while using your device without the AirPods, it might remember that setting and play media at a lower volume when you connect your AirPods.

On iPhones, you can use the volume buttons, Control Center, or the Sound and Haptic page in Settings to adjust the volume. For AirPods Pro 2 models, you can also use touch controls on the stem to adjust the volume. However, if the touch controls aren’t working properly, manually adjusting the volume on your device might be necessary.

Resetting Your AirPods

If none of the above solutions work, resetting your AirPods might help. Start by placing them in the charging case and closing the lid for a few seconds. Ensure they are fully charged, as low battery can affect performance. If the issue persists, you can reset them through your device’s Bluetooth settings. On an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the info icon next to your AirPods, and select "Forget This Device." Then, press and hold the button on the back of the charging case until the indicator light flashes white. Follow the on-screen instructions to reconnect your AirPods.

By following these steps, you can often resolve the issue of quiet AirPods without needing to replace them. Regular maintenance and checking settings can go a long way in ensuring your AirPods continue to perform well.