Are your favorite songs or podcasts sounding a little too quiet through your AirPods, even when the volume is maxed out? You’re not alone. Many users experience this, and it can be frustrating when you’re trying to get lost in your audio or need to hear something clearly in a noisy environment. The good news is that the solution is often simpler than you think. Before you consider replacing your earbuds, there are several easy adjustments you can make to boost their output.
This guide will walk you through the most effective and straightforward methods for how to make AirPods louder with simple fixes. We will cover everything from basic settings on your iPhone to cleaning tips you might not have considered. Often, the issue isn’t with the AirPods themselves but with a software setting or a tiny piece of debris. Let’s get your audio back to a satisfying level.
Start With the Basics: Volume and Connection Checks
It might sound obvious, but the first place to look is the most direct one. Using the volume buttons on the side of your iPhone or the Control Center slider is your primary tool. Make sure you slide it all the way to the top. Also, check the volume on the specific app you’re using, as some, like YouTube or Spotify, have their own independent volume controls within the app.
Next, consider your connection. A weak or unstable Bluetooth connection can sometimes cause audio to cut out or sound quieter than usual. Try turning your AirPods off and on again by placing them in the case, closing the lid for 15 seconds, and then reconnecting. If that doesn’t help, you can “Forget This Device” in your Bluetooth settings and then re-pair them as if they were new. This often resolves underlying connectivity glitches that can affect sound quality and volume.
How to Make AirPods Louder [Simple Fixes] with Software Settings
Your iPhone has a few powerful audio settings that can dramatically change your listening experience. One of the most effective is the built-in equalizer (EQ). The EQ allows you to adjust the balance between different sound frequencies, and certain presets can make the audio seem significantly louder and clearer.
To find the EQ, go to Settings > Music > EQ. Here, you’ll see a long list of presets. For a general volume boost, try the “Late Night” setting. This preset compresses the audio dynamic range, making quiet sounds louder and loud sounds quieter, resulting in an overall more consistent and often louder output. The “Rock” or “Electronic” presets can also add punch and make the music feel more powerful. Experiment with a few while listening to a familiar song to see which one you prefer.
Disable Volume Limiting for a Full Range of Sound
Another crucial setting to check is the volume limit. This feature is designed to protect your hearing, but if it was enabled at some point and set too low, it could be the very reason your AirPods won’t get loud enough.
To make sure it’s turned off, navigate to Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Headphone Safety. Here, look for the “Reduce Loud Sounds” option. If this slider is enabled, it will cap your maximum volume at the level you set. You can either adjust the slider to a higher decibel level or, for testing purposes, turn the feature off completely to see if it resolves your volume issue. Remember, protecting your hearing is important, so use this setting wisely.
A Simple Clean Can Make a World of Difference
Over time, earwax, dust, and other debris can accumulate on the speaker grilles of your AirPods. This buildup can physically block the sound, muffling it and making it seem much quieter than it actually is. A thorough, gentle cleaning can sometimes restore them to their original volume.
First, check the meshy grilles on each AirPod. If you see any visible blockage, you can carefully clean them. Use a dry, soft-bristled brush (a new, clean toothbrush works well) to gently dislodge any loose debris. For more stubborn grime, lightly dab a cotton swab slightly moistened with isopropyl alcohol, being very careful not to get any liquid inside the openings. Let the AirPods dry completely before using them again. You’ll be surprised how much clearer and louder they can sound after a simple clean.
Adjusting Settings for Movies and Phone Calls
If you find that the volume is specifically low when watching videos or making phone calls, there are targeted settings for those as well. For video audio, check the “Mono Audio” and “Balance” settings. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Audio/Visual. Ensure “Mono Audio” is off, as this can sometimes affect perceived loudness, and check that the left-right balance slider is set directly in the center.
For phone calls, the volume is controlled separately from your media volume. During a call, you can use the physical volume buttons on the side of your iPhone to increase the call volume specifically. If people have trouble hearing you, also make sure the microphone grilles on your AirPods are clean and unobstructed.
When to Consider a Reset or Service
If you’ve tried all the simple fixes above and your AirPods are still too quiet, it might be time for more decisive action. A full factory reset can clear out any deep-seated software bugs. To reset your AirPods, place them in the case, close the lid, wait 30 seconds, then open the lid. On your iPhone, go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the “i” icon next to your AirPods, and select “Forget This Device.” Finally, with the case lid open, press and hold the setup button on the back of the case for about 15 seconds until the status light flashes amber and then white. You can then re-pair them.
If the problem persists even after a reset, and especially if the low volume is accompanied by distortion or crackling, there may be a hardware issue. In this case, contacting Apple Support or visiting an Apple Store for diagnostics would be the best next step, as your AirPods might need repair or replacement.
In most situations, one of these straightforward adjustments will successfully solve your volume woes. From toggling a simple software setting to giving your AirPods a quick clean, these methods are your first and best line of defense for getting the rich, loud sound you love from your wireless earbuds.