Why Are My AirPods So Quiet? (11 Ways To Fix)

If you’ve saved up and waited for the perfect moment to buy a pair of Apple AirPods, you’re probably expecting them to perform admirably. And, on the whole, they deliver.

AirPods are one of Apple’s most popular products. They’re simple to use and extremely effective! However, there are times when they have issues that must be addressed. One common issue is that AirPods become quiet or have a low volume over time. Have you ever encountered this problem?

WHY ARE MY AIRPODS SO QUIET?

Your AirPods are so quiet because there’s gunk build-up on them, and your device’s volume and battery levels are low.

Certain audio and device settings such as “Low Power Mode,” volume limit, and equalizer also cause them to become quiet. Other reasons include outdated firmware and hardware damages.

11 REASONS WHY YOUR AIRPODS ARE SO QUIET AND HOW TO FIX IT

#1: There’s gunk build-up in the earbuds

It may sound strange, but gunk buildup is one of the most common causes of your AirPods being so quiet. Physical obstructions, more than anything else, can make any earbuds appear quieter. Because these directly obstruct your device’s sound pathway. Gunk on the AirPods can come from a variety of sources, including:

• Dirt.
• Dust.
• Earwax.
• Flakes of dead skin

And these things usually accumulate when the sweat on the earbuds speakers evaporates. When running or working out, some people use their AirPods. And their sweat can occasionally get into the AirPods speakers. Sweat, if not cleaned immediately, can dry up and quickly accumulate dust and dirt. “But I don’t exercise, so…”

If that’s the case, the gunk buildup in your AirPods could be due to earwax and dirt. Even if you’re not working out, it’s a good idea to clean your AirPods on a regular basis. This prevents earwax and dirt from accumulating on the earbuds’ speakers. What are the factors that make your AirPods appear quieter?

How to Repair It?

Examine your AirPods speakers for gunk buildup. Typically, the buildup begins at the corners. As a result, make sure to thoroughly inspect those parts. If you notice any buildup, clean your AirPods right away.

Because it is an electronic device, avoid cleaning it with water or any other liquid substance. Instead, clean your AirPods speakers with a microfiber cloth, a dry toothbrush, or a Q-tip.

TIP: If you’re using your AirPods daily, clean them at least twice a week. Plus, make sure to clean your ears as well to prevent earwax from building up on the earbuds speakers.

#2: AirPods have a low battery level

AirPods, like other devices, can malfunction if their battery runs out. When I say “too low,” I mean less than 10% battery level. When your AirPods’ battery is low, they receive little to no signal from the device to which they are connected.

Furthermore, the power level of the AirPods decreases. As a result, you should not expect good connectivity and performance from them. On the connected device, you can easily check the battery level of your AirPods.

Look for the AirPods icon in your device’s notification bar, and the battery level will be displayed next to it. Depending on your phone’s settings, the battery level may appear red. Alternatively, check the drop-down menu on your device.

Here are some other indicators of AirPods low battery:

• Spotty connection.
• Volume level automatically lowers down.
• Either side of the earbuds is turning on or off.

How to fix it?

There is no other way to solve this issue than to recharge your AirPods. There are two ways to go about it:

• Charge them using the charging case.
• By inserting the charging case. As well as plugging the case into a power outlet.

AirPods charge quickly. So don’t be concerned! Because you can use your AirPods after only a few minutes of charging. You can charge your AirPods for at least 10 minutes if you use the charging case. And have access to hours of playback time.

However, if you intend to use your AirPods for an extended period of time, change them after at least 30 minutes. This charges your device completely. As a result, you will be able to use it indefinitely.

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#3: Connected device’s volume level is low

“I checked my AirPods battery level, and they have more than 50% charge.” If this is the case, the volume level on your connected device may be low. There is no volume control on any AirPods model.

As a result, the audio volume is solely determined by the connected device. If you can barely hear a sound, it’s possible that the volume on your iPhone or iPad is too low. Yes, it’s a straightforward issue. However, many users overlook it. So, before you panic, check the volume level on your connected device.

How to fix it?

There are 3 ways you can volume up your Airpods. First is by pressing the volume up button on your iPhone, iPad, or MAC computer. For it to work, your AirPods should be connected to your other device. Your AirPods is successfully connected to your other device if you can hear the volume in the earbuds go up.

The second is by navigating your device’s settings. Navigate to the settings menu on your device. And then go to “Sounds & Vibrations” or something similar. Then, increase the volume to a level that you’re comfortable with.

Third, ask Siri to increase the volume of your AirPods. You can also say, “Hey Siri, increase the volume up,” and the volume level of your AirPods will increase by 15%. To volume up your device to the desired level, say, “Hey Siri, increase the volume level to 70%.”

Here’s how to activate Siri depending on the model of your AirPods:

• Double-tap either earbud on the first-generation AirPods.
• For AirPods 2nd generation and up, say the wake phrase, “Hey Siri…”
• Set one earbud to activate Siri and say the wake work, “Hey Siri…” with AirPods Pro.

NOTE: The “Hey Siri” function will only work if you’ve activated it on your device’s settings.

#4: Earbuds volume are not balanced

If the volume on both earbuds is not balanced, your AirPods may appear quieter. Users of Apple devices can control the volume of external devices via a setting. You can use these to make the volume of the left bud louder than the volume of the bud.

Alternatively, vice versa. Yes, it’s a fantastic feature. However, it may make your AirPods appear quieter. Despite the fact that the volume is turned up to eleven. If you’re not familiar with this function, you might think the other pair is broken. And eventually, you’ll get new AirPods because your device isn’t working anymore.

You’re probably aware of how expensive AirPods can be. As a result, you may not want to buy a new one as a result of this simple error. “But I didn’t do anything after pairing my AirPods to my other device…”

If that’s the case, you may have previously changed this setting. You may have accidentally moved the slider while exploring your device’s settings and forgot to reset it. Regardless, you must balance the volume level to solve this problem.

How to Repair It?

You can only adjust the volume of your connected device. Get your iPhone or iPad, and then follow these simple steps:

1. Go to the device’s settings.
2. Select “Accessibility.”
3. Click “Hearing.”
4. Tap “Audio/Visual.”
5. Then, slide the slider exactly to the middle of the bar.

After this, your AirPods should play the same level of volume.

#5: Volume on both devices are not calibrated

“The volume on my other device is very loud. However, my AirPods remain silent…” On rare occasions, the volume on your devices may fail to sync. They might not have the same idea of how low or high the volume level should be.

Even if you turn up the volume on your iPhone to maximum, your AirPods may remain quieter. This can occur as a result of software or connection issues.

NOTE: This is a rare occurrence. But it’s also a good idea to double-check it.

Your equipment is not calibrated. If the volume level of your AirPods barely changes even when the volume is turned up high.

How to fix it?

If you suspect that your devices are not calibrated, you should recalibrate them right away. Although it may appear technical, recalibrating your devices is extremely simple. All you have to do is disconnect and reconnect your devices.

Furthermore, it only takes a minute or so to complete. So, why not give it a shot? To re-calibrate your AirPods with your other device, follow these steps:

1. Put on your AirPods.
2. Connect them via Bluetooth to your iPhone or iPad.
3. Put on some music.
4. Reduce the volume to zero.
5. Turn off Bluetooth to disable the connection.
6. Continue to listen to music through the connected device’s speaker.
7. Reduce the volume to zero once more.
8. On the connected device, turn on Bluetooth.
9. And then reconnect your AirPods.

After this, you should notice significant changes in your AirPods volume level. If not, repeat the same process until it works.

#6: “Low Power Mode” is enabled

“My AirPods are perfectly functional. Then they suddenly become quieter.” Is the battery on your iPhone or iPad running low? If so, this is what is causing your AirPods to become quieter. When the battery on your Apple device runs low, the “Low Power Mode” will activate to save battery power.

While this is a fantastic and useful feature, it may cause some of your phone’s functions to slow down or stop working. When your device is in “Low Power Mode,” it may not be able to:

• Use the 5G setting.
• Obtain new emails.
• Sync your iCloud photos.
• Execute some visual effects.
• Custom auto-lock should be used.
• Restart background apps.
• Continue with the automatic downloads.

NOTE: Your Apple device is in “Low Power Mode” when the battery icon turns yellow.

The “Low Power Mode” doesn’t automatically lower down your AirPods volume. But since it can fail to run 5G, you may notice changes in volume level and sound quality when running 5G music.

How to fix it?

This issue can only be solved by manually turning off the “Low Power Mode.” Here’s how:

1. Connect the device to your AirPods.
2. Navigate to the device’s settings.
3. Choose “Battery.”
4. Then, turn off the “Low Power Mode.”

This should enable you to use your AirPods at full volume. However, to avoid further disruption, charge your iPhone or iPad for a few minutes. When your AirPods are fully charged, simply continue to use them.

To ask Siri to do the job for you, say, “Hey Siri, turn off Low Power Mode.”

Alternative Video: Fix Quiet AirPods Low Volume Issues

#7: Volume limit is set

Most audio devices have a feature that automatically maintains a volume at a set level. This keeps the device’s volume from becoming too loud. And possibly endangering the users’ hearing. In Apple devices, this feature is known as “Reduce Loud Sounds,” and it works well most of the time.

But we can’t deny that this feature can be limiting at times. Especially if the music you’re listening to isn’t well mixed. You’re also in a very noisy environment. “How exactly does the volume limit feature work?” “The “Reduce Loud Sounds” feature measures the volume of your headphones.

It has a volume limiter built in. When you reach this limit, you’ll get a notification to turn down the volume. Let’s say you ignored the notification. The volume level of your AirPods will be reduced automatically the next time you use them.

How to fix it?

If you are constantly experiencing this issue, disable the “Reduce Loud Sounds” option. Here’s how to do it:

1. Navigate to the device’s settings.
2. Select “Sound & Haptics” on later models, or “Sounds” on earlier models.
3. Select “Headphone Safety.”
4. Then, deactivate the “Reduce Loud Sounds” switch.

If you don’t want to completely turn it off, simply adjust the decibel slider to your desired level. The auto-notification feature can be turned off depending on your location. It is possible to turn it off in some areas. However, in some cases, auto-notification is required for safety reasons.

TIP: Mute the notification sound to lessen “distractions.”

#8: Equalizer is toggled on

Are you familiar with an audio equalizer, also known as an EQ? ‘Sound Check,’ perhaps? Did you know that these audio settings contribute to the quieter sound of your AirPods? The audio settings are automatically adjusted by EQ to monitor the frequency.

Furthermore, it facilitates the sonically interplay of the music elements. Technically, this makes music more balanced and pleasing to the ears. However, it can sometimes cause the volume to be reduced as well.

In addition to EQ, Apple devices have a “Sound Check” feature. After each song, this feature automatically adjusts the volume level. So, users’ hearing won’t get damaged in case the next audio has a loud pitch or volume level.

Both these features help ensure a smooth and balanced listening or streaming experience. But, again, it can cause your AirPods to become quieter than normal.

How to fix it?

Check to see if these features are enabled. If so, turn them off right away. Here’s how to disable the iPhone’s EQ and Sound Check:

1. Navigate to the iPhone’s settings.
2. Choose “Music.”
3. Turn “Sound Check” off.
4. From the same page, select “EQ.”
5. Then, deactivate the “EQ” button.

After that, you should be able to hear your AirPods at a higher volume level. If not, try disabling other audio settings, such as “Booster.”

WARNING: Even if the “Sound Check” feature is turned off, keep an eye on your volume level. Because sudden loud audio can damage your hearing.

#9:There is some type of connection errors

In some cases, AirPods may become noisier as a result of connection issues. Bluetooth connection errors or glitches are typically caused by:

• Bugs in software.
• Out-of-range device
• Interference with the connection.

When your Bluetooth connection is disrupted, the audio on your AirPods may become erratic. Alternatively, the volume can be reduced. “Can you explain Bluetooth connection interference?” ” Connection interference occurs when a connection is disrupted by other frequencies in the same band.”

The majority of devices operate on 2.4 GHz bands. And, on occasion, devices with the same band clash. And cause the connections to be temporarily disrupted.

How to fix it?

Any potential connection issues are resolved by repairing your AirPods with the connected device. So, if you run into this issue, unpair and repair your Apple devices. Here’s how you can go about it:

1. Navigate to the device’s settings.
2. Choose “Bluetooth.”
3. Tap the circled I icon next to the name of your AirPods.
4. Choose “Forget This Device.”
5. Once, turn off and on your Bluetooth.
6. Wait for your AirPods to appear under “Available Devices.”
7. Choose your AirPods.
8. Then press the “Connect” button.

Doing this should resolve the volume issues on your AirPods. If not, try redoing the same process a few times. Suppose the problem remains. Try other troubleshooting fixes above. Also, make sure that your device is near your AirPods when using them.

Remove any devices that can interfere with the Bluetooth connection as well. That’s when you experience some lags or glitches when listening through your AirPods.

#10: Connected device has an outdated software

“My device’s volume and connection are both fine.” But why are my AirPods still deafeningly quiet? ” It is extremely rare. However, it is possible that the device to which your AirPods are connected has out-of-date firmware.

Outdated firmware does more than just prevent your device from receiving the most recent updates. However, it also causes your device to malfunction as a result of mismatched software updates. When this occurs, your AirPods can:

• Play the audio at a low volume.
• Completely disconnect.
• Make shaky audio music.

When the firmware is out of date, the 5G function may not work. Which is in charge of providing great-sounding, high-quality music through your AirPods.

How to fix it?

Simply update the software on your connected device to resolve this issue. Here’s how you can go about it:

1. Navigate to the device’s settings.
2. Choose “General.”
3. “Software Update” will be displayed.
4. And, if it appears, tap “Update Now.”

If the “Update Now” button does not appear, try restarting your device. Restarting devices aids in the removal of software bugs and the correction of minor glitches. You can do this by pressing and holding your device’s power button. Then, from the options, choose “Restart.”

This will automatically turn your device off and on once. Connect your AirPods after that. And see if it makes any difference.

NOTE: Restart is different from factory reset. So, don’t worry, as doing this won’t delete any important data. This process simply refreshes your device’s system. And deletes temporary memory data (RAM).

#11: AirPods’ hardware has been damaged

Finally, your AirPods are quiet because their hardware has been damaged. The AirPods contain a circuit board and a motherboard. A circuit board (PCB) ensures that electricity flows through all of the device’s electrical components.

If it is damaged, your AirPods will no longer be able to store power charges. Similarly, the motherboard is in charge of connecting all of the hardware. When one component fails, the entire system may fail. You will also no longer be able to use your AirPods.

Many factors can contribute to the failure of the circuit board and motherboard, including:

• Overheating.
• Power surges.
• Water damage.
• Physical impact.

Expect your AirPods to malfunction if any of these events occurred. Alternatively, you could stop working entirely.

How to fix it?

You can bring your AirPods to a service center if you want to save them. Request that an electronic technician examine your device. Also, repair any potential damage to the circuit board or motherboard.

However, the fee for this can be quite high. As a result, the best solution to this problem is to purchase a new pair of AirPods. A pair of Apple AirPods 2nd Generation costs $159 USD. Or an AirPods Pro for improved listening and a longer battery life. Sure, they’re pricey. However, buying a new pair will save you more money, time, and effort than having them repaired in a service center.

CONCLUSION

You’re not alone in wondering why your AirPods are so quiet. The most common cause of volume loss in Apple AirPods is a buildup of earwax and dirt on the speakers.

Other factors, such as your iPhone’s volume limit or Low Power Mode, could also be to blame. So, keep your ears and AirPods clean, and always check your phone’s settings before assuming your pricey wireless earbuds are broken. 

FAQs About AirPods Issues