Nowadays, many people are switching from wired headphones to wireless earbuds. Apple AirPods are hands down the most popular type, with lots of fantastic qualities.
But before committing to such a significant investment, you should make sure they’re compatible with your device.
Keep reading to find out what devices can connect to AirPods and a couple of alternatives to AirPods for smaller budgets.
What Devices Can Airpods Connect to?
AirPods can connect to and offer additional features for Apple devices. You can also use them with Android devices, Windows, Chrome OS, gaming consoles, and smart speakers, but without the bells and whistles.
Apple Devices
Airpods connect to apple devices very easily. All iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch devices with iOS 10 or later versions installed can work with AirPods.
What’s more, Apple Watch models that run watchOS 3 or later. All Mac models running macOS Sierra or later are also compatible with AirPods.
Here’s a list of Apple devices that work seamlessly with AirPods and give you full functionality:
- iPhone 5 and newer.
- 4th-generation iPad and newer.
- iPad Air models.
- iPad Pro models.
- iPad mini two and newer.
- 6th-generation iPod touch.
- 2009 or newer MacBook.
- 2009 or newer iMac.
- 2010 or newer MacBook Pro.
- 2010 or newer MacBook Air.
- 2010 or newer Mac mini.
- 2010 or newer Mac Pro.
- The original Apple Watch.
- The subsequent Apple Watch releases.
For the second generation of AirPods, you’ll need newer Apple models. They work with iOS 12.2, macOS 10.14.4, watchOS 5.2, or later.
To connect the AirPods to your iPhone or iPad:
- Open the charging case’s top and hold it close to your device.
- Unlock your device and wait for the AirPods to pop up on the screen.
- Tap the connect button, and you’re done!
AirPods also link with your iCloud account. This way, when you connect them to one of your devices, the others will know they exist.
You can switch connections between your devices through the Bluetooth settings.
Discover more earbuds that can connect to multiple Bluetooth devices in this article.
On Mac devices, click on the sound icon in the menu bar. Find the AirPods and select them to connect.
Windows or Chrome OS
For Windows, open Settings, Devices, Add Bluetooth or other devices, and Bluetooth. Find the AirPods that show up as headphones, and click connect.
For a Chrome OS computer, search for the status tray icon on the screen’s lower right. Click on the arrow below the Bluetooth icon to search for devices. Find the AirPods and connect.
Gaming Consoles
Xbox One, PS4, and Nintendo Switch have software and hardware limitations that prevent them from connecting to AirPods directly.
For the PS4 and the Nintendo Switch, you should get a dongle with specific support for AirPods. Plug the dongle in the console, and the AirPods will connect to it.
Check How To Connect Pixel Buds To A PS4 for more.
This method doesn’t work for Xbox. The only way that may work for Xbox is pairing the AirPods to your TV set. That can also work for PS4 and Switch.
If you use Discord, see Popular Wireless Earbuds for Discord.
Smart Speaker
You can listen to music and audio through AirPods instead of the built-in speakers of a Smart Speaker. AirPods can connect to Google Home, Google Nest, and Amazon Echo speakers.
Can Airpods Connect to Android Devices?
AirPods can connect to Android Devices. However, some AirPod features only work for Apple products. Of course, your Android device shouldn’t be so old that it doesn’t support Bluetooth 4.0.
Simple setup, accessing Siri, Customizing Double Tap, Automatic ear detection, and Single AirPod listening are features that work only for Apple devices.
How to connect AirPods to Android Devices?
To connect your AirPods to an Android device, first, put your AirPods in pairing mode. Put the earbuds in the case, and with the lid open, press and hold the button on the case’s back.
A white LED light should start flashing, indicating the AirPods are ready for connection.
On your Android phone or tablet, open Settings, Connected devices, and then Pair new Device. Choose the AirPods from the list and tap Pair to complete the connection.
You should work the same with the AirPods connected to Android as you would with Apple devices. The Bluetooth connectivity range is the same for both models, which is better than most other Bluetooth-enabled headphones.
On iOS devices, you can check the AirPods battery from the Today center on your iPhone or the control center on Apple Watch.
You can ask Siri, as well. To replace this functionality on Android phones, install the AirBattery app or Assistant Trigger.
Where Do I Tap My Airpods?
For the first and second generation of AirPods, you should tap just above the stem and below the top silt speaker. You’ll get used to finding the spot with some practice. Tapping is easier with the AirPod Pro. They designed an indentation between the AirPod head and the end of the stem. That’s the force sensor spot.
Double-tapping the first-generation AirPods lets you talk to Siri. For the second generation and the AirPod Pro, just say, “Hey Siri.”
Tap to play/pause music and answer calls. Double-tap to skip forward to the next song, and three times to skip back a track.
What Can Airpods Not Connect To?
Each AirPod model can connect to specific Apple devices. The second-generation devices only connect to newer models with updated software. As for Android, Windows, and others, the device should support Bluetooth 4.0 or higher for the first generation.
Make sure the AirPods are charged, and the device’s Bluetooth is on when trying to connect.
For non-Apple phones and PCs, you should put the AirPod in pairing mode. Reset the device if the problem continues.
As a last resort, unpair the AirPods from all devices, reset the AirPods, and reconnect.
Do Airpods Fall out When Running?
Some people have reported that AirPods don’t fall out of their ears even with intense exercise, running, and sweating. But others say that they do fall out occasionally. So, your mileage will vary.
AirPods come with an ergonomic design that makes them relatively comfortable for most people.
However, since every ear is shaped differently, individuals with smaller ears could run into problems, especially if you keep them in for long periods.
There are ways to prevent your AirPods from slipping out of your ears easily.
First, try tilting the earbuds so that the base is more horizontal and points towards your chin.
If it points down, the AirPods become loose in your ears.
Second, you could try AirPod covers, ear hooks, or grips that hang on to your ears.
If you’re looking for a pair of earbuds to use when running, make sure you read our Jibra Elite 75t review.
Are AirPods Worth the Money?
The answer to this question can vary from one person to another, depending on their needs and uses. But in general, most people who got them can’t ever go back to wired headphones or generic products.
Possibly, you won’t understand how much you hated untangling old headphones and working out with them until you get AirPods.
They give you the freedom to move as much as you want without worrying about your phone. Their sound quality is also pretty excellent.
What Is the Best Alternative to Airpods?
If you’re looking for Bluetooth earbuds at a more reasonable price with similar loos and functionality to AirPods, here are your best choices:
Sony WF-1000XM3 Headphones
Last update on 2024-04-08 / As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more about us.
The Sony WF-1000XM3 earbuds are one of the most capable AirPod alternatives for around the same price. They support both Android and iOS devices. Their Ergonomic Tri-hold Structure makes them fit comfortably in your ear. The sound quality is fantastic, and you’ll receive a musical and engaging performance.
The headphones are packed with industry-leading noise cancellation technology, isolating you from the outside world. They’ve got an impressive battery life, lasting up to 6 hours with Bluetooth and noise-cancellation activated. The charging case can bump this up to 24 hours.
It’s got the Alexa assistant built-in, allowing you to control the music and your phone with your voice. The only downside is the lack of water/sweat resistance that makes them unsuitable for sports.
Pros
- Ergonomic and comfortable design.
- Amazing sound quality.
- Android/iOS support.
- Active noise-canceling.
- Impressive battery life.
- Built-in Alexa assistant.
Cons
- Not suitable for sports.
DB DEGBIT Wireless Earbuds
Product currently unavailable.
These earbuds’ relatively low price doesn’t take anything away from their quality. They use Bluetooth 5.0 for a better connection.
The sound quality is clear and strong for both music and phone calls. You can use them for up to 5 hours straight before having to recharge in the case, which has a 35-hour battery.
The earbuds are very light and fit comfortably in your ear. Since they’re waterproof, you can use them for running and exercising.
Pros
- High-quality and comfortable design.
- Bluetooth 5.0.
- Clear and strong sound quality.
- Reasonable price.
- Waterproof
Cons
- Complaints about the battery not lasting long.
Final Thoughts
Having AirPods can open the door to many good experiences with a taste of freedom. Depending on your device and budget, you can pick the right AirPod model, and you’re not likely to run into any connectivity issues with various devices.
If you want to spend less, there are more affordable alternatives on the market. Consider how long you want to use them each day and what you will use your earbuds for to make the right decision.
Make sure you check out our top picks for cheap earbuds.
