Start with the symptom: check power, Bluetooth and audio output for connection trouble; charge the case and earbuds for at least 15 minutes if they will not charge; and verify Apple Account and software requirements if they will not switch between devices. If basic checks fail, re-pair or reset using the steps for your AirPods model—case controls differ by generation.
AirPods won’t connect
Work through these checks in order, testing the connection after each one. Apple’s connection guidance is If your AirPods or AirPods Pro won’t connect.
- Update the device. Install available iOS, iPadOS or macOS updates on the iPhone, iPad or Mac you are trying to use.
- Check power and Bluetooth. Put both AirPods in their case and confirm they are charging. Turn Bluetooth on for the device.
- Choose the audio destination. Select your AirPods in the device’s audio-output controls and try playing audio. A connection can be active without AirPods being selected as the current output.
- Pair again. If the AirPods do not appear or will not connect, put them into pairing mode and select them in Bluetooth settings. The gesture depends on the case: Apple’s current directions distinguish AirPods 4, AirPods 5 and AirPods Pro 3 cases from older cases with a rear setup button. Follow the instructions for your exact model in Apple’s connection guide.
- Reset if pairing still fails. Use Apple’s current model-specific reset instructions; do not assume every case uses the same button or gesture.
Resetting older case-button models
For AirPods 1, 2 or 3, AirPods Pro 1, and AirPods Pro 2, Apple’s cited reset procedure is to put the earbuds in the case, close the lid for 30 seconds, forget the AirPods in Bluetooth settings if they are listed, then open the lid and hold the setup button for about 15 seconds. Release it when the status light flashes amber and then white. Confirm your model against Apple’s reset guide before proceeding, because newer models use different steps.
AirPods won’t charge
Charge both the earbuds and case before treating a low-battery symptom as a connection fault. Apple’s charging instructions are in If your AirPods won’t charge.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
- Connect the case to power. Use a working cable that fits your case—Lightning or USB-C, depending on the model—and a compatible power adapter.
- Leave it charging for at least 15 minutes. Apple recommends charging the AirPods and case for at least 15 minutes before checking again.
- Check the power path. Make sure the cable is firmly connected at both ends, try a working outlet, and check the adapter and cable for damage.
- If using wireless charging, confirm compatibility. The case must support wireless charging and the charger must be Qi-compatible. Place the case with its status light facing up; if the light does not respond, reposition the case. If wireless charging still fails, try a compatible cable and adapter.
- Check the charge status. Look at the battery level on a paired Apple device or use the case’s status light as an indicator.
- Inspect the case charging port. If debris is present, clean it using Apple’s cleaning guidance; avoid inserting objects that could damage the contacts or port.
If charging checks do not help, reset the AirPods using the instructions for your model at Apple’s reset guide. A reset restores custom settings, so you may need to configure them again.
AirPods won’t switch between devices
Automatic switching is different from manually choosing an audio destination. First check that the behavior is supported by your AirPods and devices, then use manual selection when you need to move audio immediately.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Check automatic-switching requirements
- Update each device to the latest version of its operating system.
- Sign in to each device with the same Apple Account and use two-factor authentication.
- Allow for normal exceptions: Apple says automatic switching should not occur during a call or a similar conversation.
See Apple’s instructions for switching AirPods to another device.
Choose the destination manually
- iPhone or iPad: Open the audio destination control in AirPlay or Now Playing and select your AirPods.
- Mac: Open Control Center, choose Bluetooth, and select your AirPods.
- Another Apple device: Use that device’s audio destination controls to select the AirPods.
Stop automatic switching on one device
On the device where you want to change the behavior, open the AirPods settings and set “Connect to This [device]” to “When Last Connected.” That disables automatic switching for that device; you can still select the AirPods manually.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
When to contact Apple
If the AirPods still will not connect or charge after the model-appropriate checks and reset—or if the case, port or earbuds appear damaged—use Apple’s AirPods Support page to find service and repair options.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
