How can I make my Bluetooth headphones louder?

ByJael Lawler

Check Your Device’s Volume

Max out the volume on your phone/computer first before trying other options. On both iOS and Android devices, open the Settings app and ensure the volume slider is set to the maximum level.

The maximum volume on most smartphones ranges from 100 to 120 decibels for the built-in speakers, according to Quora [1]. However, listening at these high volumes for prolonged periods can damage hearing over time.

For additional volume boosting, look for a volume booster app in your device’s app store. These apps can override the default volume limit set by the operating system. However, use caution as they may allow volume levels beyond safe thresholds.

Adjust Your Headphones’ Volume

One of the first things to check is whether your Bluetooth headphones volume is turned up to maximum. Most Bluetooth headphones have built-in volume controls that are separate from your device’s system volume. Make sure the volume on your headphones themselves is turned all the way up.

On many Bluetooth headphone models, you can hold down the volume up button for 2-3 seconds to maximize the volume. Refer to your headphone manual for specific instructions. Setting your headphones to max volume ensures you are getting the highest possible audio level before it even reaches your device.

You may also want to check for a firmware update from your Bluetooth headphone manufacturer. Firmware updates can sometimes address bluetooth volume issues. For example, some Samsung and Android headphone users have reported increased max Bluetooth volume after installing the latest firmware.

Use a Headphone Amplifier

A headphone amplifier is a device that boosts the audio signal going to your headphones. This allows you to increase the volume and improve the overall sound quality. Portable headphone amplifiers are small devices that can easily be used with smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other portable devices.

Some top recommended portable headphone amplifiers include:

These portable amplifiers provide extra power to drive higher impedance headphones. They include volume controls, gain controls, and other features to help maximize your listening experience.

Adjust Audio Settings

One way to potentially boost your Bluetooth headphones’ volume is by adjusting your device’s audio settings. Many smartphones, tablets, computers and other devices come with audio enhancement features enabled by default which can sometimes limit volume.

First, check if your device has any audio normalization settings turned on. Audio normalization aims to even out the volume across songs or audio files so there are no huge spikes or drops. While useful in many cases, normalization can result in lowered maximum volume levels. Try turning off any normalization or volume leveling options in your device’s settings. According to Izotope, disabling normalization allows you to regain full control over your audio’s gain and volume.

Next, see if your device has any built-in audio enhancements like “Bass Boost,” “Surround Sound,” or “Loudness Equalization” enabled. While these may improve audio quality in some cases, they can also limit your device’s maximum volume potential. Try turning off any audio enhancements to remove potential barriers limiting your headphones’ loudness. Just be aware this may reduce audio quality in other ways.

After adjusting these settings, test your headphones again to see if the volume improves. Keep in mind that you may have to adjust other settings or use additional methods to further maximize volume.

Update Bluetooth Drivers

One of the most common reasons for quieter volume on Bluetooth headphones is outdated or buggy Bluetooth drivers. Ensuring you have the latest Bluetooth drivers installed can often resolve volume and connection issues.

Here’s how to update your Bluetooth drivers on Windows 10 and 11:

1. Open Settings and go to Bluetooth & Devices > Bluetooth.

2. Click on “More Bluetooth options” at the bottom.

3. In the Bluetooth Settings window, open the Hardware tab and click on “Update Driver.”

4. Select “Search automatically for updated driver software.” Windows will search and install any available driver updates.

5. Restart your computer when prompted. Your updated Bluetooth drivers will now be active.

You can also try uninstalling your current Bluetooth drivers and letting Windows automatically reinstall fresh versions upon restart. This ensures you have the latest official drivers from Microsoft.

Keeping Bluetooth drivers up-to-date is key for maintaining solid connectivity and audio performance with wireless headphones and speakers.

Check for Obstructions

One of the most common reasons for Bluetooth headphones seeming quieter than expected is obstructions blocking the Bluetooth signal between the headphones and the device they’re paired with. This could be caused by your body, clothing, hair, hands, or other objects physically getting in the way of the Bluetooth transmitter and receiver.

To resolve this, first make sure you don’t have anything covering the headphones like hair or hands. Also try to position your body so there is a clear line of sight between the headphones and the source device. Avoid putting the device in a pocket or bag. The closer your headphones are to the Bluetooth transmitter without obstructions, the stronger the signal will be.

Additionally, look around for other potential sources of interference that could be weakening the Bluetooth signal. Thick walls, large metal objects, and other electronic devices using the 2.4 GHz frequency can all degrade Bluetooth audio quality if they’re positioned in between your headphones and device. Try moving around the room and testing if the volume improves in certain spots.

With Bluetooth headphones, keeping a clear path between the transmitter and receiver is key for maintaining optimal volume and sound quality. A little repositioning is often all that’s needed to resolve obstruction issues.

Reposition Your Headphones

One way to potentially increase the volume from your Bluetooth headphones is to ensure they are properly positioned in or over your ears. Getting a secure fit creates a good acoustic seal which prevents audio from leaking out and promotes better sound transmission into the ear canal.

For in-ear models like earbuds, make sure the eartips are fully inserted into the opening of the ear canal and sealed tightly. You may need to try different sized eartips to find the best fit for your ears. Once inserted, give the earbuds a gentle twist to get them situated properly. The drivers inside should be angled toward your ear canal rather than outward.

Over-ear headphones should fully encompass your outer ear with the earpads making close contact all around. Adjust the headband size and position so the earcups sit comfortably over your ears. Pivot and slide the earcups if needed to direct the drivers inward rather than angled away from your head. Getting the correct alignment can really optimize sound delivery.

With a more secure fit and proper driver angle, more of the audio output from your Bluetooth headphones can be transferred efficiently into your ears. This improves volume and clarity compared to headphones that are poorly seated in or on the ears.

(Sources: https://fccid.io/2ADTV-A864/User-Manual/user-manual-4200579, https://device.report/manual/10291258)

Reset Your Headphones

Sometimes headphones can malfunction or behave erratically if their software settings get corrupted. Trying a complete reset of your Bluetooth headphones to their default factory settings can often resolve audio issues like low volume. To reset most Bluetooth headphones:

1. Locate the reset button, usually a tiny hole somewhere on the headphones. Check the user manual if you’re uncertain of its location.

2. Use a paperclip or pin to press and hold the reset button for 5-10 seconds until the headphones power off and restart. Keep holding the button down during the reboot process.

3. Re-pair the headphones to your device’s Bluetooth connection. Go into your Bluetooth settings, delete the previous headphones pairing, and search for new devices. Select your headphones when they appear.

Resetting the headphones clears out any corrupted data or settings and restores the volume and audio performance back to factory defaults. Just be aware you may need to reconfigure any customized settings after a reset.

Refer to your headphones’ manual or the manufacturer’s website for specific reset instructions.

Replace Earbuds/Earpads

Worn out earpads can reduce volume by allowing more external noise to enter, as well as affecting the seal around your ear. Replacing old, compressed earpads with newer ones can help block external noise better and improve volume.

Look for replacement earpads made of materials like memory foam or soft leather that conform to your ears and block noise. Avoid hard plastics or thin fabrics. Thicker earpads between 1-2 inches tend to provide better noise isolation. ComplyTM foam tips are a popular earbud upgrade for better comfort and seal.

According to audiophile forums, changing earpads can affect sound, so read reviews and see if others note improvements for your specific headphones before purchasing new pads. For example, some pads boost bass while others brighten highs. Ultimately, improved noise isolation should increase perceived volume.

Here are some popular earpad options praised by audiophiles for increased comfort and volume:

Consider New Headphones

Some headphone models are simply limited in their max volume capability and cannot get very loud. Though increasing volume too high can potentially damage hearing, having loud enough headphones for your needs is reasonable.

Certain headphone models are specifically designed to get extremely loud. Do some research to find headphones that reviewers confirm can reach high volumes without distorting quality. Look for key specifications like high max input power, sensitivity rating of 100 dB or more, and large drivers. Some good headphone types to research for loud volumes include over-ear models, DJ headphones, and headphones made for bass. Consider replacing your current headphones with a model made to handle and output louder volumes if needed.

Just be cautious not to focus only on loudness at the expense of sound quality and comfort. As always, protect your hearing by avoiding excessive exposure to sounds over 85 decibels. But with the right headphone model, you may find options that can give you great volume levels while preserving sound fidelity.

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