Why can I barely hear my AirPods on full volume?
Check AirPods Volume Settings
One of the first things to check if your AirPods seem quieter than expected is your device’s volume settings when connected to the AirPods. Make sure the volume on your paired iPhone is turned all the way up. You can check this by going to Settings > Sounds & Haptics and sliding the volume slider all the way to the right.
Also check that you don’t have a volume limit enabled, which restricts the maximum volume level. Go to Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Volume Limit to check and adjust this setting.
Finally, if you have any accessibility settings enabled, this can affect the maximum volume output. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Audio/Visual to review if you have any options enabled here that could be limiting volume.
If your iPhone’s volume settings appear to be configured correctly when connected to your AirPods, the issue likely lies elsewhere.
AirPods Firmware
Firmware updates for AirPods are released periodically by Apple and contain important bug fixes and performance improvements. An outdated or buggy firmware version can sometimes cause volume issues with AirPods. Make sure your AirPods, case and connected iOS/Android device are updated to the latest firmware version available.
First, check the firmware version of your AirPods by going to Settings > General > About > AirPods on iOS or Settings > Connected Devices > AirPods on Android. If your firmware is not up to date, connect your AirPods to the charging case, keep the case open next to your iPhone or iPad, and remain connected to WiFi to allow the firmware update to install automatically.
If updating to the latest firmware does not resolve the low volume issues, try performing a factory reset of your AirPods. A reset will clear out any corrupted data and settings and restore your AirPods to their original state. On iOS, go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset AirPods. On Android, forget the AirPods from your Bluetooth settings then re-pair them. This should hopefully restore normal audio levels.
Clean AirPod Speakers
Earwax buildup inside the earbuds can reduce the volume of AirPods over time. Gently cleaning the mesh speaker grills with a dry microfiber cloth or cotton swab can help remove debris and improve volume. Take care not to push any earwax further into the speakers. Apple does not recommend using liquids or moisture to clean AirPods. You can also use a can of compressed air to blow out any particles stuck in the speakers according to some users (source).
AirPod Fit
One common reason for low volume on AirPods is an improper fit in your ear. AirPods rely on forming a tight seal in the ear canal to direct sound properly. If the AirPod sits loosely, more ambient sound will enter the ear and make your music seem quieter in comparison.
To improve the fit, first try swapping the silicone eartips for a different size that may seal your ear better. Apple includes small and large eartip options in addition to the medium tips originally on the AirPods. You can also purchase third-party eartips for an even more customized fit.
Next, adjust the angle and position of the AirPod itself once inserted in your ear. Gently rotate the AirPod and move it in and out while listening to music. There is often a “sweet spot” angle that provides the best seal and directs sound into your ear canal properly. You may need to fiddle a bit to find the right position.
Finally, try wearing the AirPods in your opposite ears if one side seems to fit or sound better. Everyone’s ears are slightly different shapes, so you may get a better seal and improved audio quality by simply swapping sides.
Environmental Factors
Environmental noise like background conversations, traffic, or wind can interfere with your AirPods’ microphones and cause the volume to decrease automatically. This is due to features like Automatic Ear Detection and Adaptive EQ which adjust the volume based on your surroundings to optimize audio quality and prevent damaging loud volumes directly into your ear canal.
In particular, wind noise is a major environmental factor that can reduce AirPods volume. The wind interferes with the external microphones on AirPods, so they automatically lower the volume to compensate. This is especially noticeable with AirPods Pro and AirPods Max which have more advanced noise reduction capabilities. Some tips to mitigate wind noise issues include positioning yourself to block the wind or enabling an indoor listening mode if available on your specific AirPods model (Apple Support).
Overall, external environmental noises can commonly cause AirPods to lower volume automatically. Finding ways to reduce background noise or changing AirPods listening modes can help maximize your volume. But some degree of environmental audio adaptation is by design to protect hearing and audio quality.
Hearing Issues
One potential cause of low volume from AirPods is hearing-related issues. As we age, high frequency hearing loss is common, making it more difficult to hear high pitched sounds. AirPods produce sound in the higher frequency range which can become problematic for some users as they get older.
Earwax buildup in the ear canal can also dampen sounds leading to muffled and low volume from AirPods. Excess earwax physically blocks sound waves from properly entering the ear. A buildup of earwax is one of the most common causes of sound reduction. Consulting with an audiologist or doctor to get your ears cleaned is recommended if you suspect earwax buildup is the culprit.
In addition to age and earwax, hearing damage from loud noise exposure can reduce the dynamic range of sounds you can hear. With hearing loss, softer sounds become harder to pick up. Checking with an audiologist can determine if hearing loss is impacting your ability to hear your AirPods.
Damaged AirPods
According to a Discussion thread on Apple’s website titled “airpod volume low after 1 year” (https://discussions.apple.com/thread/8254739), the speakers inside the AirPods can become damaged over time, resulting in low volume. The original poster said their AirPods were working fine and then started losing volume after owning them for one year. Physical damage to the small speakers inside the AirPods from consistent everyday use is one potential cause of low maximum volume.
Another common cause of low volume in one or both AirPods is liquid or water damage. As discussed in the Apple Support thread “front speaker low volume” (https://discussions.apple.com/thread/253831478), exposure to moisture can damage the speakers and cause issues with volume and sound quality. Even a small amount of liquid can get into the speaker grills and cause corrosion or short circuiting. To avoid water damage, it’s important not to wear AirPods in the rain or expose them to liquids. However, if you suspect water damage has occurred, seeking professional repair may be the best solution.
Interference
Nearby electronics like Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth devices, microwaves and cordless phones can cause interference with the wireless signal between your AirPods and iPhone or other device. This leads to crackling, static or cutting out. Try moving farther away from potential sources of interference and see if the audio improves. If the issues persist, try re-pairing your AirPods to your device. This resets the wireless connection which can resolve interference problems.
To re-pair your AirPods, start by opening the case near your iOS device and holding down the button on the back of the case until the status light starts flashing white. Next go into your Bluetooth settings and select the AirPods option. This will begin the pairing process. Follow any on-screen prompts and your AirPods should now be re-paired. Test them while staying away from any electronics that may cause interference. If the sound is still cutting out, contact Apple support for further troubleshooting.
Apple Support
If you’ve tried the troubleshooting steps mentioned and are still experiencing issues with low volume on your AirPods, it’s a good idea to contact Apple support for further help.
Apple has 24/7 technical support available by phone or chat. When you contact them, be ready to provide your AirPods serial number and explain the issues you’re experiencing in detail. Their technicians can walk you through additional troubleshooting steps or determine if your AirPods need service.
It’s also important to check if your AirPods are still under Apple’s 1-year limited warranty or AppleCare+ coverage. The limited warranty covers defects for 1 year after purchase. AppleCare+ extends coverage for up to 2 years and adds up to 2 incidents of accidental damage coverage.
If your AirPods are still covered, Apple may be able to service or replace them for free. Out of warranty service is also available for a fee. When you contact Apple support, ask them to check your eligibility for any warranty coverage.
Alternative Solutions
If adjusting the volume and EQ settings in your iPhone or iPad settings does not resolve the issue of low volume on your AirPods, there are some alternative solutions you can try:
One option is to use a third-party volume boosting app like Volume Booster, Super Volume Booster, or Volume Max. These apps can amplify the overall volume beyond the maximum set by Apple. However, take care not to boost the volume too high for prolonged periods as this can lead to hearing damage over time [1].
Another solution is to check if you have enabled any volume limiting options, either in your device settings or in a third party app. These are designed to protect your hearing but may be set lower than you prefer.
You can also try adjusting the ear tips and ensure AirPods Pro or AirPods Max have a proper tight seal in your ears. A looser seal can reduce the volume and bass response.
As a last resort, you may need to get your hearing checked by an audiologist. Hearing loss, even minor, can make it harder to hear your AirPods at normal volumes.