With prices ranging from $100 to $170, Apple AirPods are by no means budget wireless earphones. That being said, they are not your average-sounding pair of wireless earphones. AirPods are well-made, easy to use and deliver great sound and noise-cancellation.
Like all pieces of technology, AirPods can have their problems. One of these is a lack of volume when you need it. I came across the problem during a phone call. But, I’ve also heard about other users having trouble with the output volume of music or videos.
Despite the volume being turned to the max, the sound is nowhere close to the level needed. And, when compared to other devices, there is an audible difference in volume.
So, I decided to spend last weekend looking into problems to compile a couple of tricks that might help. So, let’s find out how to make your AirPods louder.
Something Important Before We Get Started
Damage to your hearing is rarely temporary. So, it is important to realize whether you are dealing with a legitimate audio output problem or a potential hearing problem.
There are maximum levels of output on audio devices for very good reasons. Risking your hearing health for the sake of a few extra decibels of output is not worth it. If you’ve got a functioning pair of AirPods, leave them that way.
Controlling The Volume On Apple AirPods
Use Siri to Make Volume Adjustments
Siri has become the preferred method for performing multiple tasks for many Apple users. All you have to do is tell Siri what you want, and she’ll do it to the best of her ability. Changing the volume is certainly within her grasp. All you have to do is say something like, “Hey Siri, turn the volume up.”
For Siri to respond to your voice, you need to ensure that voice commands have been activated on your device.
| Steps | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Open Settings on your phone. | The grey icon with pictures of gears. |
| 2. Navigate to the “Siri Search” option and tap on it. | |
| 3. Toggle on “Listen for ‘Hey Siri’”. | |
| 4. Activate “Allow Siri When Locked”. |
Siri is one of the most competent artificial assistants out there. That means a simple task like adjusting the volume is no problem.
The Volume Slider
The volume slider is the easiest way to control the volume on your AirPods. You can adjust the volume using the buttons on the side of your phone or tablet. Alternatively, you can use the volume slider found in the control center.
Additionally, when using any of the major music streaming services, like Spotify or Apple Music, you should also see a volume slider for these apps on your lock screen while music is playing back.
Use the Sound Settings Inside an App
Most music and media players have built-in volume settings as well. For example, Apple Music has a volume slider at the bottom of the screen. Adjusting this slider is not the same as using your phone’s volume rocker or the volume slider in the control center.
One might think all these different levels of audio control might be confusing or redundant. But, there are good reasons for it. For example, if you’ve got a favorite mobile game that you enjoy, but you’d like to have tunes playing in the background.
Use The Digital Crown (Only On Airpods Max)
The AirPods Max is the only model in the AirPods range to have a digital crown instead of featuring any of the aforementioned volume control methods.
When used to control the volume, you can turn the knob clockwise to turn the volume up. If you want to turn the volume down, just turn the knob counterclockwise.
Why Are My AirPods Low At Max Volume?
Unsurprisingly, there are several reasons why AirPods sound so quiet. Thankfully, most cases of low output have been solved by doing a few common troubleshooting exercises and quick fixes.
Wax and Dirt
No matter how well you design a product, Mother Nature can’t be made more user-friendly. Therefore, the buildup of earwax and other microscopic particles of dust and grime is inevitable. And, of course, AirPods are as vulnerable to this buildup as every other pair of earphones.
If you’re prone to wearing your AirPods for extended periods and you know you haven’t cleaned them in a while, this is a very good place to start.
Incorrect Settings
AirPods rely on software for operating instructions. This means that if a problem occurs anywhere in the processing and playback chain, it can affect the output. When learning how to make your AirPods louder, settings can make a world of difference.
Firmware Problems
Out-of-date firmware may seem like something that shouldn’t cause a problem in output volume. But, some users have reported they were able to fix low volume AirPods after updating the firmware.
Last Resorts
Check Your Hearing
Hearing problems can come in many forms and varying degrees. Luckily, there are plenty of easy ways for you to test whether you may have a hearing problem.
Ask A Friend To Test Your AirPods
The simplest way is to ask someone you know to test your AirPods for you. Preferably on their own device.
Seek Professional Help
This should be one of your last resorts. But, it is the most definitive way to identify the problem, should there be one.
Whether you had the problem before and can’t remember how it got fixed, or are at your wit’s end trying to solve the mystery of low-volume AirPods, rest assured. There’s a solution out there. Hopefully, one of the tips in this article can solve your AirPods volume problems.
Published on April 30, 2024
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