Today’s users often face the need to switch between mobile devices and a desktop PC. Wireless headphones from Chinese giant Xiaomi, including popular models Redmi AirDots and Mi True Wireless Earbuds, have become the standard of quality in the budget and mid-range segment. However, the process of their initial synchronization with a laptop or desktop running Windows can cause difficulties for inexperienced users.
The main difficulty lies in the different algorithms of the Bluetooth modules in the operating systems of Microsoft and Android. While Xiaomi smartphones automatically pick up the headphones, Windows 10 or Windows 11 require manually typing the device into search mode, ignoring this step leads to endless waiting for the connection, when the computer simply does not see the accessory.
In this article, we will take a closer look at all the nuances of pairing, from activating pairing mode to fine-tuning codecs for maximum sound quality. You will learn how to avoid common errors and ensure a stable connection for games or work.
Preparation of equipment and compatibility check
Before you start software setup, you need to make sure that the hardware is physically ready. Make sure your computer has a working Bluetooth adapter. Most modern laptops have it built in by default, whereas desktops may require an external one. USB-Without this component, wireless connectivity is not possible.
Special attention should be paid to the battery charge in the case and the headphones themselves. Low energy levels can lead to unstable operation of the communication module, which makes the device invisible to external scanners. Charge the case to 100% before the procedure to exclude the factor of the discharged battery.
It’s also worth checking your computer’s operating system version. For modern codecs like aptX or AAC to work properly, it’s advisable to have up-to-date Windows Update updates. Older versions of Bluetooth drivers may not support the new encryption protocols used in the latest Xiaomi models.
⚠️ Warning: If you have a stationary computer with antennas on the back of the system unit, make sure they are screwed.Without antennas, the range of the Bluetooth signal can be reduced to a few centimeters, making it impossible to connect.
Compatibility checks also include refining your headphone model.Redmi AirDots has its own pairing entry features, different from the flagship Mi True Wireless Earbuds Pro. Knowing the exact model will help you find the right button combination to activate visibility faster.
Activation of the pairing mode on Xiaomi headphones
The most critical step is to put the headset into detection mode, and many users mistakenly believe that simply extracting from the case is enough, but it only works with devices that have previously been paired with this PC.
For most models, such as the Redmi AirDots 2 or Mi True Wireless Earbuds Basic, the procedure is as follows: place both headphones in the case, but do not close the lid. Find the function button on the case case case case (usually it is round and located on the end or inside the headphones). Press and hold it for 2-3 seconds until the indicator starts flashing white.
If you have a model without a button on your case (for example, some versions of Redmi Buds 3 Lite), the algorithm changes. You need to remove both earphones from the charging case at the same time. Then quickly press 5 times on the touch areas of both earphones (or pinch them for 5-7 seconds) until the indicators turn red and white alternately. This signals readiness for synchronization.
What to do if the indicator does not flash?
If you haven't had time to connect to your computer during this period, you'll have to do it again. Don't try to connect if the light is flat or not at all, in which case the device is hidden from external scanners.
Bluetooth settings in the Windows operating system
After the headphones are ready, we move on to setting up the operating system. In Windows 10 and 11, the wireless module management interface has been unified, but access to it may vary depending on the build. Open the Start menu and select the gear icon to enter the Settings. Follow the Devices → Bluetooth and other devices.
Make sure that the Bluetooth slider is in the "On" position. If the switch is missing or inactive (grey), this indicates a driver problem or a physical disabling of the module in the BIOS. In this case, installing universal drivers from the motherboard manufacturer's website can solve the problem.
To add a new gadget, click Add Bluetooth or another device. In the window that opens, select the first item "Bluetooth." The system will start the ether scan. The name of your model should appear in the list of available devices, for example, Redmi. AirDots_R Mi True Wireless EBs Basic_R.
☑️ Checking before connection
Click on the device name. Windows will automatically set the necessary profiles, such as Headset (for microphone) and Stereo Headphones (for music). The process takes 10 to 30 seconds. Once successfully completed, you will hear a characteristic beep in the headphones, and the status in the system will change to Connected.
Solving driver and visibility problems
When a computer can’t see Xiaomi headphones, it’s often associated with software conflicts. In the Device Manager (opens via devmgmt.msc), check the “Bluetooth” section. If there’s a yellow exclamation point next to the adapter name (such as Intel Wireless Bluetooth or Realtek Bluetooth), you need to update the software.
Often Windows installs a standard Microsoft driver that works unstable with Chinese gadgets, it is recommended to go to the website of the manufacturer of the laptop or adapter and download a specific version of the driver.
Another common problem is caching old profiles. If you previously connected these headphones, but the connection is broken, you need to completely remove the device. In the Bluetooth menu, click "Delete the device", then restart the computer and pair again, be sure to reset the settings of the headphones themselves (clamping the button on the case for 10 seconds before a red flash).
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Headphones not found. | Search mode not activated | Press the button on the case until white flashing |
| Connection error | Profile conflict | Remove the device and perform reset (Reset) |
| No sound after connection | Output device not selected | Switch the output of sound to headphones in tray |
| Intermittent sound | Wi-Fi interference or low charge | Remove the router or charge the case |
In some cases, turning off the power saving service helps. In Device Manager, find your Bluetooth adapter, go to properties, tab "Power management" and uncheck "Allow disconnection of this device to save energy." This will prevent spontaneous disconnection of the connection.
Customization of sound quality and codecs
Once successfully connected, it is important to adjust the audio output settings to get better sound. Windows can use a low-quality SBC codec by default. For Xiaomi models that support AAC or aptX, it is advisable to activate these profiles if the Bluetooth adapter version allows.
To check and change the settings, go to the sound control panel (press Win + R, type mmsys.cpl). Find your headphones in the list of playback devices, right-click and select Properties. In the "Additional" tab, you can select the default format. It is recommended to put 2 channels, 16 bits, 48000 Hz for balance of quality and latency.
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To minimize the delay in games, turn off all audio enhancements. In the headphone properties in the Improvements tab, tick "Disable all sound effects." This will reduce the load on the processor and reduce latency.
Consider that when you use a microphone (headset mode), the sound quality drops sharply to mono. This is a limitation of the Bluetooth protocol, not a defect in the headphones. To listen to music, the system must switch to Stereo mode, which happens automatically when you close applications using the microphone (Skype, Discord).
Features of connecting to macOS and Linux
Apple users can also use Xiaomi headphones, although the pairing process has its nuances. In macOS, you need to open System Settings → Bluetooth. The algorithm for putting the headphones into search mode remains the same as for Windows. However, Mac OS sometimes incorrectly displays the battery power of these devices.
In Linux-based operating systems (Ubuntu, Mint, Fedora), Bluetooth is often managed via the bluetoothctl utility in the terminal, although graphical shells also support this feature. [MAC-address.
⚠️ Note: MacOS may be desynchronized sound and video when using a codec AAC Some Xiaomi models, in which case, disable the codec. AAC through special utilities or to accept the use of codec SBC.
Connection stability on Linux depends on the kernel version and the BlueZ stack used. If you encounter persistent breaks, try updating the system or using an external Bluetooth adapter with a Broadcom chip, which often has better open-source compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I connect only one Xiaomi headphone to my computer?
Why does the computer see the headphones, but says "I couldn't connect"?
How to reset Xiaomi headphones to factory settings?
Does Xiaomi’s headphone microphone work when connecting to a PC?
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The main secret of stable operation is always to force the headphones to white flashing mode before each new pairing with a new device, even if they are new.