How to connect Xiaomi headphones to PC: the complete guide

Xiaomi’s wireless accessories are becoming more popular on a computer, but the process of pairing them first raises questions among users. Many owners of models like Redmi Buds or Mi True Wireless Earphones have difficulty getting Windows to see the device. The problem is not a headset defect, but a specific algorithm for putting the headphones into detection mode, which is different from just turning on.

To synchronize successfully, you'll need to understand the logic of how a Bluetooth module works in your operating system. Whether it's Windows 10 or more recent Windows 11, the principles of working with the peripherals remain similar, but the interfaces may differ. USB-Adapters or cables may require additional drivers, although modern systems usually find them automatically.

In this guide, we’ll look at all the ways you can connect, from classic Bluetooth to using proprietary software to fine-tune your equalizer. You’ll learn how to fix things if your computer can’t see the headphones, and how to switch between modes of operation. Proper tuning will not only provide stable sound, but also low latency, which is critical for gaming and video watching.

Preparation for pairing: compatibility and charging check

Before you start taking active action in your system settings, make sure your device is physically ready to work. Make sure your Xiaomi Earbuds are charged at least 30-40%, as in deep-discharge mode, the Bluetooth module may not work stable or at all. Put your headphones in the case, close the lid and wait a few seconds, then open it again - the indicators should light up, signaling readiness.

Check for a Bluetooth adapter on your computer. If you use a desktop PC, the built-in module may not be available, and then you will need an external USB-Bluetooth adapter. For laptops, the module is almost guaranteed, but the drivers may not be installed or disabled in the Device Manager. It is also worth checking if the headphones are currently connected to the smartphone, as they can automatically try to reconnect with the latest device.

⚠️ Note: If the headphones were previously paired with the phone, they can automatically connect to it when you open the case. To successfully connect to the PC, you must first turn off Bluetooth on the smartphone or forget the device in its settings.

There are several types of connection, and the right method depends on your model, some devices support fast pairing, others require manual input. Below is a table that helps determine the method of connection for different series:

Headphone seriesType of connectionAvailability ofSound delay
Mi True WirelessBluetooth 5.0+Yes (Xiaomi Earbuds)Low.
Redmi BudsBluetooth 5.2Partially.Medium
Gaming HeadsetsUSB 2.4 GHz/BTYeah (Game Center)Minimum
Basic EarphonesBluetooth 4.2No.Tall.

Step-by-step: Connect via Bluetooth in Windows

The most common way to connect is the standard Bluetooth protocol. To start, open the Start menu and go to Settings (cog icon). You need to find the Devices (in Windows 10) or Bluetooth and Devices (in Windows 11). Make sure the Bluetooth slider is switched to On. If the switch is missing, it's possible that the adapter driver is not installed.

Now is the time to put Xiaomi headphones in pairing mode. Unlike some brands, it often requires a long press. Remove the headphones from the case and press the touch zones on both headphones at the same time (or the button on the case, if any) and hold for about 3-5 seconds. The indicator should start flashing quickly in white or blue, which means detection mode.

Go back to the settings window on your computer and click Add Bluetooth or other device. Select the first option "Bluetooth." The system will start searching, and in a few seconds the name of your model should appear in the list, for example, Redmi Buds 3 Pro. Click on it to begin the binding procedure.

β˜‘οΈ Checklist of Bluetooth connection

Done: 0 / 4

Once a successful connection is made, Windows can automatically install the required drivers for the A2DP profile (stereo sound) and HFP (headset). If the process is successful, you will hear a characteristic beep in the headphones, and the status in Windows will change to "Connected." Now the sound from the computer must be broadcast through your Mi True Wireless.

Customization of sound and use of proprietary software

Simply plugging in isn’t enough to get a good sound. Standard Windows drivers often don’t unlock the potential of modern codecs like aptX or AAC that Xiaomi headphones support. For full customization, including firmware updates and noise reduction mode changes, it’s recommended to install the official Xiaomi Earbuds app from the Microsoft Store.

Once you install the app, run it and follow the instructions on the screen, and it allows you to switch between noise reduction (ANC), transparency and normal mode right from the desktop, and it also allows you to set up the equalizer and reassign touch buttons, which you can not do through the standard Windows menu.

Secrets of Windows Codecs
Windows often uses the default SBC codec, which gives the worst quality. In the Xiaomi Earbuds app, you can check the supported codecs. Activating AAC or aptX HD sometimes requires registry editing or using third-party utilities, but the Xiaomi app tries to optimize the transfer automatically.

If you use headphones for games, note that there is a game mode. In some models, it is activated by triple touching the sensor, in others through the app. This reduces the latency of sound by synchronizing video and audio. Without this mode in shooters, you can hear the opponent's footsteps with noticeable delay.

⚠️ Note: When using third-party software to improve sound (e.g. Equalizer) APO) Make sure they are compatible with your version of Windows.Driver conflict can cause the system to completely disappear from sound.

Wired connection and use USB-adapter

Not all Xiaomi headphones are completely wireless.Some gaming headsets, such as the Mi Gaming Headset series, use the same. USB-So you have an adapter that provides a stable connection with minimal latency, and you just have to insert it. USB-receiver.

The system automatically recognizes the device as an external sound card. However, to get all the features, such as backlight and surround sound 7.1, you will need to install drivers. Usually, the link to them is on the box or official support site. After installing the Xiaomi Game Center software, you will be able to access advanced settings.

For models with a 3.5mm connector (wired versions), the connection is even easier. If your PC has a separate microphone and headphone input, and the headset has one plug, you may need a special splitter cable. Without it, the microphone will not work, although you will hear the sound.

πŸ’‘

Use the ports. USB 3.0 (blue) for connection USB-These provide better power stabilization and less susceptibility to interference from Wi-Fi modules, which often operate at 2.4 GHz.

Problem Solving: Computers Can't See Headphones

It's not uncommon for a PC to ignore headphones. First of all, check the Device Manager. Press Win+X and select Device Manager. Find the "Bluetooth" section. If there are devices with a yellow exclamation mark or an unknown device, the driver problem is, try updating them automatically or download them from the motherboard manufacturer's website.

A common cause is a Bluetooth service sticking in Windows. Open the command line on behalf of the administrator and enter a command to restart the service:

net stop bthserv


net start bthserv

If that doesn't work, try removing the device from the list of previously used ones. In the Bluetooth window, find your headphones, click "Delete Device," then repeat the pairing procedure from the beginning, making sure the headphones are in mode (pairs) and not just on.

πŸ“Š What problem did you encounter when connecting?
Headphones are not on
PC doesn't see Bluetooth
The sound is there, but the microphone is not working.
Poor sound quality
It's working fine.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Can you connect Xiaomi headphones to a PC without Bluetooth?
Yes, if you have a wired headset with a 3.5mm connector or USB-It's a model. It's a fully wireless model (TWS) Without a Bluetooth adapter, connectivity is impossible, as they have no alternative data interfaces.
Why is it that after you connect, the sound goes through speakers and not headphones?
You need to manually switch the output device. Click on the speaker icon in the tray (near the clock), click on the device selection arrow and select your Xiaomi Earbuds from the list.
Does Xiaomi’s headphone microphone work on your computer?
But when you activate the microphone, Windows switches the profile to Hands-Free AG Audio, which reduces the sound quality to monophonic, which is a limitation of the Bluetooth protocol, not a defect in the headphones.
How to update the firmware headphones through the PC?
Officially, the firmware update is for smartphones via the Mi Home or Xiaomi Earbuds app. On PC, this can only be done through an Android emulator (like BlueStacks) with the Xiaomi app installed, or using specialized developer software if it is available for your model.

πŸ’‘

Connection stability depends on the version of the Bluetooth adapter. For modern codecs and low latency, Bluetooth 5.0 and higher is desirable.