Troubleshoot Bluetooth not connecting in Windows

Gjelder for
Windows 11 Windows 10

If Bluetooth appears in Device Manager but you cannot pair or connect to a Bluetooth device, Windows may be experiencing a configuration, driver, or device-level issue that prevents successful communication. These issues can occur when Bluetooth is turned on but the device is not in pairing mode, is out of range, has a low battery, or is experiencing driver, service, or update-related problems.
 

Try the following troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue:

Solution 1: Run the automated Bluetooth troubleshooter

If you are using a Windows 11 device, start by running the automated Bluetooth troubleshooter in the Get Help app. It will automatically run diagnostics and attempt to fix this Bluetooth problem.

Run the troubleshooter in Get Help

 

Solution 2: Turn on Bluetooth and verify the device is in pairing mode

Your Bluetooth device must be in pairing mode and within range of your PC.

  1. Turn on Bluetooth:

    • Select Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices.
    • Turn on Bluetooth toggle.

  2. Make sure your Bluetooth device is in pairing mode and within range of your PC.

  3. Move the device closer to your PC to ensure a stable signal.
     

Solution 3: Remove and re-add the Bluetooth device

If the device appears in the Bluetooth list but won’t connect, remove it and add it again.

  1. Select Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices.
  2. Locate the device and select More options (…) > Remove device.
  3. Select Add device, and then select the device from the list.

Solution 4: Check the device’s battery level

Some Bluetooth devices do not enter pairing mode or maintain a connection when the battery is low.

  1. Charge the device fully.
  2. Turn it off and back on.
  3. Attempt pairing again.

Tip

For rechargeable headphones or speakers, leave the device connected to power during pairing.

Solution 5: Turn off and turn on Bluetooth

  1. Select Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices.
  2. Turn Bluetooth off and wait 10 seconds.
  3. Turn Bluetooth on again.
  4. Attempt to pair your device.

Solution 6: Check for Windows Updates

Make sure your PC supports Bluetooth and that Windows is up to date.

  1. Select Start > Settings > Windows Update.
  2. Select Check for updates. Let it download and install any available updates.

Solution 7: Restart your PC

Restarting helps resolve temporary system issues affecting Bluetooth.

  • Select Start > Power > Restart.

If you are facing a different Bluetooth issue, refer to Fix Bluetooth problems in Windows.