AirPods, the stylish wireless earbuds that have revolutionized how we use our Apple products! Have you had difficulties connecting your AirPods to your MacBook too? If so, don’t fret— it’s actually a fairly easy process that takes only a few steps.
No matter the version of macOS and Macbook model you own, I’m going to provide easy-to-follow instructions on how to connect AirPods to MacBook, quickly and efficiently!
Let’s get started as I show you the fastest way for getting into enjoying listening or talking through your beloved Airpods with your device from Apple!
Here’s What You Need To Know!
You need to make sure that you have the right gadgets (in this case, AirPods and MacBook) that are compatible with each other. Otherwise, you will not be able to go through with this process.
You need to have any of the recent models of MacBook. Next, you need to check and coordinate the compatibility of the model of AirPods you have with the macOS. Let us do it.
AirPods Pro
In case you have AirPods Pro, you will need macOS X 10.15.1 Catalina or any higher than this. If you have AirPods Pro (2nd Generation), it will require the latest macOS.
3rd Generation AirPods
This generation of AirPods will require the macOS Monterey.
2nd Generation AirPods
In the case of the second-generation AirPods, you will require macOS X 10.14.4 Mojave or higher than this.
1st Generation AirPods
Lastly, the first-generation AirPods will require macOS X 10.12 Sierra or higher.
Connecting AirPods To MacBook – Two Scenarios!
All set for connecting your AirPods to your MacBook? Wait, you need to know that there will be two scenarios here.

Your AirPods Are Not Used With Your iPhone
If you don’t already have your AirPods connected to an iPhone, then you can directly connect them directly to a Mac.
Your AirPods Have Been Used With Your iPhone
Your Mac could already be connected to your AirPods if you previously used them with an iPhone, rendering the setup process effortless! If your iPhone and Mac both have the same Apple ID logged into iCloud, then your Mac will also be able to connect automatically with AirPods.
I’ll be explaining both cases to you!
How To Connect AirPods To MacBook — Not Used with iPhone
First scenario: You have not used your AirPods with your iPhone. In this case, will need to connect your AirPods to your MacBook directly by making some settings.
Go with the steps below.
- Open the lid of your AirPods charging case while the AirPods are inside.
- Firmly press and hold the button located on the rear of your case until the status light commences blinking.

- Open the Apple menu by clicking on the iconic apple symbol in your Mac’s top bar.
- Access your System Preferences on the Mac.
- Access Bluetooth settings. Simply go to the System Preferences window and click on the Bluetooth option.

- Locate your desired AirPods in the list of devices, then select it to establish a connection with your Mac.

- Once connected, the AirPods will appear at the top of your Devices list and you’ll be ready to experience high-quality sound.
How to Connect AirPods to MacBook — Used with iPhone
The second scenario: Your AirPods have already been used with your iPhone. Here, the process is much simpler and faster.
Why? Because are equipped with seamless integration. AirPods are designed to effortlessly connect to your Mac as long you have the same Apple ID activated on both your iPhone and computer.
Follow the steps below in this case.
- Open the AirPods case.
- On your Mac, locate the Volume icon – which looks like a speaker- in the menu bar at the top of your screen and click on it.

- In the Output Device section, look for your AirPods and select them.
What to Do if this Doesn’t Work?
Don’t worry! If this doesn’t resolve your issue, make sure to enable a couple of settings first. To do so, open System Preferences by clicking the Apple icon in the top menu bar and selecting “System Preferences”.
First, make certain that your Mac and iPhone are both logged into the same Apple ID. By visiting System Preferences, you can confirm that they are sharing a single identity by checking on your Apple ID’s status.
Next! Can you spot the volume symbol on your menu bar? If it’s not visible, that just means you need to turn it on. To do so, head over to System Preferences and select ‘Sound.’ Afterward, ensure that there is a checkmark beside ‘Show volume in the menu bar.’ With this done, all of your audio-related adjustments will be available at a glance!
Thirdly, To ensure Handoff is enabled, open the System Preferences window and click on General. Ensure there’s a checkmark beside ‘Allow Handoff between this Mac and your iCloud devices’.
All Set – Enjoy With Your AirPods!
That’s it! You are now all set to go and enjoy your AirPods with your MacBook. An effortless connection process, isn’t it? How cool is that? So, let the music play and bring up the audio quality of your Mac. Enjoy listening to your favorite songs or podcasts with a seamless connection between your devices!