How to fix sound delay on Bluetooth headphones

Headphones can enhance your TV or gaming experience. However, you may notice the sound being out of sync with the video movements. The delay is known as Bluetooth audio lag.

So, what causes sound delay on Bluetooth headphones? Well, there are several reasons. We’ve explained each of them and how you can troubleshoot them.

Initial troubleshooting

Before you try to take any steps, follow these guidelines, they may offer a quick solution to your issue.

Ensure the Bluetooth version on your audio device matches and is compatible with the Bluetooth version of your computer. For example, if your headphones are compatible with Bluetooth 2.0 and your laptop has a minimum requirement of Bluetooth 4.0, the small bandwidth may not deliver the high bit rate of the audio stream.
Ensure you are not on a low battery. Some problems may occur due to the low battery so ensure your headphones have a full charge.
Make sure you are within the range. Cheap Bluetooth headphones may have a range of 10-15 feet. If you are beyond the spectrum, you may experience latency issues.
Turn off other Bluetooth in the area to minimize interference. If other devices are trying to connect with your playback device, you may experience audio lag.

Bluetooth latency test

If the above troubleshooting tips fail, try a latency test.

Disconnect and reconnect your Bluetooth device. Your systems require reset, and this may work.
If you are on windows, use the Audio playback Troubleshooter. It may help you solve a complicated issue.
Update drivers; it’s a common issue with Bluetooth latency and can help adjust the audio delay.
Restart gadgets and make any updates if there are.

Bluetooth audio lag fix on Windows 10

If you are using a Windows laptop, there are various ways you can optimize your Bluetooth connection.

Reconnect your Bluetooth device: reset your Bluetooth headphones and speakers, then try connecting them again to your computer. It can help improve audio sync.
Download and install the latest Bluetooth drivers: Bluetooth software drivers may be outdated in your windows and causing the lag. Update them to the latest version as follows;
Right-click on the start button, then select device manager
Tap the arrow pointing to the right next to Bluetooth
You’ll get a list of all Bluetooth devices that currently work with your computer
Check the name of your Bluetooth headphones, then right-click on it
select update driver
Through windows, audio playback troubleshooter: Windows 10 features a built-in troubleshooting feature to fix your PC issues. Use these steps in improving a lag Bluetooth connection.
Right-click on the speaker icon on the lower right corner of your taskbar
Choose Troubleshoot sound problems.
A pop-up window will appear with an assortment of audio devices. Choose Bluetooth headphones, then click Next.
Follow the on-screen prompts till you complete the procedure.
Reboot windows audio service: it’s the last option in fixing the lag issue. Restart your windows audio service as follows;
Hold down the Windows key, then key in R to launch the Run dialog box.
Type services. MSc then key enter
Browse through to the bottom of the window and look for ‘Windows audio.’
Right-click on it and select ‘properties.’
On the General tab, select ‘Automatic’ for the start-up type.
Click the recovery tab.
Select’ Restart the service’ then click okay on the drop-down selection for the first failure and second failure.
Follow a similar procedure for Windows audio endpoint builder.
Restart the PC and reconnect your Bluetooth headphones

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Fix audio delay in Android

These tips can reduce or even solve sound delay on Bluetooth headphones on iPhone.

Make sure your Bluetooth headphones are in the signal range. Bluetooth technology uses wavelength radio waves to transmit data over short distances. So, if you go further from the Bluetooth source, you will experience more connection delays.
Ensure your phone has a full charge
Set your phone’s performance level option to high. Some systems’ power-saving settings limit the smartphone processor’s clock speed and other background operations. This setting may inhibit even any third-party apps, including the lag issues.
Check whether there is any signal interference, like WIFI, as it occupies the same wavelength spectrum as Bluetooth and may cause the delay.
Check if there is any physical obstruction to your Bluetooth device. For instance, if you accidentally place a bag on your phone, there may be a reduction in signal.
Use Bluetooth codec that reduces latency. The standard codecs are SBC, AAC LDAC, and more. Choose the best codec that offers an outstanding balance between quality and transmission speed.
Use a compatible Bluetooth device headset with your phone.
Reboot your mobile device; it helps clear RAM and stops any operations running in the background.
Factory reset your Bluetooth headphones to clear any listed devices that may be interfering.
Factory reset your mobile phone. You may also consider upgrading your mobile OS to the latest version.

Why is my Bluetooth audio so choppy? How to fix it

Your Bluetooth may be choppy due to the signal. Some Bluetooth devices may perform better than others, whether out of range or in obstructions.

To fix this, place your Bluetooth device right next to your phone or PC. Other causes are;

Low battery level
Interference by other Bluetooth devices
Unmatching Bluetooth headset model to your gadget
Out of date Bluetooth system

How do I stop my Bluetooth from disconnecting?

To stop your Bluetooth from disconnecting, you should change the following settings.

Disallow App Permission

Go to Setting > App
Choose the app which has restricted permission
Select Advanced
Apps that can change system settings
The toggle allows permission off

Conclusion

Bluetooth connectivity sometimes may have issues and can cause frustrations. However, following the tips listed above, you can solve sound delay on Bluetooth headphones. Sometimes you may have the wrong Bluetooth model, low signal, need an update of software drivers, or more.