Why do my AirPods sound tinny?
Matthew Perez
Updated on April 16, 2026
The most common reason why AirPods sound muffled is dirty speaker grilles. Apple's wireless earbuds rest inside the ear canal, where earwax and other debris can accumulate over time. These factors can affect sound quality.
Why do my AirPods Pro sound tinny?
If your AirPods Pro still sound iffy, it could be a result of the included ear tips not sealing your ears well enough. Luckily, there's a quick way to find out which size (small, medium, or large) is best for you. Apple provides a software-based Ear Tip Fit Test on your devices.How do you make AirPods sound less tinny?
Once in the Sound settings, click on the Input tab at the top, then click on your Mac's built-in microphone. Wait a few seconds (~7 seconds) for it to change codecs, and you're set. The sound quality should be pristine again!Why is my AirPod quality muffled?
One of the most common causes of muffled AirPods is that they've become dirty. Whether it be earwax, dust, dirt, or anything else that's found its way on the AirPods' speakers, having a bunch of gunk clogging up the earpiece is a surefire way to get muffled audio.Why is AirPods sounding weird?
Make sure the latest software is installed on a connected iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, or Mac. Check that the connected device is nearby and there's no wireless interference or obstructions between you and the device. Listen to audio from a different app to see if the app causes the issue.How To Fix AirPod Sound Quality Issues! (2021)
How do I fix Airpod sound quality?
Apply some rubbing alcohol to the end of the cotton swab. For AirPods Pro, remove the silicone ear tips and rinse them with water. Delicately use the cotton swab to clean the speaker meshes. The rubbing alcohol will help to loosen the earwax and debris buildup.How do I fix the distorted sound on my AirPods?
Second step in fixing AirPods distortion
- Put the AirPods in their case and close the lid.
- Wait 30 seconds.
- Open the lid, but leave the AirPods in the case.
- On your iPhone, go to Settings, Bluetooth.
- Find your AirPods or AirPods Pro in the list of devices and tap on the i for information icon to the right.