Fix Low AirPods Volume on MS Teams in Windows 11

If you’re like me, using AirPods 4 for work calls on a locked-down Windows 11 laptop, you may have noticed painfully low volume during MS Teams meetings. Despite being at full volume, the sound can be so faint it’s barely audible. It turns out this is a surprisingly common issue with corporate-managed machines. Here’s how I resolved it without needing Device Manager access and how you can, too.

Why Teams Sound So Quiet with AirPods in Windows 11

The issue that many users experience, extremely low volume while using AirPods during Microsoft Teams calls on Windows 11, stems from how the operating system handles Bluetooth audio profiles. When you connect a Bluetooth headset like AirPods, Windows often defaults to the Hands-Free Telephony or Headset AG (Audio Gateway) profile. This mode enables the microphone and speaker to function simultaneously, making it ideal for two-way communication.

However, there’s a significant trade-off: Hands-Free mode delivers mono sound at a much lower quality and volume than stereo audio. This profile prioritizes the microphone over speaker fidelity, and the result is a tinny, quiet sound that can make professional calls frustratingly hard to follow.

This isn’t just an isolated glitch. Across user forums, hundreds have raised concerns:

• On Apple’s community pages, users report that the Volume is “extremely low” until switching profiles.

• Disabling the Hands-Free AG profile in Device Manager is a recommended fix, but often locked on corporate PCs Super User.

How to Fix Low AirPods Volume on MS Teams in Windows 11:

Following is the compilation of fixes that helped me resolve the low AirPods volume issue on Microsoft Teams. These solutions are based on my personal experience and insights from other users facing the same problem. I know how frustrating it can be when a device you’ve invested in doesn’t work as expected, especially when you’re relying on it for work or important meetings. Hopefully, one of these fixes will work for you, too, and restore the clear audio experience you were expecting.

Step 1: Temporary Browser Workaround

If Device Manager is off-limits, the quickest workaround is to use Teams via a browser instead of the desktop app:

• Log in to teams.microsoft.com.

• Join meetings there, and the volume improves noticeably.

• This avoids the Desktop app amplifying the issue.

It’s not a true fix, but it’s a usable workaround early in the day.

Step 2: Use AirPods Volume Controls

AirPods 4 come with built-in volume sensitivity:

• Swipe up or down on an AirPod stem during a call—even with Windows’ volume at 100% Reddit.

• This independently adjusts your earbud’s internal amplifier.

Reddit users report this “worked like magic” during Zoom/Teams calls.

Step 3 (When Admin Access Becomes Available): Disable “Hands‑Free AG” Mode

If you can later access Device Manager—even briefly—disabling the Hands-Free AG device brings full volume back:

1. Press Win + X, open Device Manager.

2. Expand Sound, video, and game controllers or System Devices.

3. Look for entries labeled AirPods Hands‑Free AG (e.g., “AirPods Pro Hands‑Free AG”)

4. Right-click → Disable device.

5. Restart your PC, Teams now routes through the high-quality “Stereo” profile.

This bypasses the low-volume Hands-Free mode entirely.

Step 4: Uncheck Hands‑Free Telephony via Control Panel

If you have partial admin rights, another option exists:

• Open Control Panel → Hardware and Sound → Devices and Printers.

• Right-click your AirPods → Properties → Services tab.

• Uncheck Hands‑Free Telephony and apply.

This forces Windows to ignore the AG profile.

Step 5: Enhance Volume via Sound Settings

If neither disabling profiles is possible, tweak audio enhancements:

1. Press Win + R, type mmsys.cpl,press Enter.

2. Under Playback, find AirPods Stereo, select Properties.

3. On the Enhancements tab, enable Loudness Equalization.

4. Apply, restart Teams. You should hear increased output.

This setting compensates for low volume by balancing peaks and valleys in audio.

Step 6: Reset and Re-Pair Your AirPods

Firmware quirks can also cause low volume. A reset often helps:

1. Put your AirPods in their case and open the lid.

2. Hold the back button until the LED flashes amber, then white.

3. On Windows, “Forget” the device → reconnect.

Many users report that this solves soft volume by restoring the proper Bluetooth profile.

Step 7: Keep Windows & Bluetooth Drivers Updated

OS updates and updated drivers may resolve this bug:

• Go to Settings → Windows Update, install any updates.

• In Device Manager, update your Bluetooth adapter drivers.

A newer Bluetooth stack may allow better volume control.

Personalized Workflow Summary to Fix Low AirPods Volume on MS Teams

As someone who depended on Teams calls during work hours:

This multi-pronged approach delivered clear audio on my locked-down laptop, saving me from missed cues in client meetings and helping me stay connected with colleagues.

Why This Matters

For remote and hybrid workers, virtual communication tools like Microsoft Teams are lifelines. When call audio is barely audible—even with the system volume maxed out—it doesn’t just create inconvenience. It creates missed cues, miscommunication, and a less effective work experience overall.

Many companies understandably lock down settings like Device Manager to protect system integrity. However, that means users can’t disable problematic components like the Hands-Free AG profile, even when it’s clearly interfering with essential tools. This situation puts users in a bind: you’re stuck with a known bug, no permissions to fix it, and a major hit to daily productivity.

That’s why understanding the underlying cause of the issue and available workarounds becomes crucial, not just for fixing the problem, but for maintaining momentum in high-stakes or fast-paced professional environments.

Final Thoughts on Low AirPods Volume on MS Teams & Reassurance

If you’re stuck in a workspace with restricted admin rights but need better call quality, start with simple workarounds (browser Teams, stem swipe). As soon as you can, restore the proper stereo audio path by disabling the Hands-Free mode or tweaking sound settings. If all else fails, a reset or updates often fix lingering audio quirks.

You’re not alone in this—forums confirm hundreds experiencing this. With practical steps, you can avoid quiet meetings and get back to clear conversations.