How to connect Bluetooth devices on Windows 10

You can connect headphones, speakers, mouse, keyboard, and other devices to Windows 10 using Bluetooth — here's how to do it.

Windows 10 connect Bluetooth device
Windows 10 connect Bluetooth device

Windows 10 packs many features, including the ability to quickly connect devices to your computer without the need for cables using Bluetooth technology. Bluetooth is a standard wireless technology use to transfer data over a short distance (typically just several feet), and on your computer running Windows 10, this technology allows you to use a wide range of wireless devices, such as headphones, speakers, fitness trackers, phones, mice, keyboards, and many other devices.

The best part about Bluetooth is that you do not need to install extra software or drivers. You only need to pair it with your computer.

In this guide, you will learn the steps to connect wireless devices to Windows 10 using Bluetooth.

Connect Bluetooth mouse and keyboard to Windows 10

Use the following steps to connect a new peripheral like a Bluetooth mouse or keyboard:

  1. Turn on the Bluetooth device.

  2. Make it discoverable.

    Quick note: The process to make a wireless device discoverable will be different per manufacturer and device. Usually, there is a button to press and hold until the connect light starts flashing. However, you may need to check the manufacturer’s support website to learn more specific details.
  3. Open Settings on Windows 10.

  4. Click on Devices.

  5. Click on Bluetooth & other devices.

  6. Turn on the Bluetooth toggle switch (if applicable).

  7. Click the Add Bluetooth or other device button.

    Bluetooth & other devices settings
    Bluetooth & other devices settings
  8. Click on the Bluetooth option.

    Add Bluetooth device
    Add Bluetooth device
  9. Select the Bluetooth device.

    Select device to connect
    Select device to connect
  10. Continue with the on-screen directions (if applicable).

Once you complete the steps, you should be able to use your Bluetooth device with your Windows 10 computer.

Connect Bluetooth audio devices to Windows 10

Use the following steps to connect a Bluetooth headset, speaker, or another audio device:

  1. Turn on the Bluetooth device.

  2. Make it discoverable.

  3. Open Action Center (Windows key + A keyboard shortcut).

  4. Click the Expand button (if applicable).

  5. Click the Bluetooth button (if applicable).

  6. Click the Connect button.

    Action Center connect Bluetooth option
    Action Center connect Bluetooth option
  7. Select the device from the list.

    Select wireless device
    Select wireless device
  8. Continue with the on-screen directions (if applicable).

Once you complete the steps, you should be able to use your Bluetooth device with your Windows 10 computer.

This should be a one-time process. After connecting the Bluetooth device, it should connect automatically when in range. If you are having issues, you can use these steps to fix Bluetooth problems.

In addition to using Action Center and the Settings app, supported devices can also use Swift Pair to connect to Windows 10 even quicker with fewer steps.

If your computer does not have Bluetooth built-in, you can alternatively buy a USB adapter on Amazon.

About the author

Mauro Huculak is a Windows How-To Expert who started Pureinfotech in 2010 as an independent online publication. He has also been a Windows Central contributor for nearly a decade. Mauro has over 15 years of experience writing comprehensive guides and creating professional videos about Windows and software, including Android and Linux. Before becoming a technology writer, he was an IT administrator for seven years. In total, Mauro has over 21 years of combined experience in technology. Throughout his career, he achieved different professional certifications from Microsoft (MSCA), Cisco (CCNP), VMware (VCP), and CompTIA (A+ and Network+), and he has been recognized as a Microsoft MVP for many years. You can follow him on X (Twitter), YouTube, LinkedIn and About.me. Email him at [email protected].