How to Fix Windows Bluetooth Audio Stuttering

Dec. 16, 2024 / Updated by Seraphina to Windows 10

fix-windows-bluetooth-audio-stuttering

Audio stuttering is a common issue with Bluetooth devices on Windows PCs. This guide offers quick and effective solutions.

1. Check for Driver Updates

Outdated or corrupted Bluetooth adapter drivers can cause audio transmission stuttering. Timely updating of drivers is an effective way to fix Bluetooth audio stuttering. It is recommended to use Driver Talent for automatic driver detection and updates, saving time and effort while avoiding the risk of downloading or installing incorrect drivers.

Download Driver Talent

Click the download button to get the latest version of Driver Talent. After installation, open the software and click "Scan".
Once the scan is complete, a list of missing or outdated drivers will be shown. Find the Bluetooth audio driver in the result list and click the "Download" button.

driver-update

After the update is complete, it is recommended to restart your computer to ensure the updated drivers are properly applied.

2. Adjust Windows Bluetooth Settings

Enable Dedicated Bluetooth Mode

Some Bluetooth headphones support "high-quality audio mode" (such as A2DP). Ensure this mode is enabled in the Bluetooth device properties.

Press Win + X, select "Device Manager" > "Bluetooth", right-click your Bluetooth adapter, and select "Properties" > "Advanced". Check if the best mode is enabled.

Remove and Reconnect Bluetooth Devices

Go to "Settings" > "Devices" > "Bluetooth & other devices".

Find the problematic Bluetooth device, click "Remove device", and then re-pair the device.

remove-bluetooth-device

Check Bluetooth Range

Ensure that the Bluetooth device is within a 10-meter range with no obstacles or interference (such as Wi-Fi routers or microwave ovens).

3. Change Audio Format

Right-click the volume icon in the lower-right corner of the taskbar, and select "Open Sound Settings".

In the output devices list, select your Bluetooth device and click "Device Properties".

In the "Advanced" tab, try switching the audio quality, such as from 16-bit, 44100 Hz (CD Quality) to 16-bit, 48000 Hz (DVD Quality).

change-audio-format

Click "Apply", and test if the audio has improved.

In the Advanced tab, uncheck "Allow applications to take exclusive control of this device" and "Give exclusive mode applications priority to avoid conflicts".

4. Disable Audio Enhancements

Go back to the "Device Properties" page for your Bluetooth device and enter the "Enhancements" tab.

Check "Disable all sound effects" to eliminate any interference caused by audio effects configurations.

disable-audio-enhancements

Click "Apply", and play an audio file to test whether the stuttering issue is resolved.

5. Restart Bluetooth Service

Press Win + R, type "services.msc", and hit Enter to open the Services Manager.

Find Bluetooth Support Service, right-click, and select "Restart".

restart-bluetooth-service

If the service is not running, right-click and select "Start", and set the startup type to "Automatic".

After restarting the service, re-pair your Bluetooth device and check if the audio is smooth.

6. Check for Hardware Issues

If you're using an external USB Bluetooth adapter, try replacing it with a high-performance model. Older Bluetooth adapters may not support high-quality audio transmission.

Connect your Bluetooth headphones to other devices (such as a phone or tablet) to check if the stuttering still occurs. If the problem persists, the Bluetooth device hardware may be faulty.

For motherboards with built-in Bluetooth functionality, it is recommended to update the BIOS or chipset drivers. Visit the motherboard manufacturer's website to download the latest firmware updates.