Fix Bluetooth audio only playing in one channel (2025)

Low battery levels can sometimes cause unexpected audio behavior, including sound playing in only one channel. Some Bluetooth headsets or earbuds may disable one speaker or reduce functionality when power is low. To check the battery level:

1. Select Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices .

2. Find your connected Bluetooth in the list.

   See Also

   Bluetooth Not Working On Windows 11 (Solved)Fixing One-Channel Audio on Windows 11 Bluetooth Devices

3. If supported, the battery percentage will be displayed below the device name.

   Note:Not all devices reportbattery status to Windows. If it's not shown, check the indicator on the device itself.

4. Reconnect the device after charging to see if the issue resolves.

Verify whether the audio balance between the left and right channels is set correctly.

1. Select Start > Settings > System > Sound.

2. Under the Output section, select your Bluetooth audio device.

3. Go to Output settings and select Volume.

4. Ensure both Left and Right channelsare set to the same level (typically 100).

Mono audio converts stereo sound into a single channel so you can hear everything, even if you're using just one headphone. To disable this:

1. Select Start > Settings > System > Sound.

2. In the Output section,turn off theMono audio toggle.

Sometimes, Windows may be using a mono or low-quality audio format that disables stereo output.

1. Select Start > Settings > System > Sound.

2. Under the Output section, select your Bluetooth audio device.

3. In theOutput settings, go to Format and make sure2 channels, 16bit, 48000Hz (DVD Quality) ​​​​​​​is selected from the dropdown.

1. Select Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices .

2. Select Devices .

3. Scroll to the Audio section and find your earbuds or speakers.

4. Select Disconnect and then selectRemove Device.

5. If you are using Bluetooth earbuds, place both earbuds in their charging cradle.

6. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to place your Bluetooth earbuds or speakers into pairing mode. Generally, there is a button on the device or charging cradle that can be pressed or held to enter pairing mode.

7. Select Add device and then select Bluetooth.

8. Wait for your earbuds or speakers to appear in the list, and then select them from the list to begin connecting.

9. When prompted to connect the second earbud or speaker, select the option to connect it.

To rule out hardware failure, test with a second Bluetooth headset or speaker.

• If stereo sound works fine on the second device, the original headset may be faulty.

• If the issue persists with other devices, it’s likely a PC-side configuration or driver issue.

Outdated firmware on your Bluetooth can sometimes cause stereo audio issues. To check for firmware updates:

1. Visit the official website of your Bluetooth audio device or adapter manufacturer.

2. Look for a Support, Downloads, or Drivers & Firmware section.

3. Search for your specific product model.

4. Download and install any available firmware updates, following the manufacturer's instructions.

5. After updating, restart both the Bluetooth device and your PC, then reconnect the device.