How to pair Bluetooth devices: a generic guide

This guide attempts to provide generic advice to pairing Bluetooth devices.

N.B.: Generally, you’ll be pairing a Bluetooth peripheral (a speaker, headset, gamepad, mouse, keyboard) with a computer or mobile device (whether that’s a smartphone, tablet, laptop or desktop). For brevity, I’ll refer to these simply as peripherals and computers.

1. Turn on your peripheral and computer, and ensure any Bluetooth / wireless switches are in the ‘on’ position. On your computer, trigger any option given to search for Bluetooth devices (often found in Bluetooth settings or a Bluetooth app).

2. Begin a pairing attempt on your peripheral. For many peripherals, this involves pressing down their multi-function button until a light flashes or the peripheral appears in a list of Bluetooth devices on the computer. Here are more specific hints for different types of Bluetooth peripherals:

Speakers, headsets, car kits, gamepads: Hold down their multi-function button until the peripheral beeps or flashes. If the first response you get doesn’t seem to cause the device to enter pairing mode, try holding down the button for a longer period of time.

Keyboards, mice: Look for a pairing button, which may be a small hole pressed with a paperclip, a button on the back or side, or a combination of buttons marked with a Bluetooth or wireless symbol.

3. If your attempt was successful, you will see the Bluetooth peripheral listed on your computer. Click on the listed peripheral. You may be asked to confirm your pairing by entering or checking a code; do so. After this, your Bluetooth-enabled devices should be paired.

Questions? Comments?

I hope this generic guide helped you. If you need further guidance, try searching for a guide or help page on Google that is specific to your computer and/or peripheral. You can also contact your retailer or manufacturer for additional guidance.