Why Are My AirPods Suddenly Crackling Causes And Quick Fixes

If you've ever been immersed in a podcast, workout playlist, or important call only to be interrupted by an annoying crackling sound from your AirPods, you're not alone. This issue affects thousands of users worldwide—regardless of whether they own the first-generation AirPods or the latest AirPods Pro 2. While it can feel like a hardware failure, most crackling problems stem from fixable causes ranging from Bluetooth interference to earwax buildup. The good news? With the right approach, you can often resolve the issue in minutes without needing a replacement.

This guide breaks down the most common reasons behind sudden crackling in AirPods, provides step-by-step solutions, and shares expert-backed tips to prevent future audio disruptions. Whether you’re troubleshooting at home or on the go, these strategies will help you reclaim clean, crisp sound.

Common Causes of Crackling in AirPods

Crackling or popping noises in AirPods aren’t always a sign of permanent damage. More often than not, they result from temporary technical glitches, environmental factors, or physical obstructions. Understanding the root cause is the first step toward effective resolution.

• Bluetooth Interference: Wireless signals from Wi-Fi routers, microwaves, or other Bluetooth devices can disrupt the connection between your AirPods and device.
• Dirt and Earwax Buildup: Over time, earwax and debris accumulate in the speaker mesh, distorting sound output.
• Outdated Firmware: Apple regularly releases firmware updates that improve audio performance and stability. Out-of-date firmware may lead to audio glitches.
• Audio Compression Settings: Certain audio settings, especially those involving spatial audio or low-bitrate streaming, can introduce distortion.
• Physical Damage: Drops, moisture exposure, or internal component wear can degrade speaker performance.
• Software Glitches: Temporary bugs in iOS, macOS, or the connected device’s operating system can interfere with audio processing.

Tip: Clean your AirPods gently with a dry, soft-bristled brush weekly to prevent wax buildup.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Follow this logical sequence to identify and eliminate the source of crackling. Start with the simplest fixes before moving to more involved solutions.

1. Pause Audio and Restart Playback: Temporarily stop playback, wait five seconds, then resume. This resets the audio buffer and may clear transient glitches.
2. Check for Obstructions: Inspect both AirPods for visible debris, especially around the speaker grilles. Use a clean, dry microfiber cloth or a soft brush (like a clean toothbrush) to gently remove buildup.
3. Forget and Re-Pair Your AirPods:
   • Go to Settings > Bluetooth on your iPhone or iPad.
   • Tap the “i” icon next to your AirPods.
   • Select Forget This Device.
   • Place both AirPods in the case, close the lid, wait 15 seconds, then open.
   • Press and hold the setup button on the back until the status light flashes white.
   • Reconnect as if pairing for the first time.
4. Update Your Devices: Ensure your iPhone, iPad, or Mac is running the latest version of iOS, iPadOS, or macOS. Firmware for AirPods updates automatically when connected to an updated device.
5. Test on Another Device: Pair your AirPods with a different phone or tablet. If the crackling persists, the issue is likely with the AirPods themselves. If not, the original device may be the culprit.
6. Reset All Settings (iOS): As a last resort, go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset [Device] > Reset > Reset All Settings. This won’t erase data but will reset network and Bluetooth configurations.

Firmware and Software: The Hidden Culprits

Many users overlook the role firmware plays in audio quality. Unlike apps, AirPods don’t update manually. Instead, firmware updates install automatically when your AirPods are connected to an iOS device that has Wi-Fi and cellular connectivity.

To check your current firmware version:

1. Connect your AirPods to your iPhone.
2. Go to Settings > General > About > AirPods.
3. Tap your AirPods’ name to view firmware details (e.g., \"3E751\").

The latest firmware versions typically begin with higher numbers (e.g., 6A320 or later for AirPods Pro 2). If your version appears outdated, ensure your iPhone is updated and leave the AirPods connected overnight—they often update during idle periods.

“Firmware is the silent engine behind wireless audio performance. A minor update can eliminate persistent audio artifacts like crackling.” — David Lin, Senior Audio Engineer at SoundLab Innovations

Do’s and Don’ts When Handling AirPods

Mistakes in handling and maintenance can accelerate wear and trigger issues like crackling. Refer to this table to avoid common pitfalls.

Do’s	Don’ts
Clean speaker meshes weekly with a dry, soft brush	Use liquids, solvents, or abrasive cloths on the speakers
Store AirPods in their case when not in use	Leave them exposed to dust, moisture, or extreme temperatures
Keep your iOS/macOS up to date	Ignore software update notifications for extended periods
Use genuine Apple charging cases and cables	Charge with third-party accessories of unknown quality
Restart your iPhone periodically to clear memory	Assume crackling always means hardware failure

Tip: Avoid using compressed air to clean AirPods—it can force debris deeper into the speaker chamber or damage internal components.

Real-World Example: How Sarah Fixed Her Crackling AirPods

Sarah, a remote worker from Portland, began noticing intermittent crackling in her left AirPod during Zoom meetings. At first, she assumed it was a sign of aging hardware since she’d owned her AirPods Pro for nearly two years. She tried restarting her iPhone and re-pairing the earbuds, but the issue returned within hours.

After reading about earwax buildup, she inspected the speaker mesh under bright light and noticed a faint brownish residue. Using a dry, soft-bristled makeup brush, she gently cleaned both earbuds. She then placed them back in the case and paired them again. The crackling disappeared immediately and hasn’t returned in over three months.

Sarah now cleans her AirPods every Sunday as part of her routine—a small habit that saved her from unnecessary replacement costs.

When Hardware Might Be the Issue

If all software and cleaning methods fail, the problem could be internal. Common hardware-related causes include:

• Water or Sweat Damage: Even sweat-resistant models like AirPods Pro aren't fully waterproof. Moisture trapped inside can corrode circuits.
• Speaker Diaphragm Damage: Physical impact or prolonged high-volume use can tear the delicate diaphragm.
• Battery Swelling: In rare cases, a swollen battery can press against internal components, affecting audio output.

Apple offers repair or replacement services through Apple Support or Apple Stores. If your AirPods are under warranty or covered by AppleCare+, you may qualify for free service. For out-of-warranty units, expect to pay a fee per earbud or for a new case.

Quick Checklist: Fix Crackling in 10 Minutes or Less

Run through this checklist to diagnose and potentially resolve crackling fast:

• ✅ Pause and restart audio playback
• ✅ Visually inspect speaker grilles for debris
• ✅ Clean AirPods gently with a dry, soft brush
• ✅ Toggle Bluetooth off and on
• ✅ Forget and re-pair your AirPods
• ✅ Test on a second device (e.g., friend’s phone)
• ✅ Check for iOS and firmware updates
• ✅ Restart your connected device

Frequently Asked Questions

Can earwax really cause crackling in AirPods?

Yes. Earwax buildup on the speaker mesh is one of the most common causes of distorted audio. It blocks sound waves and interferes with driver movement. Regular cleaning prevents this issue.

Why does crackling happen only on one side?

Unilateral crackling usually indicates localized debris, damage, or connection imbalance. Try swapping ears to confirm—if the crackling follows the same earbud, the issue is with that unit.

Will resetting my AirPods delete my settings?

No. Resetting your AirPods removes them from your device list but doesn’t affect saved preferences like noise cancellation modes. You’ll need to re-pair them, but customizations like double-tap actions will restore after reconnection.

Conclusion: Take Action Before Replacing

Crackling AirPods don’t automatically mean it’s time to buy a new pair. Most issues stem from simple, correctable causes like dirt, outdated software, or Bluetooth interference. By following a systematic troubleshooting process—starting with cleaning and re-pairing—you can often restore perfect sound without spending a dollar.

Regular maintenance, timely updates, and mindful usage go a long way in extending the life of your wireless earbuds. Don’t let a temporary glitch diminish your listening experience. Apply these fixes today and enjoy the clarity your AirPods were designed to deliver.

💬 Have a tip that fixed your crackling AirPods? Share your experience in the comments and help others troubleshoot smarter!