Yealink Headset Not Working? Common Problems and Fixes

The most common causes of a Yealink headset not working are audio settings, loose connections, compatibility, firmware updates, charging, or pairing. Before replacing the headset, consider these common causes. With the proper troubleshooting techniques, most issues can be resolved in a few minutes.

Whether you are using a Yealink headset with a PC, Microsoft Teams or a Yealink desk phone or wireless base, this guide will explain the most common Yealink headset issues and what causes each of them and how to resolve them. Let's get started and get your Yealink headset working.

1. Yealink Headset Has No Sound

One of the most frequent issues is no sound. The headset might be plugged in, but your computer or calling app could be playing audio via speakers.

What Causes It?

The most common cause is the wrong audio device. Your computer could have picked up the built-in speakers rather than the Yealink headset. A different playback device can also be used with a softphone or calling application.

The same symptom can also be caused by a USB connection problem. An audio-driver conflict may also impact playback of headsets on Windows.

The audio could also be impacted by the Yealink desk phone's firmware and headset compatibility.

How to Fix It

First, look at the computer's sound settings. Make your Yealink headset the default playback device. Next, launch your softphone or calling app, and ensure you are using the same headset as audio output.

If you don't hear anything, unplug and replug the USB cable. If this doesn't work, try another USB port.

If the problem persists on Windows, run Device Manager. Some USB audio devices may interfere when there are conflicting audio drivers. Don't disable random drivers as a first step. Identify if there is a true driver conflict.

For wired models like Yealink UH34, verify the USB connection and ensure that the computer identifies the headset as an audio device.

2. Yealink Microphone Is Not Working

If you can hear other people but they cannot hear you, the issue is usually with the microphone selection, mute setting, connection, or microphone position.

What Causes It?

The Yealink headset microphone may not be functioning due to your computer or softphone being using its internal microphone.

Additionally, the headset can be muted. When using a boom-style headset, the positioning of the microphone can impact the other person's ability to hear you.

How to Fix It

Open the recording or microphone settings of your computer, and choose the Yealink headset as the default recording device. Repeat this in your calling application.

Check the headset's mute control before starting another test call.

If the headset features a microphone boom, make sure to hold the boom at or within 2 fingers' width of your mouth. Do not lie your face against it.

Make a test call after changing the settings. This can help you determine whether the problem is with the headset or with the calling application.

3. Computer Does Not Recognize Your Yealink Headset

On some computers, the headset is functioning correctly, while on others it is not. This typically indicates the USB connection, port, Windows configuration or drivers.

What Causes It?

If the headset is not detected by the computer, it may be due to a loose USB connection or a faulty USB port.

If Windows has not chosen the same audio device, or if an audio driver is causing interference, then the audio device will not be available.

How to Fix It

Disconnect the headset from the computer and reconnect it. Try another USB port on the computer.

Next, review Windows Sound Settings under the Input/Output Devices section. If the Yealink headset is available, choose it as the playback and recording device.

If it doesn't show up, go to Device Manager and look for audio or USB device errors. Restarting the computer will also reset the connection.

For those who use USB-C, devices like Yealink UH37 Teams USB-C/A may be helpful when the computer needs a USB-C port. Before selecting a replacement, please make sure to verify the connector and platform requirements.

4. Yealink Headset Works on PC but Not in Microsoft Teams

A headset may function just fine on Windows, but not in Microsoft Teams. This typically indicates that Teams is using another audio device.

What Causes It?

Device settings are available in Microsoft Teams. It can choose to use the computer's microphone and speakers, rather than the Yealink headset.

Teams may also react differently when you plug in a new USB headset or switch to a different one.

How to Fix It

Go to the audio or device settings in Microsoft Teams. Choose your Yealink headset for Speaker and Microphone.

Make a test call after changing the settings.

Even though the headset is not working in Teams, it may not be a new headset. Review the Teams devices first.

If you are a business that will be using Teams on a regular basis, you may want to consider using a USB headset for UC and Teams environments, such as the Yealink UH48 USB Wired Headset.

5. Yealink Headset Is Not Working With a Desk Phone

A little more attention to the desk phone problem because the headset must do its part to meet the connection and compatibility requirements of the phone.

What Causes It?

The headset may not be compatible with the desk phone. It could also be the wrong cable; the cable may be loose, or the cable may be plugged into the wrong port.

In wireless systems, the headset base might need to be connected to the desk phone in a particular way.

The firmware is also an important factor. The firmware version does not apply to all Yealink headsets and desk phones. Certain combinations are supported with specific firmware.

How to Fix It

Firstly, you need to check the model of your desk phone and ensure that it has the ability to accommodate the headset you are using.

If you are using a wired desk phone, examine the headset cable and phone jack. For Yealink wired models like the YHS36, the right phone and the right cable are crucial.

Check the base connection and the necessary phone cable or adapter (when a wireless headset is used).

You can refer to the Yealink phone headset compatibility guide, which includes all models of phones, to verify before replacing headsets.

6. Remote Call Control or Answering Is Not Working

If you can hear and speak during calls, but not answer, end or control calls from the headset, the issue may be related to remote call control.

What Causes It?

The connection type, headset, firmware and desk phone model determine remote call control.

For instance, certain Yealink desk phones like the T33G, T42S, T46S, T48S, T53W, T54W and T57W can support specific Yealink headset setups. It is still advisable to check the make and model of the phone and headset combination as specifications may differ.

Depending on the connection, non-Yealink desk phones may also have limited or no support for remote call control.

Another common issue may be due to a loose USB or EHS (Electronic Hook Switch) connection. The headset can be used for audio but not for calls.

How to Fix It

Verify if your desk phone is compatible with the headset and remote call control that you are using. If using an EHS adapter, be sure the adapter fits the phone as well as the base of the headset.

Unplug the USB or EHS adapter cables and plug them in securely.

Check the desk phone’s firmware as well. If the phone’s firmware is outdated, update it to the latest version recommended by Yealink for your specific phone model before testing the headset again.

If your work device is a desk phone and you want to use a wireless headset between the two, then a Yealink WH-series headset is a better choice for workstation users. The model and connection type should be identical to your phone.

7. Yealink Headset Is Not Charging or Won't Power On

If the wireless headset suddenly stops charging, it could be a contact or charging issue.

What Causes It?

Over time, dust or dirt can accumulate on the charging contacts. This may cause the headset to not contact the charging base properly.

The base could also be unresponsive following a power outage.

How to fix it

Check the spring-loaded charging contacts on both the headset and base. Use a dry cloth or an alcohol swab appropriate for the headset to clean it carefully, and then return the headset to the base.

If this doesn't work, remove the AC power adapter from the base. Wait approximately 6 to 10 seconds and reconnect the adapter.

Put the headset back on base and allow a few moments for the headset to respond.

If cleaning the contacts and power cycling the base doesn't resolve the charging issue, examine the adapter, base, and headset for physical damage.

8. Yealink Wireless Headset Is Not Connecting

A wireless headset might continue to connect to its base even if it has battery power remaining.

What Causes It?

This can be because the base doesn't have power, the headset has been unpaired or the mode is not compatible with the setup.

The cable from the base to the computer or desk phone can also be free.

How to Fix it

Make sure that the base is energized first. Afterwards, look at the cable from your computer or desk phone.

If the headset is disconnected, reconnect it per the pairing instructions on your headset.

A hybrid device like the Yealink WH64 Hybrid DECT Wireless Headset can facilitate a more flexible workstation configuration for a setup that requires a desk phone and a computer connection. The proper connection remains dependent on the devices you'll be using.

If reconnecting and pairing doesn't resolve the issue, a factory reset can be helpful. Don't perform a generic reset procedure, use the reset method for your exact Yealink model.

9. Yealink Bluetooth Headset Keeps Disconnecting

Interruptions in Bluetooth connections can be annoying, particularly when working while on the go.

What Causes It?

The headset might not be close enough to the connected device. Repeated disconnections can also occur due to wireless interference, another Bluetooth device or an unstable pairing.

How to Fix It

First, get closer to the computer or phone you're trying to connect with and try the headset again.

If the connection becomes stable, then, perhaps the distance was the issue.

If it continues to not connect, switch the headset off from the device's Bluetooth list and re-pair it. The other Bluetooth devices may be temporarily disconnected to determine if interference or connection change is the problem.

For instance, the Yealink BH70 is a Bluetooth model that connects wirelessly to supported devices, but the connection between the devices is still dependent on the device and Bluetooth set-up.

10. Yealink Headset Has Poor or Distorted Audio

If the headset is connected but voices are not heard clearly, robotically, or distorted, it may not be a headset hardware issue.

What Causes It?

The headset might be a long distance from the base or connected device. Audio quality can be impacted by wireless interference.

Other issues that may cause poor sound on a PC include using the wrong audio device or setting the application incorrectly.

Even if the headset is functioning properly, a weak or unstable network connection can impact internet calls.

How to Fix It

Get closer to the wireless base or connected device and make another call.

Please make sure that the Yealink headset is set as the playback and recording device.

If possible, record locally or test record. If the recording sounds clear, but the online call sounds bad, it could be from the calling application or network and not the headset.

11. Yealink Headset Does Not Ring for Incoming Calls

You might be able to hear the audio but still not receive incoming calls due to the headset not sounding the ringtone that you expect.

What Causes It?

The ringtone for your desk phone or softphone could be different to the one that is being sent via the headset.

The headset might also have a notification or ringtone that needs to be addressed.

How to Fix It

Look at the ringtone and notification settings on your desk phone or calling application.

If wireless base is being used, inspect wireless base to phone/computer.

Test call from another number to ensure that the phone rings and/or the headset alerts.

This will help determine if it is a problem with the headset or the phone's call-notification settings.

12. Check Yealink Headset Firmware Before Replacing It

Firmware can easily be overlooked when a headset suddenly stops working.

Depending on the features, such as remote call control and certain phones, your headset and desk phone may need to be running the same compatible firmware versions.

But don't take it for granted that firmware 86 will be required for all Yealink headsets. Different models and configurations may have different firmware needs. There are certain requirements for some combinations of WH-series and Yealink desk-phones.

Use the firmware info in the status menu of your phone. Version information is typically located on supported Yealink desk phones under Menu/Settings > Status > General.

If the firmware is known to require a specific update, then update the device and retest the headset before assuming it is broken.

13. Should You Factory Reset Your Yealink Headset or Base?

If the pairing and configuration procedures or unexpected behavior persist after basic troubleshooting, a factory reset may be necessary. It is not your first choice, as a reset can clear paired device information and settings. Yealink says that a factory reset resets the device to the factory settings and removes custom settings.

WH62 and WH63 Base

Hold down the PC and Phone buttons on the WH62/WH63 base for approximately 10 seconds. Hold until the factory reset indication and release the buttons. The base will reset itself automatically.

WH66 and WH67 Base

If you have a WH66 or WH67 base with a touchscreen, go to Settings > Advanced Settings > Reset configuration and proceed with the confirmation displayed on the screen. The UC and Teams versions use the same general menu path, but may have different screen interfaces.

Reset Through Yealink USB Connect

It is also possible to manage with Yealink USB Connect. On the device, go to Device settings > Device support and select Restore Factory Settings.

Note: Reset procedures are different for each model; do not use a WH62/WH63 reset procedure with another Yealink headset. For newer models (WH64, WH68), follow the reset procedure for this model. The current Yealink support information includes instructions for headset families separately.

Common Yealink Headset Problems and Fixes to Try

When Should You Replace a Yealink Headset?

A headset doesn't need to be replaced because it only stops working once. Many issues are due to settings, cables, firmware or compatibility.

Replacement is more feasible if the headset is physically damaged, the battery is no longer capable of holding a charge, there are repeated hardware problems, or it has been confirmed that there is a fault after you have verified the connection and settings.

If you have a problem with your current model, find out what was the cause of the problem before purchasing another model. If it was caused by the desk-phone compatibility, then purchasing another headset without verifying the compatibility can result in the same problem.

How to Choose the Right Yealink Headset for Your Setup

No one headset fits all users. The right choice will depend on how you are taking calls, the devices used and the level of freedom required during work.

When You Mainly Work on a Computer

If your calls remain on your computer, a wired Yealink USB headset may be an easy choice. The UH-series models are intended for USB connections and can be used by users who prefer to go directly to the USB port without a wireless base.

Before ordering, make sure to check the USB port of your computer. When using a headset with Microsoft Teams or another calling application, ensure that the headset is compatible with the application and that it is equipped with the features you need.

When You Need to Move Around

A wireless Yealink headset allows you to move around more frequently during calls. Wireless office communications are provided via DECT with WH-series models, and via Bluetooth with BH-series models for compatible devices.

Consider the distance you typically have to travel from your desk and the devices you require to connect to. That will make it easier to choose the best wireless solution.

When You Use a Yealink Desk Phone

For desk phone users, it is important to focus on more than the physical link. Features like remote answering, call ending and other call controls require the headset and phone to work together.

If you also use a PC or mobile device, select a headset from Yealink that can connect to the device you need to use. You can compare the available models before making your choice.

You can also check the Yealink headset series to compare the various models and determine which one is required for your specific communications needs.

How to Prevent Yealink Headset Problems

If you take care of the equipment and periodically look over your setup, you can prevent many headset issues from occurring. It is particularly helpful if the use of headsets is considered throughout the working day.

Handle Cables and Charging Parts Carefully

When disconnecting a USB, phone or EHS cable, do not pull on the cable. Regularly clean and remove dust and residue from charging contacts; securely put away wireless headsets when no longer in use.

Keep Your Setup Up to Date

Install Yealink firmware as and when recommended by Yealink for your specific headset and phone configuration. Make sure Windows and the calling software are up to date. When you've done a big system update, spend a few minutes testing your headset before a critical call.

Check Yealink Headset Compatibility Before You Buy

When purchasing a Yealink headset, make sure it is compatible with your device. A headset might be compatible with a PC, and its connection/call-control capabilities may differ with a Yealink desk phone.

When replacing multiple headsets for a business, review the Yealink headset and phone models, connection type and desired features first. This can help you not purchase a headset that cannot support the manner in which your staff operates calls.

Final Thoughts

If your Yealink headset is not working, start with the simple checks before replacing it. Ensure that the audio device is properly selected and connected and that the headset is compatible with the phone or computer. If it is wireless, inspect the base, charging contacts and pairing. If the issue persists, then refer to the firmware or reset information for your particular brand.

After making these checks, if they do not resolve the issue, the problem is likely to be compatibility or the headset itself. Do not purchase a replacement unless the next Yealink headset is compatible with your phone, computer, calling platform and features.

Need Help Finding the Right Yealink Headset?

Not getting the results you are looking for with your current headset? Please provide us with your Yealink headset model, phone model, computer model and problem. You can verify the setup with us and determine if it is a connection, compatibility or headset issue.

We can also assist you in selecting the Yealink headset that is compatible with your devices and the way you receive calls. Let us know what you are using and we will help you choose the suitable one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yealink Headset Not Working On Desk Phone?

Before using the Yealink headset on the desk phone, make sure that the headset is compatible with the desk phone. Next, examine the headset port, cable, base connection, and firmware of the phone. If you require remote control, make sure the headset and your phone are compatible with the desired EHS or USB connection.

For wireless Yealink headsets, ensure that the base is powered and properly plugged into the desk phone. Securely reconnect the cable and retest the headset.

Why isn't my Yealink headset working?

Common reasons include incorrect audio devices, loose connections to the USB or phone, compatibility, firmware needs, charging problems and pairing problems with wireless.

Before resetting to factory settings or replacing, adjust the connection and audio settings.

Why is my Yealink headset not functioning with Microsoft Teams?

Teams might be using another speaker/mic. On Open Teams, choose Yealink headset as audio output and microphone input. If it is functioning in Windows and not Teams, then review the Teams settings before you replace the headset.

Why am I not able to answer calls from my Yealink headset?

This could be a remote call control problem. See if the headset and method of call-control are supported by your desk phone. Next, reconnect the USB or EHS cable and check the firmware if necessary.

Why is my Yealink headset charging but I can't hear it?

Wipe the charging contacts on the headset and base that are spring-loaded. Then unplug the base's AC power, wait approximately 10 seconds, and replug the base. If charging continues to fail, inspect the power adaptor, base and headset for damage.

Why is my Yealink headset dropping calls?

If wireless or Bluetooth, test with other wireless or Bluetooth devices temporarily unplugged, unplug/re-pair headset, check the distance from the base or connected device.

Is there an update for my Yealink headset or desk phone?

If the particular headset and telephone combination needs an update to work correctly or for call-control options, then you will need that update. Firmware requirements are different for each model; ensure you are checking requirements for your specific configuration, not a generic one for all Yealink devices.

Should I factory reset my Yealink headset?

For pairing or configuration issues that persist after simple troubleshooting, a factory reset may help. Make sure to use the reset procedure for your specific model; WH62/WH63 and WH66/WH67 require different reset procedures.