27 Sep 2024

How to Connect Bluetooth Headphones to PS5: A Complete Guide

Post by Fiona

Bluetooth headphones offer convenience and freedom, making them a popular choice for gamers. However, when it comes to connecting Bluetooth headphones to the PS5, many users face challenges due to the console’s lack of direct Bluetooth support. This guide will explore the best methods for connecting Bluetooth headphones to your PS5, troubleshoot common issues, and suggest alternative audio solutions to enhance your gaming experience. Whether you’re new to gaming or an experienced player, this guide will help you make the most of your Bluetooth headphones with the PS5.

Does PS5 Support Bluetooth Headphones?

Before diving into the methods for connecting Bluetooth headphones to your PS5, it’s important to understand the console’s limitations regarding Bluetooth support.

No Native Bluetooth Audio Support: The PS5 does not natively support Bluetooth audio devices. This means you cannot directly connect Bluetooth headphones to the console as you would with other devices like smartphones or laptops.

Why the Limitation Exists: Sony likely excluded Bluetooth audio support to avoid potential latency issues that could affect gaming performance. Bluetooth audio can introduce a delay, which can be detrimental in fast-paced gaming environments where timing is critical.

Given these limitations, you’ll need to use alternative methods to connect your Bluetooth headphones to the PS5. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to achieve this.

What Are the Best Methods to Connect Bluetooth Headphones to PS5?

Despite the PS5’s lack of native Bluetooth support, you can still connect your Bluetooth headphones using a few different approaches. Here are the best methods to do so.

Using a Bluetooth Transmitter with PS5

A Bluetooth transmitter is a small device that can bridge the gap between your PS5 and your Bluetooth headphones.

Choosing a Bluetooth Transmitter: Look for a Bluetooth transmitter that supports low-latency codecs like aptX LL. This reduces audio delay, making it ideal for gaming. Popular options include the Avantree Oasis Plus and the TaoTronics Bluetooth 5.0 Transmitter.

Connecting the Transmitter: Plug the Bluetooth transmitter into your PS5’s audio output. This could be the 3.5mm jack on the DualSense controller or the optical output on the console. Ensure the transmitter is in pairing mode.

Pairing Your Headphones: Put your Bluetooth headphones into pairing mode and let them connect to the transmitter. Once paired, you should hear the game audio through your headphones.

Check for Latency: Test the audio to ensure there’s no significant delay. If you experience latency, try adjusting the transmitter’s settings or consider using wired headphones for a more seamless experience.

Via the PS5 DualSense Controller

Another method to connect Bluetooth headphones to the PS5 is through the DualSense controller.

Using the 3.5mm Jack: The DualSense controller has a 3.5mm audio jack that can be used with a Bluetooth transmitter. Plug the transmitter into the controller’s audio jack.

Pair Your Headphones: Activate pairing mode on both the transmitter and your Bluetooth headphones. The devices should automatically connect.

Adjust Audio Settings: On your PS5, go to “Settings” > “Sound” > “Audio Output” and ensure that the output device is set to the controller. This will route all game audio through your Bluetooth headphones.

Monitor Battery Life: Using a Bluetooth transmitter with the DualSense controller can drain the controller’s battery faster. Keep an eye on the battery level during long gaming sessions.

Through a Bluetooth-Enabled TV

If your TV supports Bluetooth, you can use it to connect your Bluetooth headphones while gaming on your PS5.

Check Your TV’s Bluetooth Capability: First, ensure your TV has built-in Bluetooth support. This can typically be found in the TV’s settings menu.

Pair Your Headphones with the TV: Put your Bluetooth headphones into pairing mode and navigate to your TV’s Bluetooth settings to pair them.

Connect PS5 to the TV: Make sure your PS5 is connected to the TV via HDMI. The audio from the PS5 will be transmitted to your headphones through the TV.

Manage Audio Delay: Depending on your TV and headphones, you might experience some audio delay. If this becomes an issue, check if your TV has any low-latency settings or consider using a different method for audio.

How to Troubleshoot Common Bluetooth Connection Issues

Even with the right setup, you may encounter some issues when connecting Bluetooth headphones to your PS5. Here’s how to troubleshoot common problems.

No Audio: If you don’t hear any audio through your Bluetooth headphones, ensure they are properly paired with the Bluetooth transmitter or TV. Check that the audio output settings on your PS5 are correctly configured.

Audio Lag: Bluetooth connections can sometimes introduce a slight delay in audio. To minimize this, use a Bluetooth transmitter that supports low-latency codecs, or switch to a wired connection.

Interference: Other wireless devices, such as Wi-Fi routers or other Bluetooth devices, can interfere with the Bluetooth connection. Try moving these devices away from your PS5 or using a wired connection to avoid interference.

Battery Issues: Ensure your Bluetooth headphones and transmitter are fully charged before starting your gaming session. Low battery levels can cause connection instability and audio dropouts.

Are There Alternative Audio Solutions for PS5?

If the methods above aren’t working for you, there are alternative ways to enjoy high-quality audio on your PS5 without using Bluetooth.

Wired Headphones: The simplest alternative is to use wired headphones directly connected to the DualSense controller. This method offers low-latency, high-quality audio without the need for additional devices.

PS5-Compatible Wireless Headsets: Consider investing in a wireless gaming headset specifically designed for the PS5. These headsets use Sony’s proprietary wireless technology, ensuring seamless connectivity and optimal audio performance.

External Speakers: If you’re gaming in a more open environment, external speakers connected to your PS5 or TV can provide an immersive audio experience. Just be mindful of the volume to avoid disturbing others.

Conclusion

Connecting Bluetooth headphones to a PS5 might not be as straightforward as with other devices, but it’s definitely achievable with the right tools and methods. Whether you use a Bluetooth transmitter, connect through the DualSense controller, or pair via a Bluetooth-enabled TV, you can enjoy wireless audio while gaming. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to overcome common connection issues and explore alternative solutions if needed. With the right setup, you can fully immerse yourself in your gaming experience with high-quality audio.

FAQs

Can I use any Bluetooth headphones with PS5?

No, not directly. The PS5 does not natively support Bluetooth headphones. You need to use a Bluetooth transmitter, connect through the DualSense controller, or use a Bluetooth-enabled TV to connect your Bluetooth headphones to the PS5.

Why is there a delay in sound when using Bluetooth headphones with PS5?

The delay, or latency, is due to the time it takes for the audio signal to be transmitted wirelessly via Bluetooth. Using a low-latency Bluetooth transmitter or headphones that support aptX LL can help reduce this delay, but some latency may still be present.

What is the best Bluetooth transmitter for PS5?

The best Bluetooth transmitter for PS5 should support low-latency audio codecs like aptX LL. Popular options include the Avantree Oasis Plus and the TaoTronics Bluetooth 5.0 Transmitter. These transmitters help minimize audio delays and provide a more seamless gaming experience.