There are times when it's not practical to play your PlayStation® 5 with the TV blaring. Maybe your kids are asleep, or someone's working in the next room. That's okay—you don't have to play in silence. A set of headphones can keep the sound effects going without disturbing others around you.
Asurion Experts provide tech help you can trust. Whether you want advice when Bluetooth® headphones won't pair or selecting the best noise-canceling headphones, we have an answer. Here's how to connect Bluetooth headphones to PS5™ in a few simple steps.
Understanding PS5's Bluetooth capabilities
The PS5 doesn't include built-in Bluetooth audio support. Using Bluetooth in combination with the DualSense™ controller may introduce latency problems that interfere with gameplay. Instead, PlayStation recommends that users purchase one of its dedicated audio headsets, such as the PULSE Elite Wireless Headset or Gold Wireless Headset.
If you try to connect a third-party set of wireless earbuds directly to your PS5, it won't recognize them. That may be a surprise to users who expect the PS5 to connect with Bluetooth devices like a laptop or computer.
However, some people rarely use the PS5 with headphones. If that's you, it may not make sense to purchase special headphones for your gaming system. Instead, use a workaround to connect your preferred Bluetooth-enabled earbuds.
How to connect Bluetooth headphones to PS5 without an adapter
Many newer TVs come with built-in audio support for Bluetooth devices. Try connecting your earbuds directly to the television so you can listen to your game. Note that the exact instructions may vary depending on the TV make and model.
LG TVs
- Put the headset in pairing mode.
- Press Settings on your remote control.
- Select All Settings > Sound > Sound Out.
- Select Use Wireless Speaker > Bluetooth Devices > Connectable Devices.
- Select the headset from the available options.
Samsung TVs
- Put the headset in pairing mode.
- Press Menu on your remote control.
- Select Settings > Sound > Sound Output.
- Select Bluetooth Speaker List.
- Select the headset from the available options.
Sony TVs
- Put the headset in pairing mode.
- Press the Quick Settings button on your remote control.
- Select Settings > Remotes & Accessories > Pair Accessory.
- Select the headset from the available options.
Using a Bluetooth USB connector
If your monitor doesn't support Bluetooth audio, buy a Bluetooth USB connector that's compatible with PS5. Make sure it has at least a 5.0 Bluetooth receiver. Most third-party sellers indicate whether the adapter works with PS5 on the device packaging.
Follow these steps to connect the adapter with your PS5 and headset:
- Insert the Bluetooth adapter into a USB port on the PS5.
- Verify the adapter is in pairing mode.
- Put the headset in pairing mode.
- After pairing the devices, open Settings on the PS5.
- Select Sound > Audio Devices. Select the Bluetooth adapter as the sound output.
- Select All Audio from the Output to Headphones menu.
Troubleshooting connection issues
Connecting Bluetooth-enabled headphones to the PS5 is fairly straightforward. However, make sure your earbuds are fully charged before connecting them. Otherwise, they might not pair.
Check your user manual for device-specific instructions. Some TVs and headsets may have a different procedure for wireless connections.
Third-party headsets only support audio with a PS5, even if they have a microphone. While you can hear voice chat during coop play, you won't be able to participate in it. If you frequently play coop games, PlayStation's preferred headsets may be a worthwhile investment.
FAQs
Are there latency issues with Bluetooth headphones on PS5?
Using Bluetooth headphones can cause latency issues, which is why PS5 doesn't directly support Bluetooth connections. However, you can connect third-party headphones to your TV or through a Bluetooth-enabled receiver to hear the audio from your PS5. Doing so won't affect game speed.
What Bluetooth adapters work best for PS5 audio?
Choose an adapter with at least Bluetooth 5.0 support. Check the device packaging to confirm compatibility with the PS5. You can find suitable adapters at your local electronics store or on Amazon.
Why doesn't the PS5 support all Bluetooth audio devices?
PlayStation encourages gamers to use its dedicated headsets, which support audio and video chat. The headsets meet PS5 specifications and won't cause lag during gameplay. PlayStation doesn't include built-in support for Bluetooth audio because it may interfere with the DualSense controller and headphone connections.
