Want to use your favorite Bluetooth headphones with your PS5 but aren’t sure if it’s possible? Surprisingly, the PS5 doesn’t natively support all Bluetooth headphones, which might seem odd for such a modern console. In this guide, we’ll explore your options for enjoying wireless audio, including adapters and officially supported headsets.
Can You Directly Connect Bluetooth Headphones to the PS5?
The PS5 already uses a significant portion of its Bluetooth bandwidth for the DualSense controller. Adding a standard wireless audio connection could introduce latency issues—causing that frustrating delay between video and sound, which is especially problematic in gaming.
Only audio devices supporting the A2DP profile can connect directly. In practice, this means you’ll need:
- The official PlayStation PULSE 3D headset
- INZONE gaming headsets
- Other headsets specifically designed for the PS5
If your Bluetooth headphones aren’t on this list, don’t worry—there are alternative solutions, which we’ll explore next.
Ways to Connect Bluetooth Headphones to the PS5
In the following sections, we’ll break down how to connect Bluetooth headphones to your PS5, using AirPods as an example. The method described works for most wireless headphones on the market, so you can easily adapt it to your setup.
Connecting AirPods to the PS5
Yes, you can connect your AirPods to the PS5, but you’ll need a workaround. Since the console doesn’t support standard Bluetooth audio, you’ll require a Bluetooth 5.0 adapter (or newer). Don’t worry—these adapters are easy to find and simple to use.
Here’s how to set it up:
- Plug the Bluetooth adapter into one of your PS5’s USB ports.
- Put the adapter in pairing mode (usually by holding a button—refer to the adapter’s instructions).
- Take your AirPods and press the sync button on the back of the case until the LED starts flashing.
- Once paired, go to Settings > Sound > Audio Devices on your PS5.
- Select the Bluetooth adapter as your output device.
- Under Output to Headphones, choose All Audio to hear both in-game sounds and voice chat (note: AirPods' microphone will not work for voice chat).
That’s it! You’re now ready to enjoy gaming on your PS5 with your AirPods.
Official and Recommended Headsets for the PS5
Sony offers its own gaming headset for the PS5: the Pulse 3D. It’s the easiest and most direct choice, designed specifically for the console with convenient controls and USB-C charging. Its standout feature? Two built-in noise-canceling microphones for crystal-clear communication.
If you already own a PS4 headset, there’s good news: both the Gold and Platinum models are fully compatible with the PS5—you’ll just need an adapter to use them.
Looking for third-party options? The Razer Thresher and Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2 are two highly rated gaming headsets that deliver top-tier sound quality for the PS5.
Pro Tip: For the best experience, choose headsets that connect via USB or a wired 3.5mm jack. This ensures the highest compatibility and avoids connectivity issues with the console.
