Want to connect your AirPods to PS5? Here’s how to do it

The PlayStation 5 has been a super popular gaming console for quite some time. But if you have ever thought about using your AirPods, which connect via Bluetooth, as your audio source, well, it’s not a straightforward process. You see, the PS5 doesn’t naturally let you use Bluetooth audio.

Some top-notch wireless headphones might even need an extra USB adapter for the PS5 to work. However, don’t worry; there are some nifty third-party tricks that can help you link your AirPods to your PS5 via Bluetooth.

Is it possible to sync AirPods with PS5?

When you stack up Bluetooth against dedicated gaming headsets or wireless headphones that need those extra USB gadgets, things get a bit trickier in the audio department. See, gaming is all about speed and action, and regular Bluetooth doesn’t cut it because it can’t deliver the super low latency needed to keep up with the fast-paced gaming action.

So, what happens is you get delayed sound in your headphones or earbuds, messing up your whole PS5 gaming vibe, with the audio not syncing up nicely with the video. Sony hasn’t given the green light for Bluetooth headphones or earbuds on the PS5, partly because of concerns about interference and related issues. Similarly, Nintendo kept its distance from this feature for quite a while, but eventually, they caved in and introduced Bluetooth audio support through a system update, mostly because players were clamoring for it.

However, the experience can be a bit hit or miss, depending on the game and what you’re up to on the Switch. While the feature is finally there, some folks have discovered it’s not as awesome as they wished it to be, mainly due to the current limitations of Bluetooth tech.

Bluetooth USB adapter to the rescue

Given that you can’t currently tap into the PS5’s built-in Bluetooth for audio, and it’s uncertain if that will ever change, your smartest move is to go for a USB audio adapter or dongle. This means snagging a third-party USB gadget that you can hook up to your PS5. With one of these, you can link up your AirPods, other Bluetooth headphones, earbuds, or any Bluetooth gear just like you’d want. Ideally, you’d want to pick a Bluetooth USB adapter that supports Bluetooth 5.0, which is a pretty standard feature and should be the go-to choice for most wireless adapters out there.

And here’s a pro tip: make sure that the adapter comes with its very own pairing button. Not all USB Bluetooth adapters come with this handy feature. To be on the safe side, you can hop over to Amazon and do a quick search like “Bluetooth 5.0 USB audio pairing button PS5” to see if anything ticks all your boxes. But if you’re looking for a solid recommendation, we’d strongly suggest checking out the Avantree DG60P. It’s our top pick for getting your Bluetooth headphones and earbuds connected to the PS5. It boasts the latest Bluetooth 5.3 standard, a powerful external antenna for extended range, and it rocks the Qualcomm aptX-Adaptive codec, ensuring low latency for compatible audio gear.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you might want to explore the realm of USB-C Bluetooth wireless audio adapters for your trusty PS5, given its convenient front-facing USB-C port. The beauty of going for a Type-C adapter lies in its versatility, as it can effortlessly sync up with all your cutting-edge gadgets. However, when hunting for one, do make certain it’s a snug fit for your PS5, as some are tailor-made for the Nintendo Switch. Keep in mind that the PS5 does sport a single USB-A port on the front, and you certainly wouldn’t want to block that precious USB-A spot with your USB-C Bluetooth wireless adapter.

• Plug the USB adapter into the appropriate USB port on your PS5.
• Power on your PS5, and then press and hold the sync button on the USB adapter.
• Open the lid of your AirPod charging case.
• Press and hold the setup button on the back of the case until you see the white light flashing. Keep your AirPods in the case while performing this step.
• Pair your AirPods with your USB wireless Bluetooth adapter.
• Now, press the PlayStation logo Home button on your DualSense controller.
• Navigate to the Sound settings.
• Under the Output Device section, select your USB wireless adapter.
• Congratulations, your PS5 audio is now streaming to your AirPods. Enjoy the immersive gaming experience!

Smart TVs come with a Bluetooth feature

If you’re not keen on the USB Bluetooth adapter route, there’s another path you can take. Lots of smart TVs come equipped with built-in Bluetooth capabilities that function across all inputs, making it a system-wide feature. In essence, this allows you to link up your AirPods with your TV and let the TV handle the hard work.

The TV essentially takes the audio from your PS5 and pipes it through the Bluetooth on your TV. Simply dive into your TV’s settings menu, hunt down the Bluetooth option, and once you’ve got your AirPods connected to your TV, you’re good to dive into some PS5 gaming.

• Open the lid of your AirPod charging case.
• Press and hold the setup button on the back of the case until the white light starts flashing. Make sure your AirPods remain inside the case during this step.
• Navigate to your PS5’s Bluetooth settings. If you’re unsure how to do this, refer to the instructions provided with your TV.
• Locate and select your AirPods from the list of available Bluetooth devices.
• Once connected, your PS5 audio will now be routed to your AirPods, and you’re all set to enjoy your gaming experience.

Apple’s AirPods are awesome for different situations, but if you want to connect them to your PS5, you’ll have to find a workaround since the PS5 doesn’t support Bluetooth audio output.