Inside This Article:
- Comprehensive Guide to Connecting Bluetooth Headphones to PS4
- 1. Understanding PS4 Bluetooth Limitations
- 2. How to Connect Supported Bluetooth Headphones to PS4
- 3. Connecting Unsupported Bluetooth Headphones to PS4
- 4. How to Connect Bluetooth Headphones to PS5 (Bonus Section)
- 5. Troubleshooting Common Issues
- FAQ: How to Connect Bluetooth Headphones to PS4
- 1. Can You Use AirPods with a PS4?
- 2. Does the PS4 Support Bluetooth 5.0?
- 3. What’s the Best Bluetooth Adapter for PS4?
- 4. Can I Use a Bluetooth Dongle for PS4?
- 5. Why Won’t My PS4 Detect Bluetooth Headphones?
- 6. Do All USB Bluetooth Adapters Work on PS4?
- Summary of Best Practices
- Entity & Semantic Keyword Expansion
- Final Takeaways
To connect Bluetooth headphones to a PS4, follow these steps:
- For Sony-Certified Headsets: Go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth Devices and pair your headset.
- For Unsupported Headphones: Use a Bluetooth USB adapter (e.g., Avantree DG60) or a wired 3.5mm connection via the controller.
- Alternative Workarounds: Consider an HDMI audio extractor or Sony’s Pulse 3D Wireless Headset for native compatibility.
Note: The PS4 does not natively support most Bluetooth headphones due to latency concerns and licensing restrictions.

Comprehensive Guide to Connecting Bluetooth Headphones to PS4
1. Understanding PS4 Bluetooth Limitations
The PlayStation 4 (PS4) uses Bluetooth 2.1+EDR, which is optimized for DualShock 4 controllers rather than audio devices. This limitation stems from:
- Latency Issues: Bluetooth audio can introduce 100-200ms delay, disrupting gameplay synchronization.
- Proprietary Protocols: Sony prioritizes its certified wireless headsets (e.g., Pulse 3D, Gold Wireless) to ensure optimal performance.
- Bandwidth Allocation: The PS4 reserves Bluetooth bandwidth for controllers, limiting third-party headphone support.
Key Entities & Relationships:
- PS4 Bluetooth Stack → Limited to A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile) but blocks most non-Sony devices.
- Sony’s Licensed Headsets → Use proprietary low-latency protocols (e.g., Sony Wireless Link Technology).
- Third-Party Headphones → Require workarounds like USB adapters or wired connections.
Source: Wikipedia - DualShock 4
2. How to Connect Supported Bluetooth Headphones to PS4
If you own a Sony-certified wireless headset, follow these steps:
- Enable Pairing Mode on your headset (check the manual for specific instructions).
- On the PS4, navigate to:
- Settings > Devices > Bluetooth Devices.
- Select your headset from the list and confirm pairing.
Recommended Sony Headsets for PS4:
- Pulse 3D Wireless Headset (Best for 3D Audio on PS5, backward-compatible with PS4)
- PlayStation Gold Wireless Headset (Optimized for virtual surround sound)
- Sony INZONE H9 (High-end noise-canceling gaming headset)
3. Connecting Unsupported Bluetooth Headphones to PS4
Option 1: Bluetooth USB Adapter (Best for Wireless Freedom)
-
Purchase a Low-Latency Adapter:
- Avantree DG60 (Supports aptX LL for minimal lag)
- Creative BT-W3 (USB-C, ideal for PS5 but works on PS4)
- TaoTronics TT-BA07 (Budget-friendly option)
- Plug the Adapter into the PS4’s USB Port.
- Pair Your Headphones via the adapter’s pairing mode.
Pros:
- Works with AirPods, Bose, Sony WH-1000XM4, etc.
- Wireless convenience.
Cons:
- Slight audio delay (varies by adapter).
- Microphone may not work (use controller mic or USB mic).
Option 2: Wired 3.5mm Connection (Zero Latency)
- Plug your headphones into the DualShock 4’s 3.5mm jack.
- Adjust audio settings via Settings > Devices > Audio Devices.
Pros:
- No latency issues.
- Universal compatibility.
Cons:
- Tethered connection limits movement.
Option 3: HDMI Audio Extractor (For TV-Based Setups)
- Connect an HDMI audio extractor (e.g., OREI HDA-912) to your PS4.
- Route audio to a Bluetooth transmitter (e.g., TaoTronics TT-BA011).
Best For: Users who play on a TV/monitor rather than directly through the PS4.
4. How to Connect Bluetooth Headphones to PS5 (Bonus Section)
The PlayStation 5 (PS5) has similar Bluetooth restrictions but offers:
- USB-C Bluetooth Adapters (e.g., Creative BT-W3) for wireless audio.
- Pulse 3D Headset for native Tempest 3D AudioTech support.
Key Difference: PS5’s Bluetooth 5.1 improves stability but still blocks most headphones.
5. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Issue | Solution |
---|---|
No Sound | Check Audio Output Settings (Settings > Sound and Screen > Audio Output Settings). |
Mic Not Working | Use a USB microphone or the controller’s built-in mic. |
Connection Drops | Keep the adapter within 10 feet of the PS4. |
Audio Delay | Use an aptX Low Latency adapter or wired connection. |
FAQ: How to Connect Bluetooth Headphones to PS4
1. Can You Use AirPods with a PS4?
No, AirPods are not natively supported. Use a Bluetooth adapter or 3.5mm cable.
2. Does the PS4 Support Bluetooth 5.0?
No, the PS4 uses Bluetooth 2.1+EDR, which lacks modern audio codecs.
3. What’s the Best Bluetooth Adapter for PS4?
- Avantree DG60 (Best for low latency)
- Creative BT-W2 (Balanced performance)
4. Can I Use a Bluetooth Dongle for PS4?
Yes, but ensure it supports A2DP and aptX Low Latency for minimal lag.
5. Why Won’t My PS4 Detect Bluetooth Headphones?
The PS4 blocks most non-Sony audio devices. Try a USB adapter or wired connection.
6. Do All USB Bluetooth Adapters Work on PS4?
No, only UAC 1.0-compatible adapters work due to PS4’s USB audio restrictions.
Summary of Best Practices
Scenario | Recommended Solution |
---|---|
Sony Wireless Headset | Pair via Bluetooth Devices in settings. |
Third-Party Headphones | Use a USB Bluetooth adapter or 3.5mm cable. |
PS5 Users | Pulse 3D Headset or USB-C adapter. |
Pro Tip: For the best audio experience, invest in a gaming headset with virtual surround sound.
Entity & Semantic Keyword Expansion
Key Entities:
- PlayStation 4 (PS4), PlayStation 5 (PS5), Sony, Pulse 3D Headset, AirPods, Bose QuietComfort, Avantree DG60, Creative BT-W3, HDMI Audio Extractor, Bluetooth 5.0, A2DP, aptX Low Latency, DualShock 4, Tempest 3D AudioTech.
Semantic Keywords:
- PS4 Bluetooth audio settings
- Wireless headset for PS4 compatibility
- How to pair unsupported Bluetooth headphones to PS4
- Best PS4 Bluetooth adapter for gaming
- Fix PS4 Bluetooth audio delay
Related Searches:
- How to connect wireless headphones to PS4 without USB
- Does PS4 support Bluetooth earbuds?
- PS4 Bluetooth microphone not working
Final Takeaways
- Native Support: Only Sony-certified headsets work wirelessly.
- Workarounds: USB adapters or wired connections enable third-party headphone use.
- PS5 Consideration: Similar restrictions apply; Pulse 3D Headset is the best choice.
By following this guide, you can bypass PS4 Bluetooth limitations and enjoy high-quality wireless audio for gaming. For the best performance, opt for low-latency adapters or Sony’s official headsets.
Need Further Help? Check Sony’s official support page for troubleshooting.
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