Inside This Article:
- Comprehensive Guide to Connecting Bluetooth Headphones to Xbox Series X
- 3 Proven Methods to Connect Bluetooth Headphones to Xbox Series X
- 1. Using a Bluetooth Adapter for Xbox Series X (Best for Flexibility)
- 2. Wired Connection via Controller’s 3.5mm Jack (Zero Latency)
- 3. Xbox-Compatible Wireless Headsets (Native Support)
- Bluetooth Adapters for Xbox One vs. Series X: Compatibility Explained
- Troubleshooting Common Issues
- FAQ: How to Connect Bluetooth Headphones to Xbox Series X
- 1. Can You Connect AirPods to Xbox Series X?
- 2. Does Xbox Series X Have Bluetooth?
- 3. Best Bluetooth Adapter for Xbox Series X?
- 4. Can PS5 Headsets Work on Xbox?
- 5. Why Won’t My Headphones Pair?
- Key Takeaways (Conclusion)
The Xbox Series X does not natively support Bluetooth headphones due to Microsoft’s proprietary Xbox Wireless protocol. To connect Bluetooth headphones, you need a Bluetooth adapter for Xbox Series X (e.g., Avantree DG80, TaoTronics TT-BA07) plugged into the console’s USB port. Alternatively, use a wired connection via the controller’s 3.5mm jack or invest in an Xbox Wireless-compatible headset (e.g., SteelSeries Arctis 9X, Razer Kaira Pro). For minimal latency, choose adapters with aptX Low Latency (LL) support.
Comprehensive Guide to Connecting Bluetooth Headphones to Xbox Series X
Why Xbox Series X Doesn’t Support Bluetooth Audio
The Xbox Series X uses Microsoft’s Xbox Wireless protocol instead of standard Bluetooth for audio transmission. This proprietary technology ensures:
- Ultra-low latency (critical for gaming)
- Enhanced wireless stability
- Seamless integration with Xbox accessories
Source: Windows Central - "A closer look at why Xbox doesn't use Bluetooth"
Key Entities & Relationships:
| Entity | Relationship to Topic | Technical Context |
| Xbox Wireless Protocol | Microsoft’s proprietary alternative to Bluetooth | Uses 2.4GHz RF for low-latency audio |
| Bluetooth 5.0/5.2 | Standard wireless audio (unsupported natively) | Common in headphones but higher latency (~100-200ms) |
| aptX Low Latency (LL) | Codec for reducing Bluetooth delay | Supported by select adapters (e.g., Avantree DG80) |
| Xbox Wireless Headset | Official Microsoft accessory | Uses Xbox Wireless, no adapter needed |
3 Proven Methods to Connect Bluetooth Headphones to Xbox Series X
1. Using a Bluetooth Adapter for Xbox Series X (Best for Flexibility)
A USB Bluetooth transmitter bridges the gap between Xbox and standard Bluetooth headphones.
Step-by-Step Setup:
- Plug the adapter into the Xbox’s USB port (rear ports recommended for stability).
- Enable pairing mode on your headphones (refer to manufacturer instructions).
- Sync the adapter by holding its pairing button until the LED flashes.
- Select the adapter in Xbox audio settings (Settings > General > Volume & audio output).
Top Bluetooth Adapters for Xbox Series X (2024):
| Adapter Model | Key Feature | Latency | Price |
| Avantree DG80 | aptX LL support | ~40ms | $49.99 |
| TaoTronics TT-BA07 | Dual-link mode | ~60ms | $34.99 |
| Creative BT-W3 | USB-C compatibility | ~50ms | $39.99 |
Pros & Cons:
✅ Works with any Bluetooth headphones
✅ aptX LL adapters minimize lag
❌ Occupies a USB port
❌ Mic support varies (often audio-only)
2. Wired Connection via Controller’s 3.5mm Jack (Zero Latency)
For users prioritizing audio fidelity and no delay, a wired connection is ideal.
Steps:
- Plug headphones into the Xbox controller’s 3.5mm jack.
- Adjust settings: Guide button > Audio > Headset volume.
Limitations:
- No wireless convenience
- Audio quality depends on the headphone’s DAC
3. Xbox-Compatible Wireless Headsets (Native Support)
Headsets with Xbox Wireless technology bypass Bluetooth entirely.
Best Xbox Wireless Headsets:
- Xbox Wireless Headset ($99) – Official Microsoft option
- SteelSeries Arctis 9X ($199) – Dual Bluetooth/Xbox Wireless
- Razer Kaira Pro ($149) – TriForce 50mm drivers
Advantages:
✅ No adapters needed
✅ Full mic support
✅ Optimized for Xbox latency
Bluetooth Adapters for Xbox One vs. Series X: Compatibility Explained
Many Xbox One Bluetooth adapters (e.g., Turtle Beach Stealth 700 transmitter) work on Series X, but confirm:
- USB-A vs. USB-C (Series X has both)
- Driver support (check manufacturer updates)
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. Adapter Not Recognized
- Fix: Try all USB ports, restart Xbox, update firmware.
2. Audio Lag or Stuttering
- Fix: Use aptX LL adapters, reduce Wi-Fi interference.
3. Mic Not Working
- Fix: Use controller mic input or a USB mic (e.g., Blue Yeti).
FAQ: How to Connect Bluetooth Headphones to Xbox Series X
1. Can You Connect AirPods to Xbox Series X?
No, AirPods use standard Bluetooth. Workarounds:
- Bluetooth adapter (audio only)
- Wired via Lightning-to-3.5mm dongle
2. Does Xbox Series X Have Bluetooth?
Yes, but only for controllers, not audio devices.
3. Best Bluetooth Adapter for Xbox Series X?
Avantree DG80 (aptX LL, plug-and-play).
4. Can PS5 Headsets Work on Xbox?
Only if they support USB dongle mode (e.g., SteelSeries Arctis 7P).
5. Why Won’t My Headphones Pair?
- Reset both devices
- Check for firmware updates
Key Takeaways (Conclusion)
- No native Bluetooth? Use a Bluetooth adapter for Xbox Series X.
- For zero lag, go wired via the controller.
- Best experience? Invest in Xbox Wireless headsets.
Pro Tip: For multiplayer chat, pair a Bluetooth transmitter to a USB mic for full functionality.
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