Quick Links

  • Can You Use AirPods with PS5? Here's the Truth
  • Using AirPods with PS5: Unofficial Methods
  • Frequently Asked Questions

Want to use your AirPods with your PS5? While these wireless earbuds weren't designed to work with the PlayStation 5, you can get them working with a simple add-on called a Bluetooth adapter. Before we dive into the setup, you should know that it won't be exactly like using AirPods with your phone.

Related

15 Best Stealth Games On PS5

Just keep stealthing, just keep stealthing...

Posts

Granted, you may face some limitations, things like a slight audio delay and no mic support. But if you mainly want wireless audio for casual gaming, this setup can definitely work. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know: what extra equipment to buy, how to set it all up, and what to expect once you're up and running. Let's get started.

Can You Use AirPods with PS5? Here's the Truth

Unfortunately, the PlayStation 5 does not natively support AirPods or most Bluetooth headphones. While AirPods are excellent wireless earbuds, they cannot be directly connected to the PS5 due to the console's limited Bluetooth functionality, which is restricted to controllers and officially licensed accessories.

Important Things to Know First

While we can work around this with an adapter, you'll experience some limitations, like:

  • A possible audio delay of 40-60ms (which is more noticeable in rhythm games)
  • No microphone functionality
  • No noise-cancellation features
  • Reduced battery life (the extra workload may drain the battery faster)
  • Shorter wireless range (about 20-30 feet with clear line of sight)
  • No 3D Audio support
  • Basic stereo sound only

Official Audio Options for PS5

The PS5 supports:

  • PlayStation-certified wireless headsets (like the Pulse 3D)
  • Wired headphones (via the DualSense controller's 3.5mm jack)
  • USB headsets
  • TV/Home theater audio output

Using AirPods with PS5: Unofficial Methods

Like it is with most things in tech, there is a workaround to how you can hook up your AirPods to the PS5. Here is a quick guide:

Step 1: Set Up Your Hardware

  1. Take your Bluetooth adapter and plug it into any USB port on your PS5
  2. Wait about 15 seconds - your PS5 should show a pop-up recognizing a new USB device
  3. Make sure your AirPods are charged and keep them within arm's reach

Step 2: Put Both Devices in Pairing Mode

  1. On your Bluetooth adapter:
    • Find the small pairing button (usually on the side or front)
    • Press and hold it for about 5 seconds
    • Look for a flashing light (often blue or white) that indicates pairing mode
  2. On your AirPods:
    • Open the AirPods case lid
    • Find the small button on the back of the case
    • Press and hold until you see the white light start blinking
    • Keep the case open and close to the adapter
  3. Wait for pairing:
    • The adapter's light should stop flashing and stay solid
    • This means the connection is successful

Step 3: Configure PS5 Settings

  1. Go to PS5 Settings:
    • Press the PS button on your controller
    • Navigate to Settings (gear icon)
    • Select Sound
  2. Adjust Audio Settings:
    • Find and select "Audio Output"
    • Choose "Output Device"
    • Select your USB headset (the adapter)
    • Change "Output Format" to Linear PCM
  3. Test Your Setup:
    • Adjust the volume to about 50% to start
    • Play a game or media to test the sound
    • Fine-tune the volume to your liking

If you don't hear any audio, try removing and reinserting the adapter, then repeat the pairing process. Sometimes it takes a couple tries to get it right, but once that's done, the audio should be fine to work with.

Troubleshooting Issues

If something's not quite right:

  • No sound: Try unplugging the adapter and plugging it back in
  • Sound cutting out: Make sure your AirPods are charged and you're not too far from the PS5
  • Connection drops: You might need to pair your AirPods with the adapter again
  • Still having trouble: Most issues can be fixed by restarting your PS5

While using AirPods with your PS5 isn't as seamless as using them with your iPhone, it's definitely doable with a Bluetooth adapter. The setup is pretty straightforward, and once everything's connected, you can enjoy wireless audio for your gaming sessions. Just remember, you may not have perfect audio.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my AirPods Pro or AirPods Max features work?

No. When you're connecting them through a Bluetooth adapter, AirPods more or less begin to function as basic stereo headphones, which means that advanced features like active noise cancellation, automatic switching, and spatial audio will not be available (since these require Apple's specific protocols to function).

Will the AirPods microphone work for game chat?

No. The Bluetooth adapter connection only supports audio output. For voice chat, you'll need to use your controller's built-in microphone or connect a separate gaming headset.

Can I get PS5 3D Audio when using AirPods?

This depends on your Bluetooth adapter. Some adapters that support advanced audio codecs may work with the PS5's 3D Audio processing, but the quality and effectiveness can vary significantly. For the best PS5 3D Audio experience, you'll want to use officially supported gaming headsets.

Next

How to Reset A PS5 Controller

Is your PS5 DualSense controller giving you trouble? Here's how to reset it.

Posts