How to Connect AirPods to PS5: Complete Guide
Many gamers wonder if they can connect their AirPods to their PS5 for wireless audio. While the PS5 doesn’t natively support Bluetooth audio accessories like AirPods, there are reliable workarounds that let you use your favorite wireless earbuds with your console. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore all the methods to connect AirPods to your PS5 and discuss the limitations you should know about.
While you can’t connect AirPods directly to your PS5 via Bluetooth, using a Bluetooth adapter or connecting through your TV provides reliable workarounds for wireless audio gaming.
Why Doesn’t PS5 Support Bluetooth Audio Natively?
You might be surprised to learn that despite having Bluetooth hardware, the PS5 does not support Bluetooth audio accessories like AirPods :cite[4]:cite[8]. If you try to pair them through the console’s settings, you’ll see an error message stating the device is not supported.
Sony restricts this functionality for two key technical reasons :cite[4]:
Latency Concerns
Bluetooth audio can introduce delays (40-200ms) between on-screen action and sound, disrupting gameplay in fast-paced games
Bandwidth & Interference
The PS5’s DualSense controllers use Bluetooth, and adding audio streaming could cause interference with controller connectivity
Essentially, Sony prioritizes a stable, lag-free gaming experience and promotes the use of certified audio devices that use different wireless technology via USB dongles, like the Pulse 3D headset :cite[4].
Method 1: Using a Bluetooth USB Adapter
Using a Bluetooth USB adapter is the most direct and effective method, as it adds the audio functionality the console lacks :cite[4]:cite[8]. This approach gives you dedicated audio routing specifically for your PS5.
What You’ll Need:
- A Bluetooth audio transmitter adapter (models from Avantree or UGREEN are recommended)
- Your AirPods (any generation: standard, Pro, or Max)
- A free USB port on your PS5
Connect the Adapter
Plug the Bluetooth adapter into an available USB port on your PS5. The front USB-C or USB-A ports work best for easy access
Enter Pairing Mode
With AirPods in the case, open the lid and press and hold the setup button on the back until the status light flashes white
Sync Devices
Activate pairing mode on your Bluetooth adapter (usually by pressing a button on the dongle) and wait for them to connect
Configure PS5 Audio
On your PS5, go to Settings > Sound > Audio Output and set “Output Device” to your USB adapter
Important Limitations with Adapter Method
While this method works well for audio output, most Bluetooth adapters don’t support microphone functionality with AirPods. For voice chat, you’ll likely need to use the built-in microphone in your DualSense controller. You may also experience some audio latency and won’t have access to PS5’s 3D Audio technology :cite[4].
Method 2: Using Your TV’s Bluetooth
If your television has Bluetooth capabilities, you can use it as a middleman :cite[4]:cite[8]. This method routes all audio from your PS5 to your TV, and then from your TV to your AirPods.
Put AirPods in Pairing Mode
Open the AirPods case lid and hold the setup button until the light flashes white
Access TV Bluetooth Settings
Navigate to your TV settings (typically in Sound > Sound Output or similar menu)
Pair with TV
Select the option to scan for Bluetooth devices and choose your AirPods from the list
Check PS5 Settings
Ensure your PS5 audio output is set to your TV via Settings > Sound > Audio Output
Method 3: Using PS Remote Play
This method bypasses the console’s audio output entirely :cite[4]. You stream your gameplay to a mobile device and use your AirPods with that device.
Enable Remote Play
On your PS5, go to Settings > System > Remote Play and turn it on
Install App
Download the “PS Remote Play” app on your smartphone or tablet
Connect and Play
Pair your DualSense controller to your mobile device, start the app, and connect to your console
Comparison of Methods
| Method | Audio Quality | Microphone Use | Latency | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth Adapter | Good | Limited | Low-Moderate | $20-40 |
| TV Bluetooth | Good | None | Moderate | Free |
| PS Remote Play | Variable | Yes | Network Dependent | Free |
| Official PS5 Headset | Excellent | Yes | None | $100+ |
Recommended Bluetooth Adapters
Frequently Asked Questions
Sony intentionally disabled Bluetooth audio support on the PS5 due to latency concerns and potential interference with controller connectivity. This affects all Bluetooth audio devices, not just AirPods :cite[4]:cite[8].
Most methods don’t support AirPods microphone functionality. Even with adapters that claim microphone support, audio quality often drops to mono. For voice chat, use the built-in DualSense controller microphone instead :cite[4].
Yes, you may experience some audio latency (40-200ms delay) with Bluetooth connections. High-quality adapters with aptX Low Latency codecs can minimize this, but some delay may still be noticeable compared to wired connections :cite[4].
No, AirPods cannot access the PS5’s proprietary Tempest 3D AudioTech. You’ll only get standard stereo sound regardless of which connection method you use :cite[4].
Yes, all AirPods models work with these methods. However, you won’t be able to use AirPods Pro’s noise cancellation or transparency modes since these require connection to an Apple device for activation :cite[4].
Final Thoughts
While connecting AirPods to your PS5 requires workarounds, the methods outlined in this guide provide reliable solutions for wireless audio gaming. For casual gaming where absolute audio synchronization isn’t critical, these workarounds work well. However, for competitive gaming where every millisecond counts, consider investing in a dedicated gaming headset designed for PS5 compatibility.
The Bluetooth adapter method offers the most direct connection, while the TV method provides a free alternative if your equipment supports it. PS Remote Play works well for private gaming sessions but depends on your network quality.
As gaming technology evolves, we may eventually see native Bluetooth audio support on PlayStation consoles. Until then, these methods let you enjoy wireless audio with your AirPods while maintaining your PS5 gaming experience.