Connecting your favorite wireless headphones to a PS4 isn't always as simple as it should be. Unfortunately, the PS4 console lacks compatibility with most wireless audio devices. But don't worry; there's no need to purchase a new headset. There are several ways to use your existing headset with this gaming console.
You can connect a Bluetooth headset to a PS4 by turning the pairing mode on and selecting the device's name in the console's Bluetooth settings. Non-compatible Bluetooth headsets can connect with a Bluetooth adapter. Plug the adapter into the PS4 and connect wirelessly to the headset.
A bit of extra effort is required to connect a pair of unsupported headphones to your PS4. But to help make the process as easy as possible, this article covers the most common methods of pairing your wireless earphones to a PS4. You'll also find recommendations for the best Bluetooth adapters.
Can You Use Bluetooth Headphones with a PS4?
There is still some room for improvements with the PS4. However, when it comes to Bluetooth connectivity, the console does not disappoint. Apart from its compatibility is limited to a handful of audio devices, PS4 offers an immersive gaming experience with headsets on.
When using a PS4, users can enjoy music while competing with other players. Connecting it is a breeze if your headset is compatible with the console. In just a few steps, you can easily establish a Bluetooth connection.
However, those with unsupported headsets will need to find other ways to connect their devices to PS4.
Connect Supported Bluetooth Headsets to PS4 in 2 Simple Steps
You're lucky if your headset is compatible with PS4. The connection should take less than a minute to complete, and no supplemental devices are needed. Just follow these steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Headset for Connection
Turn on your headset and put it in pairing mode.
Step 2: Complete Setup on PS4
From the home page on your PS4, go to the Settings tab. Click on “Bluetooth Devices” under “Devices.” Here, you will find a list of device names. Select your Bluetooth headset from the list to connect.
Once you're done, try playing a game with the volume of your headphone on to ensure that the connection has been established successfully.
How Do I Connect Unsupported Wireless Headphones to a PS4?
If you run into that annoying blue screen that says your device is not compatible with PS4, don't worry. You can still use those headphones to connect with your PS4. All you need is an extra device to prepare the earphones for a Bluetooth connection. You've got a few options:
Get a Bluetooth Adapter
A plug and play device, a Bluetooth adapter (on Amazon), connects to the USB port on the PlayStation, thereby enabling users to connect their unsupported Bluetooth audio devices.
1. Choose a USB-A Bluetooth Adapter
The PS4 does not have a Type C USB port. You must then buy a USB-A Bluetooth adapter. Connect this device to one of the two USB ports of the console.
2. Check the PS4 Settings
Before browsing the settings on your PS4, turn on your headset and set it to the pairing mode. Then go to the home screen on your PS4 and use the controller to click the “Settings” option. Under settings, look for “Devices -> Audio Devices -> Output Devices.”
3. Connect the Bluetooth Audio Device to PS4
Locate and click on your headset’s name under available output devices. Set the “Output to the headset” option to audio. Make sure the headset’s volume is on before you start playing a game to verify the success of the Bluetooth connection.
Use a Dongle and a Wireless Microphone
If a Bluetooth adapter isn't your preferred option, you can also use a dongle and a wireless microphone for transmitting the Bluetooth signal. You can either buy these devices separately or get a dongle receiver that comes together with a wireless microphone.
1. Prepare the Devices for Connection
First, you must insert the wireless microphone into the PS4’s controller. Also, connect the Bluetooth dongle to the USB slot of your PS4. Turn on the dongle by pressing the power button, typically placed on the top of the device.
2. Turn the Headset On
Make sure your Bluetooth headset is turned on. Set it to the pairing mode. Once in pairing mode, bring the headset close to the Bluetooth dongle. In just a matter of seconds, the headset should connect to the receiver.
3. Complete the Settings on PS4
In the settings on your PS4, navigate to the audio devices available under “Devices.” Set the Input devices to “Headset Connected to Controller” and output devices to “USB Headset.” Before finishing the setup, ensure that the “Output to Headphones” option is set to “All Audio.”
Wired Cable Connection
There is one more way to connect your Bluetooth headset to a PS4 without spending on an extra device. This is essentially a wired connection involving an audio aux cable. Most importantly, the process of connecting with this cable is very simple and straightforward.
1. Connect the Cable
Usually, headset manufacturers include an additional aux cable with their Bluetooth headsets. However, for this method, you'll need an audio cable that features a built-in mic.
If your headset comes with the desired capabilities, you're good to go. If not, you might need to buy one.
Connect one end of the cable to your headphones and the other end to the PS4. Turn on the Bluetooth headset before proceeding to the next steps.
2. Adjust the Settings on Your PS4
Go to the PS4 settings and select “Bluetooth devices” under the “Devices” option. Click on your headset’s name to establish the connection.
Get back to “Devices” and select “Audio Devices.” Set “Output Devices” to “Headset Connected to Controller.” Then, select “All Audio” under “Output to headphones.” Play a game in order to check that the connection succeeded.
Best Bluetooth Adapters for PS4
Now that you know how to connect an unsupported headset to the PS4, how about some recommendations for the best adapters? Here's a list featuring some of the most affordable and reliable Bluetooth adapters that will ensure a wonderful gaming experience on PS4.
Avantree DG80 USB Audio Transmitter
This adapter features a simple design with a plug-and-play feature to offer users a very convenient way to establish Bluetooth connections. The adapter is also compatible with other devices such as PS5, Switch, and more.
The Avantree DG80 (on Amazon) offers aptX Low Latency compatibility. In other words, if your Bluetooth headphones support aptX-LL, the adapter will eliminate any possible Bluetooth audio lag problems.
Simply put, the device reduces the audio lag to less than 40ms, making the difference virtually unnoticeable.
CHASDI Wireless Mini Microphone Bluetooth Dongle
This kit comes with a USB Adapter dongle and a wireless mic. Available for an affordable rate, the CHASDI adapter set (on Amazon) makes almost any Bluetooth headset compatible with PS4. The device is in the plug-and-play format, offering an easy setup for users.
Just insert the mic into the controller and the adapter into the PS4 USB port. Make some changes to the console’s settings, and you can easily complete the connection.
ZIOCOM USB Bluetooth Audio Adapter
The ZIOCOM Audio Adapter is a plug-and-play device that helps users easily add audio to the PS4 games via Bluetooth headsets. Hosting the high-performance Bluetooth 5.0 chip, this adapter ensures a fast and highly stable transmission signal.
The device hosts a built-in antenna design. Users can therefore enjoy an almost 10-meter signal transmission range without interruption.
