Can You Connect AirPods to PS4? Complete Guide 2026

Can You Connect AirPods to PS4? The Short Answer

No, you cannot connect AirPods directly to a PS4. The PlayStation 4 does not support Bluetooth audio output. While the PS4 has Bluetooth built in, Sony deliberately restricts it to controllers and specific licensed accessories only. AirPods (and most other Bluetooth headphones) simply will not pair with the console through the standard Bluetooth settings menu.

However, that does not mean you are out of luck. There are several reliable workarounds that let you use your AirPods with a PS4, ranging from cheap Bluetooth adapters to free apps on your phone. In this guide, we cover every method, explain the pros and cons of each, and help you choose the best option for your setup.

If you are also interested in using Bluetooth headphones on PS5, check our comprehensive [@portabletext/react] Unknown block type "span", specify a component for it in the `components.types` prop for next-gen solutions.

Why PS4 Does Not Support AirPods Natively

The PS4's Bluetooth chip is limited by design. Sony opted to restrict Bluetooth audio to prevent latency and quality issues that come with standard Bluetooth audio protocols. The A2DP profile that AirPods and most Bluetooth headphones use is not supported by the PS4's Bluetooth stack.

When you try to pair AirPods through Settings > Devices > Bluetooth Devices, the PS4 will either not detect them at all or show them as "Unsupported". This is a firmware-level restriction, not a hardware limitation. The Bluetooth chip inside the PS4 is technically capable of audio output, but Sony's software blocks it.

This is the same reason why most third-party Bluetooth headsets do not work natively. Only Sony-licensed Bluetooth headsets and specific PS4-compatible headphones can connect directly. For more on PS4 hardware limitations, see our [@portabletext/react] Unknown block type "span", specify a component for it in the `components.types` prop.

Method 1: Use a Bluetooth Audio Transmitter (Best Overall)

A Bluetooth audio transmitter is a small USB dongle that plugs into your PS4 (or controller) and acts as a bridge between your console and AirPods. The transmitter receives audio from the PS4 via USB or the 3.5mm headphone jack and sends it to your AirPods over Bluetooth. This is the most reliable and widely recommended method.

How to Set It Up:

• Step 1: Buy a Bluetooth audio transmitter that supports low-latency audio. Look for ones with "aptX Low Latency" or "Avantree" branding. They typically cost $20 to $40.
• Step 2: Plug the transmitter into your PS4's USB port (or the 3.5mm jack on your DualShock 4 controller).
• Step 3: Put your AirPods in pairing mode by opening the lid and holding the button on the back until the light flashes white.
• Step 4: Press and hold the pairing button on the transmitter until its LED flashes. The transmitter and AirPods should pair within a few seconds.
• Step 5: Go to Settings > Devices > Audio Devices on your PS4. Set Output Device to "USB Headset" or "Headphones Connected to Controller" depending on where you plugged in the transmitter.
• Step 6: Adjust the Output to Headphones setting to "All Audio" to hear both game sound and chat through your AirPods.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Reliable connection, low latency with aptX transmitters, works with all AirPods models, no extra apps needed.
• Cons: Requires buying a separate device, some cheap transmitters have noticeable audio lag.

For a wider look at PS4 audio accessories, check our [@portabletext/react] Unknown block type "span", specify a component for it in the `components.types` prop which also covers PS4-compatible options.

Method 2: Use the PS4 Second Screen App (Free)

If you do not want to buy a transmitter, you can use Sony's free PS4 Second Screen app on your smartphone as a workaround. This method routes PS4 audio through your phone, which can then output to your AirPods.

How to Set It Up:

• Step 1: Download the "PS4 Second Screen" app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
• Step 2: Connect your AirPods to your phone as you normally would.
• Step 3: Open the app and connect to your PS4 (both devices must be on the same Wi-Fi network).
• Step 4: Once connected, the app can receive audio from compatible apps and games. However, this method has major limitations (see below).

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: Completely free, no extra hardware needed, uses your existing phone and AirPods.
• Cons: Does not work with all games, significant audio latency, no microphone support for chat, limited to certain audio sources.

This method is best for casual use like watching Netflix or YouTube on your PS4. For gaming, the latency makes it impractical for competitive play.

Method 3: Use a Smart TV with Bluetooth

If your TV has built-in Bluetooth audio output, you can connect your AirPods directly to the TV instead of the PS4. The PS4 sends audio to the TV via HDMI, and the TV forwards it to your AirPods over Bluetooth.

How to Set It Up:

• Step 1: Put your AirPods in pairing mode.
• Step 2: Go to your TV's Bluetooth settings and search for devices.
• Step 3: Select your AirPods from the list and pair them.
• Step 4: Set your TV's audio output to Bluetooth headphones.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros: No extra purchases if your TV already has Bluetooth, simple setup, works with any console connected to the TV.
• Cons: Only works if your TV supports Bluetooth audio, no microphone for in-game chat, potential latency depending on TV model.

Method 4: Use a Connected Phone as a Middleman

Some apps like "AirReceiver" or "Roku" on your phone can receive PS4 audio over your local network and play it through your AirPods. This is similar to the Second Screen method but uses third-party apps that may offer better compatibility.

• Pros: Free, no hardware needed.
• Cons: Unreliable, high latency, requires network configuration, not recommended for gaming.

Can You Use AirPods for Voice Chat on PS4?

No, AirPods cannot be used for voice chat on PS4 through any of the above methods. The PS4 requires a specific microphone profile for chat audio, and Bluetooth audio transmitters only transmit audio to the headphones, not from them. Even though AirPods have built-in microphones, the PS4 will not recognise them as a chat microphone.

If you need voice chat, you will need to either use your DualShock 4 controller's built-in microphone (on later firmware) or buy a dedicated gaming headset with a microphone. Our [@portabletext/react] Unknown block type "span", specify a component for it in the `components.types` prop covers headsets that work on both PS4 and PS5 with full chat support.

Do AirPods Work on PS5?

The PS5 has the same Bluetooth audio restrictions as the PS4. AirPods still cannot connect directly. However, the same Bluetooth transmitter workaround works on PS5 as well. For a complete guide on this topic, see our [@portabletext/react] Unknown block type "span", specify a component for it in the `components.types` prop.

Best Bluetooth Transmitters for PS4 and AirPods

If you decide to go with the transmitter route (which we recommend), here are some things to look for:

• Low-latency support: Look for aptX Low Latency or "gaming mode" to minimise audio delay.
• Dual-link capability: Some transmitters can pair two sets of headphones simultaneously, great for local co-op gaming.
• USB vs 3.5mm: USB transmitters plug directly into the PS4. 3.5mm transmitters plug into the controller. Both work, but USB generally offers better range.
• Battery life: Some transmitters have built-in batteries for portable use. USB-powered transmitters draw power from the PS4, so no charging needed.

Popular options include the Avantree Leaf, TaoTronics Bluetooth Transmitter, and the Gulikit Route Air. All of these pair reliably with AirPods and offer low-latency modes.

Alternative: Use a Wired Gaming Headset Instead

If the workarounds seem like too much hassle, consider buying a dedicated PS4 gaming headset. Wired headsets plug directly into the DualShock 4 controller's 3.5mm jack and offer zero latency, full microphone support, and better gaming audio than AirPods. Prices start from around $25 for basic models.

For recommendations, see our [@portabletext/react] Unknown block type "span", specify a component for it in the `components.types` prop. You can also check our [@portabletext/react] Unknown block type "span", specify a component for it in the `components.types` prop for accessory recommendations, or browse all our guides in [@portabletext/react] Unknown block type "span", specify a component for it in the `components.types` prop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I connect AirPods to PS4 without an adapter?

No. The PS4 does not support Bluetooth audio output for AirPods or any standard Bluetooth headphones. You need either a Bluetooth audio transmitter, a TV with Bluetooth output, or the PS4 Second Screen app as a workaround.

Why does my PS4 say "Unsupported" when I try to pair AirPods?

The PS4's Bluetooth only supports specific device profiles (controllers, keyboards, headsets with specific Sony licensing). AirPods use the A2DP Bluetooth audio profile, which the PS4 does not support. This is a software restriction, not a hardware one.

Will AirPods Pro or AirPods Max work with PS4?

No model of AirPods (AirPods 1, 2, 3, Pro, or Max) will connect directly to a PS4. They all use the same Bluetooth audio protocol. However, all models work with the Bluetooth transmitter workaround described above.

Is there any audio lag when using AirPods with a PS4?

With a quality Bluetooth transmitter that supports aptX Low Latency, the delay is minimal (around 30-40ms) and barely noticeable. With cheaper transmitters or the PS4 Second Screen app, the delay can be 150-200ms or more, which is very noticeable in fast-paced games.

Can I use AirPods for party chat on PS4?

No. AirPods cannot be used for party chat or in-game voice chat on PS4. Bluetooth transmitters only send audio to the headphones, not from the AirPods' microphone back to the PS4. You would need a separate microphone for chat.

Does the PS4 DualShock 4 controller support Bluetooth audio?

The DualShock 4 controller has a 3.5mm headphone jack that supports wired headsets and Bluetooth transmitters plugged in via the jack. It does not have Bluetooth audio output built in. The controller itself connects to the PS4 over Bluetooth, but it cannot relay Bluetooth audio to AirPods.

Can I use my Apple TV to connect AirPods to PS4?

Not directly. Apple TV can pair with AirPods, but it cannot receive audio from your PS4. You would need to route audio through your TV or AV receiver instead. If your TV has Bluetooth output, that is the simplest option.

Is it worth buying a Bluetooth transmitter just for PS4?

If you already own AirPods and want to use them for late-night gaming sessions without waking the house, a $25-40 transmitter is a worthwhile investment. It also works with PS5, Nintendo Switch, and PC, so you get multi-device use out of it.

Can I connect two pairs of AirPods to one PS4?

Yes, but only with a Bluetooth transmitter that supports "dual link" or "dual pairing" mode. These transmitters can pair two sets of Bluetooth headphones simultaneously, so two people can listen to the same PS4 audio through their own AirPods. Look for transmitters specifically advertising this feature.

Will Sony ever add native AirPods support to PS4?

No. The PS4 is at the end of its lifecycle with firmware 13.50 being the latest. Sony has not added Bluetooth audio support in any update and is unlikely to do so. The PS5 has the same restriction. If you want to use AirPods with a PlayStation console, a transmitter is the way to go.

What is the cheapest way to use AirPods with PS4?

The cheapest method is the free PS4 Second Screen app on your phone, but it has significant latency and limited functionality. The cheapest reliable method is a budget Bluetooth transmitter (around $15-20 on Amazon), which provides a stable connection with acceptable latency for most games.