PS5 lacks Bluetooth audio support: how to connect headphones via USB adapter

PlayStation 5 owners hoping to use Bluetooth headphones will hit a wall: the console has no direct support for such audio. A third-party USB adapter offers a workaround, though sound quality and latency may fall short for fast-paced gaming.

Sony's decision to skip native Bluetooth audio comes down to the technology itself. Bluetooth headphones were never designed for low-latency audio, which is crucial in games. If sound lags behind the action, immersion collapses — in an online shooter, for instance, an opponent's shot would be heard a split second after it happens. Even modern Bluetooth headsets fail to handle this properly.

Frequent connection drops and subpar microphone quality are also likely reasons. Notably, the console works fine with Bluetooth controllers and accessories like Sony's first-party media remote, but audio devices were left out. If you own a modern smart TV, you might connect Bluetooth headphones to it and route PS5 audio through the television, but that method still leaves high latency, unsuitable for fast games.

For those determined to use wireless headphones with PS5, a viable option exists. You need a USB-C Bluetooth transmitter — for example, a model from UGREEN. Setup is straightforward with most such adapters, though exact steps vary by manufacturer. Generally, plug the adapter into the console's USB-C port, put the headphones in pairing mode, and wait for them to connect. After that, PS5 audio flows to the headset.

Keep in mind this method is a compromise. It won't deliver the same stability and quality as wired gaming headsets or models with their own USB dongle. For the best audio experience, dedicated gaming headphones built for consoles and free of latency issues are a better investment.