How To Connect AirPods To A PS5 Console?

Connecting AirPods to a PS5 requires a Bluetooth transmitter since Sony restricts native Bluetooth audio for non-licensed devices. Avantree’s USB or optical transmitters like the Relay or HT4186 bridge this gap, converting PS5 audio to Bluetooth. Set the transmitter to pairing mode, sync your AirPods, and adjust PS5 settings to prioritize audio output through the transmitter. Pro Tip: Use transmitters with aptX Low Latency to minimize audio delay during gaming.

Why doesn’t the PS5 support AirPods natively?

Sony prioritizes licensed peripherals to minimize latency issues and ensure consistent performance. The PS5’s Bluetooth stack reserves bandwidth for controllers, not audio devices. Third-party headphones without specialized dongles risk gameplay-audio desynchronization. Pro Tip: Avantree transmitters bypass this via dedicated audio channels, maintaining Sony’s strict latency benchmarks (<30ms). For example, the Avantree DG60P uses USB passthrough to trick the PS5 into recognizing it as a wired headset, enabling AirPod compatibility.

What equipment do I need?

You’ll need a Bluetooth transmitter, a USB-C/A or optical cable, and AirPods. Avantree’s DG80 accepts USB and optical inputs, while the Relay uses USB alone. Ensure your transmitter supports A2DP/AVRCP profiles for audio control. Pro Tip: If using USB, verify the PS5’s front/rear ports provide sufficient power—some transmitters require external power banks under heavy use. Ever struggled with crackling audio? That’s often due to signal interference; reposition the transmitter closer to your AirPods.

How to set up the transmitter?

Connect the transmitter to the PS5’s USB port, power it on, and toggle its pairing mode. Hold your AirPods’ case button until the LED flashes white, then select them in the transmitter’s BT menu. Navigate to the PS5’s Settings > Sound > Output and set “Output Device” to the transmitter. Pro Tip: Rename your AirPods to “PS5 Headset” in Bluetooth settings for easier identification. Why does audio sometimes cut out? Walls or Wi-Fi routers near the transmitter can disrupt signals—keep the transmitter within 10 feet.

How to reduce audio delay?

Use transmitters with aptX LL or Avantree’s FastStream codecs, which compress audio data faster than standard SBC. In the PS5 menu, disable 3D Audio and set output format to Linear PCM (uncompressed). Pro Tip: For the DG80, enable “Low Latency Mode” via its physical switch—it cuts delay by 40% versus default modes. Imagine watching a dubbed movie; even slight lip-sync errors irritate. Similarly, 150ms delays make gunfire in Call of Duty feel disconnected from visuals.

Any alternative methods?

HDMI audio extractors split audio from the PS5’s HDMI signal, routing it to transmitters via optical or AUX. However, they add complexity and cost ($25–$50). Wireless HDMI systems like Nyrius Aries Pro offer lag-free audio but exceed $150. Pro Tip: Avantree’s DG80 simplifies this by integrating optical input, avoiding extractor dongles. It’s like using a detour vs. a direct highway—both work, but one’s faster and cheaper.

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