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How to connect your AirPods to a PS4
Apple’s AirPods are a great way to bring high-quality audio wherever you go. They also work well if you want to give your gaming audio a boost. The tiny design helps to pump even the smallest of sounds right into your ears. Here’s how to connect your AirPods to a PS4 for a slight gaming edge.
See also: The best PS4 accessories
Unfortunately, the PS4 doesn’t natively support Bluetooth audio, so there are a few hoops you’ll have to jump through. Luckily, there are some Bluetooth adapters you can buy that will help bridge the gap.
How to connect your AirPods to a PS4
Before you can actually start pairing your AirPods, you’ll have to pick up a Bluetooth adapter. Amazon has a few great options, and you’ll just have to decide how you want to connect. Some adapters rely on the USB ports of your TV or PS4, while others pair up with the 3.5mm headphone jack found on your DualShock controller.
Techkey is one of our go-to adapters if you’re hoping to pair via USB. This tiny little adapter is almost invisible when plugged in, and you can set it up in just a few minutes. If you would rather go for a 3.5mm option, Mpow offers an Amazon’s Choice adapter that fits securely into your controller. It’s one of the larger adapters, but it should do the trick.
Once you’ve plugged your adapter into your TV or PS4, you’ll have to follow these steps:
- Press the sync buttons on both the adapter and your AirPods charging case.
- Wait for an indication that your AirPods have paired, then open the Setting menu on your PS4.
- Navigate to Input Devices.
- Choose Headset Connected to Controller.
- Ensure that the Output Device is set to USB Headphones (USB Audio Device).
- Choose Headphones as your output and select All Audio.
Your AirPods should be connected to your PS4 with no issues. Test a few different games and apps to make sure that your AirPods are performing as expected. If you’re lucky enough to have a new PlayStation 5, keep reading.
What about the PS5?
Those of you with PlayStation 5s will be happy to know that you can follow the same steps we listed above. Sony hasn’t added Bluetooth support to its latest console, so you will want to make sure that your adapter is up to par. See our guide on how to pair AirPods with the PS5 for complete instructions.
If you go to test your audio and you don’t get the results you want, follow these steps:
- Head to your Settings menu from the home screen.
- Locate the Sound section.
- Choose the Audio Output option.
- Select Output Device.
- Choose your Bluetooth device from the next screen.
You should also know that the AirPods you connect to either your PS4 or PS5 won’t offer microphone support. For that, you will have to grab a gaming mic or give a larger headset a try.