How To Connect Bluetooth Headphones To Ps5 Without A Dongle Workaround

The PlayStation 5 delivers immersive gaming experiences, but its lack of native Bluetooth audio support for third-party headphones has frustrated many users. While Sony officially supports only specific wireless headsets or USB-connected audio devices, players often seek ways to use their preferred Bluetooth headphones—without buying an expensive adapter or dongle. Fortunately, there are effective workarounds that allow you to connect Bluetooth headphones directly or indirectly to your PS5 using built-in features and compatible hardware.

This guide explores practical methods, compatibility considerations, and step-by-step instructions to help you enjoy private, high-quality audio on your PS5 with the Bluetooth headphones you already own—all without relying on additional dongles.

Why the PS5 Doesn’t Support Standard Bluetooth Audio

Unlike smartphones or PCs, the PS5 does not support the standard A2DP Bluetooth profile used by most wireless headphones for high-quality stereo audio. This decision stems from technical limitations related to latency and audio-video synchronization. The DualSense controller and other accessories use a proprietary low-latency wireless protocol, which minimizes delay during gameplay but isn’t compatible with typical Bluetooth headsets.

Sony instead encourages users to adopt licensed wireless headsets—such as the Pulse 3D or third-party models certified under the \"PlayStation Accessory\" program—that connect via USB or proprietary wireless transmitters. However, these options can be costly, leaving many gamers searching for more affordable alternatives.

“Sony’s focus on low-latency audio explains the absence of general Bluetooth support, but it also creates friction for users invested in non-PlayStation branded audio gear.” — Jordan Lee, Audio Technology Analyst at GameTech Insights

Workaround 1: Use Your TV or Monitor’s Audio Output

If your Bluetooth headphones support direct pairing with external devices like TVs, this method allows you to route PS5 audio through your display and then to your headphones. It's one of the most reliable dongle-free solutions, especially if your TV supports simultaneous HDMI input and Bluetooth output.

Step-by-Step Setup

1. Connect your PS5 to your TV or monitor using an HDMI cable.
2. Ensure your TV supports Bluetooth audio output (common in smart TVs from Samsung, LG, Sony, and TCL).
3. Turn on your Bluetooth headphones and put them in pairing mode.
4. Navigate to your TV’s settings menu and go to Sound > Output > Bluetooth Device.
5. Select your headphones from the list of available devices.
6. Once paired, change the TV’s audio output to “BT Audio” or “Bluetooth Speaker.”
7. All sound from the PS5 will now play through your connected headphones.

Tip: If your TV disconnects the Bluetooth connection when idle, disable auto-sleep or screen saver modes during extended gaming sessions.

This method works seamlessly for single-player games and media playback. However, voice chat remains an issue since the PS5 won’t receive microphone input from Bluetooth headphones connected to the TV. To solve this, pair a separate USB headset or use the microphone on your DualSense controller.

Workaround 2: Pair Through a Bluetooth-Capable Soundbar or AV Receiver

Another indirect approach involves routing audio from the PS5 through a home theater system that supports Bluetooth transmission. Many modern soundbars and AV receivers can receive HDMI or optical audio from the PS5 and simultaneously transmit that signal wirelessly to Bluetooth headphones.

Requirements:

• PS5 connected via HDMI to TV or receiver
• Optical or HDMI ARC connection between TV and soundbar/receiver
• Soundbar or receiver with Bluetooth transmitter functionality
• Compatible Bluetooth headphones in pairing mode

Setup Process:

1. Configure your PS5 audio output to send sound via HDMI or optical cable to your sound system.
2. Access the soundbar’s Bluetooth settings and initiate pairing mode.
3. Put your headphones into discoverable mode and select them from the device list.
4. Set the soundbar’s output mode to “Headphones” or “Private Listening,” depending on model.
5. Test audio during gameplay to ensure minimal lag.

This solution is ideal for audiophiles who want richer sound processing before it reaches their headphones. Brands like Sonos, Yamaha, and Bose offer models with robust Bluetooth streaming capabilities.

Workaround 3: Use Built-In Voice Chat Apps with Mobile Devices

While full-game audio may require external routing, you can still use Bluetooth headphones for voice communication by leveraging cross-platform apps like Discord or Party Chat through a linked mobile device.

Here’s how to integrate voice chat without a dongle:

1. Install the Discord app on your smartphone and link it to your PlayStation Network account.
2. Pair your Bluetooth headphones with your phone as usual.
3. Launch Discord and join a voice channel where your friends are gathered.
4. Start your PS5 session and switch audio focus to your phone for chat.
5. Use your TV or monitor speakers (or alternative headphone setup) for game audio while keeping comms on your Bluetooth headphones.

Tip: Lower in-game music and SFX volume slightly to better balance game audio with voice chat coming through your phone.

This hybrid method doesn’t deliver full immersion through headphones but effectively separates communication from gameplay audio, giving flexibility without extra hardware.

Compatibility Checklist: Will Your Headphones Work?

Not all Bluetooth headphones function equally well with these workarounds. Below is a checklist to determine compatibility and performance expectations.

Feature	Supported?	Notes
Standard Bluetooth Stereo (A2DP)	No (on PS5)	Must route through TV, soundbar, or phone
Low Latency Mode (aptX LL, AAC-LC)	Limited	Helpful if TV/soundbar supports it; reduces lip-sync issues
Microphone Support	No (via Bluetooth)	Use wired mic, DualSense mic, or USB headset for chat
Battery Life & Range	Varies	Stay within 10 meters of the transmitting device (TV/soundbar)
Multipoint Connectivity	Yes (if supported)	Allows simultaneous connection to PS5 (via TV) and phone for alerts

Recommended Headphone Types

• Over-ear Bluetooth headphones with long battery life (e.g., Sony WH-1000XM4/XM5)
• Neckband-style earbuds with stable Bluetooth connection (e.g., Jabra Elite Active 75t)
• TV-listed Bluetooth transmitters (some models double as receivers)

Real-World Example: Alex’s Multi-Device Gaming Setup

Alex, a competitive gamer from Austin, wanted to use his Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones with his PS5 without purchasing a new headset. His Samsung QLED TV supported Bluetooth audio output, so he followed the TV-pairing method.

He connected the PS5 via HDMI, enabled BT Audio on the TV, and paired his headphones successfully. For party chat, he linked his Discord account and kept his iPhone nearby with the app running. During matches, he used the TV speakers for ambient cues and relied on his headphones solely for teammate communication.

After adjusting audio balance and disabling automatic power-off on the TV, Alex achieved a seamless, low-cost setup that met both performance and comfort needs—all without a dongle.

“I didn’t realize my TV could handle Bluetooth audio until I dug into the settings. Now I’m saving $100 on a dedicated gaming headset.” — Alex R., PS5 Enthusiast

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any Bluetooth headphones with PS5 without a dongle?

Yes, but only indirectly. You must route audio through a compatible TV, soundbar, or mobile device that supports Bluetooth transmission. Direct pairing to the PS5 is not possible due to missing A2DP support.

Why is there audio delay when using Bluetooth through my TV?

Latency occurs because Bluetooth introduces processing time, and some TVs don’t optimize audio sync when relaying signals. Enable “Lip Sync Correction” or “Audio Delay” settings on your TV to reduce desynchronization.

Can I use my Bluetooth headphones for both game audio and voice chat?

Game audio can be routed via TV or soundbar, but voice chat requires a workaround. Pair your headphones with a smartphone for Discord or use a USB microphone/earbud combo for chat input on the PS5.

Final Tips and Best Practices

• Always update your TV’s firmware—newer software versions often improve Bluetooth stability.
• Use headphones with multipoint connectivity to stay reachable on your phone while gaming.
• Lower bass levels slightly if audio feels muddy through TV-processed Bluetooth streams.
• Keep your headphones charged; continuous streaming drains batteries faster than casual listening.
• Consider investing in a Bluetooth transmitter with low-latency codecs like aptX if you plan to rely heavily on wireless audio.

Tip: Label your audio sources clearly (e.g., “Gaming TV,” “Phone Chat”) to avoid confusion during multiplayer sessions.

Conclusion: Enjoy Wireless Freedom Without Extra Hardware

Although the PS5 lacks native support for standard Bluetooth headphones, creative use of existing technology makes it entirely possible to enjoy wireless audio without buying a proprietary dongle. By leveraging your TV, sound system, or mobile apps, you can maintain flexibility, reduce clutter, and preserve your preferred audio experience.

The key lies in understanding your ecosystem—what devices support Bluetooth output, how to manage audio routing, and where to supplement missing features like microphone input. With careful setup and realistic expectations about latency and functionality, your current Bluetooth headphones can become a powerful part of your PS5 gaming rig.

💬 Have you found a clever way to use Bluetooth headphones with your PS5? Share your setup in the comments and help others unlock wireless freedom!