AirPods will not connect to PS5 the way they connect to your iPhone
PlayStation 5 does not support the standard Bluetooth pairing that AirPods use. When you try to pair AirPods through the PS5's Bluetooth menu, they will appear to connect but produce no sound, or fail to connect at all. This happens because AirPods use Apple's proprietary W1 and H1 chips, which work reliably only with Apple devices.
You have three working options: use a USB wireless adapter made for AirPods, connect AirPods through your television if it supports AirPlay, or use the PS5's USB audio port with a compatible adapter. Each method has different setup steps and limitations depending on your equipment.
Key Takeaways
- PS5 Bluetooth will not work with AirPods even if they appear to pair, because the console does not support Apple's wireless protocol.
- A USB wireless adapter designed for AirPods (such as the Twelve South AirFly Pro) is the most reliable method and works with any AirPods model.
- If your TV supports AirPlay and is connected to your PS5 via HDMI, you can route PS5 audio through your TV and then to AirPods.
- The PS5 USB port can accept third-party audio adapters, though compatibility varies and you should check the product description before buying.
Using a USB wireless adapter (most reliable method)
A USB wireless adapter is a small device that plugs into one of the PS5's USB ports and creates a wireless connection that AirPods recognize. The Twelve South AirFly Pro is the most common choice and works with all AirPods models, including AirPods Pro, AirPods Max, and standard AirPods. Other brands like Elago also make PS5-compatible adapters.
To set this up: plug the adapter into a USB port on the front or back of the PS5. Put your AirPods in pairing mode (hold the button on the back of the case until the light flashes white). The adapter will detect them within 10 to 15 seconds. Once paired, the adapter remembers your AirPods, and they will reconnect automatically when you turn them on near the PS5. You do not need to pair them again unless you reset the adapter.
The adapter draws minimal power and does not interfere with other USB devices. If you use a USB hub, plug the adapter directly into the PS5 rather than through the hub, as some hubs reduce the adapter's range. The connection is stable during gameplay and works for all PS5 games and apps.
Connecting through your TV with AirPlay
If your television has AirPlay support built in (common on newer LG, Samsung, and Sony TVs), you can send PS5 audio to your TV and then to your AirPods. This method requires your TV to be connected to your PS5 via HDMI and to your home Wi-Fi network.
First, check your TV's settings to confirm AirPlay is enabled. On your PS5, go to Settings, then Sound, then Audio Output. Select the option to output audio through HDMI. Your TV will now receive the PS5 audio. On your AirPods, put them in pairing mode and select your TV's name from the AirPlay menu on the TV itself (not from the PS5). The audio will route through your TV to your AirPods.
This method works but adds a step and depends on your TV's AirPlay implementation. If your TV loses connection or AirPlay drops, you will lose audio from your AirPods until you reconnect. It is less direct than a USB adapter, but it is free if you already own an AirPlay-compatible TV.
Using a USB audio adapter
Some third-party USB audio adapters can receive a Bluetooth signal from AirPods and send it to the PS5 via USB. These are less common than dedicated AirPods adapters and require more setup, but they may work if you already own one.
Plug the adapter into a PS5 USB port. Put your AirPods in pairing mode and pair them with the adapter using the adapter's own pairing button or app. Go to PS5 Settings, Sound, Audio Output, and select the USB adapter from the list of available devices. Test the audio with a game or app to confirm it is working.
Compatibility varies widely with this method. Before buying a USB audio adapter, check the product description or reviews to confirm it works with PS5 and AirPods. Many adapters designed for PC or Mac will not work with PS5 even if they support Bluetooth.
Troubleshooting when audio does not come through
If you have plugged in a USB adapter and paired your AirPods but hear no sound, first check the PS5 volume. Go to Settings, Sound, Volume (Control for HDMI Device), and make sure it is not muted or set to zero. If the volume is correct, restart the PS5 and try pairing the AirPods again.
If the adapter shows as connected but still produces no audio, unplug it, wait 10 seconds, and plug it back in. Some adapters need a full power cycle to initialize correctly. If you are using a USB hub, try plugging the adapter directly into the PS5 instead — hubs sometimes prevent the PS5 from recognizing the adapter.
For AirPlay through your TV, confirm that your TV's AirPlay setting is turned on in the TV's own menu, not just in the PS5 settings. If your TV and PS5 are on different Wi-Fi networks, AirPlay will not work. Restart both devices if the connection drops during gameplay.
What to expect with each method
| Method | Setup Time | Cost | Reliability | Works With All AirPods Models |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USB wireless adapter | 2 to 3 minutes | $30 to $50 | Very reliable | Yes |
| TV with AirPlay | 5 to 10 minutes | Free (if TV supports it) | Reliable but depends on TV | Yes |
| USB audio adapter | 5 to 10 minutes | $20 to $60 | Variable by product | Depends on adapter |
The USB wireless adapter is the fastest and most reliable option if you are willing to spend money. It pairs once and works every time you turn on your AirPods. The TV method is free but requires specific TV hardware and adds an extra step. The USB audio adapter is a middle ground but requires research to find a compatible product.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does PS5 Bluetooth not work with AirPods?
AirPods use Apple's proprietary W1 and H1 wireless chips, which only work reliably with Apple devices. The PS5's standard Bluetooth does not support these chips. Even if AirPods appear to pair through PS5 Bluetooth, they will not produce sound or will disconnect repeatedly.
Can I use AirPods Max with PS5?
Yes, AirPods Max work with all three methods — USB adapter, TV AirPlay, or USB audio adapter. They pair the same way as standard AirPods. The USB adapter method is still the most straightforward.
Do I need to buy a special adapter, or will any Bluetooth adapter work?
Not any adapter will work. You need either a USB adapter specifically designed for AirPods (like Twelve South AirFly Pro) or a USB audio adapter that explicitly states PS5 compatibility. Generic Bluetooth adapters often do not work with PS5.
Will the USB adapter work if I use a USB hub?
It may work, but plugging directly into the PS5 is more reliable. Some USB hubs reduce the adapter's range or prevent the PS5 from recognizing it. If you have a hub, try the adapter in a direct PS5 port first.
Can I use AirPods with PS5 games that require a headset microphone?
AirPods Pro have a microphone, but the PS5 may not recognize it through a USB adapter. For games that require voice chat, test the microphone in a party or game chat before relying on it. You may need a separate PS5 headset with a built-in microphone for reliable voice communication.