Can You use bluetooth headphones on xbox series x?

Can You Use Bluetooth Headphones on Xbox Series X?

The Xbox Series X is the latest gaming console from Microsoft, promising a new level of performance and features. One of the most exciting things about this console is its support for wireless controllers, wireless audio, and even headphones with Bluetooth connectivity. But can you indeed use Bluetooth headphones on Xbox Series X?

In this article, we’ll dive into the nitty-gritty details of using Bluetooth headphones on your Xbox Series X, exploring what kind of headphones are compatible, how to set them up, and what you should know before making the switch.

Can You Connect Bluetooth Headphones to Xbox Series X Directly?

A straight answer to this question is yes! The Xbox Series X natively supports Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to pair and connect your Bluetooth headphones wirelessly. However, there are some key points to consider:

  • Wireless Audio Format (WAF) is necessary: To connect your headphones wirelessly, you’ll need devices that support WAF, which encrypts audio data to ensure a secure, latency-free connection.
  • Limitations on Wireless Audio Quality : The Xbox Series X natively supports 2-channel PCM (uncompressed Pulse Code Modulation) audio, which restricts the audio quality to 8 kHz or 16 kHz @ 48 kHz. This limited frequency response may not be sufficient for those seeking high-fidelity audio.

Bluetooth Headphone Types Compatible with Xbox Series X

In summary, you can connect the following type of Bluetooth headphones to your Xbox Series X directly:

  • Wireless headphones designed for gaming: Many contemporary wireless gaming headphones, such as Astro Gaming’s A50 or the SteelSeries Arctis, natively support WAF, Bluetooth 5.0, or aptX Low Latency – the perfect combination for seamless compatibility.

However, not all headphones are created equal:
Non-gaming earphones: Some Bluetooth headphones are designed for music listening instead of gaming. These may not work reliably due to limitations in their chipset and audio processing capabilities, possibly resulting in poor audio synchronization.
Older Bluetooth headphones may not support WAF (check your headphones’ features). If your headphones fail the WAF test, explore additional options (see below).

If you’re unsure about your headphones, there are alternative methods available; however, these may require additional set-ups and potential latency issues:

  • Bluetooth to Bluetooth adapter: You can use third-party adapters that convert your analogue Bluetooth audio to digital, allowing you to hook it up to your Xbox Series X wirelessly. Keep in mind additional lag and potential audio quality degradation risks.

Connection Procedure for Bluetooth Headphones with Xbox Series X

Connect your Bluetooth headphones to your Xbox Series X using the following steps:

Power on your headphones and set them to pairing mode

  • Refer to your headphones’ instructions for specific pairing procedures or LED indicators.
    Insert your wireless headphones into the Xbox Series X Bluetooth pairing menu
    • To do this, navigate to Devices and Audio > Audio Devices within your Xbox settings.
    • Use your Xbox controller to select the "pair a new device" option.
    Confirm the pairing process

    • Your headphones might be displayed as "Found devices" or "New Pair" depending on the device.
    • Make sure to select the correct head set and confirm the pairing is complete.

Videos and Audio Settings Explained

Upon connecting your Bluetooth headphones to Xbox Series X, you’ll notice your game audio is now transmitted via headphones:

Audio Settings Adjustment : Adjust your audio output as needed by navigating through Audio > Audio Settings. Enable/disabled features like DTS:X, Dolby, Surround sound, and more.

<tr><th>Audible Distance for Low Latency</th><td><bold>Adjusts game audio delay</bold><p>For optimal gaming sync experience, set this to “ Low latency” (default) or use higher settings for less latency-persistent applications.</p></td>

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Note: Audio CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) function is disabled; disabling this feature may cause inconsistencies.

Resolving issues with your Bluetooth headphones involves exploring potential causes and adjusting system settings:

Interference Reduction : If struggling with dropped connections or poor range:

  • Move your headphones as close as possible to the Xbox Series X (1-2 feet).
  • Reboot your headphones and Xbox when facing issues.
  • Check firmware updates for your headphones and Xbox as some may resolve connectivity issues.

    • Latency concerns: Adjust the Audible distance, Audio sync, and latency values in the Audio settings to adjust lag to your liking.

      Audio Quality Perceptibility : Be wary that wireless audio quality depends** on your headphones’ characteristics (see above). Quality degradations may occur especially at high frequencies.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, most gaming-grade Bluetooth headphones are compatible with your Xbox Series X, offering seamless wire-free connections. If you’re unsure whether your current headphones are compatible, explore compatible headsets or consider using wired headsets for the best latency experience.

Remember some important points:

  • WAF-supported headphones are essential for direct wire-free connections.
  • Non-gaming headsets may not work reliably. Test your headphones before investing more money.
  • Alternative methods such as adapters can be used at a cost of potential latency and audio degradations.

By understanding wireless Bluetooth headset compatibility, connection procedures, setting tips, and troubleshooting techniques, you’ll be best prepared to enjoy your Xbox Series X and experience immersive gaming with your selected headset.

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Setting Explanation
Audio Sync and Audio Delay Adjusts frame capture and rendering

Eliminate audio lag (<25 ms) by adjusting timing according to your preference.