Can You Use AirPods as a Mic on PS5? The Definitive Guide

The short answer is yes, but with a significant caveat. While the PlayStation 5 (PS5) doesn’t natively support Bluetooth audio, and therefore direct connection to AirPods, you can get them to work as a microphone with the help of a Bluetooth adapter. Let’s dive into the details of how this works, the limitations, and alternative solutions.

Understanding the PS5’s Bluetooth Limitations

The PS5’s Bluetooth functionality is primarily designed for connecting controllers and other accessories, not audio devices. This is a puzzling decision by Sony, especially considering the ubiquity of Bluetooth headphones like AirPods. It means that straight out of the box, you cannot simply pair your AirPods with your PS5 and expect them to work for both audio output and microphone input.

This limitation extends to other Bluetooth headphones as well, so it’s not just an AirPods problem. Sony’s rationale likely involves prioritizing latency and audio quality, as native Bluetooth connections can sometimes introduce lag that’s unacceptable for fast-paced gaming.

The Bluetooth Adapter Workaround

The key to using your AirPods as a microphone on your PS5 is a Bluetooth adapter specifically designed for gaming consoles. These adapters typically plug into the PS5’s USB port or the DualSense controller’s 3.5mm headphone jack, creating a Bluetooth bridge that the PS5 can recognize.

Here’s how it generally works:

1. Purchase a compatible Bluetooth adapter: Look for adapters marketed as PS5 compatible. These usually support low-latency audio and microphone input.

2. Plug the adapter into your PS5: Connect the adapter to a USB port on the PS5. Some adapters might plug directly into the DualSense controller’s 3.5mm jack.

3. Pair your AirPods: Put your AirPods into pairing mode and follow the adapter’s instructions to connect them.

4. Configure audio settings: In the PS5 settings, go to Sound > Audio Output and ensure that the output device is set to the Bluetooth adapter. Then go to Microphone settings and ensure that the input device is set to the Bluetooth adapter.

Caveats of Using a Bluetooth Adapter

While a Bluetooth adapter allows you to use your AirPods as a microphone, it’s important to be aware of potential drawbacks:

• Latency: Even with low-latency adapters, you might experience some audio delay. This is particularly noticeable in fast-paced games where precise timing is crucial.
• Audio Quality: The audio quality might not be as good as with dedicated gaming headsets. Bluetooth compression can affect the clarity and richness of the sound.
• Compatibility: Not all adapters are created equal. Some may have compatibility issues with certain AirPods models or cause connection instability.
• Microphone Quality: The AirPods’ microphones are designed primarily for phone calls, not gaming. They might not provide the clearest or most reliable voice communication, especially in noisy environments.

Alternative Solutions: Dedicated Gaming Headsets

Given the limitations of using AirPods with a Bluetooth adapter, many gamers prefer to invest in dedicated gaming headsets. These headsets are specifically designed for gaming, offering superior audio quality, low latency, and clear microphone input.

Some popular options include:

• SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless: Known for its excellent sound quality and comfortable design.
• Razer Kaira Pro for PlayStation: Offers solid performance and features for the price.
• Sony PS5 Pulse 3D Wireless Headset: Designed to take full advantage of the PS5’s Tempest 3D Audio technology.

Are AirPods Pro good for Gaming?

While AirPods Pro offer excellent sound quality and noise cancellation for everyday use, they are not ideal for gaming, especially on the PS5. The primary reason is latency. Bluetooth headphones inherently have a delay in transmitting audio, which can be distracting and detrimental in fast-paced games. Additionally, while AirPods Pro can technically be used with a Bluetooth adapter as a microphone, the microphone quality is not optimized for gaming communication. For a seamless and high-quality gaming experience, dedicated gaming headsets are a better choice.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions related to using AirPods as a microphone on PS5:

1. Can I directly connect my AirPods to my PS5 without an adapter?

No, the PS5 does not natively support Bluetooth audio output, so you need a Bluetooth adapter.

2. What kind of Bluetooth adapter do I need for my PS5?

Look for adapters specifically marketed as PS5 compatible. These usually support low-latency audio and microphone input.

3. Will using a Bluetooth adapter cause audio lag?

Potentially. While some adapters offer low-latency performance, some audio delay is possible.

4. Is the microphone quality of AirPods good for gaming?

The microphones on AirPods are designed primarily for phone calls, not gaming. You may encounter better quality with dedicated gaming headsets.

5. Can I use the AirPods Pro’s noise cancellation feature while gaming on PS5?

If the Bluetooth adapter supports it, yes. However, the added processing for noise cancellation might increase latency.

6. Do Apple Earpods work on PS5?

If you have Apple Earpods with a 3.5mm jack, you can plug them directly into the Dualsense controller. They will function as both headphones and a microphone.

7. Are there any official Sony Bluetooth headphones that work with PS5 without an adapter?

Yes, the Sony PS5 Pulse 3D Wireless Headset is designed to work seamlessly with the PS5’s wireless audio capabilities. It connects directly to the console without needing an adapter.

8. What are some good alternatives to AirPods for PS5 gaming?

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless, Razer Kaira Pro for PlayStation, and Sony PS5 Pulse 3D Wireless Headset are all excellent options.

9. How do I configure the audio settings on my PS5 to use a Bluetooth adapter?

Go to Settings > Sound > Audio Output. Select the Bluetooth adapter as your output device. Then, go to the Microphone settings to select it as the input device.

10. Can I use AirPods as a mic for vlogging on PS5?

Technically, yes, if you have a Bluetooth adapter. However, the microphone quality might not be ideal for professional vlogging.

11. What if my Bluetooth adapter isn’t being recognized by my PS5?

Ensure the adapter is PS5 compatible and try a different USB port. Update the PS5’s system software and check the adapter’s documentation for troubleshooting steps.

12. Do all Bluetooth adapters support microphone input?

No. Make sure the adapter specifically states that it supports both audio output and microphone input.

13. Is it better to use wired headphones or AirPods for gaming on PS5?

Wired headphones generally offer better audio quality and lower latency compared to AirPods with a Bluetooth adapter.

14. Can I use AirPods for party chat on PS5?

Yes, if you have a Bluetooth adapter that supports microphone input.

15. Are the New AirPods Pro 2 better than the original AirPods Pro for gaming?

While the AirPods Pro 2 offer improved audio quality and noise cancellation, the fundamental limitations of Bluetooth latency remain. They are still not ideal for serious gaming compared to dedicated gaming headsets.

In conclusion, while it’s possible to use your AirPods as a microphone on your PS5 with a Bluetooth adapter, it’s not the most optimal solution. Dedicated gaming headsets provide a superior experience with better audio quality, lower latency, and more reliable microphone performance. Evaluate your needs and priorities to determine the best audio solution for your PS5 gaming setup.