How to Connect Bluetooth Headphones to Your Xbox Series X: A Detailed Step-by-Step Guide

The Xbox Series X is known for delivering an exceptional gaming experience with its stunning graphics, lightning-fast load times, and expansive game library. However, when it comes to connecting Bluetooth headphones directly to your console, you’ll encounter a roadblock. The Xbox Series X does not natively support Bluetooth audio, unlike other devices such as smartphones or PCs. 

That being said, don’t let this limitation stop you from enjoying your gaming sessions with wireless audio! There are several workarounds and solutions that allow you to pair your Bluetooth headphones with your Xbox Series X. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the available methods, from using a Bluetooth transmitter to leveraging your TV’s Bluetooth capability.

Why Xbox Series X Doesn’t Support Bluetooth Audio

Microsoft has opted for a more specialized wireless technology for the Xbox Series X, using the proprietary Xbox Wireless protocol for controllers and headsets. This decision prioritizes low-latency connections, ensuring that there is minimal delay between your controller inputs and on-screen actions. While this is fantastic for controllers, it means that Bluetooth audio is not supported on the console.

Additionally, Bluetooth typically has higher latency compared to Xbox Wireless, which could impact your gaming experience, especially when it comes to audio syncing during fast-paced games.

How to Connect Bluetooth Headphones to Xbox Series X

Despite this limitation, there are a few ways to work around the lack of native Bluetooth support. Here are some detailed methods to help you connect your Bluetooth headphones to your Xbox Series X.

1. Use a Bluetooth Transmitter for Xbox Series X

One of the most common and effective ways to connect Bluetooth headphones to your Xbox Series X is by using a Bluetooth transmitter. This device will allow you to wirelessly transmit audio from your console to your Bluetooth headphones. Let’s go through the steps for using a Bluetooth transmitter.

What You Need:

• Bluetooth Transmitter: Look for a Bluetooth transmitter that supports low-latency codecs like aptX Low Latency for minimal audio lag. Some popular options include the Avantree Leafand TaoTronics Bluetooth Transmitter. Ensure the transmitter is compatible with your Xbox and supports either a USB or 3.5mm connection.
• Bluetooth Headphones: Any Bluetooth headphones will work, but for the best experience, choose a pair with aptX Low Latency support to reduce audio lag.

Steps to Connect:

1. Plug in the Bluetooth Transmitter:  

•    If you’re using a 3.5mm headphone jack transmitter, plug it into the headphone port on your Xbox controller.
•    Alternatively, if the transmitter connects via USB, plug it into one of the USB ports on the Xbox Series X console.

2. Put Your Bluetooth Headphones in Pairing Mode:  

   Refer to the user manual for your Bluetooth headphones to activate pairing mode. This usually involves holding the power button until the LED indicator starts blinking.

3. Pair the Bluetooth Headphones with the Transmitter:  

   Follow the instructions on the Bluetooth transmitter to pair it with your headphones. This typically involves pressing a button on the transmitter to initiate pairing, then selecting the device when it appears.

4. Adjust Audio Settings: Once paired, your Bluetooth headphones should now be receiving audio from the Xbox Series X. You may need to adjust the audio settings on your Xbox under Settings > General > Volume & audio output to ensure the sound is routed correctly.

Advantages of This Method:

• No need to rely on the TV’s Bluetooth capabilities.
• You can use any Bluetooth headphones, making this a flexible solution.
• Suitable for both game audio and party chat.

Disadvantages:

• You may experience slight audio lag, depending on the quality of the transmitter and headphones.
• Additional hardware is required, which can be a hassle for some users.

2. Use Your TV’s Bluetooth for Audio Output

If your TV has built-in Bluetooth capabilities, you can also use it to route audio from the Xbox Series X to your Bluetooth headphones. While this method isn’t as direct as using a Bluetooth transmitter, it can be an excellent solution if you don’t want to invest in additional equipment.

What You Need:

• A TV with Bluetooth support(check your TV’s user manual to ensure it supports Bluetooth audio devices).
• Bluetooth Headphones: Any Bluetooth headphones will work with this method.

Steps to Connect:

1. Connect Xbox Series X to Your TV:  

   Ensure your Xbox is properly connected to the TV using an HDMI cable.

2. Enable Bluetooth on Your TV:  

   Navigate to the settings menu on your TV and enable Bluetooth. This process will vary depending on the TV brand and model, so refer to the user manual for specifics.

3. Put Your Bluetooth Headphones in Pairing Mode:  

   Like the previous method, make sure your Bluetooth headphones are in pairing mode.

4. Pair the Headphones to Your TV:  

   Once your TV detects the Bluetooth headphones, select them from the available devices list and connect. This will send the Xbox audio to your Bluetooth headphones via the TV.

5. Adjust Xbox Audio Settings:  

   On your Xbox, go to Settings > General > Volume & audio output, and set the audio output to your TV or audio receiver.

Advantages of This Method:

• Uses the built-in Bluetooth functionality of your TV, so no additional hardware is needed.
• Simple and easy to set up if your TV supports Bluetooth.

Disadvantages:

• Audio may have higher latency compared to other methods, leading to a noticeable delay, especially in fast-paced games.
• You may not be able to use your headphones for party chat, depending on how your TV routes audio.

3. Use the Xbox App for Party Chat

While you can’t directly connect Bluetooth headphones for all audio on Xbox Series X, you can still use them for party chat through the Xbox app. This method works if you want to communicate with friends while gaming.

What You Need:

• Xbox App: Available for iOS and Android devices.
• Bluetooth Headphones: These will connect to your smartphone, not the Xbox itself.

Steps to Connect:

1. Install the Xbox App on Your Phone:  

   Download the Xbox app from your smartphone’s app store (App Store for iPhone, Google Play for Android).

2. Sign In to Your Xbox Account:  

   Log into the Xbox app using the same credentials that you use for your Xbox Series X.

3. Join or Start a Party Chat:  

   You can create a new party or join an existing one through the Xbox app. Once inside, your Bluetooth headphones will be used for voice chat.

4. Connect Your Bluetooth Headphones to Your Phone:  

   Pair your Bluetooth headphones with your smartphone as you normally would, then you’ll be able to hear the party chat audio.

Advantages of This Method:

• Perfect for chat during gaming.
• Allows you to use Bluetooth headphones for communication without additional devices.

Disadvantages:

• This method only works for party chat; it doesn’t route game audio through the Bluetooth headphones.
• You’ll need to have your phone nearby during gameplay.

4. Invest in an Xbox-Compatible Wireless Headset

If you want the best experience without the hassle of workarounds, investing in an Xbox Wireless Headset or other Xbox-compatible wireless headphones is the most seamless solution. These headsets connect directly to the Xbox using the Xbox Wireless protocol, offering low-latency audio, superior sound quality, and integrated chat features.

Recommended Wireless Headsets:

• SteelSeries Arctis 9X: Known for its excellent sound quality, comfort, and support for Xbox Wireless.
• Xbox Wireless Headset: Microsoft’s own headset designed for the Xbox Series X, offering high-quality audio and easy connectivity.
• Turtle Beach Stealth 700 Gen 2: A well-rounded headset with excellent chat integration and noise cancellation features.

Advantages:

• Native support for Xbox with no need for Bluetooth transmitters or TV routing.
• No latency issues—perfect for competitive gaming.
• Integrated microphone for in-game communication.

Disadvantages:

• These headsets tend to be more expensive than Bluetooth headphones.
• Limited to models that support the Xbox Wireless protocol.

Final Thoughts

While the Xbox Series X doesn’t offer direct Bluetooth support for headphones, there are plenty of ways to enjoy wireless audio. Whether you use a Bluetooth transmitter, rely on your TV’s Bluetooth capabilities, or opt for a dedicated Xbox-compatible headset, there’s a solution for everyone. Choose the method that fits your needs and budget, and get ready to immerse yourself in the world of wireless gaming audio.