How To Connect Airpods To PS4 Without Dongle? A Step-By-Step Guide

The popularity of Apple’s AirPods and Sony’s PlayStation 4 gaming console has led many gamers to seek a wireless audio solution for an immersive gaming experience. However, connecting AirPods to a PS4 can be tricky due to the absence of native Bluetooth audio support. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore multiple methods to connect AirPods to a PS4 without the need for a dongle. Whether you’re an avid gamer or simply want to enjoy wireless audio on your PS4, we’ve got you covered with step-by-step instructions and troubleshooting tips.

How To Connect Airpods To PS4 Without Dongle?

Method 1: Using a Smartphone or Tablet as a Bridge

Turn on your AirPods and make sure they are in pairing mode.
On your smartphone or tablet, go to the Bluetooth settings and ensure Bluetooth is enabled.
Find and select your AirPods from the available devices to pair them.
Once connected, open the PS4 Settings menu.
Navigate to “Devices” > “Audio Devices” > “Output Device” and choose your smartphone or tablet as the audio output.
Your AirPods will now transmit audio from the PS4 via the smartphone or tablet.

Method 2: Using a PC or Laptop as a Bridge

Turn on your AirPods and put them in pairing mode.
Pair your AirPods with your PC or laptop using the Bluetooth settings.
Connect your PC or laptop to the PS4 using an audio cable (3.5mm jack).
In the PS4 Settings menu, go to “Devices” > “Audio Devices” > “Output Device” and select “USB Headset (USB Audio Device)” as the audio output.
Your AirPods will now function as the audio output for your PS4 through your PC or laptop acting as a bridge.

Method 3: Using a PS4 Controller

Put your AirPods into pairing mode.
Hold the PS and Share buttons on your PS4 controller until it enters pairing mode (the light bar will blink rapidly).
Go to the PS4 Settings menu and select “Devices” > “Bluetooth Devices.”
Find and select your AirPods in the list to pair them.
Once connected, go to “Devices” > “Audio Devices” > “Output Device” and choose “Headset Connected to Controller” as the audio output.

Method 4: Using a Bluetooth Adapter (Optional)

Plug a Bluetooth adapter into the PS4’s USB port.
Put your AirPods into pairing mode.
Pair your AirPods with the Bluetooth adapter.
In the PS4 Settings menu, go to “Devices” > “Audio Devices” > “Input Device” and select the Bluetooth adapter.
In the same menu, choose “Output Device” and select the Bluetooth adapter again.
Your AirPods will now work as both the audio input and output for your PS4.

Why Connect AirPods to PS4?

Connecting AirPods to a PS4 offers several benefits for gamers and users who prefer wireless audio:

Improved Sound Quality: AirPods are known for their impressive audio quality. Connecting them to a PS4 can enhance the gaming experience by providing clearer and more immersive sound.
Wireless Convenience: Using AirPods eliminates the need for traditional wired headphones, allowing for greater freedom of movement during gaming sessions. This is particularly useful in games that require quick reflexes and fast movements.
Noise Isolation: AirPods offer good noise isolation, which can help players focus on the game’s audio cues and reduce distractions from the surrounding environment.Voice Chat: Many games require communication with teammates or opponents via voice chat. AirPods come with built-in microphones, making them a convenient option for in-game communication without the need for an external microphone.

Comfort: AirPods are lightweight and designed for comfort during extended use, making them ideal for long gaming sessions.
Multi-Purpose: AirPods can be used not only for gaming but also for various other tasks, such as listening to music, taking calls, or watching videos on other devices. This versatility makes them a valuable accessory for users who want a seamless audio experience across different activities.

Troubleshooting Tips

Troubleshooting tips are crucial when connecting AirPods to a PS4 without a dongle to address common issues. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help users overcome potential problems:

Audio Lag or Delay: Ensure your AirPods are fully charged to reduce potential latency issues. Check for interference from other Bluetooth devices and move them away from your AirPods. If using a smartphone or tablet as a bridge, ensure it has a strong and stable Bluetooth connection to the PS4.
Audio Drops or Disconnects: Verify that your AirPods have a stable Bluetooth connection to the device they’re connected to (e.g., smartphone, PC). Ensure your AirPods are within the recommended Bluetooth range of the PS4 (typically around 30 feet or 10 meters).
Low Volume or No Sound: Make sure the AirPods’ volume is turned up to an adequate level. Check the PS4’s audio settings to ensure that the correct output device is selected (e.g., smartphone, PC, or controller). Inspect the audio cables and connections if you’re using a PC or HDMI audio extractor as a bridge.
Microphone Issues: If the microphone on your AirPods isn’t working during voice chat, check the PS4’s microphone settings and ensure the correct input device is selected. Ensure that your AirPods have microphone permissions enabled on the device they are connected to.
Pairing Problems: If you encounter difficulty pairing your AirPods, make sure they are in pairing mode. Restart the PS4 and try the pairing process again. Check the Bluetooth settings on your device and remove any previously paired devices that might interfere with the connection.

Alternative Gaming Headsets

While connecting AirPods to a PS4 without a dongle can provide convenience and good audio quality, dedicated gaming headsets offer features specifically designed for gaming. Here are some alternative gaming headsets you can consider:

Sony PlayStation Official Headsets: Sony offers a range of official gaming headsets designed for the PlayStation consoles, including the PS4. These headsets often feature compatibility with the PS4, excellent sound quality, and integrated microphone options.
SteelSeries Arctis Series: SteelSeries offers a variety of gaming headsets, such as the Arctis 7, which are compatible with the PS4. These headsets are known for their comfort, audio quality, and customizable features.
Logitech G Series: Logitech’s G Series includes headsets like the Logitech G Pro X and G533, which provide solid audio performance and comfort for extended gaming sessions.
HyperX Cloud Series: HyperX offers the Cloud series of gaming headsets known for their affordability and good audio quality. Models like the HyperX Cloud II are compatible with the PS4.
Razer Kraken Series: Razer’s Kraken headsets are popular among gamers for their sound quality and comfort. The Razer Kraken Tournament Edition, for instance, is compatible with the PS4 and offers THX Spatial Audio.
Astro Gaming Headsets: Astro Gaming produces headsets like the Astro A40 and A50, which are well-regarded for their audio quality and compatibility with various gaming platforms, including the PS4.
Corsair HS Series: Corsair’s HS Series headsets, like the Corsair HS60, offer solid audio performance, comfort, and compatibility with the PS4.
Turtle Beach Headsets: Turtle Beach offers a wide range of gaming headsets, with models like the Turtle Beach Stealth 600 being compatible with the PS4. They are known for their wireless options and customizable features.
Sennheiser Gaming Headsets: Sennheiser’s gaming headsets, such as the Sennheiser GSP 300, are known for their audio quality and comfort, making them suitable for PS4 gaming.
Audio-Technica Gaming Headsets: Audio-Technica’s ATH-G1 and ATH-ADG1X gaming headsets offer excellent audio quality and comfort, with some models being compatible with the PS4.

Conclusion

In conclusion, connecting AirPods to a PS4 without a dongle is possible, offering gamers wireless convenience and impressive audio quality. However, understanding the limitations and considering alternative gaming headsets tailored for gaming needs is essential. Whether you opt for AirPods or a dedicated gaming headset, the choice ultimately depends on your preferences and priorities, ensuring an immersive and enjoyable gaming experience on your PlayStation 4.