Can you use any bluetooth headphones with xbox series x

Only certain wireless headsets and headphones work with Xbox

Updated on September 22, 2021

What to Know

• Plug the headset into the base station, if it has one. If it doesn't automatically connect, press the sync button on your console.
• The Xbox Series X or S consoles are only compatible with wireless headsets designed for Xbox One and Xbox Series X or S.
• Some wireless Xbox headphones and headsets use a wireless adapter that plugs into a USB port on the console.

This article explains how to connect compatible wireless headphones to an Xbox Series X or S console.

How to Connect Wireless Headphones to Xbox Series X or S Using Xbox Wireless Protocol

This method is relevant only to headsets and headphones that are designed for Xbox One or Xbox Series X or S and don’t have a wireless USB adapter. If that describes your headphones or headset, you can use this method to connect.

1. Turn on your Xbox Series X or S.

2. If your headset has a base station, plug it in.

3. Wait and see if your headphones pair automatically.

4. If the headphones don’t pair automatically, press the sync button on your Xbox Series X or S.

5. Press and hold the power button on your headphones until they connect to your console.

   If your headphones or headset has a sync button, press that instead.

6. Your headphones should be connected now.

If this didn’t work, try connecting your headphones to the Xbox Series X or S using a USB cable, then turn the headphones on. Once they connect, you can unplug the USB cable. You may also need to ensure that your headphones are fully charged first.

How to Connect Wireless headphones to Xbox Series X or S With a Dongle

If your headphones or headset came with a wireless USB dongle, and they are specifically designed to work with Series X and S consoles, then you can plug the dongle into a USB port on the console. If the headset or headphones were designed for Xbox One, they may or may not work. Check with the manufacturer if you have trouble connecting.

Here’s how to connect wireless headphones to your Xbox Series X or S using a dongle:

1. Turn the Xbox Series X or S on.

2. Plug the wireless adapter into a USB port on your Xbox.

3. Turn on your headset or headphones.

4. Wait to see if the headset or headphones connect automatically.

5. If they didn’t connect, check your USB dongle for a switch.

   Headsets designed to work with both Xbox and PC have a switch on the dongle. Switch it to Xbox to connect.

6. Your headphones or headset should connect.

If your headphones don't connect, contact the manufacturer. The dongle may not be compatible with Xbox Series X or S.

What Wireless Headphones Work With Xbox Series X or S?

In general, most wireless headphones and headsets that worked with the Xbox One will also work with Xbox Series X or S. Headphones designed specifically for Xbox Series X or S will also do the trick. Wireless headphones and headsets that weren’t specifically designed for any Xbox console, unfortunately, won’t be able to connect.

The biggest hurdle here is that neither the Xbox Series X or S support Bluetooth, so you can’t just use any Bluetooth headset or headphones. The Xbox Series X and S also don’t support most USB wireless dongles, so there’s a good chance that your headset that’s designed for use with a PC won’t work with your Xbox.

Xbox Series X or S has a proprietary wireless protocol, so these consoles primarily work with headphones that were designed to use that protocol. Additionally, some wireless headsets and headphones have a wireless dongle that’s designed to be plugged into a USB port on your Xbox Series X or S, so they can be used as well.

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Can You Connect Bluetooth Headphones to Xbox Series X? Xbox Series X headphones must be connected to your wireless controller. Because of this specification, it is incompatible with standard Bluetooth connectivity.

Although Microsoft sells Bluetooth-enabled controllers, the technology only sends an outgoing signal and cannot be used to play games on other devices. It does not recognize the headphones or earbuds you attempt to connect to the console.

Even if you can get around that, the Xbox One console is a security barrier that prevents external third-party devices from being used.

Yes, you can. The Xbox Wireless Headset wirelessly connects to your Xbox Series X|S or Xbox One console, as well as your Windows 10, Android, or iOS mobile through Bluetooth.

You can still use your favorite Bluetooth headphones while playing games or streaming shows with a little ingenuity and an audio transmitter.

Bluetooth headphones cannot connect to Microsoft’s Xbox One or Series X consoles on their own. Instead, they are intended for proprietary wireless streaming. You can get around this design flaw by plugging a Bluetooth audio transmitter into your controller or console first, then connecting your headphones to it.

You have two options to get your favorite Bluetooth headphones to work with your Xbox One.

• Using the 3.5mm AUX port on the product, you can connect a Bluetooth audio transmitter to your controller.
• The Xbox One Stereo headset adapter, which comes with console-branded headphones, can also provide wireless functionality.

The second option does not allow you to connect a generic Bluetooth headset to your Xbox One. For an authentic experience, you’d need to use the first setup.

If you have an Xbox 360 gaming headset, you can connect it to the S/PDIF port or the receive using RCA cables to get game audio or streaming sounds. You’d get chat audio through your equipment’s 2.5mm connection.

Because the Xbox One lacks Bluetooth functionality, unlike the PS4, this is the only way to use your favorite headphones.

When you use the Bluetooth audio transmitter to connect, you will only receive audio. Even if your headphones include a microphone, that information is not transmitted to the game.favorite headphones

Best Connect Bluetooth Headphones to Use with Xbox One and Series X

You can connect your favorite headphones or headsets to your Xbox One or Series X after purchasing a Bluetooth audio transmitter for use with your console.

Because this option only allows for one-way connections, it is best suited for single-player gaming.

If you don’t have gaming headphones or earbuds to use with this connection, these alternatives can keep you in the game without breaking the bank.

1. Steelseries Arctis 9X

When you first put these Bluetooth headphones on, you’ll hear all of the immersive sounds from your Xbox One or Series X. They connect in the same way that a wireless controller would. As a result, you can say good-by to your old cables.

With its 40mm drivers, the Hi-Fi design delivers rich bass tones, while the isolation pads and closed-back design work to keep ambient noise out of your environment.

If your battery dies while playing, you can use this dual design to switch to the wired option and continue playing. This option allows you to connect your standard connection to the wireless control in order to maximize the functionality of your equipment.

The manufacturer employs soft memory foam, also known as. AirWeave ear cushions provide a gentle wearing experience with the SteelSeries Arctis 9X, preventing sweating in the ears.

The amazing design ensures a proper fit, and the padded headband is comfortable for all-day wear. You’ll feel at ease in any gaming or viewing situation.

2. Razer Nari Ultimate for Xbox One and Series X

Do you want to take your gaming to the next level? Then Razer’s next-generation haptic feedback feature could be just what you’re looking for.

When there is an explosion or a crash, the ear cups will vibrate, and even footsteps will cause slight vibrations, giving you a more immersive experience. And don’t even get me started on the sound! It’s probably the most realistic I’ve heard.

You’ll get the best of both worlds if you go with the Razer Nari Ultimate. You can’t go wrong with this headset because of the intelligent vibrations technology and the excellent sound quality.

The microphone is retractable, and to be fair, it provides good quality but not quite as well as the Steelseries Arctis 9X, which shouldn’t be a problem unless you use it constantly.

3. Turtle Beach Stealth 700

You’ll appreciate the deep bass and high-definition sound produced by this comfortable true wireless Xbox headset.

The 1000 mAh Lithium Polymer battery provides up to ten hours of gaming per session when fully charged, and it can also be charged during battle sessions without making any annoying static noises.

However, for an uninterrupted gaming experience, you could normally get away with plugging them in every other day.

You’ll have separate volume controls for chat and in-game sounds, which is useful if you want to reduce one more than the other.

However, for an uninterrupted gaming experience, you could normally get away with plugging them in every other day.

You’ll have separate volume controls for chat and in-game sounds, which is useful if you want to reduce one more than the other.

It also includes mic monitoring, which allows you to listen to your own voice while gaming in a party or raid to ensure that your voice is always at the proper level. Your friends will appreciate it!

But where is the microphone mute button? You can simply flip up the mic to mute it; this is far more convenient than looking for a mute button only to click on the incorrect one…

To get the best experience, you should update the firmware after connecting them to your Xbox One or Series X.

Oh! Don’t forget to connect them to your computer, download the driver, and disable the mic gate settings, or you’ll notice a slight delay.

The Stealth 700 is also very comfortable, even after extended gaming sessions, thanks to its synthetic leather earpads, cushioned headrest, and adjustable headband.

If you’re looking for the ideal headset for people who wear glasses, look no further! To make your glasses even more comfortable, read my post on how to wear them with headphones.

4. Sony WH-1000XM3 Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones Bundle

If you prefer a premium Bluetooth audio experience with your Xbox One, these headphones are the best in this category.

This set includes a portable wireless Bluetooth speaker as well as the over-ear main product, which provides virtual sound through smart listening and adaptive sound control technology.

The high-resolution audio can reach up to 40 kHz, allowing you to hear all of the sounds you want to hear while playing games. The Sony WH-1000XM3 bundle is an excellent value that is enhanced by the addition of a wire connection.

With a maximum transfer rate of 990 kbps, you’ll get three times the amount of data to your headphones than with a standard Bluetooth connection.

For added convenience, you can use a companion app to customize your presets or preferences.

The carrying case required for extra portability is included in the box. Because the earmuffs only fold flat rather than bundling, storage isn’t as convenient as with other models.

It is very good at transmitting authentic sounds over your secure connection.

How to Care for Your Bluetooth Headphones to Xbox

Although it may be tempting to leave your Bluetooth headphones connected to your transmitter, it is best to disconnect them. This is especially important for those who use a wired connection to the controller. Cords can be yanked from the jack, tangled, or broken.

If you’re using a Bluetooth transmitter with your Xbox One, remember to unplug it from the controller before putting your headphones away.

■ Cleaning Your Bluetooth Headphones

It’s a good idea to keep a small towel on hand to remove any lingering moisture from your Bluetooth headphones.

A dry toothbrush is useful for cleaning the mesh screens and ear pads when dirt, dust, or debris get into the unit.

If stubborn areas do not improve after brushing, try dislodging the item with a toothpick or a cotton swab.

Baby wipes are effective at removing any lingering items that may be bothersome. If you used Bluetooth earbuds to play your Xbox One, don’t forget to clean the silicon tops.

■ Storing Your Bluetooth Headphones

If you can keep your Bluetooth headphones clean and dry, they will last longer. The best location is in the case that comes with most products, but a third-party container will suffice.

The goal of this technology is to avoid extreme temperatures. It is not a good idea to keep them in your vehicle.

Each set of Bluetooth headphones will include the manufacturer’s instructions for proper care. It’s a good idea to start with those suggestions to ensure you get the most out of your investment.

■ Handling Your Bluetooth Headphones

The majority of Bluetooth headphones do not have a significant drop rating. They will most likely break if they fall from your head to the ground.

Because of their small size, earbuds are more resilient, but they are still vulnerable to a fall.

Please remember to pull from the jack rather than the cord if you use a wired connection with some Bluetooth headphones.

Although copper wire is used in most models, it is of a thin gauge. Using too much force can cause it to snap.

■ Using Your Bluetooth Headphones

Although it may be tempting to play your favorite Xbox One games at full volume, doing so may cause your battery to die prematurely. When producing louder sounds, most units have less playback time, which means you have less game time to enjoy.

Listening to loud sounds through Bluetooth headphones can cause hearing damage. Anything that is louder than 85 decibels for an extended period of time could be dangerous. If the volume is making your head throb, it’s time to adjust the volume.

■ Sharing Your Bluetooth Headphones

You should keep your Bluetooth headphones to yourself. Although it may be tempting to share them with others, due to the current state of our world, each member of the family requires their own set.

If you must share, thoroughly clean the headphones with an alcohol wipe. To be effective, the product must contain at least 60% alcohol. Allow about ten minutes for the materials to dry before wearing them again.

Are Bluetooth Headphones for the Xbox One a Reasonable Investment?

If you don’t want to be connected to your controller with a Microsoft-branded headset, Bluetooth headphones are a great option to consider.

You can improve your solo gaming experience right now with a variety of low-cost options. Don’t forget to bring your Bluetooth transmitter with you to complete this connection!

Although it requires more steps than an Xbox headset, the sound quality may be superior. For many gamers, that’s a worthwhile trade.

FAQs About Bluetooth Headphones to Xbox

Do all headsets work with Xbox Series X?

Any officially licensed Xbox One accessory that connects to your console wired or wirelessly via USB will work on Xbox Series X, as will any headsets that connect via the 3.5mm port on your Xbox Wireless Controller.

How do you connect wireless headset to Xbox One?

Connect an Xbox Wireless Headset
Check that both the headset and the console are turned on.
For 4 seconds, press and hold the green power button on the headset (located on the back of the left earcup). …
On your console, press the Pair button (the same button you use to pair a wireless controller with your console).

Does Xbox One support wireless headsets?

The Xbox One has a number of USB ports and hardware to support Bluetooth connections, but it does not support Bluetooth or most USB headsets. With a few notable exceptions, wireless audio on the Xbox One requires a USB dongle (Some of which are on this list).