How To Connect Bluetooth Headphones to Xbox one

Updated On February 11, 2021
By Harry Singleton

In Guides

Headphones are a popular gaming accessory, as they allow the player to experience superior sound quality and they may even be able to support in-game communication with friends. As technology advances, wireless headphones have become the latest trend in the gaming community, as they remove any restrictions caused by uncomfortable wires and open up new game playing opportunities. This takes playing Xbox One games to a whole new experience level.

The Xbox One is one of the most popular consoles available, but connecting your Bluetooth headphones to your Xbox One may not be as simple as it should seem. However, with a little bit of help and advice, you will discover that it is possible to connect most Bluetooth headphones to your console with relatively little fuss.

Can you connect Bluetooth headphones to Xbox one?

On the first inspection of your Xbox One, it will appear that you cannot connect your Bluetooth headphones to the Xbox One, as even though your console may have a USB port it is unable to support a Bluetooth connection. However, before you look at investing in another headphone set and replacing your existing Bluetooth headphones, you should check out the advice below, as we might be able to provide you with a solution.

Does an Xbox One have Bluetooth?

The Xbox One console itself does not have Bluetooth capabilities, so you cannot directly connect your headphones to your gaming console via Bluetooth. This may seem surprising when you consider that Bluetooth is a common wireless mode that many other gaming consoles and media devices use. Xbox One instead has opted to use Microsoft Xbox Wireless to allow connectivity between Xbox players, so this is the alternative wireless option that the Xbox One offers.

It may seem that using standard Bluetooth headphones with the Xbox One is impossible, but if you already own a Bluetooth headset and want to be able to use it with your Xbox One then don’t despair, as there is a simple solution that will enable you to connect with your console.

Headphones compatible with Xbox Wireless

If you are looking for wireless headphones for Xbox One machines that are compatible with each other, then you will need to buy one that can connect to the Xbox wireless system. These headsets are not that common, especially the wireless versions, but there are a few options available that you can pick from. However, you should remember that a headset for Xbox One devices are made specifically for the Xbox, so they are unlikely to work with other console manufacturers. If you want a gaming headset that is versatile and can be used across different devices then this may not be the right choice for you.

These Xbox wireless headphones can be a more expensive choice, but if you pick the right set then it can provide you with a superior audio experience that nothing else can offer you. They are also easy to connect to your Xbox device by using a stereo headset adapter, so if you want something that will give you a direct connection to your Xbox then this type of headset is a great choice.

Can I use my Bluetooth headphones with the Xbox one?

For anyone that already has a pair of Bluetooth headphones that they want to be able to use with their Xbox One, or you are not able to budget for a new Xbox One headset, then you will be pleased to know that there is a way to connect your headphones to your Xbox One controller. It is important to note that to connect Bluetooth to your device you will need to make the connection through your controller, as even though the console may have the option to use a USB adapter, it does not have the capability to make this Bluetooth connection.

To successfully link any Bluetooth headsets to your controller you will need to purchase a Bluetooth transmitter adapter, which will plug into the 3.5 mm audio jack found on your controller. Some controllers will not have this 3.5 mm audio port, so you will also need to get an additional adapter that contains this port and will allow the Bluetooth adapter to be connected. Once everything is connected you are ready to press the pairing button and connect your headphones. For more help on making a successful connection read on for more detailed advice.

If you have the correct accessories then it should be relatively easy to connect your wireless Bluetooth headphone to your Xbox One controller. The set-up may seem bulky but it is worth the effort for the enhanced audio options that this type of headset can offer.

How to connect Bluetooth headphones to Xbox one controllers

To be able to successfully connect your Bluetooth headset to your Xbox One controller you should ensure you have the correct Bluetooth adapter and follow these simple connection steps.

  1. Check whether your Xbox One controller has a 3.5mm audio port. If it doesn’t then you will need to get a game adapter that plugs into the proprietary port ( a rectangular port on the bottom of the controller). This adapter will have the 3.5mm audio plug that you need to be able to connect your headphones.
  2. Connect a Bluetooth transmitter adapter to the 3.5mm port (either directly to the controller or by using the game adaptor).
  3. Press the pairing button and pair your headphones to your Xbox controller.
  4. You are now ready to get started using your Bluetooth headphones.

Can I use in-game chat with my headphones?

Unfortunately, when using a Bluetooth headset you will often find that you are limited to only hearing the game audio, and you may be unable to use the headphones microphone function for in-game chat. It is possible to be able to get the talkback feature working through your Bluetooth connection but this will require a Bluetooth transmitter adapter to be used that allows this function. This type of adapter can be expensive, so be prepared for it to use up your budget. However, for people who enjoy playing Xbox One games, the option to be able to join up with other players and use the talkback feature is invaluable.

Using certain Bluetooth headsets with the Xbox One can sometimes have its limitations, as sound quality can be compromised and affect the fun you get playing your video games. However, there are a variety of good quality Bluetooth headsets for Xbox One players that will provide you with amazing sound experience, so ensure you buy headphones that will meet your expectations and allow you to enjoy playing your Xbox One.