An immersive gaming experience can be greatly enhanced by using headphones with your PS4. However, connecting your headset to the console can sometimes be more challenging than expected. Whether you’re playing late at night or looking to communicate with your team, using headphones becomes essential. Fortunately, we have created this in-depth guide to help you seamlessly connect any kind of headset to your PS4.

Can You Use Regular Headphones on PS4?

Absolutely! Regular headphones can be used with your PS4. The console follows the Cellular Telecommunications and Internet Association (CTIA) standard, which is widely used for headphone jacks. This means that most headphones should work without any issues, although some may require minor modifications or third-party devices.

How to Connect Any Wired Headphones to PS4

Connecting most wired headphones to your PS4 is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide for connecting both compatible and non-compatible wired headphones:

How to Connect Compatible Wired Headphones to PS4

If your headphones have a 3.5 mm audio jack, they should work perfectly with your PS4, whether they’re PlayStation-certified or not. Follow these steps:

1. Turn on your PS4 and navigate to the Settings using the controller.
   

2. Scroll down and select Devices.
   

3. On the Devices page, choose Audio Devices since we want to connect headphones.
   

4. Plug in your wired headset to the PS4 controller.
   

5. Select Output Device, then choose Headset Connected to Controller.
   

6. To set up and test your headset mic, go back to the Audio Devices page and select Adjust Microphone Level. Use the slider to adjust the microphone input level accordingly.
   

7. Return to the Audio Devices page and select Output to Headphones, then choose All Audio.
   

How to Connect Non-Compatible Wired Headphones to PS4

It’s important to note that there are two common standards for most smartphone headsets: the CTIA standard and the Open Mobile Terminal Platform (OMTP) standard. The PS4 and newer smartphones use the CTIA standard. If you have OMTP standard headphones, you’ll need an OMTP to CTIA converter/adapter. Follow these steps:

1. Refer to the steps in the “How to connect compatible wired headphones to PS4” section.

2. On step 4, connect your headphones to the OMTP to CTIA converter before plugging the converter into your PS4 controller.

3. Continue with the remaining steps to complete the connection.

How to Connect Wireless Headphones to PS4

Connecting wireless Bluetooth headsets to your PS4 can be done in various ways. However, it’s important to note that PS4-certified Bluetooth headphones are primarily recommended for seamless compatibility. Nonetheless, with a few tricks, non-compatible headphones can still be used with your PS4.

How to Connect PlayStation Wireless Headset to PS4

This section is specifically for officially compatible headsets designed for the PS4. Please check PlayStation’s list of compatible headsets to see if your headphone model is included. Follow these steps:

1. Ensure that the headset is charged using the provided USB cable or one from your PS4 system.

2. Plug the USB adapter of your headset into the USB port on your PS4 or console.

3. Turn on your headphones and put them in pairing mode. Once the blue light stops flashing and becomes solid blue, your headphones should be successfully connected and ready to play audio.

4. Navigate to Settings using the controller.
   

5. Scroll down and select Devices.
   

6. On the Devices page, choose Bluetooth Devices.
   

7. Ensure that your headset is still in pairing mode (flashing blue light) and wait for your PS4 to search for nearby Bluetooth devices.

8. Once your headphones appear in the list of Bluetooth devices, select them and wait for a moment while they connect.
   

9. If necessary, you may be asked to register your device to complete the connection. Simply fill in the necessary details, and you’re good to go!

How to Connect Non-Compatible Bluetooth Headphones to PS4

For regular Bluetooth headphones (including Apple AirPods) that aren’t officially compatible with PS4, there are two options you can try:

Using the PS4 Remote Play App

This option allows you to access your PS4 through a mobile device using a Wi-Fi connection. While it may not work perfectly with all games and unverified devices, it’s still worth trying, especially if you don’t want to invest in Bluetooth dongles. Follow these steps:

1. Download and install the PS4 Remote Play app (iOS, Android).

2. Activate the Remote Play feature on your PS4 by navigating to Settings and selecting Remote Play Connection Settings. Make sure to enable Remote Play on your PS4.
   

3. Select Add Device, then choose Code. You will see an 8-digit code.
   

4. Open the PS4 Remote Play app on your mobile device and enter the code to register your device.

Using a Bluetooth Dongle

For the best gaming experience, consider investing in a Bluetooth dongle with a microphone. Follow these steps:

1. Plug the USB Bluetooth dongle into your PS4 and wait for it to enter pairing mode.

2. Turn on your Bluetooth headset and put it into pairing mode as well. The flashing blue light should turn solid blue once the headset is connected to the PS4.

3. Insert the microphone into the controller’s 3.5mm port.

How to Choose the Best Headphones for PS4

To truly enjoy gaming on your PS4, investing in a high-quality gaming headset is key. You don’t have to break the bank, as “expensive” doesn’t always mean “high-quality.” When choosing headphones for your PS4, consider the following factors:

Compatibility

While you don’t necessarily have to purchase official PlayStation headsets, it’s important to check if the specific model works well with your PS4. Although any pair of headphones can work, it’s always best to minimize additional expenses whenever possible.

Comfort

Since gaming sessions can last for hours, prioritize comfort over style when selecting headphones. Factors such as form factor, ear cup material, weight, and headband clamp force can affect overall comfort. Look for headphones with a form factor that suits your needs, light ear cup material that allows proper airflow, and an adjustable headband for a customizable fit.

Surround Sound

While not necessary, headphones with accurate omnidirectional hearing can provide a gaming advantage. Being able to hear specific sounds, like footsteps, can give you an edge in certain games.

Microphone

A proper microphone is essential for enjoying the full gaming experience and communicating effectively with friends or strangers online, especially in competitive multiplayer games.

Conclusion

We hope that with this comprehensive guide, you can now successfully use your headphones with your PS4, whether they are wired, wireless, compatible, or non-compatible headsets. We have also provided you with valuable tips on choosing the best headphones for your PS4 to enhance your gaming experience. We’d love to hear about your experience and any headset recommendations you have in the comments!

Liked our guide? Were you able to connect your headset? Share your thoughts and recommendations with us! For more information, visit NokiaMA Headset Design.