Tired of tangling wires? It’s time to turn up your game and switch to a wireless headset for your Xbox One.
Even though wires are essential for every tech device and accessory, it’s not fun to handle them (especially if they’re long). And let’s not even get started on the inconvenience it causes during intense gaming sessions.
If you’re an Xbox One user looking to ditch the wired headset for a wireless one, this is the perfect time to do it.
However, there’s one problem – Xbox One does not support wireless headsets, except for a few out there that can be found in their store, and they’re not very pocket-friendly.
It’s a matter of fact that none of the gaming consoles out there support Bluetooth headsets. The Bluetooth option on your console is just for wireless controller connectivity.
Despite this problem, there’s a way around it. We’ll look at the solution in this post and learn how to successfully connect Bluetooth headsets to Xbox One.
Limitations of Wired Headsets
Though used by the majority of gaming enthusiasts out there, wired headsets have some undeniable limitations.
#1. Creates a Mess of Wires
Imagine you’re playing an intense first-person shooter, and as you’re just about to conquer the opposition squad, you find yourself caught up in a web of cables. It’s like a modern-day version of a spider’s trap, minus the spidey senses. 🕷️
Besides being uncomfortable, it can also be distracting enough to affect your gameplay.
#2. Offers Limited Range
If you’re like my cousin, who cannot stop moving while enjoying an immersive gaming session, you will have to constantly re-adjust the wires and stretch them to their limit.
And we all know what can happen if you accidentally stretch the wire too far apart. Yes, it’ll reach its breaking point and disconnect from the console – leaving you out of the game.
Also read: Flight Sticks for Xbox One and PC to Fly to New Heights
#3. Keeps You Tied to Your Console
Part of a long gaming session is taking frequent breaks, whether to the bathroom, to the fridge, or to take a few minutes out to stretch out a little to prevent your legs from turning into jelly.
With a wired headset, you’re confined to a specific area unless you take the headset out, which can be inconvenient.
#4. Latency Issues
Not the case with every wired headset, but if you’re using a temporary, low-quality one, you’re likely to face latency issues. It might not be noticeable to the average gamer, but enthusiasts who demand split-second precision can figure it out instantly.
Benefits of Wireless Headsets
Besides the fact Bluetooth headsets give you more convenience over a wired one, here are some of the many benefits of it.
#1. Freedom to Move
Unlike the wired ones, you can move with total freedom while wearing your Bluetooth headsets. You’ve no longer tied to the console, meaning you can take as many snack breaks and round trips to your kitchen without removing it.
It’s like being untethered from the gaming matrix.
#2. More Comfortable
It’s pretty obvious, but it’s worth mentioning that the absence of wires does elevate the comfort level. You can move around and be fidgety without worrying about disconnecting the game. Also, wireless headsets are made to be worn for longer periods at a stretch.
#3. Better Features
Most wireless headsets have built-in controls that allow you to adjust the volume, mute your mic, and even answer calls without looking for buttons on your console.
Moreover, they have some of the latest techs in the name of Active Noise Cancelling technology and other cool features.
These features aren’t solely for a better gaming experience but also for protecting your ears.
Not to mention, being wireless, the battery life on these bad boys is usually pretty solid.
#4. More Stylish
I know this isn’t the most important, but I’d take additional perks any day. Apart from being convenient and feature-rich, Bluetooth headsets are quite stylish. They give you that “PRO” gamer vibe.
Whether streaming on Twitch or just enjoying a casual gaming session with your friends, these accessories will give you that swag every true gamer possesses.
In addition to these benefits, a Bluetooth headset also helps you improve your gaming experience by providing better audio immersion and overall convenience.
How to Connect Compatible Wireless Headsets to Xbox One
If you have one of the few compatible wireless headsets for Xbox One, you can easily connect it to the console within seconds.
Since these wireless headsets have the tech built-in that allows you to use the accessory wirelessly without Bluetooth, pairing it with your Xbox One is almost the same process as connecting the controller.
Here are the steps for it:
Step 1: Ensure your compatible wireless headset and the Xbox One are powered on.
Step 2: Press and hold the green power button on the headset, which can usually be found on the back. Upon doing that, you will hear a looping sound, after which the power light on the headset will start flashing.
Step 3: Next, press the Pair button on your Xbox One. This is the exact button you press to pair your wireless controller to the console. Upon pressing the button, you’ll notice the power light on the console will start flashing.
Step 4: Once the headset and console are successfully paired, the flashing light on both of them will stop, indicating the process is complete.
You should be able to use your compatible wireless headset with your Xbox One now.
How to Connect Non-compatible Bluetooth Headsets to Xbox One
If you have a headset that’s not one of those that are compatible with the Xbox, you’ll have to resort to some “workarounds.”
Before you move forward, you need to ask yourself the purpose of connecting the headset. Is it because you want to hear the game sounds straight in your ear without waking your neighbors up, or do you want to chat with your friend within the gameplay?
You need to make this clear before connecting the device because a non-compatible Xbox headset does not allow you to do both of these things together. You have to choose one.
For In-game Audio Only
Starting with listening to the game audio first, you can use your Bluetooth headset with the help of a Bluetooth transmitter. You have to purchase a Bluetooth transmitter that’s compatible with the 3.5mm headphone jack on the Xbox One controller.
This one from Uberwith should get the job done for you. It’s simple and easy to connect. Insert it into the headphone jack of the Xbox controller, and then put your Bluetooth headset + the Bluetooth transmitter in pairing mode.
Now you can use your Bluetooth headset with the console.
For Voice Chat
The process is pretty simple for voice chat purposes and doesn’t involve spending money. Simply download the Xbox app on your iOS or Android device.
Next, log in with your Xbox Live account. From the dashboard, you can create or join an existing party with your friends by tapping the social icon at the bottom row.
You should see a headphone icon in the top right corner of the screen. Tap on it to enable a voice chat party.
Finally, connect your Bluetooth headset to your phone and enjoy voice chat with your friends while playing your favorite games.
Closing Thoughts
The fact that Xbox One doesn’t connect to most wireless headsets is, without a doubt, very frustrating. However, the above methods will ensure you don’t miss out on the leisure and convenience of a Bluetooth headset.
Next, check out the best Xbox One controllers to level up your gaming.