How do I use Bluetooth headphones with a TV that has no Bluetooth?
Last checked November 14, 2026
Short answer
Use a Bluetooth transmitter. It plugs into the TV's optical or headphone socket and sends the sound to your Bluetooth headphones. Check your TV's sound settings first, as many newer TVs already have Bluetooth.
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See the Avantree Oasis Plus 2 TV Transmitter on AmazonHow to connect it
- Connect the transmitter to the TV's optical port or headphone socket, and give it power.
- Put the transmitter and the headphones in pairing mode until they connect.
- If you used optical, set the TV's digital audio output to PCM.
Check this first
- Many newer TVs have Bluetooth built in. Look in the TV's sound output settings before you buy.
- Check your TV first: many newer TVs already have Bluetooth audio in the sound settings.
- For lip sync, choose a transmitter with low-latency Bluetooth (such as aptX Low Latency or aptX Adaptive), and check your headphones support the same.
- Some can connect two pairs of headphones at once, which suits couples.
- If you use the optical socket, set the TV's digital audio output to PCM.
Questions people ask
Why is the sound out of sync with the picture?
Bluetooth adds a delay. A transmitter and headphones that both support low-latency Bluetooth (such as aptX Low Latency or aptX Adaptive) keep it small.
Can two people listen at once?
Yes, with a transmitter that connects two pairs of headphones at the same time.
Not your setup?
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