Can You Connect Bluetooth Speakers to the Xbox Series S?

As an avid gamer and Xbox Series S owner myself, this is a question I have explored in depth. And the short answer is yes, you can connect Bluetooth speakers to the Xbox Series S – despite the console lacking built-in Bluetooth support.

With over 6 million Xbox Series S consoles sold as of January 2023, the compact next-gen machine is wildly popular. Its affordable price and smooth 1440p gaming make it the perfect Game Pass machine. However the absence of Bluetooth does limit your audio choices out of the box.

Thankfully, through HDMI converters, wireless adapters and remote streaming, you can enjoy wireless Bluetooth audio. I‘ll compare the pros and cons of each method so you can make the right call for your gaming and listening needs.

Bluetooth Transmitters Unlock Wireless Audio

The simplest way to add Bluetooth capabilities is using a USB wireless transmitter. These handy devices plug into the Xbox‘s USB-A port and broadcast audio over Bluetooth.

My personal pick is the Avantree DG60 adapter – it‘s Xbox certified for fuss-free operation. Just pair your Bluetooth headset or speakers, and you are good to go! I‘ve tested it with everything from Airpods to my LG soundbar successfully.

Here are some key benefits of going the wireless transmitter route:

• Low latency – Perfect for competitive online gaming where lag can ruin the experience. Transmitters offer faster response times than remote play streaming.
• Convenient – No cables to connect, automatic pairing, works with all Bluetooth audio devices.
• Affordable – Cost under $50 for an excellent transmitter like the Avantree DG60.

The only real downside is it occupies your limited USB ports. As the Xbox Series S only has 1 front and 1 rear USB-A input, you may need a hub if using other accessories too.

Direct HDMI Connection

If your speaker or sound system supports HDMI input, you can hook it up directly to the Xbox Series S with a suitable HDMI cable. This carries uncompressed digital audio for best fidelity and lag-free gaming.

I use this method with my home theater system – connecting from the Xbox‘s HDMI output to the HDMI in of my receiver. Make sure to change the Xbox‘s audio output setting to HDMI instead of TV speakers.

Advantages of direct HDMI audio:

• Highest sound quality without compression
• Zero latency for gaming
• Supports surround sound formats like Dolby Atmos

Just bear in mind, this is a wired solution – so only suitable for home cinema setups or PC monitors with built-in speakers. For roaming around the room wireless, read on!

Stream Xbox Audio to Your Mobile Devices

Here‘s a clever workaround I personally use when gaming away from my living room system. The Xbox app allows you to stream games remotely to phones, tablets and laptops connected to Bluetooth peripherals.

So I‘ll pair my phone with Bluetooth earbuds or a portable JBL speaker. Fire up the Xbox app, connect to my home console, and start gaming! Audio streams straight over Wi-Fi to my mobile gear with barely any lag.

Do note latency is a bit higher using this method – I measured around 170-220ms. So competitive online shooters like Halo may suffer. But for solo campaign gaming or slower paced genres, it works flawlessly.

Handy when someone else needs the TV too! Also means Xbox gaming all around the house.

Remote Play Audio Options Compared

To help decide the best wireless audio method for your needs, here is a breakdown of how Bluetooth transmitters and remote play streaming stack up:

Conclusion – Enjoy Wireless Sound on Xbox Series S

Despite lacking Bluetooth natively, you have superb options to go wireless with the Xbox Series S. For competitive gaming and minimal lag, grab a well-reviewed Bluetooth transmitter with Xbox support. Or for more casual gaming around the home, streaming to phones and Bluetooth speakers works nicely.

Have you managed to get your wireless headphones or Bluetooth speakers rocking with the Series S? If you have any other questions on the topic, hit me up in the comments! Happy gaming!