Learn About Headphones & AudioFix / Troubleshoot

How to Connect AirPods to a TV Without Bluetooth

Andy G.
Andy G.
Andy G.
Senior Audio Writer
Experience
Andy is the Senior Audio Writer at Headphonesty. With over 14 years of professional writing experience, Andy has honed her skills in detailing the nuances of sound, ensuring readers receive both depth and clarity in her pieces. For three years, she has been an instrumental contributor to Headphonesty, delving into...
Read FULL BIO
Updated on
AirPods can connect to non-Bluetooth TVs with a Bluetooth transmitter
AirPods can connect to non-Bluetooth TVs with a Bluetooth transmitter

We independently review all our recommendations. Purchases made via our links may earn us a commission. Learn more ❯

Here’s your guide to connecting AirPods with non-Bluetooth TVs via a Bluetooth transmitter.

Apple’s AirPods are designed to pair effortlessly with Bluetooth-enabled devices for wireless audio experiences.

However, relying solely on Bluetooth technology means you can’t use your AirPods with older, non-Bluetooth TVs.

Thankfully, Bluetooth transmitters make connecting with classic TVs easy for your AirPods. Read on to learn how to use these devices with your AirPods!

In This Article
In This Article

Step 1: Put Bluetooth Transmitter in Pairing Mode

The AirFly Bluetooth transmitter's status light shows it's in pairing mode
The AirFly Bluetooth transmitter’s status light shows it’s in pairing mode

To connect AirPods to a TV without Bluetooth, switch on your Bluetooth transmitter. This usually turns on pairing mode by itself, and a flashing light often shows it’s ready for Bluetooth pairing.

For example, The Twelve South AirFly SE Bluetooth Transmitter enters pairing mode immediately when you switch it on. A blinking white and amber light indicates it’s ready to pair.

Check out our detailed guides about connecting your AirPods to a PS4 and other devices.

Step 2: Put AirPods in Pairing Mode

Press the AirPods setup button to enter pairing mode
Press the AirPods setup button to enter pairing mode

To initiate pairing mode on your AirPods, place them inside their charging case. Open the case lid and hold the setup button for around five seconds. You’ll see the status light flash white, indicating the AirPods are in pairing mode.

I’ve found it’s important to keep my AirPods charged and near the device I want to pair them with for an easy connection. Also, I disable Bluetooth on other devices nearby so my AirPods don’t connect to them instead of the new device, like a TV.

Step 3: Verify the Connection Is Working

Your AirPods are paired when the light stops flashing
Your AirPods are paired when the light stops flashing

Once your AirPods and TV are connected, check that they work correctly. Here’s how:

  • Check the LED light: While pairing your AirPods with the Bluetooth transmitter, the LED on the AirPods case should flash. Once paired, the flashing should stop, signaling a successful connection.
  • Perform an audio test: Try playing a video on your TV. You should hear the sound through your AirPods. If not, try charging or resetting your AirPods, then pairing them again.
Most Bluetooth transmitters I tested delivered good sound quality and decent volume when paired with my AirPods 3 and old LG TV. However, I noticed a slight audio delay while watching movies, most likely due to the AirPods’ lack of aptX codec support. Still, this delay wasn’t substantial enough to detract from the overall experience.

Best Bluetooth Transmitters for Connecting AirPods to TVs

A closer look at the Twelve South AirFly SE, Avantree Audikast Plus and 1Mii B06TX+ (From: Amazon)
A closer look at the Twelve South AirFly SE, Avantree Audikast Plus and 1Mii B06TX+ (From: Amazon)

When choosing a Bluetooth transmitter to connect AirPods to your TV, focus on compatibility and easy pairing.

First, ensure the transmitter is compatible with your TV’s audio output, or your transmitter will be no help. For example, if your TV doesn’t have a 3.5 mm audio output, you can’t use the Twelve South AirFly transmitter.

Second, consider a device that allows you to select which device to pair with and has a display for easy monitoring. Unfortunately, some of the best options only offer “blind pairing,” so they automatically connect to the strongest signal.

Here are some Bluetooth transmitter options to consider:

  • Twelve South AirFly SE, Duo, & Pro: These transmitters offer smooth, low latency audio syncing, thanks to Bluetooth 5.2 and aptX LL codec support. Their wireless design makes them portable and perfect for travel. However, they only support blind pairing and only have a 3.5 mm audio jack, which may not be compatible with all TVs.
The AirFly transmitter has three models: the SE is the most affordable but only connects to one pair of headphones. The Duo and Pro can connect up to two pairs, with the latter also acting as a receiver.
  • Avantree Audikast Plus: This supports various audio outputs (optical, AUX 3.5 mm, RCA, USB) for multi-device compatibility. AptX LL support allows low-latency transmission to two devices simultaneously, making it great for shared listening. It also has a 100ft range for mobility, but its blind pairing feature may cause occasional pairing difficulties.
  • 1Mii B06TX+: Unlike the other two models, this transmitter features a display screen that lets you manually pair devices. It also supports multiple audio outputs (optical, coaxial, AUX 3.5 mm, RCA). You can connect two headphones simultaneously, and it has aptX LL support. However, the latency can be an issue and could impact gaming or movie viewing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my TV has Bluetooth?

To check if your TV has Bluetooth, go into Settings and check the Sound Output options. If you see Bluetooth Speaker List or a similar feature, your TV is Bluetooth-capable. Also, most Smart TVs have Bluetooth, so if your remote has buttons for streaming services, you likely have Bluetooth.

How do I connect my AirPods to my non-Apple TV?

First, turn on your TV’s Bluetooth. Then, with your AirPods in their case, open the lid and press the setup button until the status light flashes white. Finally, select your AirPods from the TV’s list of Bluetooth devices in the Settings menu to connect them.

Can you use AirPods on a PC without Bluetooth?

Yes, you can use AirPods with a PC without Bluetooth by using a Bluetooth adapter, like the Gulikit Route Air Pro, plugged into the PC’s USB port. Simply put your AirPods in pairing mode, pair them with the adapter, and enjoy wireless use on a non-Bluetooth PC.

Filed Under:

Leave a Reply