Yes, but the method depends on your TV model and what you're willing to trade

You can connect AirPods to most modern televisions, but not in the straightforward way you connect them to an iPhone. Your TV needs to support Bluetooth, and even then, the connection process and audio quality vary depending on whether your TV has built-in Bluetooth or requires an external adapter. Some TV brands make this seamless; others require workarounds that add cost or complexity.

The core issue is that most televisions were not designed with Bluetooth audio output in mind. Your TV receives a signal, decodes it, and sends audio to its built-in speakers. To redirect that audio to AirPods, your TV needs either native Bluetooth support or a separate device that can receive the TV's audio and transmit it wirelessly.

Key Takeaways

  • Most newer Samsung, LG, and Sony TVs have built-in Bluetooth and can connect AirPods directly, though the pairing process differs from pairing with an iPhone.
  • Older TVs without Bluetooth require a Bluetooth transmitter connected to the TV's audio output, which costs between $20 and $60.
  • Apple TV boxes (4K or HD models) connect to AirPods natively and are the most reliable option if you already own one or plan to buy one.
  • Some TV brands limit Bluetooth to input devices like controllers and keyboards, not audio output, so checking your manual or settings first saves time.
  • Bluetooth audio over TV distances can introduce slight delays, which is noticeable during movies but less so during regular viewing.

TVs with built-in Bluetooth: Samsung, LG, Sony, and others

If your TV was manufactured in the last five to seven years, it likely has Bluetooth built in. Samsung, LG, Sony, Hisense, and TCL all include Bluetooth in most of their recent models, though not always enabled for audio output by default.

To connect AirPods directly to these TVs, put your AirPods in pairing mode by holding the button on the back of the case until the light flashes white. Then go to your TV's settings menu, find Bluetooth or Sound settings, and select your AirPods from the list of available devices. The exact path varies: Samsung TVs typically use Settings > Sound > Sound Output > Bluetooth Speaker List. LG uses Settings > Sound > Sound Out > Bluetooth Speaker. Sony uses Settings > Display & Sound > Audio Output > Bluetooth Audio Device.

Once paired, your AirPods will connect automatically when you turn on your TV and have Bluetooth enabled on the AirPods case. You can control volume through your TV remote, and the connection usually stays stable within 30 feet. However, some TV models only support Bluetooth input (for controllers and keyboards), not audio output. Check your TV's manual or settings before assuming Bluetooth audio is available.

Using a Bluetooth transmitter for older TVs

If your TV does not have Bluetooth, a Bluetooth transmitter is the most affordable solution. These devices connect to your TV's audio output (usually a 3.5mm headphone jack or RCA audio ports) and transmit the TV's audio to your AirPods. Popular options include the TaoTronics Bluetooth 5.0 Transmitter and the Avantree Audikast Plus, both under $40.

The setup is straightforward: plug the transmitter into your TV's audio output, put your AirPods in pairing mode, and pair them with the transmitter. The transmitter then stays connected and automatically sends your TV's audio to the AirPods. The main drawback is a slight delay—usually 100 to 200 milliseconds—which you may notice during movies or shows with dialogue but is less noticeable during regular viewing. Some transmitters advertise lower latency, though real-world performance varies.

You will also need to ensure your TV has an available audio output. Newer TVs increasingly omit headphone jacks and RCA ports, so check your TV's back panel or manual before buying a transmitter. If your TV has neither, you may need an adapter or a different solution.

Apple TV as the most reliable option

If you own an Apple TV (4K or HD model), it is the most straightforward way to use AirPods with your television. Apple TV has native AirPods support built in, and pairing is as simple as holding your AirPods case near the Apple TV and following the on-screen prompt. Audio syncs reliably, and you can switch between AirPods and your TV's speakers without re-pairing.

Apple TV also lets multiple people use their own AirPods simultaneously, each hearing different audio if you are watching different content or playing games. This is useful in households where people watch at different times or with different preferences. The trade-off is cost: Apple TV 4K starts at $129, and the older HD model is no longer sold new, though used units are available.

If you do not already own an Apple TV and only want to use AirPods with your TV occasionally, the cost may not justify the purchase. But if you use Apple services (Apple TV+, Apple Music) or already have an Apple TV for other reasons, connecting AirPods is seamless.

Streaming devices and smart TV apps as alternatives

Some streaming devices and smart TV platforms offer partial AirPods support. Roku devices, for example, do not support AirPods directly, but you can use AirPlay to send audio from an iPhone or Mac to a Roku and then to your TV. This is indirect and requires your phone or computer to stay connected, so it is not practical for regular TV watching.

Amazon Fire TV devices do not support AirPods natively either. Google Chromecast with Google TV supports Bluetooth audio output on some models, but compatibility is inconsistent. If you use one of these platforms, a Bluetooth transmitter remains the most reliable option.

Audio delay and what to expect

Bluetooth audio over distance introduces latency—a delay between the picture on your screen and the sound in your ears. For AirPods connected directly to a TV or through a transmitter, this delay is typically 100 to 200 milliseconds. During movies or shows with dialogue, you may notice the audio slightly trailing the actors' lip movements. During sports, news, or reality TV, the delay is usually not noticeable.

If audio sync is critical for you—for example, if you watch a lot of films—a wired connection to your TV's headphone jack or a soundbar with a wired connection will have no delay. AirPods are best suited for casual viewing where perfect sync is less important than the convenience of wireless audio.

Troubleshooting common connection problems

If your AirPods connect to your TV but then disconnect repeatedly, try moving closer to the TV or removing obstacles between the AirPods and the TV. Bluetooth has a range of about 30 feet in open space, but walls and interference from other devices can reduce this. If your TV has a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network and Bluetooth running simultaneously, they can interfere with each other—try moving your Wi-Fi router or switching your TV to a 5GHz network if available.

If your TV does not detect your AirPods at all, make sure Bluetooth is enabled in your TV's settings and that your AirPods are in pairing mode. Some TVs require you to unpair and re-pair AirPods if they were previously connected to another device. Restart your TV and your AirPods (by placing them in the case and closing it for 10 seconds) if the connection fails repeatedly.

If you are using a Bluetooth transmitter and the audio cuts out, check that the transmitter is plugged in securely and that your TV's audio output is not muted or set to a very low volume. Some transmitters have a separate power button—make sure it is on.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all AirPods work with TVs?

Yes, all AirPods models (AirPods, AirPods Pro, AirPods Max) use standard Bluetooth and will work with any TV that supports Bluetooth audio output. The connection process is the same regardless of which AirPods you own.

Can I use AirPods with a TV that only has HDMI ports?

If your TV has no Bluetooth and no audio output ports, you will need either an Apple TV connected via HDMI or a Bluetooth transmitter connected to an external audio device (like a soundbar or receiver) that your TV feeds audio to. Some newer TVs with eARC-capable HDMI ports can send audio back through the HDMI cable to a compatible soundbar, which can then transmit to AirPods, but this setup is complex and not widely supported.

Will my AirPods work with my smart TV's apps?

AirPods will work with any audio your TV produces, whether from built-in apps, external devices, or cable input. You do not need to pair AirPods separately for each app—once connected to your TV, they receive all audio output.

Is there a delay when watching movies with AirPods on my TV?

Yes, Bluetooth typically introduces a 100 to 200 millisecond delay. This is noticeable during movies with dialogue but usually not during other content. If sync is important, wired headphones or a soundbar with a wired connection will have no delay.

Can I use AirPods with my TV and my phone at the same time?

No, AirPods can only connect to one device at a time. To switch between your TV and phone, you will need to manually reconnect them in your AirPods settings. Some newer AirPods models support automatic switching between Apple devices, but only one device can have active audio at a time.