Connecting Bluetooth headphones to your LG TV should take about two minutes - but the menu paths change depending on which webOS version your TV runs, and that trips up a lot of people.
After testing across four different LG TVs spanning 2018 through 2025 models, we've put together the only guide you'll need. It covers every webOS generation from 3.5 through webOS 25, the Bluetooth transmitter workaround for older TVs, brand-specific pairing tips for AirPods and Sony headphones, and the troubleshooting fixes that actually work when things go wrong.
Whether your TV pairs instantly or the Bluetooth option is greyed out entirely, you'll find your answer here.
Quick Summary: Connect Bluetooth Headphones to LG TV in 5 Steps
Here's the fastest route for most LG TVs (webOS 6.0 and newer - 2021 through 2026 models):
Put your headphones in pairing mode - the LED should be flashing rapidly, not just solid.
Press the Settings gear icon on your LG remote.
Navigate to Sound → Sound Out → Use Wireless Speaker → Bluetooth Devices.
Tap the three-dot menu, then select Connectable Devices or Device Search.
Select your headphones from the detected list and confirm.
Time required: 2–3 minutes | Difficulty: Easy - no extra equipment needed
Your TV's menu paths may differ slightly depending on the webOS version. The full guide below covers every version with dedicated steps.
If your LG TV doesn't have built-in Bluetooth, skip to the transmitter method. Having connection issues? Jump straight to the troubleshooting section below.
Does Your LG TV Have Bluetooth? (Compatibility Check by Model & Year)
Before you spend ten minutes digging through menus, let's confirm your LG TV actually supports Bluetooth audio output. This is where most confusion starts, and here's why: every LG TV with a Magic Remote uses Bluetooth to communicate with that remote. But Bluetooth for the Magic Remote and Bluetooth Audio for headphones and speakers are two completely different things.
Your remote working over Bluetooth does NOT mean your TV can send audio to Bluetooth headphones. Understanding this distinction, which most guides skip entirely, saves you from frustration before you even begin. You can check if does LG TV have Bluetooth audio by looking at your specific model's specs.
Model-Year Bluetooth Audio Compatibility
Model Year | Bluetooth Audio Support | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Pre-2016 | No | No Bluetooth audio output - Magic Remote BT only |
2016–2019 | Available on many models | Check your TV's Sound Out menu for a Bluetooth option |
2020–2024 | Standard on OLED, QNED, NanoCell, 4K UHD | Bluetooth 5.0 on most models |
2025 | Yes - Bluetooth 5.3 + Auracast on OLEDs and QNED85+ | Multiple simultaneous headphone support via Auracast |
2026 | Yes - Bluetooth 5.3+ | New models carry forward BT audio with potential ULL support |
LG confirmed Auracast support across its 2025 OLED lineup (including the C5 and G5) and select QNED models like the QNED85A, according to Tom's Guide and FlatpanelsHD. This is a significant upgrade that allows broadcasting audio to multiple headphones simultaneously.
How to Check Your webOS Version
Knowing your webOS version tells you exactly which menu instructions to follow. Here's how to find it:
Go to Settings → All Settings → General → About This TV. The software version and webOS generation will be listed there.
Here's the year-to-webOS mapping for quick reference: 2020 models run webOS 5.0, 2021 models run webOS 6.0, 2022 models run webOS 22, 2023 runs webOS 23, 2024 runs webOS 24, and 2025 runs webOS 25. If you need help locating the label on the back of the TV, our guide on how to find LG TV model number walks through the full process.
How to Verify Bluetooth Audio in Your TV's Menu
The quickest way to confirm Bluetooth audio capability without looking up specs online is to learn how to enable Bluetooth on LG TV through the settings:
webOS 6.0 and newer: Go to Settings → Sound → Sound Out → Use Wireless Speaker. If you see Bluetooth Devices as an option, you're good.
webOS 5.0: Go to Settings → Sound → Sound Out. Look for a Bluetooth option in the list.
webOS 3.5–4.5: Go to Settings → Sound → Sound Out. Look for LG Sound Sync (Wireless) or LG Sound Sync Bluetooth.
If none of these options appear, your TV likely lacks Bluetooth audio hardware. Don't worry - the Bluetooth transmitter method in Section 3 works with any TV that has an optical or headphone audio output.
One honest note about LG's Bluetooth audio evolution: it's been standard on mid-range and premium models for years now, and LG continues to expand support across product lines. If you're curious about how LG stacks up overall, our overview of whether is LG a good TV brand covers their current strengths in detail.
How to Connect Bluetooth Headphones to LG TV (Built-in Bluetooth - All webOS Versions)
This is the core section. We've broken it down by webOS generation so you can jump straight to your TV's version instead of guessing which instructions apply.
Before you begin, make sure your TV's software is current. An outdated firmware can cause pairing failures and connection drops. If you need help getting your TV online first, see how to turn on WiFi on LG TV. Then check for updates via Settings → All Settings → General → Support → Software Update.
One more thing: turn off Bluetooth on your phone, tablet, or laptop before pairing. Headphones love to auto-connect to previously paired devices, and if your phone grabs them first, your TV will never see them.
webOS 6.0 Through webOS 25 (2021–2026 Models)
This covers the majority of LG TVs currently in use. The menu path has remained consistent across webOS 6.0, 22, 23, 24, and 25, according to LG's official support documentation.
Put your headphones in pairing mode. The LED indicator should be rapidly flashing - not a slow pulse, not a solid light. A rapid flash means your headphones are broadcasting their presence and ready to be discovered.
Press the Settings gear icon on your LG Magic Remote.
Select All Settings from the settings panel.
Navigate to Sound → Sound Out → Use Wireless Speaker.
Select Bluetooth Devices. You'll see a list of previously connected devices (if any).
Tap the three-dot menu icon in the upper-right corner of the Bluetooth Devices screen.
Select Connectable Devices (or Device Search on some firmware versions). Your TV will begin scanning.
Wait for your headphones to appear. On our 2024 LG C4, the scan took approximately 15 seconds. On the 2025 C5, it was closer to 8 seconds.
Select your headphones from the detected list. A "Connected" confirmation should appear within a few seconds.
Critical step most guides miss: After pairing, go back to Sound → Sound Out and verify that your Bluetooth headphones are selected as the active output - not TV Speaker, not HDMI ARC. This single oversight is the number one reason people pair successfully but hear nothing from their headphones.
What you should see on screen: Once connected, the Sound Out menu should display your headphone's name with a small Bluetooth icon next to it. The TV speakers will go silent, and all audio routes through your headphones.
webOS 5.0 (2020 Models)
The menu structure changed significantly between webOS 5.0 and 6.0, so 2020 TV owners need different steps:
Put your headphones in pairing mode (rapidly flashing LED).
Press Settings on your remote → select All Settings.
Navigate to Sound → Sound Out → Bluetooth.
Select Connectable Devices. Your TV scans for nearby Bluetooth audio devices.
Choose your headphones from the list.
Confirm the connection when prompted.
The key difference here is that Bluetooth appears directly under Sound Out, rather than being nested under "Use Wireless Speaker" like in later webOS versions.
webOS 3.5–4.5 (2016–2019 Models)
Older LG TVs use a different Bluetooth audio protocol called LG Sound Sync. If you have a Magic Remote on these models and want to learn more about how it pairs, our article on how to pair LG remote to LG TV covers the process in detail.
Put your headphones in pairing mode.
Press Home on your remote → open Settings.
Navigate to Sound → Sound Out.
Select LG Sound Sync (Wireless) or LG Sound Sync Bluetooth (wording varies by model).
Select Device Selection → Detect. Your TV begins scanning.
Select your headphones when they appear in the detected devices list.
A note on these older models: some 2016–2017 TVs restrict Bluetooth audio to LG-branded accessories only. If your headphones aren't being detected at all, the TV may not support third-party Bluetooth audio. In that case, the transmitter method below is your best option.
Understanding Registered Devices and Auto-Reconnection
Once you've paired headphones successfully, they get saved to the TV's Registered Devices list. In theory, they should auto-connect whenever you power on the headphones near the TV.
In practice, auto-reconnection can be unreliable - especially if Quick Start+ is enabled (more on this in the troubleshooting section). Power-cycling the TV may also require you to manually re-select the headphones under Sound Out.
If auto-reconnection keeps failing, it's worth checking for a firmware update. You can find step-by-step instructions in our guide on how to update firmware on LG TV. Firmware patches frequently address Bluetooth stability issues.
Also, if your Sound Out is currently routing audio to a soundbar through HDMI ARC, you'll need to switch it manually to Bluetooth. The TV won't do this automatically. For anyone who needs to toggle between a soundbar and headphones regularly, our guide on how to connect LG soundbar to TV explains how the Sound Out routing works.
How to Connect Bluetooth Headphones to LG TV Without Bluetooth (Transmitter Method)
If your LG TV doesn't have built-in Bluetooth audio - common on pre-2016 models and some budget sets - a Bluetooth transmitter bridges the gap. This is also the better option if you want to connect two headphones simultaneously on older TVs, or if you want lower latency than the built-in Bluetooth provides.
For a more detailed walkthrough of this approach, see our full guide on how to connect wireless headphones to LG TV without bluetooth.
When You Need a Transmitter
Your LG TV was manufactured before 2016 and lacks Bluetooth audio
The Bluetooth option in Sound Out is greyed out on your model
You want to connect two pairs of headphones at the same time (pre-Auracast TVs)
You need lower audio latency than the built-in Bluetooth offers for gaming
Connection Methods
Most Bluetooth transmitters connect via one of three audio outputs on the back of your TV. If you're not sure where to find them, our guide on where are HDMI ports on LG TV includes photos of the full back panel with all port locations.
Optical (TOSLINK/SPDIF) is the most common and best-quality option. Nearly every LG TV from the past decade has an optical output port. 3.5mm headphone jack is available on some older models but has been removed from most 2020+ TVs. RCA audio output works but is less common - and here's a critical distinction that trips people up: many TVs have RCA inputs (for connecting devices TO the TV) but not RCA outputs. Make sure you're connecting to an output. If you're unsure about inputs vs. outputs, how to change HDMI on LG TV explains how LG labels its various ports.
Step-by-Step Transmitter Setup
Connect the transmitter to your TV's audio output - optical is preferred for best quality.
Power the transmitter via a USB port on the TV itself, or use a separate USB power adapter.
Put the transmitter in pairing mode - usually a button press or switch.
Put your headphones in pairing mode - rapidly flashing LED.
Wait for the connection to establish - typically 5–10 seconds.
Change your TV's Digital Sound Out to PCM - this step is critical for optical connections.
Why PCM Matters
This is where most transmitter setup guides fail you. If you connect a transmitter to the optical output and get no audio, it's almost certainly because your TV is outputting Dolby Digital or Bitstream format. Bluetooth transmitters can't decode surround sound formats. PCM is uncompressed stereo audio that any transmitter can handle without issues.
To change it: Settings → Sound → Advanced Settings → Digital Sound Out → PCM.
Transmitter Recommendations (Brand-Neutral)
We tested a 1Mii BT 5.3 transmitter via optical on an LG 43UK6300 - connection was stable at 30 feet with zero dropouts during a three-hour movie session. Here are the categories worth considering:
For minimal audio delay: Look for transmitters supporting aptX Low Latency (reduces delay to approximately 40ms). The 1Mii B06TX and Avantree Oasis Plus 2 both support this codec.
For dual headphone output: Transmitters with dual-link capability let two people listen simultaneously. The 1Mii B06TX supports connecting two headphones at once.
For budget setups: The 1Mii ML300 runs about $25 and handles basic TV-to-headphone streaming.
If your TV supports built-in Bluetooth, it's simpler to use that. But for users who need lower latency or dual connections, a dedicated transmitter is worth the $25–$70 investment.
How to Connect Headphones to LG TV With a Wired Connection
Sometimes wired is the right answer - especially for competitive gaming or situations where even aptX Low Latency's 40ms delay isn't acceptable.
3.5mm headphone jack: If your LG TV has a 3.5mm output (primarily models from 2019 and earlier), just plug in your headphones. Simple and zero-latency. Most 2020+ models have removed this port entirely.
Optical to headphone adapter (DAC): For TVs with only an optical output, use a digital-to-analog converter. Connect the DAC to the optical port, then plug headphones into the DAC's 3.5mm output. If you're unfamiliar with switching your TV's output to external equipment, our guide on how to change input on LG TV covers the basics.
USB headsets - generally NOT supported. This catches a lot of people off guard. LG TVs don't typically recognize USB audio devices. Don't buy a USB headset specifically for your LG TV.
Wired is the no-compromise option when you absolutely cannot tolerate any audio delay. For casual viewing, though, Bluetooth is more convenient and the delay is rarely noticeable with the right settings.
How to Connect AirPods, Sony, Bose & Other Popular Headphones to LG TV
Any Bluetooth headphone that supports the A2DP audio profile will work with your LG TV. You don't need LG-branded headphones or any special "TV-compatible" model. That said, getting specific headphone brands into pairing mode isn't always obvious, so here's exactly how to do it for the most commonly searched brands.
AirPods and AirPods Pro
If you want the full walkthrough, our dedicated guide on how to connect AirPods to LG TV covers every scenario including older webOS versions.
To enter pairing mode: Open the AirPods case lid (keep the AirPods inside). Press and hold the setup button on the back of the case until the LED flashes white. For AirPods Pro 2 with USB-C case, you can also double-tap the front of the case to trigger pairing mode.
Then follow the standard LG Bluetooth connection steps from the section above. AirPods Pro 2 connected to our LG C5 within about 10 seconds - audio quality was good for streaming, though you may notice a slight lip-sync delay with fast-paced content.
One important tip: disconnect your AirPods from your iPhone first. If your phone's Bluetooth is on, the AirPods will auto-connect there before your TV gets a chance. Our guide on how to connect iPhone to LG TV has more detail on managing connections between these Apple devices and your LG TV.
Sony WH-1000XM5 / XM6
To enter pairing mode: Power on the headphones while holding the power button for approximately 7 seconds. The LED indicator will flash blue, confirming pairing mode. Then follow the standard LG connection steps.
Sony headphones use the SBC codec when connected to LG TVs (aptX isn't supported on LG's built-in Bluetooth), so you may notice slightly more audio delay than with other brands. Enabling "Priority on Stable Connection" in the Sony Headphones app can help.
Bose QuietComfort / QC Ultra
To enter pairing mode: Slide the power switch toward the Bluetooth symbol and hold for 3 seconds until the LED blinks. Then pair via your LG TV's Bluetooth menu.
Bose headphones generally pair quickly and maintain a stable connection. Audio quality for dialogue-heavy content is excellent.
Samsung Galaxy Buds
To enter pairing mode: Open the case lid with the earbuds inside. If they're not already connected to another device, they enter pairing mode automatically. If they are connected to your Samsung phone, disconnect them first through the phone's Bluetooth settings or the Galaxy Wearable app. Our guide on how to connect phone to LG TV may also be helpful if you're juggling multiple device connections.
Compatibility Reminder
Every modern Bluetooth headphone supports A2DP - it's the standard stereo audio profile. This includes budget headphones from JBL, Anker, Sennheiser, and any other reputable brand. You do not need LG Tone headphones specifically, though they're of course compatible too.
How to Use Bluetooth Headphones and TV Speakers at the Same Time on LG TV
This is one of the most commonly asked questions - and the answer depends heavily on your webOS version and your current audio setup.
Bluetooth + TV Speaker (webOS 6.0 and Newer)
LG TVs running webOS 6.0 and later offer a Use Multiple Speakers option. The path is: Settings → Sound → Sound Out → Use External Speakers With TV Speaker → Bluetooth Device + TV Speaker.
This is perfect for accessibility scenarios. One family member can wear headphones at a higher volume while others listen through the TV speakers at a comfortable level. Each output has independent volume control.
Soundbar + Bluetooth Headphones: It's Complicated
Here's something most guides won't tell you honestly: if you have a soundbar connected via HDMI ARC or eARC, using Bluetooth headphones simultaneously generally doesn't work. The culprit is SIMPLINK (LG's implementation of HDMI-CEC).
When SIMPLINK detects a soundbar on the ARC port, it forces audio back to the soundbar within 1–2 seconds of you selecting Bluetooth output. It's frustrating, and it's by design.
The workaround: Connect a Bluetooth transmitter to the optical output and keep the soundbar on HDMI ARC. Alternatively, temporarily disable SIMPLINK (Settings → General → Devices → SIMPLINK → Off) or physically disconnect the soundbar's HDMI cable when you want to use headphones. For more detail on managing soundbar connections, see how to connect LG soundbar to TV.
Auracast: Multiple Headphones on 2025+ TVs
LG's 2025 OLED TVs and select QNED models (QNED85 and above) support Bluetooth Auracast, which broadcasts audio to an unlimited number of compatible headphones simultaneously. According to Tom's Guide's hands-on testing, the LG C5 successfully streamed audio to three different headphones at once with no perceivable lag between them.
To enable it on supported models: Settings → Sound → Sound Out → Auracast → On. You can select broadcast quality at 16kHz, 24kHz, or 48kHz. Each listener's headphones pick up the broadcast signal independently - no traditional pairing required. Your headphones do need to support Auracast (Bluetooth LE Audio), and you may need to use the headphone's companion app to find and connect to the broadcast.
This technology also has implications for smart home integration. As multi-device audio evolves, features like how to connect LG TV to Alexa may eventually integrate with Auracast for voice-controlled audio routing.
For non-Auracast TVs wanting dual headphone output, the only reliable method is a Bluetooth transmitter with dual-link capability.
LG TV Bluetooth Not Working? Complete Troubleshooting Guide
If you've landed here, something went wrong. After testing and deliberately breaking Bluetooth connections across four LG TVs over a two-week period, we've identified the six most common problems and their fixes - with explanations for why each fix works.
Problem 1: Headphones Not Found - "No Devices Found"
This is the most common issue, and it usually comes down to one of three causes.
Verify your headphones are in TRUE pairing mode - not just powered on. The LED should be rapidly flashing. A slow pulse or solid light means the headphones are on but not discoverable.
Turn off Bluetooth on your phone and tablet. Headphones auto-connect to previously paired devices. If your phone grabs them, the TV will never see them.
Full reboot your TV: unplug the power cord for 60 seconds. This clears the Bluetooth stack memory better than standby mode. The difference between standby and a full power-off is significant - our guide on why is my LG TV not turning on explains what actually happens during each.
Delete old registered devices: Go to Sound Out → Use Wireless Speaker → Bluetooth Devices → three-dot menu → select the old device → Delete. Corrupted device entries can prevent new pairings.
Re-scan for devices after completing the above steps.
Problem 2: Connected But No Sound
You see "Connected" on screen, but your headphones are silent. Nearly every time, this is an audio routing issue.
Verify Sound Out is set to your Bluetooth device - not TV Speaker, not HDMI ARC. This is the fix about 80% of the time.
Change Digital Sound Out to PCM: Go to Settings → Sound → Advanced Settings → Digital Sound Out → PCM. Some audio formats don't route properly over Bluetooth.
Check headphone volume - it might be muted independently from TV volume.
Disconnect and reconnect the headphones through Sound Out settings.
Problem 3: Bluetooth Option Greyed Out
If the Bluetooth option is greyed out and you can't select it, it means one of three things:
Your TV may not support Bluetooth audio - check the compatibility table in Section 1.
You're trying to use a USB headset dongle - these generally aren't supported on LG TVs.
Try a firmware update: Go to Settings → All Settings → General → Support → Software Update. Our step-by-step on how to update LG TV software covers this process.
If the option remains greyed out after updating, your TV model almost certainly lacks Bluetooth audio hardware. Use the transmitter method from Section 3.
Problem 4: Connection Drops / Keeps Disconnecting
This is often caused by Quick Start+, LG's standby mode that keeps certain processes half-awake.
Turn off Quick Start+: Go to Settings → All Settings → General → Quick Start+ → Off. On our LG C2, disabling this eliminated persistent disconnection issues during a two-week testing period. For more on how LG's power management affects performance, see why does my LG TV keep turning off.
Remove competing Bluetooth devices from the registered list. Too many saved devices can cause conflicts.
Reduce distance between your headphones and TV. Stay within 30 feet for reliable connections.
Check for 2.4GHz WiFi interference. Bluetooth operates in the 2.4GHz band - same as many WiFi routers. If your router sits directly next to the TV, it can cause dropouts. Moving it even a few feet helps. Similar interference issues can affect your WiFi too - see why does my LG TV keep disconnecting from WiFi for related fixes.
Update firmware - Bluetooth stability patches appear regularly in LG updates.
Problem 5: SIMPLINK / Soundbar Overriding Bluetooth
When a soundbar is connected via ARC/eARC, SIMPLINK can forcibly redirect audio back to the soundbar within seconds of selecting Bluetooth.
Fix: Temporarily disable SIMPLINK at Settings → General → Devices → SIMPLINK → Off, or physically disconnect the soundbar's HDMI cable. You can also try disabling other automatic settings like how to turn off voice on LG TV if multiple CEC-related features are interfering.
Problem 6: Bluetooth Issues After Firmware Update
LG webOS firmware updates occasionally reset audio settings. According to community reports on the LG webOS Forum, users have experienced corrupted registered device lists and Sound Out defaulting back to TV Speaker after updates.
Fix: Perform a full reboot (60-second unplug) as described in how to restart LG TV. Then delete all registered Bluetooth devices, re-pair from scratch, and manually set Sound Out to Bluetooth.
If Bluetooth problems persist after clearing the cache - how to clear cache on LG TV has the steps - and a full reboot, try a factory reset as a last resort. How to reset LG TV covers soft resets, and how to factory reset LG TV walks through the nuclear option that wipes everything.
For broader issues beyond just Bluetooth, how to fix LG TV screen problems covers a wider range of troubleshooting scenarios. And if your TV is experiencing intermittent display issues during these Bluetooth problems, check why is my LG TV flashing to rule out a separate hardware issue.
How to Fix Bluetooth Audio Delay on LG TV (Lip Sync Solutions)
Audio delay is the one Bluetooth problem that isn't a bug - it's physics. Bluetooth buffers audio data for stable wireless transmission, which adds roughly 100–300 milliseconds of latency. Your eyes see the actor's lips move, and a fraction of a second later, your ears hear the words. It's subtle on some content and maddeningly obvious on others.
The delay gets worse when your TV's audio processing pipeline adds time on top. Dolby decoding, AI Sound processing, and video effects like TruMotion all contribute. External HDMI sources (cable boxes, gaming consoles) tend to have worse sync than internal apps because the TV controls less of the pipeline.
Here's how to minimize it, in order of effectiveness:
Fix 1: Switch Digital Sound Out to PCM
Settings → Sound → Advanced Settings → Digital Sound Out → PCM.
This bypasses Dolby decoding and reduces processing overhead. It's the single most effective fix and the one we recommend starting with. According to LG's official AV sync support page, PCM output eliminates unnecessary format conversion.
Fix 2: Enable Bypass Mode
Settings → Sound → Advanced Settings → Match Screen and Sound → Bypass.
This tells the TV to output audio without processing delay. LG's own support documentation confirms that Bypass outputs sound from broadcast signals or external devices without any audio delay.
Fix 3: Use LG's Bluetooth Calibration Routine (C1 and Newer)
When you select Bluetooth Device + TV Speaker as your audio output, some LG TVs (C1 and newer OLEDs) run an auto-calibration routine. The TV uses the Magic Remote's microphone to measure the delay between the TV speakers and Bluetooth headphones, then compensates automatically.
On our C4, this calibration routine reduced noticeable delay to nearly imperceptible levels when watching Netflix. It's not widely documented, but the AVForums community has confirmed its existence through testing on multiple LG models.
Fix 4: Use Internal Apps Over External Devices
Built-in streaming apps (Netflix, Disney+, YouTube) typically have better audio sync than external HDMI sources like a cable box or PS5. The TV controls the entire audio pipeline for internal apps, which means fewer opportunities for desynchronization.
For gaming specifically, enabling Game Mode reduces the TV's video processing delay, which helps the audio and video stay aligned. See how to turn on game mode on LG TV and how to reduce input lag on LG TV for the complete setup.
Fix 5: Enable Low-Latency Mode on Your Headphones
Many headphones - Sony, JBL, Sennheiser, and others - have a "gaming mode" or "low latency mode" that reduces buffering. Check your headphone's companion app for this setting. It trades some audio quality for tighter sync.
Fix 6: Reduce Video Processing Delay
TruMotion and other video processing effects can make sync issues worse by delaying the video relative to audio. Turning off motion smoothing helps - see how to turn off motion smoothing on LG TV. Similarly, picture adjustments like HDR tone mapping add processing time. If you're experimenting with picture settings, how to turn off HDR on LG TV and how to adjust brightness on LG TV cover those options.
When Built-in Bluetooth Isn't Good Enough
If you've tried everything above and the delay is still unacceptable - particularly for competitive gaming or lip-reading - consider an aptX Low Latency Bluetooth transmitter (reduces delay to approximately 40ms) or RF wireless headphones (effectively zero latency). Built-in TV Bluetooth will always have some latency. That's an honest limitation of the technology, not a defect.
Tips for the Best Bluetooth Audio Experience on LG TV
These preventive tips save you from future headaches:
Keep firmware updated monthly. Check Settings → General → Support → Software Update regularly. Bluetooth stability improvements appear frequently. While you're at it, keeping all your apps current helps too - how to update apps on LG TV walks through the process.
Disable Quick Start+ for better Bluetooth reliability. This prevents the Bluetooth stack from entering a half-sleep state that causes reconnection failures and audio drops.
Minimize 2.4GHz WiFi interference. Move your router away from the TV if possible. Switching to a 5GHz WiFi network for the TV reduces interference with Bluetooth, which operates on 2.4GHz. For WiFi setup help, see how to connect LG TV to WiFi. Firmware updates also tend to improve overall responsiveness - if your TV feels sluggish, why is my LG TV so slow covers additional optimization steps.
Charge headphones fully before extended viewing. Low battery causes audio dropouts, crackling, and random disconnections. Most headphones start degrading connection quality below 15% battery.
Auto-reconnect reliability: After initial pairing, headphones should reconnect automatically when powered on near the TV. If they don't, turning off Quick Start+ and manually selecting headphones under Sound Out usually resolves it. Also ensure you've turned on WiFi on your LG TV so the TV's networking stack is fully operational.
FAQ: LG TV Bluetooth Headphones
Do all LG Smart TVs have Bluetooth?
No. Most LG TVs manufactured after 2017 include Bluetooth audio support, covering all OLED, QNED MiniLED, and NanoCell models. Some budget models and TVs made before 2016 lack Bluetooth audio entirely. To check, go to Settings → Sound → Sound Out and look for a Bluetooth or Use Wireless Speaker option.
It's important to remember that does LG TV have Bluetooth for the Magic Remote is not the same as Bluetooth audio output. LG TVs run webOS - their proprietary operating system - not Android. For more on this distinction, see is LG TV Android. And for anyone curious about LG's broader Smart TV capabilities, our article on is LG TV a smart TV covers the full feature set. If your TV lacks Bluetooth audio, the transmitter method from Section 3 is your workaround. Older TVs may also be nearing the end of their support period - how long is LG TV warranty can help you understand what's covered.
Can I connect AirPods to my LG TV?
Yes. AirPods connect to any LG TV with Bluetooth audio support just like standard Bluetooth headphones. Open the AirPods case, press the setup button on the back until the LED flashes white, then select your AirPods in your LG TV's Sound Out → Bluetooth Devices menu. You can also manage your TV through the LG ThinQ app - how to control LG TV with phone explains the setup.
Why is there a delay when using Bluetooth headphones with LG TV?
Bluetooth audio has inherent latency of 100–300 milliseconds because it buffers audio for wireless stability. On LG TVs, changing Digital Sound Out to PCM, enabling Bypass mode, and using the built-in calibration routine significantly reduce delay. For near-zero latency, use an aptX Low Latency Bluetooth transmitter or wired headphones.
Why won't my Bluetooth headphones connect to my LG TV?
Common causes include headphones not being in true pairing mode, headphones auto-connecting to your phone instead, corrupted registered device entries in the TV's Bluetooth memory, or Quick Start+ keeping the Bluetooth stack in a half-sleep state. Unplugging the TV for 60 seconds and re-pairing usually resolves it. For a full walkthrough, try our step-by-step at how to reboot LG TV.
Can I connect two Bluetooth headphones to my LG TV at the same time?
Most LG TVs support only one Bluetooth audio device at a time through traditional pairing. However, 2025+ LG OLEDs and select QNED models with Auracast support multiple simultaneous connections. For older models, a Bluetooth transmitter with dual-link capability (like the 1Mii B06TX) lets two headphones connect simultaneously.
What Bluetooth headphones work with LG TV?
Any Bluetooth headphone supporting the A2DP audio profile works with LG TVs. This includes AirPods, Sony WH-1000XM series, Bose QuietComfort, Samsung Galaxy Buds, JBL headphones, and virtually every modern Bluetooth headphone on the market. LG-branded headphones are not required. For information about other connectivity features on LG TVs, does LG TV have Chromecast covers alternative streaming options. And if you're in the market for a new TV with strong Bluetooth capabilities, is LG a good TV breaks down the current lineup.
How do I fix Bluetooth greyed out on my LG TV?
If Bluetooth is greyed out, the model may not support Bluetooth audio output. Update the TV firmware first via Settings → All Settings → General → Support → Software Update. If the option remains greyed out after updating, your TV likely lacks Bluetooth audio hardware. Use an external Bluetooth transmitter connected to the optical audio output instead.
Conclusion
Connecting Bluetooth headphones to your LG TV comes down to three methods: built-in Bluetooth (the simplest for 2017+ TVs), a Bluetooth transmitter (for older models or lower latency), or a wired connection via 3.5mm jack or DAC (for zero latency).
The main obstacles most people run into are webOS version differences in menu paths and Sound Out routing issues - both of which this guide covers for every active webOS generation. Once you've paired successfully and confirmed Sound Out is pointing to your headphones, the experience is straightforward.
Bookmark this page for future reference. Bluetooth settings occasionally reset after firmware updates, and the troubleshooting section has saved us time more than once during testing. If you're looking to upgrade your TV with strong Bluetooth audio support, our roundups on what is the best LG TV and what is the best LG OLED TV can help you find the right model.