How To Use Two Headphones On Pc

To use two headphones on PC, you can use a splitter, software like Voicemeeter, or macOS Audio MIDI Setup to route dual audio output.

How To Use Two Headphones On Pc sounds simple until you actually try it. You plug in a second pair expecting it to “just work,” and… nothing. Whether you’re trying to share audio with a friend, stream while monitoring sound, or isolate game/chat outputs, Windows and macOS don’t offer a built-in, obvious solution. I’ve run into this problem myself on both a custom Windows 11 desktop and a MacBook Pro and after plenty of trial and error, I’ve figured out what actually works.

This guide breaks down the exact methods I’ve used to connect two headphones at the same time wired, USB, Bluetooth, or even a mix. You’ll learn how to make it work on Windows 10, Windows 11, Mac, and laptops, with or without a splitter. No fluff, no guesswork just real-world solutions that solve the problem clearly and quickly.

Let’s dive in!

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Requirements Before You Begin

Let me save you some time before you try connecting two headphones to your PC, make sure your setup can actually support it. I’ve tested this on everything from custom Windows 10 rigs to MacBooks and budget laptops, and the requirements can make or break your results.

1. Operating System Makes a Difference

If you’re on Windows 10, you’ve got access to basic tools like Stereo Mix, but it’s hit or miss without third-party help.

Windows 11 cleaned up the interface but still lacks native dual-audio output. You’ll probably need something like Voicemeeter or a USB workaround.

macOS, surprisingly, is the most straightforward. Using Audio MIDI Setup, you can create a “Multi-Output Device” in under a minute. Just don’t expect Bluetooth to sync perfectly latency is still a pain.

Bottom line: Know your OS. It affects every method that follows.

2. Not All Headphones Work the Same

You can’t just plug in two pairs of anything and hope for the best. Here’s how they differ:

• 3.5mm headphones are simple, but your PC probably only has one jack. You’ll need a Y-splitter or external sound card.
• USB headphones work as separate audio devices. You can run two of them—but they need software to sync properly.
• Bluetooth headphones are tricky. Most PCs can’t stream to two at once unless you’ve got Bluetooth 5.0 and a multi-stream adapter. Even then, expect a delay unless you fine-tune your codecs.

3. What You Actually Need

Let’s be real you probably don’t need to spend a dime. But depending on your setup, here’s what might help:

• For Wired Setups: A $10 splitter or a basic USB sound card will do.
• For USB/Bluetooth Mixes: You’ll need Voicemeeter Banana (free) or Virtual Audio Cable.
• For Mac Users: Just use the built-in Audio MIDI Setup tool no extra downloads needed.

And here’s the trick: don’t overcomplicate it. Most of the time, you just need to route two outputs through one virtual device. We’ll break that down, step by step, next.

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How do I use a splitter to connect two headphones?

To use two headphones on PC with a splitter, plug a 3.5mm Y-splitter into your audio jack, then connect both headphones. This lets both users hear the same audio without software, setup, or delay ideal for quick, wired dual-listening on Windows or Mac.

What Is a Headphone Splitter and How It Works

A headphone splitter is a compact adapter that divides one audio output into two. It plugs into your computer’s 3.5mm jack and creates dual headphone ports, allowing two people to listen simultaneously. The audio is mirrored, meaning both headphones hear the exact same sound.

No configuration. No software. Just plug and go.

What Type of Splitter Should You Use?

There are several types using the wrong one will cause mic issues or mono audio. Here’s what works best:

• 3-Pole Y-Splitter (TRS) — Standard stereo audio to two headphone outputs (Best for listening)
• 4-Pole Splitter (TRRS) — Includes mic support (Only for dual headsets with mics)
• Multi-Headphone Splitter Hub — Up to 5+ outputs for group listening

For audio-only, always choose a TRS splitter with gold-plated contacts.

Step-by-Step: How to Use a Splitter for Dual Headphones

1. Plug the Y-splitter into your computer’s headphone jack (3.5mm).
2. Connect both headphones into the splitter’s outputs.
3. Play any audio both listeners will hear the same sound instantly.
4. (Optional) Adjust headphone volumes separately, if supported.

Recommended Headphone Splitters (Trusted & Tested)

These work flawlessly with Windows, Mac, and most laptops:

• UGREEN 3.5mm Audio Y Splitter – Compact, durable, great sound quality
• Syncwire Nylon-Braided Splitter – Ultra-flexible and tangle-resistant
• Belkin RockStar Hub (5-way) – Perfect for sharing with multiple people

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How do I Use Two Headphones on PC Without a Splitter?

To use two headphones on PC without a splitter, you need software like Stereo Mix or Voicemeeter. These tools duplicate your PC’s audio output so that both headphones whether USB, Bluetooth, or mixed can play sound at the same time, without additional hardware.

Why Use Software Instead of a Splitter?

Use a splitter-free method when:

• Your headphones use USB or Bluetooth
• Your PC has only one audio jack
• You need individual volume control or audio flexibility
• You’re using a laptop or newer device without dual audio ports

This method is ideal for Windows 10, Windows 11, and hybrid setups.

Option 1 – Stereo Mix (Windows Built-In)

Stereo Mix is a hidden Windows feature that lets you duplicate audio to two outputs.

How to Enable Stereo Mix:

1. Right-click the sound icon → Sounds
2. Go to the Recording tab
3. Right-click and check “Show Disabled Devices”
4. Enable Stereo Mix
5. Right-click it → Properties → Go to the Listen tab
6. Check “Listen to this device”
7. Select your second headphone output
8. Click Apply → OK

Works Best When:

• You have one wired headphone + one USB/Bluetooth
• You need a quick, no-download fix

Option 2 – Voicemeeter Banana (Free Audio Mixer)

Voicemeeter Banana gives you full control over multiple audio outputs.

How to Set It Up:

1. Download & install Voicemeeter Banana from VB-Audio.com
2. Reboot your PC
3. Open Voicemeeter → Set:
   • A1 = First headphone
   • A2 = Second headphone
4. In Windows, set Voicemeeter Input as your default audio device
5. Play audio it now streams to both headphones

Best for:

• USB + Bluetooth headphone combos
• Streamers, podcasters, or anyone needing mix control
• When Stereo Mix is missing or limited

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How to Use Two Headphones on Windows 10?

To use two headphones on Windows 10, enable the hidden Stereo Mix feature and configure it to duplicate your PC’s audio output to a second device like USB or Bluetooth headphones while your primary audio device remains active.

Step-by-Step Guide: Enable Stereo Mix for Dual Headphones

1. Right-click the speaker icon in your taskbar → select “Sounds”
2. Click the Recording tab
3. Right-click the panel → choose “Show Disabled Devices”
4. Enable Stereo Mix
5. Right-click Stereo Mix → click Properties
6. Go to the Listen tab
7. Check “Listen to this device”
8. Under “Playback through this device,” select your second headphone
9. Click Apply, then OK
10. Go to the Playback tab → set your main headphones as default

Both headphones will now play the same audio stream simultaneously.

Real-World Power Tips for Windows 10 Users

For Older Systems (Pre-2016):

• Stereo Mix missing?

• Audio device greyed out or inactive?

For Newer Systems (2017+):

• Stereo Mix often disabled by default

• Using USB or Bluetooth headphones?

Still not working? Switch to Voicemeeter Banana (free) for full audio routing flexibility.

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Can I use two headphones on Windows 11 at the same time?

To use two headphones on Windows 11, enable Stereo Mix from the hidden legacy sound settings or install Voicemeeter Banana. These tools let you mirror audio to both USB, Bluetooth, or wired headphones at once without needing a splitter.

Step-by-Step – Enable Stereo Mix on Windows 11

Windows 11 doesn’t show Stereo Mix in its modern UI, but it’s still there. Here’s how to access and set it up:

Stereo Mix Setup:

1. Right-click the sound icon in the taskbar → Select Sound Settings
2. Scroll down → Click “More sound settings” (opens legacy panel)
3. Go to the Recording tab
4. Right-click an empty area → Enable “Show Disabled Devices”
5. Enable Stereo Mix
6. Right-click Stereo Mix → Click Properties
7. Go to the Listen tab
8. Check “Listen to this device”
9. From the dropdown, select your second headphones (Bluetooth, USB, or other)
10. In the Playback tab, set your primary headphones as default

Now both headphones will play the same audio — at the same time, with no additional hardware.

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Can I use two USB headphones on a PC?

To use two USB headphones on PC, you must use audio routing software such as Voicemeeter Banana or Virtual Audio Cable. Windows does not support simultaneous USB audio output by default, so manual configuration is required to duplicate sound across both devices.

Method 1 – Using Voicemeeter Banana

Voicemeeter Banana is a free virtual audio mixer that routes output to multiple devices, including two USB headphones.

Method 2 – Using Virtual Audio Cable and Audio Repeater

An alternative method involves using Virtual Audio Cable in combination with Audio Repeater.

Steps to configure:

1. Install Virtual Audio Cable and Audio Repeater (MME).
2. Set Line 1 (Virtual Audio Cable) as your default playback device in Windows.
3. Launch two instances of Audio Repeater.
4. In the first instance, set Wave In to Line 1 and Wave Out to USB Headphone 1.
5. In the second instance, set Wave In to Line 1 and Wave Out to USB Headphone 2.
6. Start both repeaters. Audio will now route to both devices.

This method is effective but may introduce slight latency.

Important Considerations for USB Ports and System Performance

Most users overlook how hardware limitations impact USB audio routing. To avoid common issues:

• Use different USB controllers for each headset (e.g., rear vs. front panel ports).
• Avoid connecting both headsets to the same USB hub, especially unpowered hubs.
• Prefer USB 3.0 or higher ports for better bandwidth and stable power delivery.
• Restart your PC after setup to finalize audio assignments and prevent device resets.

USB audio is more sensitive to system configuration than analog connections. Following these practices ensures stability and prevents dropouts or device conflicts.

If you need to use two USB headphones on a PC, Windows alone will not support it. You must use Voicemeeter Banana or Virtual Audio Cable to route audio to both outputs. With proper configuration and hardware setup, both devices can receive clean, simultaneous playback even with separate volume control.

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How to Use Two Bluetooth Headphones on PC?

To use two Bluetooth headphones on PC, you must either connect through a dual-stream Bluetooth 5.0 transmitter or mirror audio using software like Voicemeeter. Windows does not support streaming to multiple Bluetooth headphones natively, so additional tools or hardware are required.

System Requirements for Dual Bluetooth Output

Before configuring your setup, ensure your system includes:

• Bluetooth 5.0 or higher (preferably with dual audio support)
• A2DP-compatible headphones
• Compatible operating system (Windows 10 or 11)
• (Optional) A third-party dual-stream Bluetooth transmitter

If your PC only supports Bluetooth 4.x, it won’t be able to stream to two headphones at once without external hardware.

Method 1 – Use a Dual-Stream Bluetooth Transmitter (Recommended)

The most reliable method is using a Bluetooth transmitter that supports pairing with two headphones simultaneously.

Setup Instructions:

1. Purchase a transmitter labeled as supporting dual headphone pairing.
2. Connect the transmitter to your PC via USB or 3.5mm jack.
3. Put both Bluetooth headphones into pairing mode.
4. Follow the transmitter’s guide to connect both devices.
5. In Windows Sound Settings, select the transmitter as the default audio output.

This method bypasses Windows limitations entirely by handling Bluetooth streaming at the hardware level.

Method 2 – Use Voicemeeter with One Wired and One Bluetooth Headphone

If your PC doesn’t support dual Bluetooth output, use one wired and one Bluetooth headset, then route audio to both using Voicemeeter.

Steps:

1. Connect the wired headphone and set it as the default output.
2. Enable Stereo Mix or install Voicemeeter Banana.
3. Configure Voicemeeter to send audio to both outputs.
4. Expect minor latency on the Bluetooth side due to encoding.

This hybrid approach works well when hardware upgrades aren’t an option.

Recommended Bluetooth Transmitters for Dual Headphones

Choose models with:

• Bluetooth 5.0 or 5.2
• AptX Low Latency or AptX Adaptive codec support
• Explicit dual-device pairing

Examples:

• Avantree Oasis Plus
• 1Mii B03Pro
• TaoTronics TT-BA014

These devices offer stable multi-headphone streaming with low lag and high compatibility.

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How to Use Two Headphones on Mac?

To use two headphones on Mac, create a Multi-Output Device in the Audio MIDI Setup utility. This built-in macOS tool allows you to route audio to two output devices wired, Bluetooth, or USB so both headphones play sound simultaneously.

How to Create a Multi-Output Device (Step-by-Step)

macOS doesn’t support two headphone outputs by default, but Audio MIDI Setup gives you full control.

Follow these steps:

1. Open Audio MIDI Setup (Applications > Utilities > Audio MIDI Setup)
2. Click the + icon → Select Create Multi-Output Device
3. Check the boxes next to both headphones (Bluetooth, USB, or 3.5mm)
4. Right-click the new Multi-Output Device → Click Use This Device for Sound Output
5. Go to System Settings > Sound → Set the Multi-Output Device as the default output

You’ll now hear mirrored audio on both headphones.

Syncing Audio Across Devices (Avoiding Delay Issues)

When combining wired and Bluetooth outputs, latency is a common problem. Here’s how to improve audio sync:

• In Audio MIDI Setup, drag the desired master device to the top of the list
• Enable Drift Correction on the secondary device (usually the Bluetooth one)
• Use headphones that support AAC or AptX Low Latency to reduce transmission lag

These settings help align playback and reduce echo or sync mismatches.

Limitations of Dual Audio on macOS and How to Work Around Them

Even with Audio MIDI Setup, macOS has several constraints:

• No individual volume control for each headphone through system settings

• No separate audio streams — both headphones will hear identical output

• Some apps (e.g., Zoom, Logic Pro) may not recognize Multi-Output Devices

These limitations affect control, but not basic playback. For most users, Multi-Output Devices are reliable and free.

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How can I use two headphones on a laptop?

To use two headphones on a laptop, you need to combine either a splitter, a USB headset, or use software like Voicemeeter. Laptops typically have limited audio ports, so routing audio to two devices requires understanding both hardware limitations and supported output methods.

Key Hardware Differences Between Laptops and Desktops

Laptops have fewer dedicated audio outputs than desktops. Most models include:

• A single 3.5mm combo jack for audio in/out
• Limited USB ports, sometimes all running through one internal hub
• No separate sound card, unlike many desktop builds

This means laptops often lack the physical infrastructure to output audio to multiple analog headphones without assistance from either external adapters or software-based audio mixers.

Dual Headphone Setup Options for Laptops

Depending on your laptop’s hardware, here are your most reliable options:

1. 3.5mm Headphone Splitter

• Plug a TRS Y-splitter into your laptop’s headphone jack
• Connect two wired headphones
• Ideal for basic analog mirroring
• No software needed, but both users hear the same audio

2. USB Headset + 3.5mm Headphone

• Connect a USB headset
• Plug a wired headphone into the laptop jack
• Use Voicemeeter Banana to mirror the output to both devices
• Offers basic control over volume and sync

3. Two USB Headsets

• Use two different USB ports
• Route system audio through Voicemeeter or Virtual Audio Cable
• Ideal for setups that avoid using the 3.5mm jack entirely

These setups offer flexibility depending on whether you prefer hardware or software-based solutions.

Using a USB Hub for Dual Headphone Support

If your laptop doesn’t have enough USB ports, you may consider using a USB hub. However, there are key considerations:

• Use a powered USB hub to avoid bandwidth or power issues
• Avoid connecting both headphones to the same internal USB bus, especially on budget laptops
• Some hubs split power but not bandwidth evenly, leading to intermittent audio dropouts
• Prefer direct USB port connections over hubs whenever possible

If using a hub is necessary, test stability with short sessions before relying on it for streaming or professional audio work.

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Common Issues & Fixes

When using two headphones on a PC, laptop, or Mac, several common issues can disrupt audio playback. Below are the most frequent problems and exactly how to fix them.

Audio Only Playing on One Headphone

Problem: Sound plays through only one device while the second headset remains silent.

Possible Causes:

• Only one device is set as the default output
• Software like Voicemeeter isn’t configured correctly
• The second device isn’t properly recognized by the system

Fixes:

• Open Sound Settings → Ensure your virtual device (Voicemeeter Input or Multi-Output Device) is set as the default output
• In Voicemeeter, confirm both A1 and A2 outputs are correctly assigned
• If using Stereo Mix, ensure “Listen to this device” is selected and the correct playback target is chosen
• Restart the audio engine by rebooting your PC or toggling output devices in sequence

Bluetooth Latency or Stuttering

Problem: One or both Bluetooth headphones experience delay, lag, or audio dropouts.

Possible Causes:

• Outdated Bluetooth drivers
• Low-quality or incompatible codecs
• Both headphones using the same internal USB controller
• Weak signal strength or low battery

Fixes:

• Update Bluetooth drivers via Device Manager or manufacturer’s support page
• Use headphones that support AptX Low Latency or AAC codecs
• Avoid mixing Bluetooth with wired outputs when sync is critical
• Disable unnecessary Bluetooth devices to reduce interference
• Use powered Bluetooth transmitters for better bandwidth handling if your PC’s onboard module is limited

Missing Stereo Mix Option

Problem: Stereo Mix doesn’t appear in the Recording tab in Windows Sound Settings.

Possible Causes:

• Disabled or hidden by manufacturer (especially on newer laptops)
• Outdated or incompatible audio drivers
• Windows 11 hiding legacy audio features by default

Fixes:

• Open Control Panel > Sound > Recording tab
• Right-click in the blank area → Select “Show Disabled Devices”
• If still missing, install or update the Realtek High Definition Audio driver
• Download and install Voicemeeter Banana as an alternative
• Restart the system after driver installation to activate Stereo Mix

If Stereo Mix remains unavailable, use Voicemeeter or Virtual Audio Cable, which provide the same functionality with greater control.

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FAQs:

Can I use wired and Bluetooth headphones together?

Yes, you can use wired and Bluetooth headphones at the same time on a PC or Mac. On Windows, use Voicemeeter Banana to route audio to both devices. On macOS, create a Multi-Output Device using Audio MIDI Setup.

Expect minor delay on the Bluetooth side due to latency.

Is Voicemeeter safe and easy to use?

Yes, Voicemeeter is safe and widely used by professionals and streamers. It’s developed by VB-Audio, a trusted software company. While it has a learning curve, it comes with tutorials and presets. Once set up, it offers precise control over multiple audio outputs.

How do I switch between two headphone sets quickly?

To switch between two headphones quickly, change the default output device.

• Windows: Right-click the speaker icon → Sound Settings → Choose output.
• macOS: Go to System Settings → Sound → Select the desired device.
• You can also use shortcut tools like Audio Switcher (Windows) or Option-click the sound icon on Mac.

Conclusion:

If you’ve ever struggled to connect two headphones to your PC at the same time, you’re not alone. Most systems aren’t built for it by default but with the right tools and a little know-how, it’s completely doable. We’ve walked through every major method: from using simple splitters, to routing audio with Voicemeeter, to setting up multi-output devices on macOS.

There’s no single “best” way it depends on what you’re working with: USB, Bluetooth, wired headphones, Windows 10 or 11, or a Mac. The key is knowing your options and choosing the method that matches your setup.

Now that you know how to use two headphones at the same time, you can share audio, monitor two sources, or just listen privately with someone else all without needing expensive equipment. The next time you need dual audio, you’ll be ready.