How to Use Two Headphones at Once on Windows 10

Introduction

Using two headphones at once on Windows 10 can be useful for a variety of reasons. Perhaps you want to share audio with a friend or colleague, or maybe you need to use two different headphones for different purposes, such as one for music and one for gaming. Whatever your reason, Windows 10 offers several ways to achieve this. In this guide, we will explore the different methods for using two headphones at once on Windows 10 and help you choose the best method for your needs.

Using a Headphone Splitter

One of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to use two headphones at once on Windows 10 is by using a headphone splitter. A headphone splitter is a small device that allows you to plug in two headphones to a single audio jack. Here are the steps to use a headphone splitter:

1. Purchase a headphone splitter that is compatible with your audio jack. There are different types of headphone splitters available, such as 3.5mm or USB.

2. Plug the headphone splitter into the audio jack on your Windows 10 device.

3. Plug your headphones into the two slots on the headphone splitter.

4. Adjust the volume and audio settings on your device as needed.

While using a headphone splitter is a simple and straightforward solution, there are some drawbacks to consider. The audio quality may be reduced slightly, and you may experience some distortion or noise. Additionally, using a headphone splitter is not ideal for situations where you need more distance between the two headphones.

Using an Audio Interface

Another option for using two headphones at once on Windows 10 is by using an audio interface. An audio interface is a device that allows you to connect multiple audio inputs and outputs to your computer. Here are the steps to use an audio interface:

1. Purchase an audio interface that is compatible with your Windows 10 device and your headphones.

2. Connect your audio interface to your computer via USB or other connection method.

3. Connect your headphones to the output jacks on the audio interface.

4. Configure the audio settings on your Windows 10 device to recognize the audio interface as the default audio device.

Using an audio interface can provide better audio quality and less distortion than using a headphone splitter. It also allows for more distance between the two headphones. However, it can be more expensive than using a headphone splitter, and it may require some technical knowledge to set up properly.

Using Built-In Windows 10 Settings

Windows 10 also offers built-in settings that allow you to use two headphones at once without any additional hardware. Here are the steps to use built-in Windows 10 settings:

1. Connect one set of headphones to your Windows 10 device as you normally would.

2. Right-click on the sound icon in the taskbar and select "Open Sound settings."

3. Scroll down to the "Related settings" section and click on "Sound control panel."

4. In the Sound control panel, click on the "Playback" tab.

5. Right-click on your default audio device and select "Properties."

6. In the Properties window, click on the "Advanced" tab.

7. Check the box next to "Allow applications to take exclusive control of this device."

8. Click "Apply" and then "OK" to save the changes.

9. Connect the second set of headphones to your Windows 10 device.

10. Right-click on the sound icon in the taskbar and select "Open Sound settings."

11. Under "Output," select the second set of headphones as the default playback device.

Using built-in Windows 10 settings is a convenient option that doesn't require any additional hardware. However, it may not provide the best audio quality and can be limited in terms of the distance between the two headphones. Additionally, not all audio devices may support this feature.

Using Third-Party Software

Another option for using two headphones at once on Windows 10 is by using third-party software. There are several applications available that allow you to split audio between multiple devices. Here are the steps to use third-party software:

1. Download and install a third-party audio routing software, such as Voicemeeter, Audio Router, or CheVolume.

2. Connect both sets of headphones to your Windows 10 device.

3. Open the audio routing software and configure the audio settings to route audio to both sets of headphones.

4. Adjust the volume levels for each set of headphones as necessary.

Using third-party software can provide more advanced audio routing options and customization. However, it may require some technical knowledge to set up properly and some applications may require a paid license. Additionally, not all audio devices may be compatible with third-party software.

Conclusion

Using two headphones at once on Windows 10 is a great way to share audio with a friend or family member, or to use multiple headphones for different purposes. There are several options available, including using a headphone splitter, an audio interface, built-in Windows 10 settings, and third-party software. Each option has its own advantages and limitations, so it's important to choose the one that best fits your needs. Whether you're watching a movie with a friend, collaborating on a project, or simply enjoying music together, using two headphones at once on Windows 10 can enhance your audio experience.