Windows: Connect 2 headphones at the same time - how it works

If you want to connect 2 headphones at the same time and output sound via both devices, you have two options: Either you need an audio splitter or you have to adjust the sound settings in the system. We explain both variants in this practical tip.

Output sound via two headphones at the same time - that's how it works with the audio splitter

If your sound card does not have enough connections - as is often the case with smartphones or notebooks - you need an audio splitter to be able to connect two headphones at the same time.

1. You can buy such an audio splitter, for example from Ugreen on Amazon, for around 6 euros.
2. Simply plug this into the device as usual and then insert the two headphones into the two ends.
3. Disadvantage: The sound quality decreases somewhat with this method and the volume also decreases slightly. When buying an audio splitter, you should also make sure that the Y ends are freely movable so that the connectors on both headphones have enough space.

Connect two headphones at the same time - change audio settings on the PC

If you use two headphones with different connections on your computer, for example one with a jack and one with USB, you must adjust the audio settings accordingly. This is possible, for example, with the Realtek HD Audio Manager. You will find the individual steps of this variant again in our picture gallery.

1. First go to the "Control Panel" and enter "Sound" in the search field at the top right.
2. After you have selected the "Sound" option, a new window opens.
3. Here you will find the audio devices currently connected. Important: Now connect both headphones to your computer and make sure that they are recognized.
4. Switch to the "Recording" tab.
5. For example, the "microphone" is displayed in this list. Right-click anywhere under it so that a context menu opens.
6. Place a checkmark next to "Show deactivated devices" and "Show separated devices".
7. Now the "Stereo Mix" appears, which you can right-click "Activate".
8. Then right-click on the "Stereo Mix" again and switch to "Properties".
9. A new window is opening up. Here you go to the "Listen" tab.
10. Under the item "Playback from this device:" set your second headphones from the dropdown menu.
11. Confirm the new settings with "OK".
12. Then both headphones appear in the "Playback" list and you can use both at the same time.

This tip applies to Windows 7 with a Reaktek sound card. Tip: Here we show you how to repair a broken cable yourself.

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Use the "Control Panel" to switch to the "Sound" settings.

Here, go to the "Listen" tab and right-click in the white field. In the context menu, check the boxes for "Show deactivated devices" and "Show separated devices".

Then the "Stereo Mix" appears among other things. Right-click to activate it and then switch to "Properties".

Using the "Listen" tab, insert your second headphones from the dropdown menu. Confirm the new settings with "OK".