How to Use 2 Headphones on PC Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ever wanted to share music, a movie, or even a game with a friend but only had one audio output on your computer? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. By default, Windows 11 lets you connect just one headphone at a time. But with a few tweaks and tools, you can actually use 2 headphones on a PC running Windows 11 simultaneously.

This guide will walk you through multiple methods step by step, so you can pick the one that works best for you.

Table of Contents

Why Use Two Headphones at the Same Time?

Before we jump into the technical stuff, let’s talk about why you might want to do this.

Movie Nights – Watch Netflix with a partner without disturbing others.
Gaming Together – Play co-op games while both hearing the in-game audio clearly.
Work or Study – Two people can listen to the same online lecture or meeting.
Audio Projects – Musicians, editors, and podcasters may need to share live playback.

Think of it like sharing earbuds on a plane—only better, because both of you get full stereo sound.

Things You’ll Need

Depending on the method you choose, you might need:

Two wired headphones (3.5mm jack or USB).
Two Bluetooth headphones.
A combination of wired and wireless headphones.
Optional: Audio splitter (hardware solution).
Optional: Audio software like Voicemeeter or Audio Router.

Methods to Use Two Headphones on Windows 11

There are multiple ways to make this work. Let’s go through them step by step.

Method 1: Use Windows 11 Stereo Mix (Built-In Option)

This is the easiest software-based method.

Step 1: Enable Stereo Mix

Right-click the sound icon in the taskbar.
Click Sounds (or “Open Sound settings” → “More sound settings”).
Go to the Recording tab.
Right-click and enable Stereo Mix (if hidden, right-click → “Show Disabled Devices”).

Step 2: Set Playback for Stereo Mix

Right-click Stereo Mix → Properties.
Under the Listen tab, check Listen to this device.
Choose your second headphone as the playback device.
Click Apply → OK.

Now, audio plays through both headphones!

✔️ Pros: Free, no extra tools needed.
❌ Cons: Sometimes delayed audio, not available on all systems.

Method 2: Use an Audio Splitter (Hardware Solution)

If you’re using two wired headphones, the simplest method is an audio splitter.

Step 1: Buy a Splitter

Get a 3.5mm dual headphone splitter (cheap and widely available).
For better quality, use a powered headphone splitter.

Step 2: Plug in Both Headphones

Connect the splitter to your PC’s headphone jack.
Plug both headphones into the splitter.

✔️ Pros: No software required, instant results.
❌ Cons: Both headphones share the same volume control.

Method 3: Use Bluetooth Headphones (Dual Audio)

Windows 11 supports multiple Bluetooth devices, but outputting to two at once requires a trick.

Step 1: Connect Both Headphones

Open Settings → Bluetooth & Devices.
Pair and connect both Bluetooth headphones.

Step 2: Use Stereo Mix

Follow the Stereo Mix method above, choosing one Bluetooth headphone as the “Listen to this device” option.

✔️ Pros: Wireless, no cables needed.
❌ Cons: Possible lag, not perfect sync.

Method 4: Use Third-Party Audio Software (Voicemeeter)

For more advanced control, software like Voicemeeter Banana is amazing.

Step 1: Download and Install Voicemeeter

Get it from the official site: VB-Audio.

Step 2: Set Input and Outputs

Set your primary output device (first headphone).
Add the second output device as A2.
Route the audio through both simultaneously.

✔️ Pros: Great audio control, minimal lag.
❌ Cons: Learning curve, needs setup.

Method 5: Use Audio Router Software

Some tools like Audio Router or CheVolume let you route audio to multiple devices.

Step 1: Install the Software

Download Audio Router (free).

Step 2: Duplicate Output

Route your system audio to two headphones.

✔️ Pros: Simple to use.
❌ Cons: Not officially supported, limited updates.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with these methods, you might run into issues. Let’s fix them.

Problem 1: Only One Headphone Produces Sound

Check if both are selected in playback devices.
Reconfigure Stereo Mix.

Problem 2: Audio Delay Between Headphones

Happens with Bluetooth + Wired mix.
Use two wired or two wireless headphones for better sync.

Problem 3: Stereo Mix Missing

Update your audio drivers.
If still missing, download drivers from your motherboard or laptop manufacturer.

Problem 4: Poor Audio Quality

Use a powered splitter or Voicemeeter for better sound balance.

Which Method Should You Choose?

For casual use (movies, music): Audio splitter is the easiest.
For Bluetooth headphones: Use Stereo Mix.
For professional control (streaming, editing): Use Voicemeeter Banana.

Tips for Best Results

Keep both headphones close to the PC (for Bluetooth).
Adjust volumes separately if supported.
For gaming, avoid Bluetooth to minimize lag.
Always keep audio drivers updated.

Final Thoughts

Using two headphones on a Windows 11 PC is absolutely possible—you just need the right method. Whether you go with a hardware splitter, Stereo Mix, or advanced software like Voicemeeter, you’ll be able to share your audio experience easily.

So, next time you want to binge-watch, game, or jam out with a friend, you don’t need to pass around a single headset—just plug in and enjoy together!

FAQs

Q1: Can I use 2 USB headphones on Windows 11?
Yes, but you’ll need Stereo Mix or third-party software like Voicemeeter to make them work simultaneously.

Q2: Will the audio quality drop if I use two headphones?
With a splitter, yes, slightly. With software like Voicemeeter, the quality is usually maintained.

Q3: Can I use two Bluetooth headphones at once?
Yes, but syncing issues may occur. Stereo Mix or Voicemeeter can help.

Q4: Does Windows 11 have a built-in dual audio feature?
Not exactly, but the Stereo Mix option allows you to duplicate sound.

Q5: What’s the easiest method for beginners?
A simple 3.5mm audio splitter—plug in and play with no setup needed.