Bluetooth adapters are crucial for devices lacking native Bluetooth support, as modern technology increasingly relies on this wireless standard. From keyboards to headsets, a Bluetooth connection is often necessary. If your PC's motherboard doesn't have built-in Bluetooth, you'll need to invest in a Bluetooth dongle. Fortunately, the market offers a wide variety of affordable options.
TL;DR - These Are the Best Bluetooth Adapters for PC:
Our Top Pick### Creative BT-W5
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### ASUS USB-BT500
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### Techkey 150M Class 1 Long Range Bluetooth Adapter
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### Sennheiser BTD 600
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### Gigabyte WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210
0See it at AmazonWhile high-end Bluetooth adapters exist, they are less common and often boast advanced features and superior connection quality. It's important to consider the latest Bluetooth version supported by your devices and accessories. As of now, Bluetooth 5.4 is the most recent standard, with Bluetooth 6 announced in fall 2024. Bluetooth's backward compatibility ensures that older adapters can still connect to newer devices, though you might miss out on advanced features.
Creative BT-W5
Best Bluetooth Adapter
Our Top Pick### Creative BT-W5
1See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsBluetooth Version5.3Data Transfer RateUp to 3 Megabits per secondRange165 feet Connects ViaUSB-CPROSUSB-C for universal connectivityAffordableCONSIf you don't have USB-C, you'll need an adapterThe Creative BT-W5 is an ideal choice for PC gaming enthusiasts seeking a Bluetooth adapter that supports high-resolution 96kHz/24-bit audio. With its USB-C connectivity, this adapter is versatile enough to work with PCs, Macs, and gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. Its compact design minimizes clutter, and it features auto-adjusting bitrate technology paired with aptX Adaptive Low Latency for seamless, low-latency connections perfect for gaming controllers and headsets. The multifunctional button allows for easy profile switching and the ability to save up to four devices.
Asus USB-BT500
Best Budget Bluetooth Adapter
### ASUS USB-BT500
1See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsBluetooth Version5.0Data Transfer RateUp to 3 Megabits per secondRange30 feetConnects ViaUSB-APROSVery low profileAffordableCONSWeaker signalThe Asus USB-BT500 stands out as a budget-friendly option. Easy to set up, it works seamlessly with any device you wish to pair with your PC. Featuring Bluetooth 5.0, it offers double the speed of Bluetooth 4.0 and enhanced battery life for connected devices. Its compact form factor ensures it fits snugly into any USB port, making it ideal for laptops and desktops alike. This adapter is perfect for users looking to maximize the battery life of their wireless headphones or AirPods.
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Best Long-Range Bluetooth Adapter
### Techkey 150M Class 1 Long Range Bluetooth Adapter
1See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsBluetooth Version5.4Data Transfer RateUp to 3MbpsRange500ftConnects ViaUSB-APROSSolid range for the moneyAffordableCONSFlimsy antennaThe Techkey 150M Class 1 Long Range Bluetooth Adapter excels in providing extensive connectivity. With an antenna that extends its range up to 500 feet, it's perfect for covering a whole house or apartment. While physical barriers can reduce the effective range, placing your PC in an open area optimizes performance. Supporting Bluetooth 5.4, it ensures fast connectivity and efficient battery use. This adapter is backward compatible with earlier Bluetooth versions and requires only a single USB port, making it an excellent choice for long-range connections at home.
Sennheiser BTD 600
Best Bluetooth Adapter for Headphones
### Sennheiser BTD 600
1See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsBluetooth Version5.2Data Transfer RateUp to 3 Megabits per secondRange30 feetConnects ViaUSB-A or USB-CPROSSpecially made for headphonesFlexible connectivityCONSExpensive for what it isSennheiser, renowned for their audio equipment, offers the BTD 600 Bluetooth adapter, ideal for enhancing your wireless headphone or PC headset experience. It boasts low latency and supports audio up to 430kbps, ensuring high-quality playback from services like Apple Music or Spotify. The adapter connects via USB-A but comes with a USB-C adapter for broader compatibility. To fully leverage its capabilities, a firmware update is necessary, which adds support for high-resolution 96kHz/24-bit audio.
Gigabyte WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210
Best Internal Bluetooth Adapter for Gaming
### Gigabyte WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210
0See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsBluetooth Version5.2Data Transfer Rate2,400MbpsRangeNot ratedConnects ViaPCI-EPROSVery affordableIs also a Wi-Fi adapterCONSOnly for desktop PCsFor those looking to free up USB ports and have a spare PCI-E slot, the Gigabyte WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210 is a dual-purpose solution. This internal adapter not only adds Bluetooth 5.2 but also Wi-Fi capabilities, addressing common motherboard limitations. Though it lacks the latest Bluetooth standards, the difference is negligible for desktop use. Ensure you have an available PCIe slot, typically a smaller x4 port, to install this adapter. While installation requires some technical know-how, the benefits of having a robust internal solution make it worthwhile for desktop users.
Bluetooth Adapter FAQs
Do you need a Bluetooth adapter for your PC?
Not every PC or laptop requires a Bluetooth adapter, as many come with built-in Bluetooth. To check if your PC has Bluetooth:
- Go to the bottom left of your screen and click on the search bar.
- Type 'Device Manager' and select the first option with the camera and printer icon.
- In Device Manager, look for a Bluetooth listing with a drop-down option. If you don't see Bluetooth, your motherboard lacks onboard capabilities, and you'll need an adapter to connect Bluetooth devices.
Bluetooth 5.3 vs 5.0: What's the difference?
Bluetooth 5.0 was introduced in July 2016, while Bluetooth 5.3 was released in July 2021. The key improvements in 5.3 include better latency and power efficiency due to the new LC3 codec, which extends the battery life of connected devices. Other enhancements include faster pairing, new connection methods for dual-channel earbuds, and improved security. Although Bluetooth 5.3 offers these advantages, Bluetooth 5.0 still provides a solid experience with minimal differences.
Do new laptops come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity?
Most modern gaming laptops and MacBooks feature built-in Bluetooth connectivity. You typically only need an adapter if you're building a custom PC or upgrading an older model. Always check the product specifications or use the method above to confirm if your device requires a Bluetooth adapter.
