Top Bluetooth Adapters for PC Revealed

Bluetooth adapters are crucial for devices that lack native support for this ubiquitous wireless standard. From keyboards to headsets, Bluetooth connectivity is essential in our daily lives. If your PC's motherboard doesn't come with built-in Bluetooth, you'll need to invest in a Bluetooth adapter, often referred to as a dongle. Fortunately, the market is flooded with affordable options, making it easier to find the right one for your needs.

TL;DR - These Are the Best Bluetooth Adapters for PC:

Our Top Pick### Creative BT-W5

1See it at Amazon### ASUS USB-BT500

1See it at Amazon### Techkey 150M Class 1 Long Range Bluetooth Adapter

1See it at Amazon### Sennheiser BTD 600

1See it at Amazon### Gigabyte WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210

0See it at AmazonWhile some Bluetooth adapters can be pricey, they usually come with enhanced features and superior connection quality. When choosing an adapter, consider the Bluetooth version that your gadgets and gaming accessories support. Currently, Bluetooth 5.4 is the latest version, with Bluetooth 6 on the horizon, announced in fall 2024. However, Bluetooth is backward compatible, ensuring that older devices can still connect, albeit without the newest features.

1. 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 excellent choice for gamers looking for a Bluetooth adapter that supports high-resolution 96kHz/24-bit audio. With its USB-C connection, it's compatible with PCs, Macs, and gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. Its sleek design minimizes clutter on your setup.

This adapter features automatic bitrate adjustment based on the connected Bluetooth device, paired with aptX Adaptive Low Latency for a seamless gaming experience. It also includes a multifunctional button to switch between profiles and save up to four devices.

2. 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 is our budget-friendly pick, known for its ease of setup and compatibility with various devices. It supports Bluetooth 5.0, offering double the speed of Bluetooth 4.0 and improved battery life for your devices.

Its compact design fits snugly into any USB port, making it perfect for laptops and desktops. If you're looking to extend the battery life of your wireless headphones or AirPods, this adapter is a great choice.

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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 is perfect for those needing extensive coverage. Its antenna allows for a 500ft range, ideal for covering a whole house or apartment, though physical obstacles may reduce this range.

Supporting Bluetooth 5.4, it ensures fast connectivity and excellent battery life. It's backward compatible with previous Bluetooth versions, making it a versatile choice for long-range connections in your home.

4. 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's BTD 600 is tailored for audiophiles seeking the best wireless headphone experience. With low latency and support for high-quality audio up to 430kbps, it's perfect for streaming from services like Apple Music or Spotify.

It connects via USB-A but includes a USB-C adapter for broader compatibility. A firmware update enhances its capabilities to support Hi-Res 96kHz/24-bit audio, making it a worthwhile investment for audio enthusiasts.

5. 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 gamers looking to free up USB ports and have space for a PCI-E card, the Gigabyte WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210 is an ideal internal Bluetooth adapter. While it features Bluetooth 5.2, it's still an excellent choice for desktops, especially since it doubles as a Wi-Fi adapter.

Installation requires some technical know-how, but for those comfortable with PC modifications, this adapter offers great value and performance.

Bluetooth Adapter FAQs

Do you need a Bluetooth adapter for your PC?

Not all PCs require a Bluetooth adapter, as many come with built-in Bluetooth. To check if your PC has Bluetooth:

• Click the search bar at the bottom left of your screen.
• Type 'Device Manager' and select the first result, which features a digital camera and printer icon.
• Look for a Bluetooth listing in Device Manager. If absent, your motherboard lacks Bluetooth, and you'll need an adapter.

Bluetooth 5.3 vs 5.0: What's the difference?

Bluetooth 5.0, introduced in July 2016, was updated to 5.3 in July 2021. The main improvements in 5.3 include better latency and power efficiency, thanks to the LC3 codec, which extends device battery life. Both versions have similar ranges, but 5.3 adds faster pairing, new connection methods for dual-channel earbuds, and enhanced security. While Bluetooth 5.3 offers these advantages, Bluetooth 5.0 remains a robust choice.

Do new laptops come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity?

Most modern gaming laptops and MacBooks include built-in Bluetooth. You'll typically only need an adapter for custom-built PCs or older models. Always check the product specifications or use the method described above to determine if an adapter is necessary.