Top Bluetooth Adapters for PC Revealed

Bluetooth adapters are crucial for devices lacking native Bluetooth support, as many daily-use gadgets like keyboards and headsets rely on this wireless technology. If your PC's motherboard doesn't include Bluetooth, a Bluetooth dongle is necessary to connect these devices. Fortunately, the market is flooded with affordable options.

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 high-end Bluetooth adapters exist, they are rare and typically offer enhanced features and superior connection quality. It's important to consider the latest Bluetooth version that new devices and gaming accessories support. Currently, Bluetooth 5.4 is the newest standard, though Bluetooth 6 was announced in fall 2024 and will soon be available. To stay current, choose an adapter that supports Bluetooth 5.4. Remember, Bluetooth is backward compatible, so older adapters will work with newer devices, though you may miss out on advanced 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 PC gamers looking to enjoy high-resolution audio at 96kHz/24-bit. Compatible with USB-C, this adapter works seamlessly with PCs, Macs, and gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. Its compact design minimizes clutter. The BT-W5 auto-adjusts its bitrate based on the connected device and uses aptX Adaptive Low Latency for minimal delay, ideal for gaming controllers and headsets. Additionally, it features a multifunctional button to switch 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 top budget pick, known for its ease of setup and compatibility with various devices. It supports Bluetooth 5.0, which doubles the speed of Bluetooth 4.0 and extends device battery life. The adapter's tiny form factor is perfect for laptops and motherboards, ensuring minimal space usage and prolonged battery life for your 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 long-range connectivity, covering up to 500 feet or 150 meters. Ideal for larger spaces like homes or apartments, it's best used in open areas as physical objects can reduce its range. Supporting Bluetooth 5.4, it offers fast connectivity and low energy consumption, ensuring compatibility with older Bluetooth versions. It's a great choice for long-range home connections, requiring only one USB port.

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 ideal for audiophiles seeking a Bluetooth adapter for high-quality wireless headphones or PC headsets. It boasts low latency and supports audio up to 430kbps, perfect for streaming high-quality audio from services like Apple Music or Spotify. It requires a USB-A port but includes a USB-C adapter for added versatility. A firmware update enhances its capabilities, adding support for Hi-Res 96kHz/24-bit audio, making it a worthwhile investment.

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 those looking to keep USB ports free and with an available PCI-E slot, the Gigabyte WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210 is an excellent internal adapter. It's essentially a Wi-Fi card with Bluetooth 5.2, perfect for motherboards lacking both. While it's a generation behind the latest Bluetooth standard, the difference is minimal, especially for desktop use. Ensure your motherboard has an available PCIe slot, ideally a smaller x4 port, which is common in modern PCs. Installation requires some technical skill, but it's a cost-effective solution for enhanced connectivity.

Bluetooth Adapter FAQs

Do you need a Bluetooth adapter for your PC?

Not all PCs require a Bluetooth adapter; many modern motherboards come with built-in Bluetooth. To check if your PC supports Bluetooth:

• Click the search bar at the bottom left of the screen.
• Type 'Device Manager' and select the first option with the camera and printer icon.
• Look for a 'Bluetooth' listing in Device Manager. If absent, your PC lacks onboard Bluetooth, and you'll need an adapter to connect Bluetooth devices.

Bluetooth 5.3 vs 5.0: What's the difference?

Bluetooth 5.0, introduced in July 2016, was followed by Bluetooth 5.3 in July 2021. The key improvements in 5.3 include better latency and power efficiency thanks to the LC3 codec, allowing for longer device usage. Other enhancements include faster pairing, new dual-channel earbud connection methods, and improved security. While Bluetooth 5.3 offers significant advantages, Bluetooth 5.0 still provides a solid user experience.

Do new laptops come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity?

Most new gaming laptops and MacBooks feature built-in Bluetooth. You'll typically only need an adapter for custom-built PCs or older models. Always check the product page or use the method above to confirm if an adapter is necessary.