Top Bluetooth Adapters for Your PC

Bluetooth adapters are vital for devices that lack built-in Bluetooth connectivity, as the wireless standard is integral to many of our daily-use devices. From keyboards to headsets, Bluetooth connectivity is crucial, and if your PC's motherboard doesn't support it natively, a Bluetooth dongle becomes a necessity. Fortunately, there's a wide variety of Bluetooth adapters available, and they're generally affordable.

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, these are typically the ones offering advanced features and superior connection quality. When choosing an adapter, it's important to consider the latest Bluetooth versions supported by modern gadgets and gaming accessories. The current market standard is Bluetooth 5.4, with Bluetooth 6 announced for a future rollout. Bluetooth's backward compatibility ensures that any adapter can connect with older devices, though you may miss out on some 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 gamers seeking a Bluetooth adapter that supports high-resolution 96kHz/24-bit audio. Its USB-C connectivity makes it compatible with PCs, Macs, and gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. Its sleek design ensures minimal clutter. The device auto-adjusts the bitrate for optimal performance with aptX Adaptive Low Latency, ideal for gaming controllers and headsets. Additionally, a multifunctional button allows you 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 an affordable and easy-to-set-up option, compatible with a wide range of devices. It supports Bluetooth 5.0, which offers double the speed of Bluetooth 4.0 and extends battery life due to lower power consumption. Its compact design fits snugly into any USB port, making it ideal for laptops and desktops, ensuring longer battery life for your wireless devices.

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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 ideal for those needing extensive coverage, offering a range of up to 500 feet. Its antenna can cover an entire house or apartment, though physical barriers may reduce this. Supporting Bluetooth 5.4, it provides fast connectivity and energy-efficient operation, and is compatible with older Bluetooth versions. It requires just one USB port, making it a great choice for long-range home connectivity.

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 high-quality wireless headphones and PC headsets, offering low latency and audio quality up to 430kbps. It supports high-resolution audio files from services like Apple Music and Spotify. The adapter uses a USB-A port but includes a USB-C adapter for added flexibility. A firmware update enhances its capabilities, including support for 96kHz/24-bit audio.

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 PCsThe Gigabyte WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210 is an internal adapter that frees up USB ports and doubles as a Wi-Fi adapter. It uses Bluetooth 5.2, which is suitable for most users despite being a couple of revisions behind the latest standard. Installation requires a PCI-E slot, typically available in desktop PCs. This adapter is a cost-effective solution for those comfortable with some technical setup.

Bluetooth Adapter FAQs

Do you need a Bluetooth adapter for your PC?

Not all PCs or laptops require a Bluetooth adapter, as many have built-in Bluetooth. To check, follow these steps:

Go to the bottom left of the screen and click on the search bar.Type in 'Device Manager,' and select the first option that pops up. The icon shows a digital camera and a printer.In Device Manager, look for a Bluetooth listing. If it's absent, your motherboard lacks Bluetooth capability, 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 succeeded by Bluetooth 5.3 in July 2021. The main enhancements in 5.3 include reduced latency and power consumption thanks to the LC3 codec, which extends the battery life of connected devices. Both versions maintain the same range, but 5.3 adds faster pairing, new connection methods for dual-channel earbuds, and improved security. While 5.3 offers nice-to-have features, 5.0 still provides a robust experience.

Do new laptops come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity?

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