In today's digital world, Bluetooth is practically essential. Keyboards, headsets, and countless other devices rely on it. If your PC's motherboard lacks native Bluetooth support, a Bluetooth adapter is your solution. Fortunately, these handy dongles are widely available and affordable.
TL;DR - Top Bluetooth Adapters for PC:
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Creative BT-W5 (Our Top Pick)
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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
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While high-end adapters exist, they're usually pricey and offer premium features. Consider the Bluetooth version supported by your devices. Bluetooth 5.4 is the latest (with Bluetooth 6 on the horizon), but backward compatibility ensures older adapters work, albeit without the newest features.
1. Creative BT-W5: Best Bluetooth Adapter
Creative BT-W5 (Our Top Pick)
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Specifications:
- Bluetooth Version: 5.3
- Data Transfer Rate: Up to 3 Megabits per second
- Range: 165 feet
- Connects Via: USB-C
Pros: Universal USB-C connectivity, affordable.
Cons: Requires an adapter if you lack USB-C.
The Creative BT-W5 excels for PC gaming, delivering high-resolution 96kHz/24-bit audio. Its USB-C connection works across PCs, Macs, and consoles. The low-profile design minimizes desk clutter. It auto-adjusts bitrate for optimal performance with aptX Adaptive Low Latency for minimal lag. A multi-function button manages profiles, saving up to four devices.
2. Asus USB-BT500: Best Budget Bluetooth Adapter
ASUS USB-BT500
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Specifications:
- Bluetooth Version: 5.0
- Data Transfer Rate: Up to 3 Megabits per second
- Range: 30 feet
- Connects Via: USB-A
Pros: Very low profile, affordable.
Cons: Weaker signal.
The Asus USB-BT500 is our budget champion. Easy setup and broad compatibility make it a simple solution. Bluetooth 5.0 doubles the speed of Bluetooth 4.0, extending battery life on paired devices. Its tiny size fits almost anywhere.
3. Techkey 150M Class 1 Long Range Bluetooth Adapter: Best Long-Range Bluetooth Adapter
Techkey 150M Class 1 Long Range Bluetooth Adapter
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Specifications:
- Bluetooth Version: 5.4
- Data Transfer Rate: Up to 3Mbps
- Range: 500ft
- Connects Via: USB-A
Pros: Excellent range for the price, affordable.
Cons: Flimsy antenna.
Need long-range connectivity? The Techkey 150M boasts a 500ft range (though physical obstructions will reduce this). Bluetooth 5.4 provides fast speeds and excellent battery life. It's compatible with older Bluetooth versions.
4. Sennheiser BTD 600: Best Bluetooth Adapter for Headphones
Sennheiser BTD 600
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Specifications:
- Bluetooth Version: 5.2
- Data Transfer Rate: Up to 3 Megabits per second
- Range: 30 feet
- Connects Via: USB-A or USB-C
Pros: Optimized for headphones, flexible connectivity.
Cons: Expensive.
Sennheiser's BTD 600 is ideal for high-quality wireless headphones and headsets, offering low latency and high-bitrate audio (up to 430kbps). It supports Hi-Res 96kHz/24-bit audio (after a firmware update).
5. Gigabyte WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210: Best Internal Bluetooth Adapter for Gaming
Gigabyte WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210
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Specifications:
- Bluetooth Version: 5.2
- Data Transfer Rate: 2,400Mbps
- Range: Not rated
- Connects Via: PCI-E
Pros: Affordable, also a Wi-Fi adapter.
Cons: For desktop PCs only.
For desktop users with an available PCI-E slot, this internal adapter (which also includes Wi-Fi) offers a clean solution. While using Bluetooth 5.2, it still provides solid performance. Requires technical knowledge for installation.
Bluetooth Adapter FAQs
Do you need a Bluetooth adapter for your PC?
Not all PCs need one; many motherboards have built-in Bluetooth. Check your Device Manager (search for it in the Windows search bar) to see if "Bluetooth" is listed. If not, you'll need an adapter.
Bluetooth 5.3 vs 5.0: What's the difference?
Bluetooth 5.3 (released 2021) improves power efficiency and latency compared to 5.0 (2016). Range remains largely unchanged. 5.3 also offers faster pairing, enhanced security, and improved dual-channel earbud support. However, 5.0 still provides a good experience.
Do new laptops come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity?
Most modern laptops (gaming laptops and MacBooks especially) include built-in Bluetooth. Check the product specifications or use the Device Manager method described above to confirm.
