Bluetooth adapters have become indispensable for devices lacking native support for this ubiquitous wireless standard. From keyboards and headsets to speakers and controllers, Bluetooth connectivity is essential for many modern gadgets. If your PC's motherboard doesn't have built-in Bluetooth, a Bluetooth dongle is your ticket to seamless wireless connections. Fortunately, the market is saturated 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 Amazon

While premium Bluetooth adapters exist, they are the exception rather than the rule, often boasting advanced features and superior connection quality. When choosing an adapter, consider the latest Bluetooth version that modern devices support. Currently, Bluetooth 5.4 is the standard, although Bluetooth 6 was announced in fall 2024 and is expected to roll out soon. Bluetooth's backward compatibility ensures that any adapter will work with older devices, though you might miss out on newer features.

1. Creative BT-W5

Best Bluetooth Adapter

Our Top Pick### Creative BT-W5

1See it at Amazon

Product Specifications

• Bluetooth Version: 5.3
• Data Transfer Rate: Up to 3 Megabits per second
• Range: 165 feet
• Connects Via: USB-C

PROS

• USB-C for universal connectivity
• Affordable

CONS

• If you don't have USB-C, you'll need an adapter

The Creative BT-W5 is a top choice for gamers seeking high-resolution audio at 96kHz/24-bit. Its USB-C connectivity allows use across PCs, Macs, and gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. The adapter's low profile minimizes clutter, while its auto-adjusting bitrate and aptX Adaptive Low Latency ensure a smooth, low-latency experience for gaming controllers and headsets. It also features a multifunctional button for profile switching and can store up to four devices.

2. Asus USB-BT500

Best Budget Bluetooth Adapter

### ASUS USB-BT500

1See it at Amazon

Product 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 ideal for budget-conscious users. It's easy to set up and works seamlessly with a wide range of devices. Featuring Bluetooth 5.0, it offers doubled speeds compared to Bluetooth 4.0, which also enhances battery life for connected devices. Its compact size makes it perfect for laptops and desktops, ensuring your wireless headphones or AirPods last longer between charges.

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3. Techkey 150M Class 1 Long Range Bluetooth Adapter

Best Long-Range Bluetooth Adapter

### Techkey 150M Class 1 Long Range Bluetooth Adapter

1See it at Amazon

Product Specifications

• Bluetooth Version: 5.4
• Data Transfer Rate: Up to 3Mbps
• Range: 500ft
• Connects Via: USB-A

PROS

• Solid range for the money
• Affordable

CONS

• Flimsy antenna

The Techkey 150M Class 1 Long Range Bluetooth Adapter is perfect for those needing extensive coverage. Its antenna extends the range to 500 feet, ideal for larger homes or apartments. Although physical barriers can reduce range, positioning your PC in an open area maximizes performance. It supports Bluetooth 5.4 for fast connectivity and energy efficiency, and is backward compatible with older Bluetooth versions, making it a versatile choice for long-range connections.

4. Sennheiser BTD 600

Best Bluetooth Adapter for Headphones

### Sennheiser BTD 600

1See it at Amazon

Product 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

• Specially made for headphones
• Flexible connectivity

CONS

• Expensive for what it is

Sennheiser, renowned for audio equipment, offers the BTD 600 for high-quality wireless headphone users. It boasts low latency and supports up to 430kbps audio, perfect for streaming from services like Apple Music or Spotify. The adapter 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, ensuring an optimal listening experience.

5. Gigabyte WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210

Best Internal Bluetooth Adapter for Gaming

### Gigabyte WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210

0See it at Amazon

Product Specifications

• Bluetooth Version: 5.2
• Data Transfer Rate: 2,400Mbps
• Range: Not rated
• Connects Via: PCI-E

PROS

• Very affordable
• Is also a Wi-Fi adapter

CONS

• Only for desktop PCs

For those looking to keep USB ports free and have a spare PCI-E slot, the Gigabyte WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210 is an excellent internal adapter. It's primarily a Wi-Fi adapter but also includes Bluetooth 5.2, ideal for desktops without built-in Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Though it lacks the latest Bluetooth features, it's perfect for stationary use where battery life isn't a concern. Installation requires some technical know-how, but it's a cost-effective solution for enhancing your PC's connectivity.

Bluetooth Adapter FAQs

Do you need a Bluetooth adapter for your PC?

Not all PCs or laptops require a Bluetooth adapter, as many modern motherboards include built-in Bluetooth. To check if your PC has Bluetooth, follow these steps:

1. Click the search bar in the bottom left of the screen.
2. Type 'Device Manager' and select the first option with the camera and printer icon.
3. In Device Manager, look for a Bluetooth listing. If it's absent, your motherboard lacks 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 updates in 5.3 include improved latency and lower power consumption due to the new LC3 codec, allowing longer usage for connected devices. Both versions maintain similar ranges, but 5.3 offers faster pairing, new connection methods for dual-channel earbuds, and enhanced security features. While 5.3 provides valuable improvements, Bluetooth 5.0 still delivers a robust experience.

Do new laptops come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity?

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