Top Bluetooth Adapters for PC Revealed

Bluetooth adapters are indispensable for devices lacking native support for this ubiquitous wireless standard. In our increasingly connected world, everything from keyboards to headsets relies on Bluetooth connectivity. If your PC's motherboard doesn't include this feature, a Bluetooth dongle is your solution—and fortunately, they're both plentiful and 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 most Bluetooth adapters are budget-friendly, a few premium options offer advanced features and superior connection quality. When choosing an adapter, consider the Bluetooth version it supports. The latest, Bluetooth 5.4, was introduced before Bluetooth 6, announced in fall 2024. Bluetooth is backward compatible, so older adapters will work with newer devices, though you might miss out on cutting-edge functionalities.

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 outstanding choice for gamers seeking high-quality audio through a Bluetooth connection. Compatible with USB-C, it works seamlessly with PCs, Macs, and gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. Its sleek design minimizes clutter, and it auto-adjusts the bitrate for optimal performance with your Bluetooth devices. The aptX Adaptive Low Latency feature ensures a smooth gaming experience, while a multifunctional button lets you switch between up to four saved devices effortlessly.

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 use and compatibility with a wide range of devices. Featuring Bluetooth 5.0, it offers double the speed of Bluetooth 4.0 and improved battery life for connected devices. Its compact size makes it ideal for laptops and desktops, ensuring minimal protrusion from the USB port and prolonged battery life for your wireless headphones or AirPods.

The Best Gaming PC Deals

Lenovo Legion Tower 5 AMD Ryzen 7 7700 RTX 4070 Ti Super Gaming PC with 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD (Use Code: EXTRAFIVE)- $1,527.49Acer Predator Orion RTX 4070 Ti SUPER Gaming Desktop- $1,749.99HP OMEN 35L RTX 4060 Ti Gaming Desktop- $1,219.99Dell XPS Intel Core i7-14700 RTX 4060 Ti Gaming PC- $1,349.99Dell XPS Intel Core i7-14700 RTX 4060 Gaming PC- $1,099.993. Techkey 150M Class 1 Long Range Bluetooth Adapter

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 extending connectivity across large spaces. With a range of 500 feet, it's perfect for covering entire homes or apartments. It supports Bluetooth 5.4, ensuring fast connections and efficient power usage. Despite its effective range, the antenna may feel a bit flimsy, but it's a small trade-off for the coverage you get.

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, renowned for their audio products, offers the BTD 600 Bluetooth adapter specifically designed for high-quality wireless headphone use. It boasts low latency and supports audio up to 430kbps, ideal 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 upgrade enables Hi-Res 96kHz/24-bit audio, enhancing your listening experience.

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 desktop users looking to preserve USB ports, the Gigabyte WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210 is a dual-purpose solution, combining Bluetooth with Wi-Fi capabilities. It requires a PCI-E slot, commonly available in most modern desktops. While it supports Bluetooth 5.2, which is slightly behind the latest standards, it's adequate for gaming needs. Installation requires some technical know-how, but it's an excellent choice for those comfortable with PC modifications.

Bluetooth Adapter FAQs

Do you need a Bluetooth adapter for your PC?

Not all PCs or laptops require a Bluetooth adapter, as many come with built-in functionality. To check if your PC supports Bluetooth, 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, you should see a Bluetooth listing with a drop-down option. If you do not see Bluetooth here, your motherboard does not have onboard Bluetooth capabilities. If your motherboard lacks Bluetooth support, you will need to purchase a Bluetooth adapter to connect any Bluetooth device to your PC.

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 improvements in 5.3 include better latency and reduced power consumption thanks to the LC3 codec, allowing longer usage of connected devices. While the range remains unchanged from 5.0 to 5.3, enhancements in pairing speed, dual-channel earbud connectivity, and security have been added. Despite these upgrades, Bluetooth 5.0 still provides a robust experience, with minimal differences from 5.3.

Do new laptops come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity?

Most modern gaming laptops and MacBooks include built-in Bluetooth connectivity. You'll typically only need an adapter if you're building a custom PC or upgrading an older model. Always check the product specifications or use the Device Manager method to confirm your laptop's Bluetooth capabilities before purchasing an adapter.