Bluetooth adapters are crucial for devices that lack built-in Bluetooth capabilities, as nearly all modern gadgets—from keyboards to headsets—rely on this wireless technology. If your PC's motherboard doesn't support Bluetooth natively, a Bluetooth dongle becomes essential. Fortunately, the market offers a wide range of these adapters at affordable prices.
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 packed with premium features and superior connection quality. When selecting an adapter, consider the latest Bluetooth standard supported by new gadgets and gaming accessories. Bluetooth 5.4 is currently the most advanced version available, though Bluetooth 6 was announced in the fall of 2024 and will soon become available. Bluetooth's backward compatibility ensures that any adapter will work with older devices, though you might miss out on newer features.
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 stands out as an excellent choice for PC gaming enthusiasts looking for a high-quality Bluetooth adapter. It supports hi-res 96kHz/24-bit audio and connects via USB-C, making it compatible with a wide range of devices, including PCs, Macs, and gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. Its low-profile design minimizes clutter. The device smartly auto-adjusts bitrate for optimal performance with any Bluetooth device, and features aptX Adaptive Low Latency for seamless gaming. The multifunctional button allows you to switch profiles and save up to four different devices.
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 a top choice for budget-conscious consumers. It's easy to set up and compatible with a variety of devices. Equipped with Bluetooth 5.0, it offers double the speed of Bluetooth 4.0 and extends battery life for paired devices. Its compact design fits seamlessly into any USB port, making it perfect for laptops and PCs. This adapter is ideal for users looking to prolong the battery life of their 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 is ideal for users needing extended range connectivity. With a 500ft range and an antenna, it's suitable for covering large areas like a whole house or apartment. It supports Bluetooth 5.4 for fast connectivity and low energy consumption, ensuring superb battery life. This adapter is backward compatible with previous Bluetooth versions, making it versatile for various devices. It requires just one USB port, making it an excellent choice for long-range connections.
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 designed specifically for audiophiles using high-end wireless headphones or gaming headsets. It offers low latency and supports high-quality audio up to 430kbps, perfect for streaming services like Apple Music or Spotify. Powered via USB-A, it includes a USB-C adapter for added versatility. To maximize its potential, a firmware upgrade is recommended, which adds support for Hi-Res 96kHz/24-bit audio.
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 users looking to keep their USB ports free and have a spare PCIe slot on their motherboard, the Gigabyte WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210 is an excellent internal Bluetooth and Wi-Fi adapter. It's particularly useful for desktops lacking both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities. While it uses Bluetooth 5.2, the difference in features from newer versions is minimal, especially for stationary desktop use. 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 every PC or laptop requires a Bluetooth adapter, as many modern motherboards come with built-in Bluetooth 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 does not support Bluetooth, you will need to buy 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 followed by Bluetooth 5.3 in July 2021. The main improvements in Bluetooth 5.3 include better latency and power efficiency thanks to the new LC3 codec, which extends the battery life of connected devices. Both versions maintain the same range, with significant enhancements expected in Bluetooth 6.0. Bluetooth 5.3 also offers faster pairing, new connection methods for dual-channel earbuds, and enhanced security and encryption. While these improvements are beneficial, Bluetooth 5.0 still provides a robust user experience.
Do new laptops come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity?
Most modern gaming laptops and MacBooks come equipped with built-in Bluetooth connectivity. You'll typically only need an adapter for custom-built PCs or older models without this feature. Always check the product page or use the method described above to confirm if your device needs a Bluetooth adapter.
