Bluetooth adapters are crucial for devices lacking native support for the wireless standard, as many modern gadgets, from keyboards to headsets, rely on Bluetooth connectivity. If your PC's motherboard doesn't support it, a Bluetooth dongle is your go-to solution. Fortunately, there are numerous options 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 usually packed with advanced features and superior connection quality. It's important to consider the latest Bluetooth version, as current gadgets and gaming accessories often support Bluetooth 5.4. Bluetooth 6 was announced in fall 2024 and will soon be available. Thanks to backward compatibility, older adapters can still connect with newer 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 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

• Requires a USB-C adapter if your device doesn't have USB-C

Creative's BT-W5 is a top choice for gamers seeking a Bluetooth adapter for high-resolution 96kHz/24-bit audio. It connects via USB-C, making it compatible with PCs, Macs, and gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. Its low profile minimizes clutter. The device auto-adjusts the bitrate for optimal performance with different Bluetooth devices and features aptX Adaptive Low Latency for seamless gaming. A multifunctional button allows profile switching and saves up to four devices.

2. Asus USB-BT500

Best Budget Bluetooth Adapter

### ASUS USB-BT500

1See it at AmazonProduct 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 an excellent budget pick, easy to set up and compatible with a wide range of devices. It supports Bluetooth 5.0, which doubles the speed of Bluetooth 4.0 and extends battery life. Its compact design fits snugly into any USB port, ideal for laptops and desktops, enhancing the battery life of wireless headphones or AirPods.

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3. Techkey 100M Class 1 Long Range Bluetooth Adapter

Best Long-Range Bluetooth Adapter

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

1See it at AmazonProduct 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 ideal for those needing extensive coverage, reaching up to 500ft. Its antenna ensures whole-house connectivity, though physical barriers may reduce range. It supports Bluetooth 5.4 for fast connectivity and efficient battery use, compatible with previous Bluetooth versions. It's a great choice for home use, requiring just one USB port.

4. Sennheiser BTD 600

Best Bluetooth Adapter for Headphones

### Sennheiser BTD 600

1See it at AmazonProduct 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's BTD 600 is perfect for audiophiles using high-quality wireless headphones. It offers low latency and supports audio up to 430kbps, ideal for streaming high-quality files from Apple Music or Spotify. It connects via USB-A but includes a USB-C adapter for added flexibility. A firmware update enhances its audio capabilities to Hi-Res 96kHz/24-bit.

5. Gigabyte WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210

Best Internal Bluetooth Adapter for Gaming

### Gigabyte WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210

0See it at AmazonProduct 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

The Gigabyte WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210 is a versatile internal adapter for desktops, freeing up USB ports and adding both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities. It uses Bluetooth 5.2, which is slightly behind the current standard but still effective for most uses. Installation requires a free PCIe slot, typically an x4, which is commonly available in modern desktops. Some technical knowledge is needed for installation, but the adapter offers excellent performance for gamers.

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 if your PC has Bluetooth, follow these steps:

1. Click on the search bar at the bottom left of the screen.
2. Type 'Device Manager' and select the first option with the camera and printer icon.
3. Look for a 'Bluetooth' listing in Device Manager. 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 debuted in 2016, while 5.3 was released in 2021. The main upgrades in 5.3 include better latency and energy efficiency, thanks to the new LC3 codec, which extends battery life. Both versions have the same range, but 5.3 adds faster pairing, new connection methods for dual-channel earbuds, and enhanced security. While 5.3 offers improvements, 5.0 still provides a robust user experience.

Do new laptops come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity?

Most new gaming laptops and MacBooks include built-in Bluetooth. You'll typically need an adapter only if building a custom PC or upgrading an older model. Always check the product specifications or use the method above to confirm Bluetooth availability.