In today's digital world, Bluetooth is practically essential. Many devices—keyboards, headsets, and more—rely on it, and if your PC's motherboard lacks native Bluetooth support, a Bluetooth adapter is your solution. Fortunately, numerous affordable options exist.
TL;DR - Top Bluetooth Adapters for PC:
---------------------------------------------------------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 some high-end adapters offer premium features, most are budget-friendly. Consider the Bluetooth version; Bluetooth 5.4 is the latest (with Bluetooth 6 on the horizon), but backward compatibility ensures older devices will connect. You'll simply miss out on some newer 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.
Ideal for gaming with high-resolution audio (96kHz/24-bit), the BT-W5 connects via USB-C to PCs, Macs, and consoles. Its compact design minimizes desk clutter. It auto-adjusts bitrate for optimal performance with aptX Adaptive Low Latency for low-latency gaming. A multi-functional button manages up to four saved 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: Low profile, affordable.
Cons: Weaker signal than some competitors.
The Asus USB-BT500 is our budget champion. Easy to set up, it works seamlessly with various devices. Bluetooth 5.0 doubles the speed of Bluetooth 4.0, improving battery life on connected devices. Its tiny form factor makes it unobtrusive.
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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
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Specifications:
- Bluetooth Version: 5.4
- Data Transfer Rate: Up to 3Mbps
- Range: 500ft (150m)
- Connects Via: USB-A
Pros: Excellent range, affordable.
Cons: Flimsy antenna.
Need long-range connectivity? The Techkey 150M boasts a 500-foot range (though obstacles reduce this). It supports Bluetooth 5.4 for speed and low energy consumption, and is backward compatible with older standards.
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: Pricey.
Sennheiser's BTD 600 excels with headphones and headsets, offering low latency and high-quality audio (up to 430kbps). It supports USB-A and USB-C. A firmware update adds Hi-Res 96kHz/24-bit audio support.
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 includes Wi-Fi.
Cons: For desktop PCs only, requires installation.
This internal PCI-E card adds both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.2 to your desktop. It requires installation but frees up USB ports. Note that it uses Bluetooth 5.2.
Bluetooth Adapter FAQs
Do you need a Bluetooth adapter for your PC?
Not all PCs need them; many motherboards include built-in Bluetooth. To check: Open Device Manager (search for it in the Windows search bar). If you don't see "Bluetooth," you'll need an adapter.
Bluetooth 5.3 vs 5.0: What's the difference?
Bluetooth 5.3 (released July 2021) improves power efficiency and latency over 5.0 (July 2016). Range remains similar. 5.3 also offers faster pairing and enhanced security.
Do new laptops come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity?
Most modern laptops have built-in Bluetooth. Check the product specifications or use the Device Manager method above if unsure.