The Best Bluetooth Adapters for PC

A Bluetooth adapter is a must-have for any device lacking native Bluetooth support. In today's world, countless devices—keyboards, headsets, and more—rely on Bluetooth connectivity. If your PC's motherboard doesn't have built-in Bluetooth, a Bluetooth dongle is your solution. Fortunately, many affordable options are available.

**TL;DR - Top Bluetooth Adapters for PC:**

Our Top Pick: Creative BT-W5
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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 Bluetooth adapters exist, they're often pricey and offer only marginally better features. Consider the Bluetooth version supported by your devices. Bluetooth 5.4 is the latest (with Bluetooth 6 on the horizon), but backward compatibility ensures older adapters work, albeit without the newest features.

1. Creative BT-W5: Best Bluetooth Adapter

Our Top Pick: Creative BT-W5
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Specifications: Bluetooth 5.3, Up to 3 Mbps, 165ft range, USB-C

Pros: Universal USB-C connectivity, affordable.

Cons: Requires an adapter if you lack USB-C.

The Creative BT-W5 excels for PC gaming, offering high-resolution 96kHz/24-bit audio via USB-C. Compatible with PCs, Macs, and consoles, its compact design minimizes clutter. Automatic bitrate adjustment and aptX Adaptive Low Latency ensure low-latency connections, ideal for controllers and headsets. A multi-function button allows switching between up to four saved devices.

2. Asus USB-BT500: Best Budget Bluetooth Adapter

ASUS USB-BT500
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Specifications: Bluetooth 5.0, Up to 3 Mbps, 30ft range, USB-A

Pros: Low profile, affordable.

Cons: Weaker signal.

Our budget pick, the Asus USB-BT500, is easy to set up and works seamlessly. With Bluetooth 5.0, it offers double the speed of Bluetooth 4.0, extending device battery life. Its tiny form factor makes it perfect for laptops and motherboards.

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 5.4, Up to 3 Mbps, 500ft range, USB-A

Pros: Excellent range, affordable.

Cons: Flimsy antenna.

Need long-range connectivity? The Techkey 150M boasts a 500ft range (though physical obstructions will reduce this). Bluetooth 5.4 ensures fast speeds and excellent battery life. Compatible with various Bluetooth versions, it requires only one USB port.

4. Sennheiser BTD 600: Best Bluetooth Adapter for Headphones

Sennheiser BTD 600
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Specifications: Bluetooth 5.2, Up to 3 Mbps, 30ft range, USB-A/USB-C

Pros: Designed for headphones, flexible connectivity.

Cons: Expensive.

Sennheiser's BTD 600 is ideal for high-quality wireless headphones and headsets. It offers low latency and high-quality audio (up to 430kbps). It supports USB-A and USB-C, and a firmware update enables Hi-Res 96kHz/24-bit audio.

5. Gigabyte WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210: Best Internal Bluetooth Adapter for Gaming

Gigabyte WiFi 6E GC-WBAX210
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Specifications: Bluetooth 5.2, 2400 Mbps, Range not rated, PCI-E

Pros: Affordable, also a Wi-Fi adapter.

Cons: For desktop PCs only.

For desktop users with an open PCI-E slot, this internal adapter (also a Wi-Fi adapter) offers a cost-effective solution. While using Bluetooth 5.2, it provides solid performance.

Bluetooth Adapter FAQs

Do you need a Bluetooth adapter for your PC?

Not all PCs need one; many motherboards have built-in Bluetooth. Check your Device Manager (search for it in the Windows search bar) to see if "Bluetooth" is listed. If not, 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 compared to 5.0 (July 2016). Range remains similar. 5.3 also offers faster pairing, improved dual-channel earbud support, and enhanced security.

Do new laptops come equipped with Bluetooth connectivity?

Most modern laptops include Bluetooth. Check the product specifications before purchasing or use the Device Manager method described above.