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Are you looking for the Best Bluetooth Adapter for PC or Laptop?
Well, Bluetooth technology was originally developed by the Swedish company Ericsson in 1994. It is a tribute to the former King of Denmark and Norway, Harald Blåtand (directly translated to Harald Blue Tooth). This gave the benefit of allowing devices to be connected without the need for cables and its use has spread rapidly.
However, many older computers do not have this type of connection. To solve this problem, you can use a practical adapter that you can connect to a computer via a USB port. These tiny devices are very comfortable and easy to use. Also, its price is quite affordable.
Most important: With the Bluetooth adapter, you can connect a large number of different devices to your personal computer without the need for cables: speakers, headphones, game console controls, mice, keyboards, and even virtual reality equipment.
Typically, Bluetooth connections have a range of up to 10 meters, making it possible to transmit information between computers in different rooms.
The different available versions of Bluetooth are compatible with each other. Generally, it is recommended that the issuing equipment is of higher performance, but in no case is this necessary.
In this article, we have compiled a list of the best and most popular Bluetooth adapters for PCs and laptops on the market. Further on, we’ll also go through the most important considerations to make when making your pick.
The best Bluetooth adapter on the market: our recommendations.
Next, we present the classification we have developed with the best Bluetooth adapters available in the market. We’ve created it, trying to cover as many different subjects as possible, although we always choose products that guarantee excellent value for money. Any one of these is a safe bet.
Best Bluetooth Adapter for PC & Laptops
ASUS BT400, the most compact adapter
Bluetooth version 4.0 adapter with BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) technology. It has a transmission speed of 3 Mbps (megabits per second) and a range of 10 meters. It is compatible with Windows 10, 8, 7, XP, Vista. It connects to the computer via a USB port.
Due to its compact design and small dimensions, and since it comes in black color, it is very discreet. It automatically connects to the devices it was previously paired with. It has a meager price and is also from a great brand like ASUS.
TP-Link UB400, the best economic option
Super Bluetooth 4.0 adapter with low Bluetooth technology (BLE), with a really cheap price and range of up to 10 meters. It comes with a very comfortable nano-sized design and a beautiful black color. You install it, and you forget it’s there. It connects to the computer via a USB port.
It has plug and play for Windows 8, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10, so you don’t have to worry about the heavy installation process. You plug it in, and it’s ready to go. It is also compatible with Windows 7, Windows Vista, and Windows XP. And you can use it with XBOX One and PS4 controllers. And this is from TP-Link! Can you ask for more?
Bluetooth Agrin, the best option for Windows
This is a Bluetooth adapter for personal computers that work under version 4.0. It is compatible with many versions of Windows, although it cannot be used in the Mac OS operating system, nor does it work with car stereos. It automatically reconnects to any device that is already paired.
It offers a 3 Mbps data transmission speed and has a range of 20 meters. It integrates with the CSR chip, which guarantees high-quality audio to avoid intermittent noise. In addition, it supports a multitude of different devices such as game console controls, mice, keyboards, speakers, and headphones. And it is plug-and-play with Windows versions 8, 8.1, and 10.
Iogear GBU521W6, adapter with more connections
This is an adapter and Bluetooth 4.0 network card with which you can connect up to three devices simultaneously. It has a maximum range of 10 meters and a transfer speed of 3 Mbps. It connects to the computer via a USB port. In addition, it has a security system that protects the security of transmitted information.
They are presented in minimal size and blue design. It includes a CD with the necessary drivers for installation. It is compatible with both Windows personal computers and Apple Max. Of course, it costs a bit more than other Bluetooth adapters.
Bluetooth EZ Cast, the most versatile adapter
This is a versatile Bluetooth 4.2 Class 2 adapter that also works as a 2.4G / 5.8G dual-band Wi-Fi dongle. Its 5G Wi-Fi is great for playing online games and streaming HD video. It is compatible with both Windows and Mac OS and Linux. Also, it’s a plug-and-play product for Windows 10, so you can plug it in, and it’s ready to use.
Other operating systems require a driver installation to function correctly. It connects via a USB port. It comes in an attractive white design. Its price is affordable, especially considering its benefits. In addition, it has a two-year warranty.
ASUS USB-BT500
We think the ASUS BT500 offers the best overall package among Bluetooth adapters. As a Bluetooth 5.0 adapter with EDR (Enhanced Data Rate), it achieves speeds of up to 3 MBit/s – more than double that of Bluetooth 4.0 representatives. The BT500 can pair with up to seven devices simultaneously over a maximum range of 40 meters in open space.
Then there’s the attractive price of around 20 dollars. It allows you to connect to any of your Bluetooth-enabled devices, including controllers (PS and Xbox), headsets, or speakers. In addition, there is a two-year warranty and the generally good quality of ASUS products.
For all Windows users, the BT500 is an overall safe choice for your wireless needs. It’s fast, can handle a significant number of devices, and has enough range to feed all your peripherals. You can’t go wrong with this one.
Pros
- Pairs with up to 7 devices
- Good energy efficiency
- Top price performance
- Good design for easy plug-and-play with a non-slip surface
- Bluetooth 5.0 + EDR
- Minimally more expensive than comparable Bluetooth adapters
Cons
- No Mac & Linux support
Avantree DG80
Compatible with all current consoles, Windows, and Mac computers, the Avantree DG80 is an audio-only Bluetooth 5.0 adapter with good coverage for headsets and speakers. In terms of range, devices can be reached up to 20 meters indoors and 30 meters above the line of sight, making the DG80 an excellent wireless solution for all audio needs.
But beware, the DG80 is a pure audio Bluetooth adapter. This means that it can only be connected to speakers, headsets, or soundbars. Dedicated support for the AptX codec (with low latency) and FastStream work great with compatible devices to make your audio experience lag-free and of the highest quality.
Of course, the Avantree DG80 is a bit more expensive at around 30 dollars, but it is still worth a look for audio fanatics. However, if you have more than just audio in mind, it might be best to pick something else from our list.
Pros
- Works with all current-generation consoles
- Works with Windows and macOS
- Bluetooth 5.0
- AptX LL and FastStream support
Cons
- quite expensive
- Audio compatible only
ZEXMTE 5.1
The strongest selling point of the ZEXMTE USB Bluetooth 5.0 adapter is its incredible range. As a Class 1 Bluetooth 5.0 adapter, you can expect a range of up to 100 meters at speeds of up to 3 Mbps.
Also, ZEXMTE’s adapter uses anti-interference technology that ignores the 2.4GHz frequency and avoids wireless traffic problems. This gives you a very stable connection. Thanks to the aptX audio transfer codec for low latency and EDR support, transferring audio to your devices should remain lag-free even from a distance.
For a very fair price of around 20 dollars, you really can’t complain about the variety of functions. However, to get the most out of this handy helper’s long range, you’ll also need Class 1 Bluetooth devices (which are rated for use over a similar distance). So if you are looking for a Bluetooth transmitter for your PC or TV with a long-range, you will certainly not be disappointed with this.
Pros
- Mid-range in terms of price
- Bluetooth 5 + EDR
- Best range
- Protected against signal interference
- AptX LL support
Cons
- Maximum range requires compatible devices
- Can only be used with Windows
Buyer’s Guide: Everything You Need to Know About Bluetooth Adapters
When buying a Bluetooth adapter, it is essential to consider several features. Therefore, in this section, we propose to answer the fundamental questions about this type of device. So that you can understand what Bluetooth adapters are, how they work and what are their advantages and disadvantages.
What exactly are Bluetooth adapters?
Bluetooth adapters are small electronic devices that connect to a USB port and allow connections to computers via Bluetooth wireless technology. Through this communication protocol, wireless transmission of information is possible between computers at short distances, usually less than ten meters.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of a Bluetooth adapter?
Of course, the main advantage of the Bluetooth adapter is connecting devices without the need for cables. Also, they are straightforward to install, and their price is quite affordable. On the contrary, because of their small size, they can easily get lost. Also, Bluetooth connections can be compromised.
Is a Bluetooth adapter worth buying?
If your computer doesn’t have a Bluetooth connection, buying an adapter will give you a new wireless connection option so that you can connect it to more devices. In this way, it is possible to provide a new life to old machines. Also, their price is quite affordable and very easy to install.
And, as we have just seen, everything is beneficial with a Bluetooth connection. Nowadays, the communication of devices through this technology is practically necessary. Of course, the future will be without cables, and newer versions of Bluetooth will bring us closer to it every time.
How does a Bluetooth adapter work?
Bluetooth communicates between two or more computers via radiofrequency. First, once Bluetooth is enabled, the device detects the rest of the computers that keep it active within range. The next step is to connect the devices. Finally, once they’re connected, they can share information.
Can devices with different versions of Bluetooth be paired with a Bluetooth adapter?
Yes, not only is it possible to pair Bluetooth devices with different versions, but this is the most common. Generally, it is recommended that the emitting material be of high quality and therefore more powerful, but this is unnecessary. This is one of the great advantages of this technology, its full compatibility between versions.
Purchase criteria for Bluetooth adapters
When it comes to buying a Bluetooth adapter, you need to consider a series of purchase criteria. To help you with the selection process, we have selected the ones we deem necessary. We hope they serve as a guide in your purchase of a device that meets your expectations.
What are you going to do with the adapter?
- Compatibility
- Bluetooth version.
- the class
- Scope
- Transfer speed.
What are you going to do with the adapter?
Logically, the first thing you need to consider before buying a Bluetooth adapter is what you need. You don’t need the same type of device to connect headphones to your computer as you do to connect multiple game console controllers. Another possibility is that you want to use it on a car stereo.
Similarly, it would help if you considered whether you would use it on a Windows, Linux, or Mac OS computer. And, of course, if it is compatible with the version of the operating system you have installed. Also, it can be plugged in and played with the latest version, but older versions require driver installation.
Compatibility
Similarly, it would help if you considered whether you are going to use it on a Windows, Linux, or Mac OS computer. And, of course, if it is compatible with the version of the operating system that you have installed. Also, it can be plugged in and played with the latest version, but older versions require driver installation.
Bluetooth version
There are different versions of Bluetooth. Since they’re designed to be backward compatible, you don’t have to worry about having different versions of the two devices.
Of course, the latest version of Bluetooth offers higher transfer speeds and better features. The various advantages of the more current version include lower energy consumption and more excellent reliability or protection against interference. You can check the maximum transfer speed in the table below.
The class
Currently, there are four types of Bluetooth signals or classes. Each refers to the maximum connection speed and distance. That way, depending on which adapter you buy, the benefits will be one or the other. You can check out some features of each class in the table below.
It shows, for each class, the maximum power in milliwatts (megawatts), the decibel milliwatts (dBm), and the meter (m). Class 4 is the one that used Bluetooth version 1.0, so it has practically disappeared. Something similar happens with Class 3 which works with version 2.0 or 2.1. Logically, the best option is Class 1.
Range
As we have just seen, the range of the adapter’s Bluetooth connection will largely depend on the class to which it belongs. The most common is to find devices with a range of 10 meters. One advantage of this type of connection is that it can be made from room to room, even with a wall in the middle.
Transfer speed
Currently, most Bluetooth devices you will find are version 4.0 or higher. It guarantees you speeds of up to 32 Mb / s (megabits per second), more than enough for tasks such as listening to music or connecting a mouse, among others. Only if you are transferring large files should you worry too much about this issue.
The benefits of a wireless connection are apparent. In the particular case of Bluetooth, they are especially clear for connecting headphones, mice, keyboards, or game console controls. However, some older computers do not have this connection, so it is vital to use a Bluetooth adapter.
These devices are small in size and cost very little. In addition, they are generally straightforward to install and configure. Hence, its vast popularity. In choosing, you must consider the usage you will make it, the version of Bluetooth it uses, and what class it belongs to. Your scope and speed of transfer will depend on these last two questions.
Finally, if you think this guide has been helpful in your selection process, you can leave us a comment or share it via various social networks.
How do I recognize good Bluetooth adapters?
Regardless of whether it is a smartphone, tablet, or laptop – Bluetooth is common in current technical devices today. However, many older device generations are not equipped with this technology, with which you can quickly and easily connect input and output devices wirelessly.
Even with desktop PCs or game consoles, Bluetooth is not always part of the standard equipment. However, you can easily upgrade with a Bluetooth adapter.
In order to avoid problems when using your new Bluetooth adapter, you should inform yourself thoroughly before you buy it. Even if most models hardly differ visually, in the end, it is the inner values that count for performance.
In this buying guide, you will learn what to look out for when making your selection and which type of Bluetooth adapter is best suited for which scenario.
The most important criterion when buying a Bluetooth adapter is of course that it can be connected to the desired device. For this, you need the right interface. But other factors such as the Bluetooth version, the range, and the transmission speed of data also play an important role.
Interface: USB, jack, or HDMI
The interface of the Bluetooth adapter decides on which device and in which way you can use it. The most common are models with a USB interface.
They are particularly suitable for use on the PC. Pay attention to whether it is a USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 connection. This has a significant impact on performance. If your desktop PC does not have USB 3.0, a cheaper adapter with the older standard is of course sufficient.
While a wide variety of data types can be transmitted and processed via USB, other interfaces are more limited. Cinch and jack are used exclusively for the transmission of audio signals. The Bluetooth audio adapters are particularly suitable for connecting wireless headphones, as is necessary with the Nintendo Switch, or for sending data to the car radio or stereo system. Adapters with an HDMI or other image interface are suitable for the wireless use of monitors and televisions.
Bluetooth version: Decisive on the data transfer rate
The Bluetooth standard has existed since 1999 and has of course been continuously developed and improved during this time. The individual versions can be distinguished by the appended version number. Today only devices with Bluetooth version 4.0 or higher can be found. There are significant differences:
- Bluetooth 4.0 was introduced in October 2010 and brought about a reduction in the power consumption in the low-energy mode of the devices
- Since Bluetooth 4.1, a simultaneous connection to many devices is possible
- Bluetooth 4.2 in December 2014 brought a higher transfer rate in low energy mode and better encryption
- The latest version 5.0 has improved range and speed with lower power consumption
Range: The different Bluetooth classes
To better classify the different ranges, Bluetooth adapters are divided into 3 classes:
- Class 1: Transmission power of 100 milliwatts and a range of up to 100 m
- Class 2: Transmission power of 50 milliwatts and a range of up to 50 m
- Class 3: Transmission power of 1 milliwatt and a range of up to 10 m
The stronger the transmission power, the higher the power consumption of the devices. This is particularly important when it comes to Bluetooth adapters that cannot cover their power consumption via their interface. You then need an extra power supply via cable or battery. Also, note that the range refers to outdoor conditions. In interiors with many walls, it can definitely be lower.
What are the different Bluetooth adapters?
The biggest differentiator of Bluetooth adapters is what types of data they can transmit. Information about this is provided, among other things, by the so-called Bluetooth profiles that a device has. You can find this information in the technical data. But the interface also says something about the type of data transmission the Bluetooth adapter is intended for.
Which Bluetooth adapter is right for me?
Depending on their equipment, different application scenarios are provided for Bluetooth adapters. While some are mainly used in your own home, there are also models that are primarily used in the car or on the go.
Bluetooth adapter for the home computer or laptop
The best way to retrofit a PC or laptop with Bluetooth is to use a Bluetooth adapter with a USB interface. USB 2.0 is usually completely sufficient. Even the somewhat outdated USB standard can transmit significantly more data than your computer can receive and send via Bluetooth.
Make sure the Bluetooth adapter supports multi pairing with many devices. This is the only way to use a Bluetooth mouse and Bluetooth keyboard as well as wireless headphones and PS4 or Xbox One controller at the same time. Many Bluetooth adapters only support 2 to 3 simultaneous signals. This is often not sufficient on the computer.
If you only want to use Bluetooth adapters at home for the transmission of audio or video signals, the main focus is on the power supply. In stationary operation, rechargeable batteries or batteries are at a disadvantage because you have to replace or charge them regularly. If the adapter will always be in place anyway, wired power is more convenient.
