The Xiaomi Bluetooth Audio Receiver will turn your wired headphones into wireless ones

Modern people dislike wires, to put it mildly. Nobody likes to wrap themselves in cables like Tutankhamun in bandages, but here you have to: if smartphones and tablets are equipped with Bluetooth, then there are not so many laptops with this option, and there is nothing to say about desktop PCs. To connect wireless speakers and headphones, mice and keyboards, gamepads and smartphones to such a conservative computer, you need a Bluetooth adapter. I’ll tell you now how to choose the best Bluetooth adapter for a car or home computer, for a speaker system or wireless headphones, and even how much they cost approximately. Meet: 5 best Bluetooth adapters for all occasions and for any wallet.

• How to choose the best Bluetooth adapter
• Independent Top 5 Best Bluetooth Adapters 2020
• FAQ

How to choose the best Bluetooth adapter

External and internal Bluetooth adapters

Most Bluetooth adapters for computers look like small flash drives. Some are equipped with antennas to enhance the signal or flashing lights, but the essence remains the same: we insert the baby into the USB port, wait for the system to detect the new device and install drivers for it, and we get the desired wireless interface.

Another type of Bluetooth adapter is built-in solutions. You can’t plug these into a laptop: to install them you need to open the system unit of a desktop PC. Typically, internal adapters are installed in the PCI-E port. Often this category of adapters is equipped with additional functions, such as Wi-Fi.

Not all Bluetooth adapters connect to a PC. A separate type of these devices is designed to make wired audio systems and old car radios wireless. Such adapters are connected via an audio input and receive power from a battery or mains.

Bluetooth adapter classes

Bluetooth adapters are classified by range. Devices of the first class hit at a distance of up to 100 meters, the second - 50 meters, the third - 5-10, and the fourth - from 2 to 5. The last class of devices can no longer be found on sale, their range is too ridiculous. Most consumer electronics and wearable devices can receive Bluetooth signals up to 10 meters away, but walls and other obstacles can seriously reduce this range. In principle, this power is quite enough for an apartment, but for an office or large house it is better to choose a longer-range adapter.

Bluetooth protocol version in the adapter

The current Bluetooth version at the beginning of 2022 is 5.0. Protocol 5.1 has already been announced, but no one knows when devices with it will go on sale. In principle, even a Chinese “whistle” with the ancient Bluetooth of the second revision is enough to fully use the Bluetooth adapter from a PC. But if you want clean, high-resolution audio, fast file sharing, and low power consumption, you're better off splurging on something more modern: 4.1 or higher.

Bluetooth adapter prices

The range of prices for Bluetooth adapters is simply enormous. Prices depend on the manufacturer, functionality, Bluetooth version, device class and the desire of the seller. The notorious Chinese “whistle” can be ordered on AliExpress for 100 rubles. Newer devices with at least the fourth version of the protocol will cost about three times more - 300 rubles. Well, for first-class devices, and even with additional functionality, they ask for an order of magnitude more: you can find adapters for both 2000 and 3000 rubles.

Manufacturers of Bluetooth adapters

By modern standards, a Bluetooth adapter is not a very complicated device, so everyone makes them: from underground Vietnamese workshops to serious electronics manufacturers like Intel or Broadcom. The funny thing is that there is no fundamental difference between no-names and well-known brands. At least when it comes to the simplest external devices without additional functionality. Except that adapters from popular brands look nicer and are more expensive. Our Top 5 best Bluetooth adapters include devices from Quantoom, Orico, Palmexx and AirFly.

What is a Bluetooth transmitter and what is it for?

As a rule, these are compact devices that have a built-in Bluetooth module and various audio inputs/outputs for connecting to different sound sources (TVs, computers, phones) or to devices that are designed to output sound (speakers, speaker systems, stereos, radios, etc.) etc.). All these devices differ not only in technical characteristics, but also in appearance. Here are some of them:

The main differences between different models of Bluetooth transmitters:

• Supports different connection interfaces. For example, there are transmitters that connect only via a regular 3.5 mm Jack. And there are models in which, in addition to a 3.5 mm jack, there is also an RCA (tulip) and an optical audio input/output.
• The presence or absence of a built-in battery.
• Bluetooth versions.
• Possibility of connecting several Bluetooth headphones or speakers.
• The quality of the Bluetooth module, the presence of different control interfaces, build quality, cables, etc.

If I understand correctly (I may be wrong, since it is unrealistic to check all devices), then all Bluetooth transmitters on the market can operate in receive and transmit mode (2 in 1). Since even my cheapest adapter can both receive sound via Bluetooth and transmit it to the same speaker system, and transmit sound via Bluetooth (from a TV, PC) to headphones or another device. Typically these modes are called TX Mode and RX Mode .

• TX – transmitter mode. When a Bluetooth transmitter receives sound from the same TV through a specific interface (cable) and transmits it to headphones via Bluetooth. These devices are most often used in this operating mode.
• RX – receiver mode. When we connect regular speakers, a stereo system, a car radio (via AUX), or another device for sound output to the transmitter via cable. Then, from your phone, tablet, laptop or other device, connect to the transmitter via Bluetooth and stream music. It turns out that we will add Bluetooth support for regular speakers.

The picture below shows the operation of two modes:

Even my cheapest transmitter works in two modes without problems (almost without problems :)). Receive and transmit sound via Bluetooth. Only the way to switch between modes on different transmitters is very different.

If the expensive one has a separate TX/RX switch, then the cheap one has no buttons at all. And changing the mode occurs by connecting, disconnecting and reconnecting the device to the power source. In receiver mode the indicator flashes blue, and in transmitter mode it flashes red. Without instructions (which, by the way, were not included in the kit), it’s impossible to guess. It’s good that at least it’s written about this in the product description on Ali.

Use case #1

This example shows operation in transmitter (TX) mode. The TV does not have Bluetooth (or there is Bluetooth, but the headphones do not connect), and we need to connect wireless headphones. We connect the transmitter to the TV using an audio cable. If your TV has a 3.5 mm headphone output, use it. Mine, for example, does not have a 3.5 mm jack. Therefore, I connect via optical audio output. You can also use RAC (tulip). Even old TVs have it. It is very important to take this into account when choosing this device. You also need to connect power to the transmitter. I connect it to the USB port on the TV. If there is no USB, you can use any adapter that you use to charge your phone.

After turning on the power of the transmitter, you need to connect Bluetooth headphones to it. Usually, it is enough to switch the headphones to connection mode. The connection method may vary slightly depending on your transmitter and headphones. Once connected, the sound goes to the headphones. The more expensive model can connect two pairs of headphones at once. When connected to a TV via an optical audio output, sound is also simultaneously played from the TV's speakers. But you can simply turn it off, or turn it off on the TV. Then the sound will only be played through the headphones. There is a slight delay between the sound coming from the TV speakers and the sound coming from the headphones through the transmitter.

Use case #2

This example shows operation in receiver (RX) mode. There is a regular speaker system without Bluetooth. But we want to stream music from our phone or tablet to it. Or even from a laptop or PC, but we do not have the opportunity (or desire) to connect the speakers to the computer via cable. We take the Bluetooth transmitter and connect it to the speakers. Here, in the same way, you can use either a 3.5 mm Jack or a RAC or optical audio cable. Depending on what connection connectors are on your transmitter and speakers. You also need to connect power to the transmitter. Power can be taken from the USB port of any device, or through an adapter.

Switch the transmitter to receiver mode (RX). In this mode, it is discoverable on all devices (phones, laptops). We turn on Bluetooth, for example, on the phone, and connect to the transmitter (its name should be written in the instructions). The phone or other device recognizes it as headphones and outputs sound. And the transmitter, in turn, transmits sound to the speakers via cable.

Independent Top 5 Best Bluetooth Adapters 2022

Best Bluetooth Adapter for PC

Orico BTA-408

Orico BTA-408 (up to 1000 rubles) is a tiny device, the main module of which is even smaller than the USB connector for connecting the adapter to a PC. Due to its compactness, the device will not interfere with plugging anything into adjacent ports. Supports Bluetooth protocol version 4.0: not the latest, but it is enough to transmit, for example, high-quality audio at speeds up to 3 Mbit/s. The signal reaches a distance of up to 20 meters. The adapter can connect two gadgets to your PC at the same time. Pairs quickly and saves power on connected devices with wake-up and smart sleep functions.

Price: ₽ 500

Best Budget Bluetooth Adapter

ORICO BTA-508

ORICO BTA-508 (550 rubles). As the name suggests, this adapter connects to a PC via a USB port and provides connection to external devices using the Bluetooth 5.0 protocol. An ultra-compact “plug and forget” model at a very affordable price and without any unnecessary functionality. Cheap and cheerful.

Price: ₽ 550

Best Bluetooth adapter for car

Speakerphone Mpow BMBH044CB

A kit for installing a hands-free device in a car for less than 1,500 rubles. At a fairly modest price, the device is distinguished by high quality workmanship and modest but decent functionality. The task of Mpow BMBH044CB is to provide hands-free communication in the car without wires, and the device copes with it perfectly: transmits high-quality sound via Bluetooth version 4.2, confidently keeps the signal at a distance of up to 10 meters, connects to any standard speakers and supports Headset, A2DP and AVRCP protocols . One charge of the built-in battery lasts approximately 10 hours of continuous operation. A simple and reliable Bluetooth adapter for your car.

Price: ₽ 1,390

The best Bluetooth adapter for wireless headphones

Twelve South AirFly AUX Pro 3.5mm

Sometimes wired headphones need to somehow be made friends with a modern smartphone, and sometimes vice versa: teach an old player to work with wireless headphones. Twelve South AirFly 3.5mm AUX White 12-1801 (3000 rubles), created specifically to work with Apple AirPods, but also suitable for other models of wireless headsets, serves this purpose. The adapter weighs only 16 grams and is ready to play continuously for 16 hours. Supports Bluetooth 4.1 and aptX codec for transmitting audio in FLAC, ALAC and other lossless formats. AirFly's controls are simple, its dimensions are compact, and its appearance is attractive. It's a shame the price is high, but there's a lot to pay for here.

Price: RUB 2,989

The best Bluetooth adapter for an external speaker system

Quantoom AUX Home Mini

The manufacturer positions this Bluetooth adapter as a device for connecting external acoustics at home - even the word Home in the name speaks about this. Nevertheless, this nice and compact device will find use both on the street and in the car - fortunately, it weighs very little, takes up little space, and is even equipped with a built-in battery. The battery charges in a couple of hours, which is enough for 10 hours of continuous use. The asking price is about 1200 rubles.

Price: ₽ 1340

A selection of Bluetooth APT-X audio receivers from Aliexpress

A good selection of wireless audio receivers for home theater, multimedia systems, speakers and headphones that not only transmit lossless formats without loss, but also provide low audio latency. These are popular Bluetooth APT-X formats, including APT-X LL and APT-X HD, as well as the latest versions of the Bluetooth 5.0 codec. The above models are not just the latest modifications, but will also suit every budget and every taste. The devices are intended for stationary use, for a car, or for connecting headphones to a smartphone.

10. One of the modern and functional receivers is the Blitzwolf BW-BR5 Bluetooth receiver. It is a Bluetooth V5.0 wireless adapter with external antennas. There are separate operating modes: receiver (RX) and transmitter (TX), which can be very convenient. Two such devices form a wireless audio bridge without loss of communication. The Blitzwolf BW-BR5 receiver is implemented on the CSR8670 chip and has Micro USB, 3.5 mm AUX, optical input/output interfaces.

9. The second interesting gadget is the Ugreen CM144 Bluetooth 5.0 wireless receiver-transmitter with AptX HD+LL support. This is a small functional transceiver with a battery (300 mAh - for 3 hours of operation) and dual output: Toslink/optics or AUX. An Rx/Tx selector is provided to select the operating mode. In the lot, by the way, you can also choose a version with Bluetooth 4.2.

8. Another interesting receiver for headphones and acoustics is the BTR3 model from FiiO. This is an unusual Bluetooth 4.2 receiver with support for the AptXLL codec and a built-in dedicated AK4376A DAC, which altogether provides indescribable sound. Can work as USB-DAC. The receiver on the CSR8670 chip is autonomous - the built-in 300 mAh battery is enough for 11 hours of operation. A good option for home speakers, cars or headphones. There is a built-in noise-canceling microphone for taking calls.

7. Another model of a wireless Bluetooth receiver with APT-X is the UGREEN Bluetooth 5.0 CM110 receiver. Provides up to 5 hours of operation in a sound source for headphones, car radio or speaker system. Can work as an adapter for voice communication. A 3.5 mm jack is used to connect headphones.

6. Ultra-cheap receiver with APT-X LL Kebidu B7. It costs at least twice as much as any of this selection. Equipped with an NFC responder for quick pairing with a smartphone. Has a built-in microphone for answering calls. Ideal for headphones or car. Battery 300 mAh, operating time up to two hours.

5. One of the most popular and best-selling receiver from UGREEN is wireless Bluetooth 5.0 with a 3.5 mm jack. The built-in battery provides up to 5 hours of operation. A microphone is provided for voice communication. Ideal for a car radio. When choosing, choose carefully - there is an outdated model in the lot without APT-X, although a little cheaper.

4. Inexpensive branded VIKEFON wireless transceiver with a stated communication range of up to 80 meters. The device is implemented on the CSR8670 chip (Bluetooth 5.0) and has Micro USB, 3.5 mm, AUX, optical input/output interfaces. Good for connecting headphones to a TV or connecting a speaker system to a smartphone. Easy to manage.

3. One of the best in its class is the FX-AUDIO BL-MUSE-02 wireless audio receiver based on the CSR8670 Bluetooth 4.0 chip. Supports APTX, SBC, A2DP, AVRCP, PBAP codecs and provides a signal-to-noise ratio of up to -95dB. The connection is made via optics/toslink, or coaxial wire (RCA). An external antenna is used to increase the range.

2. DIG Shine BTS2 audio receiver in a housing based on the CSR8675 Bluetooth v5.0 chip. Support for 24BIT APTX HD is declared. To increase the range, a separate external antenna is used. Supports profiles: APTX-HD, APTX-LL, APT-X, A2DP, AVRCP, AAC and so on. For connection, you can select optical digital output, coaxial digital output.

1. If you don’t need show-off, a brand, or a beautiful case for show, then it makes sense to purchase a separate audio module of a digital Bluetooth receiver for homemade products and DIY. This is a popular AIYIMA Bluetooth audio module that supports APT-X protocol. The photo shows a separate CSR64215 chip, and also switching relays, a preamplifier, and connectors are soldered on the board for ease of installation. This will be enough for a home audio system.

Well, at the end of the day, some diagrams for comparison.

Bluetooth versions and latency (conditionally).

Codec versions and latency in ms. The “cooler” the codec, the better the sound and the lower the delay. Noticeable in dynamic scenes, when the sound simply lags behind the picture.

A selection of built-in Bluetooth modules can be viewed at the link: Selection of Bluetooth audio modules for repair and modernization of multimedia systems.

Comparison table of the best Bluetooth adapters

FAQ

Is it possible to connect two devices to a Bluetooth adapter at once? There are Bluetooth adapters that support connecting multiple devices at once, but not all models are capable of this.

Is it possible to connect the adapter to a PC so that the joystick works? It all depends on the adapter and gamepad models. There are universal Bluetooth gamepads that can be connected to smartphones and PCs with any Bluetooth adapters. Some gamepads, for example Sony DualShock 4, Logitech F310 or Valve Steam Controller, which work via Bluetooth but only through special wireless adapters included in the kit or purchased separately.