What is a bluetooth headphone adapter and how to choose it


Bluetooth adapter for computer is a device that receives and transmits data via Bluetooth. Bluetooth is a wireless communication technology. A Bluetooth receiver is especially valuable when we want to quickly transfer files from a smartphone to a computer or in situations where there is no USB cable nearby. Laptops sometimes have a built-in wireless communication module, but stationary PCs are not equipped with a receiving device at all. It must be purchased separately. Today we will talk about the principle of operation and recommendations for selection.

What is a Bluetooth adapter?

It is a device that receives a signal via a wired connection and transmits it wirelessly, that is, via Bluetooth. The gadget can be equipped with various inputs and outputs. Thus, many models are equipped with jack or AUX inputs for connecting headphones and can themselves be connected to other devices via a wired connection. Such options are ways not only to transfer music from a smartphone to headphones, but also to connect it, for example, to car radios or any speakers that do not support wireless pairing technology.

Device classification

Experts divide Bluetooth adapters into several classes based on range:

  • Class 4 – outdated models, connection range no more than 2-5 meters;
  • Class 3 provides a stable signal at a distance of 5-10 meters;
  • Class 2 with a connection range of 50 meters;
  • Class 1 – these include models that allow you to connect at a distance of 100 meters.

Where are they sold?

You can find any Bluetooth adapter for sale in specialized electronics stores (for example, Mvideo) or in auto parts stores. Before purchasing, you need to check the device and make sure that it matches your car radio and can work with your smartphone.

In the modern world, it is possible to order a Bluetooth adapter for a car radio on Aliexpress or in any other online store. A huge advantage will be the lower cost, but the obvious disadvantage is that it will be possible to check the functionality only when the order reaches the recipient.

Find it in specialized stores or buy it on Aliexpress - only the car owner decides, and the market provides a huge selection of various adapters, among which you can find exactly what is needed and will meet all requirements and standards.

The bottom line can be summed up as follows: in order to choose a Bluetooth adapter for a car radio, you need to know exactly what is required of it and for what purposes it is needed, and having chosen the right one, you need to check the characteristics so that it works for a long time without requiring replacement, and fully performs its functions .

Adapter capabilities

Using this small gadget, depending on its configuration and functionality, you can solve a number of problems:

  • Connecting wired headphones to smartphones that do not have a corresponding connector;
  • Transferring data from a smartphone to a PC (if Wi-Fi or a wired connection cannot be used for this);
  • To connect car radios or speakers that are not equipped with a wireless communication module to a smartphone;
  • To connect to a PC another device with a built-in wireless adapter (headphones, a modern printer, and so on).

Unpacking the device on a computer

If you find that your PC does not have built-in Bluetooth, you need to add it. You should first check whether there is a free USB port on the machine. If there is no space and the current ports are occupied, you can gain access using a quality USB hub or USB expansion card. Installing a Bluetooth dongle in Windows 8/10 is automatic because these operating systems contain basic Bluetooth drivers and are able to recognize a new USB Bluetooth adapter device.

If the program is installed on an earlier version of Windows, you need to find the drivers through the Device Manager panel. After installing the key with the installed drivers, the Bluetooth icon will appear on the taskbar.

Connection order:

  1. Right-click on the icon and find “Add Bluetooth device” in the context menu.
  2. Select the device you want to connect, then click Next.
  3. Before connecting the Bluetooth adapter, you need to reboot the PC, after which the device will be available for use.

You can manage Bluetooth devices by opening the menu through the system tray or by going to Control Panel -> All Control Panel Items -> Devices and Printers.

How to choose a Bluetooth adapter

When choosing, you should pay attention to a number of characteristics:

  • Protocol version;
  • Supported codecs;
  • Housing and connectors;
  • Power supply.

Protocol version

When choosing a model, pay attention to the Bluetooth version - the newer it is, the better. The fact is that each new version is characterized by increased signal transmission quality and pairing range. Today, purchasing devices with a version lower than 3.0 does not make sense.

When pairing two devices with different versions of Bluetooth, the signal is transmitted using the low version.

The pairing range depends on the wireless version. For Bluetooth 2.0 and 3.0 it is 10 meters. Bluetooth 4.0 and higher already works at 50 meters or more.

Codecs

Data transmission can be carried out using three codecs:

  • A2DP;
  • SBC;
  • ACC

The first two imply a high degree of compression of the media file during transmission, which will negatively affect the sound quality. For audio playback, the AAC codec is considered the best.

It's also worth considering audio latency when using wireless headphones. When streaming music or watching movies, the lag is automatically compensated, while in cases of computer games, the sound appears unexpectedly and compensation will not be made

Housing and connectors

Adapters are available in different housings. They are usually quite compact in size. They can be made in the form of a keychain or flash drive, made of plastic or metal. The kit may include several cords: for charging and wired connection. Models in the form of a flash drive usually have a USB plug for recharging.

Power supply

When choosing, pay attention to the type of built-in battery and its capacity. Models with lithium-ion and lithium-polymer batteries can be a very good choice. A fairly popular model from the Chinese manufacturer Xiaomi Mi Bluetooth Audio Recevier is equipped with a polymer-type battery with a capacity of 97 mAh, which provides 5-7 hours of continuous operation.

Functionality and equipment

Connection to the sound source in this new product is carried out using the built-in Bluetooth 4.2 wireless data transmission module. The device can work with two Bluetooth sources simultaneously.

The device plays audio in HFP/HSP/A2DP/AVRCP formats. The autonomy of the adapter is ensured by a built-in lithium-polymer battery with a capacity of 97 mAh, which allows you to operate the device for 4-5 hours without recharging. Recharging to 100% takes up to 2 hours. For charging there is a micro USB connector, which is located on the case (on its lower edge). The device allows you to be at a distance of up to 10 meters from the sound source.

The standard package of the Xiaomi Mi Bluetooth Audio Receiver, in addition to the adapter itself, includes a 3.5 mm audio cable.

Review of the top best Bluetooth headphone adapters

Many manufacturers, inspired by the example of Apple, began to abandon the headphone jack and release their gadgets in a new configuration. This approach allowed manufacturers to make devices more protected from moisture getting inside. Many users, accustomed to wired headsets and not wanting to give them up, became worried. But in fact, with the help of a special adapter, you can continue to use the accessories you like.

TOP 3 most inexpensive adapters

Here are cheap but reliable models that can be purchased online and in brick-and-mortar stores. The models have no special features; they are equipped with a standard set of technical characteristics and basic functionality. The cost of products is up to 500 rubles.

3rd place – ESPADA ES-M05 V3

Country – China. Range of action – 10 m. Price – 480 rubles.


The quality of sound from headphones depends on the quality of the headphones themselves and the system from which that sound comes. The Bluetooth adapter only transmits the signal and makes it stable. The new product from ESPADA – model ES-M05 V3 – is responsible for these characteristics. The wireless connection is carried out using the Bluetooth 3.0 standard at a speed of 3 Mbit/s. The connection interface is a standard USB 2.0 connector. The adapter body is black and almost merges with the body of the device to which the device is connected. The dimensions are miniature and no additional drivers are required for installation. The model has an analogue: ESPADA ES-M05 V3.0+EDR – 50 m. The analogue supports the method of stable operation and increasing the EDR connection signal, the operating range is increased to 50 meters, but in terms of cost the adapter belongs to the middle price segment.

Advantages:

  • the signal is transmitted stably;
  • miniature body dimensions;
  • easy to use and install;
  • low cost.

Flaws:

  • Not suitable for modern iPhone models.

2nd place – Baseus USB Bluetooth 4.0

Country – China. Range of action - 10 m. Price - 420 rubles.


Baseus has released a nice-looking device with a compact size that supports wireless connection with Bluetooth version 4.0. Data is transmitted at a speed of 3 Mbit/sec. The device is connected to the headset via a standard USB 2.0 connector. This does not require installation of special software. The adapter works with headsets from most manufacturers.

Advantages:

  • beautiful appearance;
  • high speed wireless connection;
  • acceptable price;
  • versatility;
  • connects easily and quickly and works great;
  • Bluetooth connection standard;
  • compact dimensions;
  • quality accessory;
  • reliability and durability.

Flaws:

  • the sound is a little late;
  • Suitable for modern operating systems.

1st place – Buro BU-BT30

Country – China. Range – 10 m. Price – 390 rubles.


The miniature design uses Bluetooth 3.0 wireless technology. Connection to a PC and other devices occurs via a USB 2.0 socket. The maximum transmission speed is 3 Mbit/s. The device has a second Bluetooth power class. The outer body is made in the shape of a low half-cylinder. When removing it from the PC port located on the back of the system unit, difficulties and discomfort arise. The kit does not include a disk with drivers for older versions of the OS; they must be downloaded and installed separately. The declared range of action is maintained in an open area without obstacles. At home, to obtain a stable wireless connection, it is better to use the adapter within the same room.

Advantages:

  • compact design;
  • easy to use;
  • price;
  • confident signal;
  • conflict-free;
  • dimensions and weight;
  • the main drivers do not need to be installed separately;
  • fast chipset;
  • Bluetooth supports EDR.

Flaws:

  • unattractive design;
  • connection stability;
  • ergonomics.

TOP 3 premium adapters

The rating presents models for music lovers and lovers of high-quality sound. Gadgets have a maximum range of functions and cost over 1000 rubles.

3rd place – Xiaomi Bluetooth Audio Receiver

Manufacturer – Xiaomi, China. Range of action – 10 meters. Cost – 1590 rubles.


The trend in recent models is the absence of a 3.5 mm analog jack due to the introduction of new technologies. After the release of smartphones without a mini jack socket, many manufacturers switched to new connectors that are suitable for the latest developments. Xiaomi turned out to be a wise manufacturer. Its flagship smartphones lack a headphone port and use wireless technology. In addition to the flagship, you need to purchase wireless gadgets: adapters, headphones, adapters with a USB type C socket. The Chinese manufacturer has released a modern adapter, the body of which has a mini jack socket with a diameter of 3.5 mm. The analog signal transmits all the bits of audio sound, so music lovers who prefer to use a wired headset will be satisfied with the model. The new product is universal: you can connect any headset via mini jack. The adapter has compact dimensions of 59 x 13.5 mm. The appearance is democratic, individual, practical. The front panel is equipped with a control button and a light indicator. At the back there is a clothespin clasp for attaching the gadget to a belt, pocket, or lapel. The plastic case is of excellent quality, protects the device from mechanical damage and dust. The built-in polymer battery charges 100% in 120 minutes. Its capacity is 97 mAh. The adapter works for up to 5 hours. You can connect several devices to the device at the same time. Customer reviews noted the quality of the device, the neatness and uniqueness of the design.

Advantages:

  • interesting strict design;
  • fast charging;
  • built-in battery;
  • high-quality assembly;
  • there is a universal 3.5mm analog output;
  • Suitable for all kinds of headphones and major platforms.

Flaws:

  • firmware is not updated;
  • lack of color range.

2nd place – Twelve South AirFly Duo

Manufacturer: Twelve South, China. Operating range – 10 meters. Cost – 2890 rubles.


The device is designed for wireless headphones that help you listen to music on devices that do not support wireless technologies. The Duo prefix involves connecting two pairs of headsets at once. Charging is carried out via the USB-C socket. The battery fills up in a couple of hours. The device works almost 24 hours – up to 20 hours. Connection to the headphones is made via Bluetooth technology, to the media – via mini Jack 3.5 mm. The appearance of the adapter is standard, the case is plastic, an audio cable with a connector is built in on top for connecting to speaker systems, stereo systems, exercise equipment, car radios, game consoles, etc. The dimensions are as follows: height - 57 mm, width - 25.5 mm, thickness - 11 mm. The device weighs 15.3 grams.

Advantages:

  • compact;
  • long battery life;
  • there is a mini Jack input connector with easy connection and stereo sound;
  • ability to connect most devices and gadgets;
  • connecting two pairs at the same time.

Flaws:

  • high price.

1st place – Baseus BA02

Manufacturer – Baseus, China. Operating range – 10 m. Cost – 1390 rubles.


The new product has a built-in Bluetooth module for connecting a wireless headset. The device picks up a signal at a distance of 10 meters. There is also a microphone for receiving phone calls. The user does not have to rush to the room where the accessory is located; just press a button and answer the call. The oval-shaped body is made of ABS plastic and aluminum alloy. Scratches, mechanical damage, corrosion - words that do not apply to a new device. The case contains three control buttons. Each button is responsible for a number of functions: volume control; turning on/off the adapter; pausing the song being played; synchronization with a smartphone; voice call management. The adapter contains a non-removable lithium battery with a capacity of 120 mAh. Its charge lasts for 8 hours. In standby mode, this time increases to 200 hours (more than 8 days). The device charges via the Micro-USB connector in 90 minutes. At the back there is a fastening clip, through which the adapter is attached to a belt, belt, etc.

Advantages:

  • universal adapter;
  • there is an analog output;
  • convenient use;
  • high quality sound transmission;
  • long battery life;
  • fast charging.

Flaws:

  • overpriced.

Xiaomi Mi Bluetooth Audio Receiver

1,700 rub.

Xiaomi has not remained aloof from the trend of replacing wired headphones with wireless ones and has created its own adapter that allows you to stream audio to other devices. The adapter is compact, but users were disappointed with the color of the case, because the manufacturer did not give a choice at all.

It is impossible to find fault with the assembly of the device, its compactness and ease of operation. But many users encountered a problem with the firmware - it kept crashing, and updating it yourself causes a lot of difficulties. The built-in battery can be called average, not corresponding to its cost, because for almost 2 thousand rubles the battery could be more spacious.

Advantages

  • Portability
  • Ability to connect multiple devices simultaneously
  • High quality build
  • Simple controls

Flaws

  • Available in only one color – white
  • Chinese firmware
  • Small battery size

Sybil BT310

This Bluetooth receiver includes an AUX adapter, which allows you, in addition to the standard use of headphones, to also connect the device directly to a radio or portable speakers. The device is equipped with a built-in battery and microphone. This is a convenient purchase for computer game lovers. Control is carried out by a single button on the body. Data transmission – Bluetooth 3.0.

Asus USB-BT400

1,050 rub.

The adapter is very sensitive to other equipment, especially to other receivers, so it is better to connect them away from each other.

The Asus Bluetooth adapter is great for listening to audio and stereo at a maximum speed of 3 Mbps. The device is connected via USB with version 2.0, while the version of Bluetooth itself is 4.0, which allows you to safely use the headphones throughout the apartment. The appearance of the transmitter differs from the previous two options - it looks very miniature. By inserting it into a port on your computer, you can completely forget that it is there.

Advantages

  • Easy to install and use
  • Compact
  • The established connection is stable
  • High quality build

Flaws

  • Sound may be interrupted at great distances from the transmitter
  • Does not support additional protocols
  • Need to install drivers

TP-Link UB400

650 rub.

When downloading drivers, pay attention to which device they are intended for. If for a PC, then you need to uncheck the box about the laptop.

The adapter from TP-Link is distinguished by its simplicity - this applies to many of its facets, from the classic appearance of the receiver to its functions. The built-in Bluetooth 4.0 standard allows you to comfortably listen to music, watch a movie and not be tied at a distance of one meter to the computer. The connection is made using USB version 2.0. The device supports many versions of Windows - 10/8.1/8/7/XP.

To properly configure the device, you need to download and install drivers on your computer or laptop. The range of action on the headphones reaches 5 meters of free signal throughout the apartment. If there are many obstacles, the sound will begin to move away and become loud.

Advantages

  • Price
  • Compactness of the device
  • Reliable connection
  • Minimalist, elegant appearance

Flaws

  • Small signal radius
  • Available for Windows only

Powstro BT310

Occupies an average price niche (costs about 300 rubles in Chinese online stores). The receiver is made in a youth style and has the shape of a keychain. On the case there are music and microphone control buttons, indicator lights and a clip. Like the previous model, the receiver is equipped with an AUX adapter for use with a radio and portable speakers. Bluetooth version – 4.1. And a very powerful battery with a capacity of 140 mAh.

Palmexx USB 4.0

350 rub.

Based on the name of the model, you can immediately understand that the adapter is designed to connect to a computer and create a stable network. Built-in Bluetooth version 4.0, and connection occurs via a USB port.

A special feature of the model is its maximum compactness - such a device is inserted into a port and you can completely forget about it, because the small size does not remind you of itself. It is also worth noting its cost - this is a budget model, but the device is made to last. There is no additional functionality, the adapter is designed for only one function - to make gadgets in the house wireless, and it works reliably

Advantages

  • Price
  • Minimum size
  • Ideal price-quality ratio
  • Stylish appearance - classic

Flaws

  • Used for one function only
  • Small signal radius

Psttl BTI-025

This device is the most expensive (costs about 2000 rubles) and, accordingly, the best of the presented models. This is reflected in the technical characteristics, appearance and functionality of the Bluetooth receiver. In addition to the fact that the device has absorbed all the best characteristics of the above listed models, it can also be used not only as a transmitter, but also as a receiver. To change these modes there is a special switch on the case. Data is transmitted using Bluetooth – 4.1. The battery of the device is also a clear favorite, its capacity is 200 mAh.

Bluetooth 4.0 KS-is KS-269

This adapter is an example of the fact that an unknown Chinese manufacturer is in no way inferior to popular and expensive brands. The adapter is capable of working with many versions of the Windows operating system and looks exactly like devices from TP-Link and Asus. This design is typical for many inexpensive adapters.

You no longer need to switch from speakers to headphones and still sit with headphones - the device will help provide a good signal at a distance of up to 10 meters. You can do chores around the house to rhythmic sounds. It’s also nice that the device supports simultaneous connection of multiple devices.

Advantages

  • High-quality signal transmission
  • You can listen to stereo
  • Connecting multiple devices at the same time
  • Compactness

Flaws

  • The manufacturer indicates compatibility with Windows only
  • In an open space the signal can reach up to 50 meters, but in an apartment it will be limited to 5-7 m

BT600

250 rub.

Our rating is completed by a model that has the lowest cost among all other proposed receivers. VT600 has tiny dimensions and, once connected, is completely invisible. And its appearance is characterized by smooth lines and curves. It is also interesting that the device works on the fifth version of Bluetooth. This makes the device not only cheap, but also powerful, because the signal will be much better.

Advantages

  • Bluetooth version 5.0
  • Low cost
  • High speed audio transmission
  • Simultaneously acts as a receiver and transmitter

Flaws

  • Poor signal range
  • Unreliable plastic case

Avantree Consumer Choice

This adapter from Avantree is used when additional range is needed. An excellent choice for people who need a long communication range. In the absence of interference, the device works smoothly up to 20 meters, which is suitable for streaming music over long distances using a compatible device. There is no quality interference as the signal is very stable. Whether you're transferring HD videos or games, this adapter uses powerful aptX Low Latency technology to deliver the transfer speeds you need.

Buyers are happy to share their opinions about the model and note that if you need to switch operating systems, there is no need to connect to the adapter again. One thing that sets this model apart from its competitors is the addition of an external USB card as well as a built-in audio transmitter. That's why it's ideal for listening to audio.

Can a Bluetooth adapter become a replacement for wireless headphones?

To summarize the article, it is necessary to answer this question. Unfortunately, there is no clear answer.

If the Bluetooth receiver will be used to improve the mood during sports training, or the user is not particularly demanding of quality, then the cheapest of the listed devices will be sufficient.

In the case where the user is a music lover, and minor sound distortion is not acceptable, then it is worth purchasing one of the expensive devices. In this case, the combination of a Bluetooth receiver with wired headphones will be an excellent alternative to full-fledged wireless headphones and will allow you to enjoy high-quality sound.

Bluetooth USB adapter

Bluetooth USB adapter - designed to connect to a computer or laptop via a wireless connection to a printer, headphones, keyboard or smartphone.

The ultra-compact and lightweight Bluetooth USB adapter allows you to connect to a huge variety of Bluetooth devices and transfer data at speeds of up to 3 Mbps over distances of up to 10, 30 or 50 meters. A wide range and competitive prices will allow you to find and buy a Bluetooth adapter for your computer with a suitable version of Bluetooth 2.0, Bluetooth 3.0 or Bluetooth 4.0.

Bluetooth speaker adapter

The Bluetooth speaker adapter allows you to wirelessly stream music from your smartphone or tablet to your audio system via Bluetooth.

In NIX you will find Bluetooth adapters for TP-LINK and Logitech speakers with a range of 10, 15 or 20 meters within line of sight. Excellent characteristics and affordable prices make Bluetooth speaker adapters a desirable purchase for every music lover. NIX has Bluetooth adapters for speakers powered by a USB port, as well as models that store up to 8 devices and allow you to automatically pair with them. Bluetooth speaker adapters have a stylish design and compact form factor; they fit well into any interior and take up little space. From the variety of models, you can easily select and buy a Bluetooth adapter for speakers with the ability to connect to an audio system with a 3.5 mm Jack or RCA connector and synchronize with a mobile device via Bluetooth or an NFC tag.

User reviews

The device received a lot of positive reviews. Let's be objective and voice the pros and cons. Here are some of them.

Alexander: “Wonderful thing. My JBL T110s somehow sound even better through the receiver. Viper and Ainur Sauron are great. My second ones (Sony) sound great, but a little quieter. In principle, I’m very pleased.”

Evgeniy: “There’s nothing to talk about – it’s a superb thing. One bad thing is that the comments during switching on and disconnection are in Chinese. It would be more convenient with English.”

Anton: “The receiver is a mega-deadly thing. This is most suitable for people who do not have a 3.5 mm port on their phone. And for those who want to convert their headphones into wireless ones. I was surprised that there was no micro USB cord included.”

Bluetooth headset

A Bluetooth headset is the best option for communication on the road and while driving - your hands are always free and your actions are not constrained by wires.

In NICS you can choose and buy a SONY or Plantronics Bluetooth headset with voice control support and the ability to connect to two phones, with a button to accept/end calls and volume control. When choosing a Bluetooth headset for your phone, pay attention to such characteristics as how it is attached to the ear - whether it will be an in-ear headset or an earhook is up to you to decide. As a rule, Bluetooth headsets, due to their comfortable design, are suitable for wearing on both the right and left ear. Here you will find models of wireless headsets with Smart Sensor technology. This function detects the moment you put on the headset and allows you to answer a call without pressing a key. Bluetooth headsets are comfortable to wear, easy to set up and use. They are charged via USB, and their battery life can last up to 11 hours of listening to music or talking. Attractive prices will allow you to buy a Bluetooth headset for your phone with the optimal version of Bluetooth 3.0, Bluetooth 4.0 or Bluetooth 4.1, as well as NFC support. Listen to music, talk on the phone comfortably and enjoy freedom from wires.

Rating
( 1 rating, average 4 out of 5 )
Did you like the article? Share with friends:
For any suggestions regarding the site: [email protected]
Для любых предложений по сайту: [email protected]