Adding Bluetooth to your PC can make your tech life better. It lets you wirelessly connect devices like headphones and keyboards. Even if it sounds hard, putting Bluetooth on your PC is easy and quick. You can choose between PCIe Bluetooth cards and USB Bluetooth adapters.
For custom PCs, PCIe cards like the TP-Link AC1200 or AX1800 are simple. They work right away without needing BIOS changes. If you prefer something simpler, try USB Bluetooth dongles. A good example is the Logitech C-U0007 Unifying Receiver. It’s affordable and uses only one USB slot on your PC.
Why Add Bluetooth to Your PC?
Adding Bluetooth to your PC can make your workspace better and more comfortable. It helps get rid of messy wires and cables, making your desk look cleaner. Bluetooth-enabled devices like headphones, speakers, and keyboards improve your multimedia fun and work productivity.
Adding Bluetooth lets your computer connect easily with many devices. For example, the writer bought a Bluetooth mouse but learned his computer didn’t support Bluetooth. A quick fix was buying a Iogear Bluetooth dongle, which worked easily and without problems on Windows Vista or later.
With Bluetooth, sharing data between your PC and other devices gets super easy. You can move files quickly or connect a wireless headset and speaker for better calls and sound. If your system uses Bluetooth 4.0 or higher, like the TP-Link USB Bluetooth 5.0 Adapter, you’ll get a reliable connection for all your devices.
A USB Bluetooth dongle costs about $13 to $15, which is not much for what it offers. It makes connecting devices easy, without needing passcodes, and works with all sorts of gadgets. Adding Bluetooth opens up your PC to many peripherals, making your computer use much smoother and efficient.
Checking for Built-in Bluetooth
Before trying complex solutions, make sure your PC can use Bluetooth. This will save you time. It’s good to know what your system can do first.
How to Check in Windows Settings
Here’s how to see if your Windows PC has Bluetooth:
- Press Win + I to open Settings.
- Select the Devices section.
- Look for a Bluetooth toggle to confirm it’s there.
If there’s no Bluetooth section, check the device manager:
- Press Win + X and choose Device Manager.
- Search for a Bluetooth heading to see if it’s listed.
- See if the taskbar has the Bluetooth icon.
- If not, click the up arrow for hidden icons in the notification panel. Search for the Bluetooth icon.
Checking the Taskbar and Notification Panel
Look at the taskbar and notification panel for Bluetooth signs:
If you still can’t find Bluetooth, check the device manager or system specs. This confirms if you need an external adapter. Making sure your PC supports Bluetooth is key before getting an adapter.
can you add bluetooth to a pc
Adding Bluetooth to your PC is easy, even without built-in support. Just use a USB port and a Bluetooth dongle. These adapters support various Bluetooth versions including the newest, Bluetooth 5.0. They also work with older versions.
Follow these steps to add Bluetooth:
- Buy an external Bluetooth adapter. The TP-Link USB Bluetooth 5.0 Adapter is a good choice. It costs $13 to $15 and works with Windows 7, 8.1, 10, and 11.
- Insert the dongle into a USB port. A USB 3.0 port is best for great connectivity.
- The Windows system should install the drivers automatically. Devices like the TP-Link USB dongle are plug and play on Windows 8.1, 10, and 11.
- If Windows doesn’t find the dongle, download drivers from the maker’s site.
Desktop users might consider Wi-Fi PCI cards that also have Bluetooth. It’s great for boosting Wi-Fi and Bluetooth at once. But, an external Bluetooth adapter is simpler for most.
If you’re replacing an old Bluetooth adapter, turn it off in the Windows Device Manager first. This avoids problems with the new dongle. It’s a simple way to upgrade your PC’s Bluetooth feature fast.
Steps to Install a PCIe Bluetooth Adapter
Adding Bluetooth to your PC is easy with these steps. Follow the phases from choosing the right adapter to setting up Bluetooth on your PC. This will lead to a better, more connected computer experience.
Choosing the Right TAdapter
It’s key to pick a Bluetooth card that works with your motherboard and meets your needs. Many Bluetooth cards also offer high-speed WiFi. This dual function makes setup easier and boosts performance. It’s a smart choice for most users.
Installing the Adapter
- First, switch off and unplug your PC for safety.
- Find an empty PCIe slot on your motherboard. If unsure, check the manual.
- Insert the Bluetooth adapter into the slot and secure it. Make sure it’s stable.
- Attach any antennas to improve signal strength.
- Turn on your PC. Windows might detect the hardware, or you may need to install drivers manually.
Setting Up Bluetooth on Your PC
After installing the hardware, setting up Bluetooth is your next step. Go to settings, then ‘Devices’, and click ‘Add Bluetooth or other device.’ Just follow the steps to connect. This method works for Windows 11, 10, 8, and 7, covering most users.
For the best Bluetooth performance, update your drivers with Windows Update. Bluetooth lets you share files, stream audio, and connect devices. It’s great for both work and play.
Conclusion
Adding Bluetooth to your PC is easy and rewarding. It can make your computer much better to use. Whether you pick a PCIe adapter or a USB dongle like the Hideez USB Bluetooth Dongle, setting it up is quick and simple. Modern dongles work better and save more energy, making them a top choice for upgrading your PC.
About 43% of Windows PCs and 55% of Macs don’t have Bluetooth built-in. Adding a wireless adapter, like the Hideez USB Bluetooth Dongle, can fix this. This dongle lets you connect devices from up to 20 meters away.
This guide showed you how to get Bluetooth working on your PC. It covers picking the right adapter, installing it, and turning on wireless connections. With Bluetooth, you can connect many devices without cables. If you run into trouble, make sure the adapter is installed right and everything is up to date. For more help, look at the user manual or contact support.
