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Windows pairs a Bluetooth accessory once, then reconnects it automatically when Bluetooth is on and both devices are in range. To pair, turn on Bluetooth on the PC, put the accessory in discoverable pairing mode, and add it from Windows Bluetooth settings or Quick Settings.
How pairing and automatic connection work
Pairing establishes a relationship between a Windows PC and an accessory such as a keyboard, mouse, phone, speaker, headphones, printer, or scanner. The accessory must be on and discoverable; follow its manufacturer’s instructions to enter pairing mode. The PC also needs Bluetooth hardware with Bluetooth enabled.
After pairing, you generally do not need to add the device again each time. Microsoft Support says paired devices automatically connect when Bluetooth is on and both devices are in range. Microsoft does not specify a fixed distance, and actual range varies with the devices and surroundings.
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Pair a Bluetooth device in Windows
Windows 11
- Turn on Bluetooth in Settings > Bluetooth & devices, or open Quick Settings from the taskbar and turn on Bluetooth.
- Turn on the accessory and make it discoverable using the accessory maker’s instructions.
- In Quick Settings, open the Bluetooth device-management control and select the accessory listed under new devices.
- If a supported accessory displays a Swift Pair notification, select Connect instead.
Microsoft’s Windows Bluetooth pairing instructions cover Windows 11 and Windows 10. Printers and scanners may have a separate add-device path in Windows settings.
#1 Best Overall
- Bluetooth 5.4 + Broad Compatibility - Provides Bluetooth 5.4 plus EDR technology and is backward compatible with Bluetooth V5.3/5.0/4.2/4.0/3.0/2.1/2.0/1.1.
- Faster Speed, Extended Range - Get up to 2x faster data transfer and 4x broader coverage compared to Bluetooth 4.0 — perfect for smooth audio streaming and stable connections.
- EDR and BLE Technology - This Bluetooth dongle is quipped with enhanced data rate and Bluetooth low energy, UB500 has greatly improved data transfer speed and operates at the optimal rate of power consumption
- Nano-Sized - A sleek, ultra-small design means you can insert the Nano Bluetooth receiver into any USB port and simply keep it there regardless of whether you are traveling or at home
- Plug & Play with Free Driver Support - Plug and play for Windows 8.1/10/11 (internet required). Supports Win7 (driver required and can be downloaded from website for free). Download the latest driver from TP-Link website to utilize Bluetooth 5.4
Windows 10
- Open Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices and turn Bluetooth on.
- Select Add Bluetooth or other device > Bluetooth.
- Put the accessory in discoverable pairing mode, then select it when it appears.
Windows 10 remains usable, but Microsoft ended free Windows Update software updates, technical assistance, and security fixes for it on October 14, 2025; Microsoft recommends moving to Windows 11. See Microsoft’s Windows 10 support information.
If a device will not appear or connect
Work through these checks in order. They address common pairing and connection problems without assuming the accessory or PC is defective.
Rank #2
- INSTANT BLUETOOTH ACCESS: Bluetooth dongle adapter receiver for PCs converts non-Bluetooth devices into Bluetooth-capable with simple USB connection
- WIDE COMPATIBILITY: Supports Bluetooth 5.4 and is backwards compatible with Bluetooth 5.3/5.2/5.1/5.0/V4.2/4.0/3.0/2.1/2.0/1.1; ONLY works with Windows 8.1, 10, and 11
- MULTI-DEVICE CONNECTION: Connect up to 6 devices simultaneously; Not compatible with all other operation systems e.g. Mac, Linux, Chrome, Unix, Playstation(PS), Windows 7 and below; Nano bluetooth receiver can be plugged in via any standard USB port
- ENHANCED PERFORMANCE: EDR and BLE technology offers enhanced data rate/transfer speed and low energy consumption
- SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS: Not compatible with all other operation systems e.g. Mac, Linux, Chrome, Unix, Playstation(PS), Windows 7 and below; Disable any built-in Bluetooth of the device before use this product, refer to the user manual for detail
- Check that Bluetooth is on in Windows and that the accessory is on, discoverable, and within range.
- Move the accessory closer and check its charge. A low battery can stop some accessories from entering pairing mode or maintaining a connection.
- Turn Bluetooth off, wait 10 seconds, and turn it back on.
- If the accessory is listed but will not connect, remove it in Bluetooth settings and add it again.
- Check for Windows updates, then restart the PC.
- On Windows 11, start with the automated Bluetooth troubleshooter in the Get Help app.
Microsoft’s troubleshooting guidance is available for Bluetooth problems in Windows.
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A missing or grayed-out Bluetooth control can mean Windows cannot detect or enable the PC’s Bluetooth hardware. Possible causes include settings, an outdated or incompatible driver, a stopped service, a hardware fault, or a recent update. Driver and firmware steps can differ by PC model, so consult the PC manufacturer’s support instructions rather than applying a generic driver fix.
Rank #3
- Upgraded Bluetooth 5.3 Adapter: This bluetooth adapter for pc uses the latest upgraded Bluetooth 5.3 BR+EDR technology, greatly improves the stability of the connection data transfer speed, reduces the possibility of signal interruption and power consumption.
- Up to 5 Devices Sync Connected: UGREEN Bluetooth dongle for PC supports up to 5 different types of Bluetooth devices to be connected at the same time without interfering with each other, such as Bluetooth mouse/keyboard/mobile phone/headphones, etc. If Bluetooth audio devices of the same type (such as speakers/headphones) are connected, only one device can play music.
- Plug and Play: The Bluetooth adapter is developed for Windows systems only and does not support other systems. No driver installation is required under Windows 11/10/8.1. NOTE: Win 7, Linux and MacOS System are NOT supported.
- Mini Size: An extremely compact Bluetooth stick that you can leave on your laptop or PC without removing it.The compact size does not interfere with other USB ports. Convenient to carry, no space occupation.
- What Can I do if the Bluetooth adapter can not work?: Ensure there are no other Bluetooth devices installed on the computer. If there are, disable all existing Bluetooth devices in "Device Manager", then insert the adapter and try again. (For detailed information please read the user manual)
If the PC does not have built-in Bluetooth, a USB Bluetooth adapter can add the capability. First confirm whether Bluetooth hardware is present; an adapter is not a universal fix for an accessory that will not pair or for a driver problem. Microsoft’s Bluetooth troubleshooting guide also covers missing Bluetooth controls.
If the device connects but audio does not work
A Bluetooth headset can be connected while Windows sends sound somewhere else. Open Windows sound settings and select the headset as the sound output. If sound is still absent, poor, or interrupted, Microsoft’s sound and audio troubleshooting guide includes checking audio format, updating drivers, toggling Bluetooth, and pairing the device again.
Rank #4
- This Bluetooth adapter for PC utilizes the latest Bluetooth 6.0 EDR technology, delivering faster data transfer speeds, seamless high-quality audio/video streaming, and efficient large-file transfers.
- Up to 5 Devices Sync Connected: This Bluetooth dongle for PC supports up to 5 different types of Bluetooth devices to be connected at the same time without interfering with each other, such as Bluetooth mouse/keyboard/mobile phone/headphones, etc. Note: If Bluetooth audio devices of the same type (such as speakers/headphones) are connected, only one device can play music.
- Ultra-High Data Transfer Speeds: With Bluetooth 6.0 technology, this bluetooth dongle will bring us a faster speed experience. And Bluetooth 6.0 is backward compatible with Bluetooth5.4/5.3.
- EDR and BLE Technology - This Bluetooth dongle is equipped with enhanced data rate and Bluetooth low energy, it wil optimize energy.
- Plug and Play: The Bluetooth receiver is developed for Windows systems only and does not support other systems. No driver installation is required under Windows 11/10/8.1. NOTE: Linux and MacOS , Win 7 System are NOT supported.
A separate case: Bluetooth internet tethering
Bluetooth can also connect a Windows device to an internet-capable phone or another computer using a Bluetooth Personal Area Network (BTPAN). Both devices need Bluetooth, and the secondary device must support hotspot functionality. This is a separate hotspot use case, not the usual process for connecting peripherals.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Bluetooth 5.4 dongle: Applies the latest Bluetooth 5.4+EDR technology, compatible with Bluetooth 5.3/5.2/4.2/4.2 LE/4.0/2.1+EDR, and supports Dual mode (BR/EDR+ Bluetooth Low Energy) to achieve low energy consumption and high speed. Quick response and better anti-interference.
- Plug & Play: USB wireless Bluetooth is not limited by network and location, no need to install drivers, just plug the USB wireless adapter into your computer, you can use it directly. You can use the Bluetooth function at any time. Greatly improve your work efficiency and save your time.
- Long Range Bluetooth Adapter: The USB Bluetooth 5.4 dongle uses Class 1 radio technology, equipped with extra long antenna, and the transmission range in the open area can reach 500ft/150m, Bluetooth connections are no longer affected by distance. Note: The actual transmission range will be affected by physical obstructions and wireless interference.
- Fast Transmission Rate: This upgraded Bluetooth 5.4 adapter features EDR technology and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) configuration up to 3Mbps, which greatly improves transmission rates and reduces the loss of transmission efficiency due to interference in the 2.4GHz band. Enables fast, no delay wireless data connections between your computer and Bluetooth devices.
- System Support: The upgraded Bluetooth 5.4 dongle has a wide range of applications. You can connect up to 5 devices at the same time using Bluetooth wireless. Such as Bluetooth speakers,keyboards,headsets,mice, and Bluetooth printers,etc. Only supports Windows 11/10/8.1, Not compatible with Mac OS, Linux,car stereo systems,XBOX,ps4 or TVs.
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