Rating of the best Bluetooth headphone adapters for 2020

Offer from Xiaomi

One of the largest Chinese manufacturers of smartphones and headsets for them, Xiaomi, did not stand aside. She succumbed to new trends by releasing the flagship smartphone Xiaomi Mi 6, which now lacks a headset jack.

This improvement has led to improved protection of the device from moisture and dust. The resulting free space in the device was occupied by newer technologies. Now the new smartphone of the Chinese brand is capable of working with wireless headphones, adapters and headsets.

Xiaomi Mi Bluetooth Audio Receiver

The variety of Xiaomi headphones represented a rather meager selection of wireless headsets. Therefore, the company decided to expand this category and created its own Bluetooth headphone adapter with a 3.5 mm jack. The new device was named Xiaomi Mi Bluetooth Audio Receiver. It turns any wired headphones into wireless ones, and, in fact, is an adapter between headphones and a smartphone or other device.

This new product is a convenient solution for users of conventional modern headphones who wanted to enjoy all the advantages of wireless technology, but were afraid of losing the quality of sound reproduction. The device will become indispensable when listening to music for owners of smartphones that do not have a standard 3.5 mm jack.

In terms of functionality, this Bluetooth adapter is a receiver, not a transmitter. That is, the device receives sounds via Bluetooth and then transmits them via cable to the user.

The final recipient can be not only headphones, but also a music center or car radio with the appropriate connector.

Bluetooth stereo receiver/transmitter KN-320 (Transmitter+Receiver)

Similar adapters were found in reviews, but there were repeated negative reviews regarding the lack of a full-fledged stereo mode of operation in transmit mode. This particular model did not seem to be considered.

There really is stereo here - verified. Can work both as a receiver and as a signal transmitter (there is no relay mode) + costs just a penny

One of the interesting and really useful applications is transmitting the sound of almost any TV to wireless headphones

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This is not only convenient in terms of the absence of wires, but also helps to “save the nerves” of those around you, especially if they are resting! In this way, you can transmit sound not only from TV, but also from any other signal source.
In addition, of course, the adapter can also be used as a regular HT receiver - the most familiar option.

Specifications from the seller:

Model: KN320 Technologies: BT5.0, A2DP, AVRCP (only in receiving mode) Operating range: up to 10 m (in the absence of blocking objects) Device name when pairing (receiver mode): KN320

The equipment is quite simple - well, what did you want for such a price!?
The zip package contains the device itself, a 3.5/3.5 cable and simple instructions.

the adapter itself - on the case there is a hole for an operating mode indicator and a mini-jack audio input/output (3.5 mm)

USB connector, used to power the device

The dimensions are comparable to a regular flash drive, or rather even an adapter for a wireless mouse

The connecting cable is 1 meter long. I immediately bought myself an adapter for tulips, for greater versatility.

The photo shows an adapter with a short cable - I have several options. You may need longer ends, depending on the distance between the sockets used.

The instructions are very simple, in two languages ​​(there is no Russian).
In principle, everything basic is described, but who reads it before encountering difficulties?

What is noteworthy is that there are no control buttons at all, and at first the question may arise - how do you switch operating modes!? It is implemented quite simply, and in my opinion, somewhat unusual - the modes are switched alternately, with the power supply double, the first switch and single switch with repeated ones (in a row). The color of the indicator indicates the current mode.

There are four modes in total; blinking blue—the device is in receiving mode, waiting for a connection.

Once connected, the blue LED lights up continuously.

similarly in transmission mode: after a power interruption, the LED starts blinking red until connected to headphones (for example), after which it turns red.

The last operating mode used for a long time is remembered.

Device stuffing...

Everything is assembled on one chip, the datasheet or description of which I could not find.

On the other hand, it is almost empty, the main part of the board is occupied by an audio connector and several SMD connectors.

Based on testing results:

Price!
The actual operating range is NOT LESS than 10 meters - tested in the summer on the street, I controlled the speaker system with a smartphone (from 15 meters distortion and sound interruptions began). There really is stereo. As for me, the sound quality is very decent - there were no complaints about it. The miniature size of the device will always be at hand, throwing it in the pocket of your bag, without the need to install drivers, etc... since USB is only used to power the adapter. Conveniently, you can use it to connect to almost any sound source that does not include a BT. The disadvantages are that there is some ambiguity during the connection (specifically when used as a signal transmitter) - sometimes the headphones were not located the first time, but then there were no problems with the connection (I tested several models of headphones).

In general, I’m happy with the device, and even more so at such a great price.
Used it in the summer, for several days, when there was a need to organize “music” at an alumni meeting and broadcast the stream from a smartphone to an amplifier that does not have wireless technologies, which is called “cheap and tasty"!

I think the option of using it with a TV is really useful, especially at night, when people close to us are resting - so as not to disturb their sleep! You can connect it to absolutely any TV, the only question is ease of connection - you may need a separate power supply for the adapter if the TV does not have a USB connector (regular charging from a smartphone will do).

UPD At the request of listeners and readers, a test was done through a thick brick wall, in transmission mode - the same 10m+ stable. I worked on the transmission for 20 minutes, the temperature was below normal human

D+ and D- USB go to pins 3_4 and 5_6 of the microcircuit, the adapter is NEVER visible to the computer.

Good luck and good mood to everyone! ☕

Appearance of the device

The design of the new Xiaomi device has become a manifestation of the traditional features of the brand - miniature size and high functional practicality. The Bluetooth headphone adapter is made in a standard rectangular shape. The adapter body is made of high-quality, damage-resistant plastic. The color of the device is pure white. There are no unnecessary parts or components.

On the front side there is a physical button responsible for control. Below it is an LED indicator. On the back of the receiver there is a clothespin that allows you to attach the receiver to items of clothing: a jacket lapel, a shirt pocket or a backpack strap. The clip contains the Mi brand logo.

You can connect a regular wired headset to the device. For this purpose, the upper edge of the device is equipped with a 3.5 mm jack. Device dimensions – 135*130*59 mm. Weight is only 10 grams.

The average price for an adapter from Xiaomi ranges from 1,500 to 2,300 rubles.

For the most complete overview of the adapter, watch the video:

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.

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.

Xiaomi Bluetooth Audio Receiver

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.

Twelve South AirFly Duo

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.

Baseus BA02

Advantages:

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

Flaws:

• overpriced.

General characteristics table

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.”

About technology

There are quite a decent number of versions of this specification, but those that were turning points are currently only 5: 1.2, 2.0 + EDR, 3.0 + HS, 4.0 and 4.1. All the details will not be presented here, but if anyone is interested, they can easily find all the differences and features that were added in each version. But it makes sense to outline some things, namely transmission speed, signal strength, stacks and profiles, so that you can make an informed conclusion about which Bluetooth adapter to choose for your PC.

The transmission speeds for the five versions of the specification mentioned above are respectively: 1, 2.1(3), 3 (24), 24 and 24 Mbit/s. But this is only theoretical; in practice, the speed is much lower.

Based on power, the technology can be divided into 3 parts: 100, 2.5 and 1 MW. This directly affects the range of the devices and gives them indicators of 100, 10 and 1 meter, respectively. However, on the market you can only find devices of one standard of 2.5 MW and 10 meters, since samples with minimum indicators are no longer produced en masse, and the maximum data corresponds only to gadgets that were added to Wi-Fi cards with PCI- connectors and in a separate form simply do not exist.

It is also worth noting that the basis of all Bluetooth technology is a wireless analogue of the RS-232 cable, onto which various protocols for the execution, transmission and management of information and available resources, called stacks, are “hung”. These stacks are mandatory, without which the entire multi-layered architecture simply will not work, and optional, which allows you to apply improvements to existing functions, as well as add new ones.

The main stacks include 5 units:

• RFCOMM (Radio Frequency Communications) is a protocol emulator of RS-232 cable operation. Creates a data transmission sequence similar to a cable, but wirelessly.
• HCI (Host/controller interface) is a determinant of the connection itself between the Bluetooth module of a PC or laptop on the one hand and the Bluetooth device on the other.
• LMP (Link Management Protocol) is an installer for connecting and managing wireless communication of Bluetooth modules, which does the main part of the work when creating a connection for radio modules.
• SDP (Service Discovery Protocol) is a search engine and determines the stacks, protocols and profiles available in a connected Bluetooth module, which directly affects the possible types of work between two gadgets.
• L2CAP (Logical Link Control and Adaptation Protocol) is a “mediator negotiator” that creates stability between different versions of Bluetooth through higher-priority protocols. If necessary, it can redistribute the size of data packets, dividing and reassembling them in a form more convenient for the end recipient, which allows increasing productivity and data transfer speed.

There is also such a thing as “Profiles”, which are directly related to which is the best Bluetooth adapter for a PC to choose. There are many of them, but there is no point in considering them all, since most of them have specific functions. But still, we will consider some situations, as this will help make the right choice.

Adapter selection

So, which USB Bluetooth adapter to choose depends directly on the purpose for which it will be used. In turn, the functionality of a particular module is determined by the previously mentioned profiles, which manage the stacks to obtain some specific parameters.

For example, consider a situation in which a client wants to access the Internet via a Bluetooth module. In this case, he will need a model that supports Dial-up Networking Profile (DUN) or LAN Access Profile (LAP). If he tries to distribute the network via a Bluetooth module from an ordinary wireless mouse, then he will not succeed, since the Human Interface Device (HID) profile is used in the manipulator. And the same will happen with the transmission of audio or video signals, where Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) will be needed.

Another example determines the desire of the device owner to control the PC using a mobile phone or TV remote control. If the Bluetooth module does not support Audio / Video Remote Control Profile (AVRCP), but is designed to work only with Hands-Free Profile (HFP) or Headset Profile (HSP), then you will not be able to make the sound louder, but you can connect a headset or mobile phone for calls - in no time.

In general, the gist is this: before you search for the right device, you will need to determine its functional purpose and only then start choosing the appropriate equipment. Since there are devices of different sizes, purposes, powers, data transfer rates, and even options combined with a Wi-Fi module, which have antennas and without them. By the way, the latter differ from each other in signal strength and operating range.

If someone is interested in how much a Bluetooth adapter costs, then the answer directly depends on the functionality, as well as the supported profiles and stacks of a particular model, version, power, purpose and form factor. But, in general, the price varies from a dollar to a hundred, or even more, since we should not forget about such nuances as the quality of assembly, parts and materials used.

Review of other models

Each person is guided by personal preferences when choosing. The same applies to the selection of the subject of our article. Let's look at the most popular models at affordable prices (from $4 to $30), which are on sale. We will leave the reader to make an independent choice.

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.

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.

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.

The best Ugreen Bluetooth adapter for computer and laptop with aptX support

Review of the best Bluetooth adapter for transmitting music without delay and connecting music speakers, media players and headphones with APT-X support. In general, the search was very difficult, I looked through all the reviews, ready-made solutions, including expensive ones. I settled on adapters that run CSR Harmony. The choice was from ORICO BTA-403 (in the lot there are 1000 reviews and more than 2000 orders), VIKEFON Bluetooth 5.0 (in the lot there are 8000 reviews and about 20000 orders), and the optimal Ugreen bluetooth (in the lot there are 8000 reviews and more than 16000 orders).

Here you need to make a reservation that to connect, for example, a smartphone via bluetooth and transfer files, you don’t need to worry too much - any inexpensive bluetooth 2.0 adapter will do. It's another matter if you want to transmit sound without delays. This is where the APT-X standard in modern Bluetooth chipsets comes to the rescue. The Ugreen Bluetooth adapter model is developed on the basis of the CSR8510 and works with media devices. It is very important to select the APT-X receiver-transmitter combination, that is, an adapter for a computer (laptop) and BT-APTX headphones or the same audio receiver. Looking ahead, I will say that I am happy with the sound as an elephant. This is a cheap and effective solution.

The sound was compared with Hi-Res players and USB DACs, and the quality was quite decent. You can view and select other audio devices in the selection.

Link to my profile with reviews

Technical parameters: Model: Ugreen BT4.0 adapter Bluetooth version: 4.0 + EDR Data transfer rate: up to 3Mbps Range: 2.4GHz Range: up to 15 meters Supported protocols: A2D (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile), ARVCP (Audio/Video Remote Control Profile ), BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), Enhanced Data Rate (EDR) Bluetooth profiles: A2DP v1.2, GAP, HFPv1.5, HID OVER CATT, AVRCP V1.4, HSP V1.2, APTX, SPP V1.2, DUN V1.1 and OPP 2.2 Status indicator: LED Supported OS: Win 10/8.1/8, Win 7/XP/Vista,

Using this adapter, you can connect a smartphone for file sharing and a printer for printing, a wireless mouse or keyboard, speakers and headphones for transmitting an audio stream.

If we consider only the topic of audio, then the seller (Ugreen) has a table with the characteristics of bluetooth receivers and transmitters.

The packaging is modest - a Ugreen blister.

The contacts are protected by a polyethylene cap.

The UGREEN adapter is inexpensive, small - you can constantly use it with an old laptop (usually BT2.0), without removing it from the port.

Inside is the dongle itself (adapter), a disk with drivers for Win 7/XP/Vista, and CSR Harmony software.

The instructions are redundant for such a simple device. If you need support, you can get it at: [email protected]

The adapter without any tricks is a simple USB-Bluetooth dongle, perhaps with APT-X support.

I lost the cap right away - it is only needed if you use the adapter periodically. And if you installed it and forgot it, then you don’t need it.

One of the features is a hole for a lanyard or keychain (if you carry it with you).

There are no additional contacts, as in USB3.0, in this version of the adapter.

To estimate the size of the dongle, two USB drives Eaget S30 (the most popular drive in a metal case and with USB3.0) and an Eaget MFI with a Lightning connector.

So the chain from S30 came in handy.

The status indicator shows that the device is installed correctly and is ready for use.

Excerpt from the instructions - the procedure for installing drivers and software.

The disk contains an electronic version of the instructions, as well as CSR Harmony software versions x32 and x64.

During installation, drivers for the CSR8510 chipset are selected.

CSR Harmony software suggests choosing Russian as the default language.

All installation and configuration are carried out traditionally; several new devices and virtual ports for file transfer appear in the system.

In Device Manager, CSR Bluetooth Radio also appears.

I tested it in combination: a computer with HDMI to a TV and Bluetooth APT-X with a receiver to speakers - the delay is not felt, including in dynamic scenes. At the moment I am using the UGREEN adapter to transmit sound to the Blitzwolf BW-BR5 wireless audio receiver (Bluetooth V5.0 APT-X, in RX mode). Blitzwolf, in turn, is connected to large speakers. If desired, you can also use Bluetooth headphones; it is best to choose a model with APT-X support. I'm as happy with the sound as an elephant, since I was looking for the APT-X receiver-transmitter combination, and in the end I got a working and inexpensive option.

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You can see other interesting reviews and articles on choosing audio gadgets in my profile.

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.