TP-Link USB Bluetooth Adapter for PC - Bluetooth 5.3 Dongle Receiver, Plug and Play, Nano Design, EDR & BLE, Supports Windows 11/10/8.1/7 for Desktop, Laptop, PS5/PS4/Xbox Controller (UB500)

I decided to give it a try based on other reviews saying Linux works. The built in Bluetooth kept disconnecting from speaker. TP Link stays connected, works much better.Steps:1. Disable Bluetooth in Settings\Bluetooth2. Insert TP Link USB Bluetooth3. Go to Settings\Bluetooth. Bluetooth now appears on and shows devices. Pair it.4. Once paired, Bluetooth appears off in Settings, but it shows Bluetooth icon in top bar and works.kernel: 6.12.10-76061203-genericI can see the built in Bluetooth disabled and TP Link running.lsusbBus 003 Device 005: ID ####:#### Intel Corp. AX200 BluetoothBus 003 Device 051: ID ####:#### TP-Link TP-Link Bluetooth USB Adapterhciconfighci1: Type: Primary Bus: USBBD Address: <MAC> ACL MTU: 1021:6 SCO MTU: 255:12UP RUNNINGhci0: Type: Primary Bus: USBBD Address: <MAC> ACL MTU: 1021:4 SCO MTU: 96:6DOWN

This TP-Link Bluetooth dongle is exactly what I hoped it would be. It’s solidly built, well-packaged, and has the right internal specs that many cheaper adapters simply lack. Some Bluetooth dongles look similar on the outside, but this one supports key protocols like BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), which makes it compatible with more modern devices and apps — including things like Microsoft Phone Link, smart home gear, and other tools that need more than just basic Bluetooth audio or file transfer.I bought it because I needed a dongle with full support for advanced Bluetooth features. The TP-Link adapter performed flawlessly. Installation was easy, drivers were solid, and pairing was fast and reliable.If you're looking for a Bluetooth adapter that just works, this is an excellent choice. TP-Link clearly took the time to build something that meets spec and is made to last. Highly recommended

I’ve been using the TP-Link UB500 Bluetooth Adapter for a few weeks now, and it’s been absolutely flawless. For anyone who wants to add Bluetooth to a desktop or improve their current wireless setup, this little dongle does the trick with zero hassle.What I Love:Plug and Play Simplicity: As soon as I plugged it into my Windows 10 desktop, it installed the drivers automatically and worked within seconds—no extra software or setup needed.Stable, Strong Signal: I use this with my wireless headphones and Xbox controller, and the connection remains rock solid even across the room. No lag, no dropouts.Tiny Footprint: The nano design is brilliant. It barely sticks out of the USB port and can stay plugged in without risk of getting knocked loose.Bluetooth 5.0 Speed & Range: The enhanced range and lower latency are real. I can walk into the kitchen and my music still plays clearly through my Bluetooth earbuds.Wide Compatibility: It paired easily with multiple devices: PS5 controller, Bluetooth keyboard, smartphone, and a portable speaker. All synced up without a single issue.Things to Note:Windows Only: It’s designed for Windows systems, so don’t expect support for Mac or Linux.Driver May Be Needed for Windows 7: If you’re on an older OS, you might have to manually install TP-Link’s driver from their website.Final Verdict:For the price, this is one of the best Bluetooth dongles you can get. It’s fast, reliable, and super easy to use. I’ve already recommended it to a few friends, and I wouldn’t hesitate to buy it again.

The TP-Link UB500 leverages Bluetooth 5.0 technology, which marked a significant leap from earlier versions. Released in 2016, Bluetooth 5 introduced features like increased range, improved speed, and better power efficiency. With its capability to transmit over distances of up to 240 meters in ideal conditions and data transfer rates of 2 Mbps, Bluetooth 5 is ideal for applications like wireless peripherals, audio streaming, and IoT devices. However, by 2024, newer iterations like Bluetooth 5.3 have brought advancements that highlight both the strengths and limitations of Bluetooth 5.Advantages of Bluetooth 5.0:1. Longer Range: Bluetooth 5.0 doubled the range compared to its predecessor, making it suitable for larger spaces and multi-room connectivity.2. Improved Speed: It offers twice the speed of Bluetooth 4.2, allowing faster file transfers and smoother streaming.3. Efficient Power Consumption: This version is more energy-efficient, which extends battery life for connected devices like headphones or fitness trackers.4. Multiple Device Connections: A single adapter can handle several peripherals at once, an important feature for productivity setups.Disadvantages Compared to Newer Versions:• Security Enhancements: Bluetooth 5.3, the latest version in 2024, brings more robust security protocols, making connections safer against potential breaches. This improvement is crucial for applications in sensitive environments.• Adaptive Frequency Hopping (AFH): Bluetooth 5.3 offers better interference handling, which minimizes disruptions in crowded wireless environments. Bluetooth 5, though reliable, may struggle in areas with heavy device congestion.• Energy Optimization: While Bluetooth 5 is efficient, 5.3 introduces more advanced power-saving features, especially beneficial for wearable and IoT devices.Connection Experience in 2024:Despite being an older standard, Bluetooth 5.0 remains highly relevant in 2024 for most consumer applications. Devices like the TP-Link UB500 can seamlessly connect to modern peripherals, including headphones, mice, keyboards, and even gaming controllers like the PS5 DualSense. For users with standard needs such as office work or casual entertainment the connection stability and speed of Bluetooth 5.0 are still sufficient.However, as more devices adopt Bluetooth 5.3, users might notice advantages in environments with heavy signal interference or when using next-generation gadgets that demand higher security and lower latency. For instance, gamers and professionals in tech-heavy ecosystems may benefit from upgrading to adapters supporting newer Bluetooth versions.Conclusion:Bluetooth 5.0 continues to deliver excellent value for everyday tasks and remains compatible with the vast majority of Bluetooth-enabled devices in 2024. However, users seeking top-tier security, minimal interference, or energy efficiency might consider transitioning to adapters with Bluetooth 5.3. For a general user, the TP-Link UB500 still holds up as a practical and affordable choice.

You get more than what you pay for. With this product at this price point it’s an absolute steal. It’s a high quality adapters that’s extremely easy to use as all Bluetooth adapters should be. All you do it’s plug it in and that’s it. It’s fast and works without any issue and is exactly what I needed to get Bluetooth working in my computer. Definitely a 10/10 product.