ASUS USB-BT500 Bluetooth 5.0 Adapter Review Faster Speeds and Extended Range

Description

Compact Design That Fits Anywhere

The ASUS USB-BT500 Bluetooth 5.0 USB Adapter is so tiny that I almost lost it in my bag the first day I tested it. Measuring just 0.59 x 0.28 x 0.69 inches and weighing a mere 0.16 ounces, this little device is all about convenience. Its ultra-small design makes it highly portable, and plugging it into a laptop or desktop doesn’t result in any awkward protrusions. I’ve used other Bluetooth adapters in the past, and many of them were bulky enough to accidentally break off if bumped. With this one, that’s not even a concern. Despite its compact size, it feels sturdy enough to handle daily use.

Effortless Connectivity and Compatibility

One standout feature is its Bluetooth 5.0 capability, which allows for up to 2X faster data transfer speeds and 4X the range compared to older versions like Bluetooth 4.x. I tested this with my wireless headphones, smartphone, and even a Bluetooth keyboard, and it connected effortlessly every time. What I particularly liked is its backward compatibility with Bluetooth 2.1, 3.x, and 4.x devices, which means you don’t have to upgrade all your gadgets to take advantage of this adapter. Whether I was streaming music or transferring files, the connection was stable and seamless.

The frequency band of 2402~2480 MHz ensures a broad range of compatibility with most devices on the market. For someone like me who works with a mix of older and newer tech, this feature was a game-changer. I didn’t have to worry about whether my older Bluetooth 3.0 speaker would connect—it worked without a hitch.

Energy Efficiency That Surprised Me

One thing that caught my attention is the Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology integrated into this adapter. This means that it not only connects faster but also consumes less power. I noticed this particularly when using it with my laptop during long work sessions. While other adapters would drain my battery noticeably, this one had a minimal impact. It’s a small detail, but it’s one that makes a big difference, especially if you’re someone who values power efficiency.

Positives

There are several key benefits that make this device stand out:

• Compact and ultra-small design ensures it’s unobtrusive and portable.
• Bluetooth 5.0 technology provides faster data transfer and extended range.
• Backward compatibility allows it to work with older Bluetooth devices seamlessly.
• Energy-saving features are ideal for long-term use without draining batteries.

Areas for Improvement

Like any product, the ASUS USB-BT500 Bluetooth 5.0 USB Adapter isn’t without its flaws:

• The range is heavily dependent on environmental factors. In a crowded office or a home with multiple walls, the advertised 4X range doesn’t always hold up.
• No included software CD or manual, which could make installation confusing for less tech-savvy users.
• Limited to specific use cases—those needing advanced audio codecs like aptX may find it lacking.

These are minor concerns, but they’re worth mentioning for anyone considering this device.

Peer Products

When comparing this adapter to others like the TP-Link UB500 or Plugable USB-BT4LE, a few clear differences emerge. The TP-Link UB500 also supports Bluetooth 5.0, but its build quality doesn’t feel as robust, and the range seemed slightly less consistent during my tests. On the other hand, the Plugable model is excellent for older devices but lacks the speed and range enhancements of newer Bluetooth versions. The ASUS USB-BT500 excels in portability and ease of use, though it might not cater to niche needs like gaming or high-fidelity audio.

Bang for the Buck

From my perspective, this adapter delivers exceptional value for money. Its combination of portability, energy efficiency, and compatibility with both modern and older devices makes it a reliable choice. While it doesn’t have every premium feature under the sun, it nails the essentials, making it a smart investment for everyday users.

Would I recommend it? Absolutely, especially if you’re looking for a simple, reliable way to add Bluetooth functionality to your device without breaking the bank. Just don’t expect it to perform miracles in environments with heavy interference or specialized requirements.

Additional information