Bluetooth technology offers a convenient and fast way of connecting smart-driven devices.
However, despite the convenience, you can bear me witness that the range offered can be at times a little limiting. Normally, a majority of the Bluetooth devices have a decent range of up to 200 feet, with the latest Bluetooth 5.0 offering ranges up to 800 feet.
These numbers, however, can only be achieved if there’re no barriers in between. At times, Bluetooth devices like transmitters have to pass through walls or other barriers, and this can lower their field of strength.
In most cases, because of their short-range, your working distance is often limited. For others, they tend to drop connections often or lag when you move a little further from them. Fortunately, it’s easy to overcome this range limitation with the best Bluetooth extender.
These plug-and-use devices normally extend your Bluetooth Wireless range up to 100 feet indoors and 300 feet outdoors.
And depending on the exact Bluetooth extender, they can boost the signal strength, help to prevent sync delay, and even connect to multiple devices simultaneously. Unfortunately, not all the Bluetooth range extension devices available today are good at what they’re meant to do.
It’s for this reason, we’ve compiled the top 5 Bluetooth Extenders in the market.
Quick Comparison Table & Our Pick!
Product | Range (ft) | Audio Jack | Low Latency | Transmitter / Receiver | BUY NOW |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
30.0 | 3.5mm / RCA | Yes | Both | ||
160.0 | 3.5mm / RCA | Yes | Both + Pass-through | ||
164.0 | 3.5mm / RCA | Yes | Both + By-Pass | ||
Other Great Recommendations | |||||
n/a | AUX | No | Transmitter | ||
50.0 | 3.5mm / RCA | Yes | Both |
Top 5 Bluetooth Extenders In The Market For The Money
TaoTronics Bluetooth 5.0 Transmitter/Receiver - Editor’s Choice
Topping our list of the best Bluetooth extenders is the TaoTronics Bluetooth 5.0.
TaoTronics is an ideal solution for users who are in search of a compact extender than can run on a battery and continue to be used while it’s charged.
Features and Benefits
2-in-1
TaoTronics Bluetooth is a 2-in-1 Extender supporting both the transmitter and receiver function.
When in use, for instance, the transmitter (TX) function can easily transform the 3.5mm audio-our media device into a Bluetooth device capable of streaming Bluetooth audio.
On the other hand, the receiver (RX) function allows your non-Bluetooth devices to receive high-quality audio. With the RX function, I found it easy to transmit music from my car CD player or even home stereo without the need for cables.
Range
A transmitter with a poor range is not worth your time, and luckily TaoTronics Bluetooth Extender has a decent range of up to 33 feet.
Well, I admit the range isn't anywhere impressive, and it's not the device you would want if you want to enjoy your headphones in your backyard. However, I found it quite fine for a home theater setup, where you simply need to support the headphone or speakers located across the room.
Despite the limited range, the device itself is pretty good in maintaining a consistent and reliable connection, when you’re within the transmission range.
The good transmission reliability has more to do with the Bluetooth 4.1, which the manufacturer claims has up to four times the range of its predecessor, meaning it’s easy to roam around your house without the loss of connection.
Latency
TaoTronics Bluetooth transmitter relies on aptX technology, which, according to the manufacturer, has latency lower than 95% of other devices.
Agreeably, there’re hundreds of positive reviews about the performance and connectivity of the aptX technology, but it’s not all perfect.
While the 2-in-1 feature is designed to reduce end-to-lag to a measly 40 milliseconds, some users have reported sync issues, especially while watching videos or movies.
According to some users, for instance, the sound quality is great, but there’s a significant delay from the TV through the transmitter then to the speaker.
While the performance might be affected by several elements, including the type of speakers and whether they support the said protocol, some of the users had issues watching videos with this device.
However, for streaming music or any other audio that doesn’t require lip sync, the performance of the TaoTronics Bluetooth transmitter is simply bounds ahead.
Dual-Link Support
The dual-link support lets you pair two Bluetooth headphones or speakers, making it easier for your kids to watch in silence and give you a much-needed break.
Unfortunately, the aptX Low Latency isn’t supported on the dual pair mode.
Ease of Use
When using the receiver mode, this extender gives you full control of the music.
When in use, it's easy to play, pause, select a track, and even control the volume on the adapter controls.
Another good thing with the adapter is that it lets me connect it to the traditional device such as speakers and wired headphones, allowing me to listen to my favorite jam direct from my phone.
Battery
With the TaoTronics Bluetooth Extender, you don’t have to go through the inconvenience of disconnect your extender to recharge it.
Instead, it’s possible to use the extender while it’s still charging, and here, you don’t have to shut it down while charging.
When fully charged, it has a decent runtime of up to 20 hours.
Pros
- 2-in-1
- Long lasting battery
- Decent range
Cons
- Lag at times
Miccus New! 160 ft LONG RANGE Bluetooth v 4.2 Transmitter - Best under $50
If you feel the TaoTronics Bluetooth 5.0 is a bit expensive for you, then you should take a hard look at the Miccus Long-Range v 4.2 Bluetooth Extender.
It's not a premium option, and it’s less expensive than many other extenders on our list. But don’t assume the worst of this extender.
If anything, it arguably the best in its class, particularly below the $50 mark. Generally, it’s an ideal solution for those who are looking for an extender that offers a mix of functionality, price, and compatibility.
Features and Benefits
3-in-1
Surprisingly, the Miccus Long-Range v 4.2 Bluetooth Extender is as step up from our above model, regarding the number of modes it can accommodate.
The receiver (RX) mode lets you stream music from your phone to the non-Bluetooth speakers, while the transmitter (TX) mode allows you to stream audio from a TV to a compatible headset.
The pass-through mode, however, is unique in the sense that it lets you connect a TV and a soundbar.
Range
Miccus Long-Range v 4.2 Bluetooth Extender is among the best range extenders and is capable of streaming up to 160 feet, which beats the normal 33 feet limit for the Bluetooth devices.
On a clear line of sight, though, it can support 300 feet.
Either way, I've to admit the range is incredible, and when in use, it's easy to feel its performance in any nook and corner of your residence.
Better yet, it comes with an external antenna, which the manufacturer claims can boost the transmission signal 20 to 40 feet.
While the antenna makes a difference where there were physical obstructions, it wasn’t as pronounced in regions with other kinds of interference.
Latency
Miccus is a dream for anyone who wants a Bluetooth for audio-visual application. It’s a strong option for both the TV and video games, thanks to the low latency AptX code.
When in use, this low latency model doesn’t generate any audio-visual lag, and if you happen to have a headset that is also AptX-enabled, you’ll be treated to a seamless experience. Unfortunately, however, there’s always a delay between video and audio.
The Miccis, for instance, is much more prone to attenuation in environments where there’s great potential for interference.
For instance, the signal drop is not so much when you're watching TV, but when connected on dual-link support, the delay is evident.
Dual Link Support
Like the TaoTronics Bluetooth 5.0, the Miccis supports two connections simultaneously, and so it was easy for me and my better half to catch our favorite show with a single extender.
Unlike the TaoTronics Bluetooth 5.0, Miccis will support the AptX support function even on dual-link. Better yet, it’s easy for me to set the volume independently for each device.
Ease of Use
The Miccis is arguable the best on our list regarding plug and play. It’s easy to use and user-friendly too.
The auto-reconnect feature, for instance, is quite handy, especially if you happen to use the same Bluetooth headphone or speaker with the extender each time.
Unfortunately, the auto-connect is also its greatest bane because it often disconnects automatically if a new device attempts to pair with it while still playing. So you need to be aware of the overzealous Windows devices.
However, what pisses me off with the device is that it announces at full volume every time it connects.
For some users, even when set at the lowest volume, the device is still loud.
Pros
- Decent range
- Best for TV
- Compact, yet powerful
Cons
- Possibility of attenuated signals
Avantree Oasis 164 ft LONG RANGE Bluetooth Transmitter - Best Class 1 Extender
When you want a product from a well-known brand that is known for quality, you can never go wrong with the Avantree.
And today, we’re going to look at one of its offering, the Avantree Oasis Long Range.
Features and Benefits
3-in-1
Similar to the Miccus, the Avantree Oasis Long Range comes with three modes for the ultimate versatility and connectivity options. The transmitter (TX) mode allows me to stream audio from a TV to Bluetooth-enabled headsets.
The receiver (RX) mode lets you stream music from a smartphone or MP3 to non-Bluetooth speakers. Finally, the Bypass mode is specifically suited for those TVs with only one optical output that is occupied by a soundbar or receiver.
Range
Avantree Oasis Long Range has an impressive range, and when put in an open-air, it can deliver a decent range of 160 feet.
However, when used indoors, you can expect a reasonable range of 50-70 feet.
While still not the best in the market, it's still plenty for connecting your home entertainment systems.
Low Latency
If we were only to look at the low latency properties and the streaming performance, the Avantree Oasis Long Range would easily pick the top stop.
I mean, with the Avantree Oasis Long Range, it’s easy to achieve a lag-free experience, regardless of the content you want to enjoy. Avantree Oasis Long Range lacks signal attenuation, and when in use, the signal strength rarely drops, even in environments more prone to interference.
This extender eliminates audio-visual lag, and if you pair it with headphones that support aptX, you can expect a lag-free experience.
Complete Audio Hub
Avantree Oasis Long Range is seen as a great audio hub for all your home entertainment. It supports both RCA/3.5mm aux audio connectivity, and so, there’s hardly any audio on the planet that isn’t compatible with this workhorse.
Digital Optical Outputs
The optical output sounds on the Avantree Oasis might seem a bit futuristic, but I love them because they rarely degrade the way the analog signals do.
What it means is that the output will arrive on your side, while maintaining the original properties.
Dual Link
Finally, like all the other extenders on our list, Avantree Oasis sports a multipoint connectivity that lets you pair two pairs of headphones simultaneously.
While the dual-link is not in any way a game-changer in the Bluetooth technology, I think it's a necessity, especially both you and your partner want to enjoy a hassle-free and noiseless streaming experience.
Pros
- Zero lag
- Multi-point connectivity
- Extensive compatibility
Cons
- Not the best construction
Check Avantree Oasis Long Range Price On Amazon
Nulaxy KM18 Bluetooth Car FM Transmitter - Best Car FM Bluetooth Transmitter
I wouldn't advise anyone to go for an FM transmitter for their car because, generally, the FM transmitter delivers a poor quality sound output.
That said, if your car stereo lacks an AUX port, then the FM transmitter might be the way to go. When testing the Nulaxy KM18, I found it to deliver a mixed performance.
However, it would be safe to say that the overall performance was far superior to what I got from other transmitters in the market. The selling points for this Bluetooth transmitter are ease of use and pairing.
Features and Benefits
Sound Quality
As we had already hinted in the intro, FM transmitters aren’t generally designed for delivering a superior sound output, and this is quite evident on the Nulaxy KM18.
Even so, I’ve to admit I was impressed by the overall performance of this model, and though it has some static in between, it would be safe to say the performance is tolerable.
In particular, this model comes with an advance interference and noise cancellation support that allows it to deliver the perfect audio, despite my car's ground loop noise interface.
While it can’t by any means match what is offered by an AUX-IN adapter, a lot of the users admit that the Nulaxy KM18 has set the bar high for the FM transmitters.
AUX
If your vehicle has an AUX port, then you’re in luck as there’re several ways of using the port.
First, you can connect your non-Bluetooth iPod before transmitting the audio through the M. Alternatively, you can plug your audio cord on the stereo, and then forego the transmission.
However, I wouldn’t recommend the former latter process. Instead, Ii would suggest using an unobtrusive AUX adapter.
Compatibility
Nulaxy KM18 is designed to connect and work with almost all the Bluetooth-enabled devices. To connect to a transmitter, for instance, you simply need to plug it into a 12V socket, and you're good to go.
LCD
A crucial element for any car transmitter is that it should be easy to use.
With the Nulaxy KM18, you'll be pleased by the large 1.44 inch LCD screen that lets you have a quick glimpse of the controls, without the need to sacrifice on your driving performance.
Pros
- Optimized for car use
- Inexpensive
- Easy to use
Cons
- Audio clarity isn't the best
Mpow Bluetooth Transmitter Receiver
Mpow is a relatively new brand in the Bluetooth extender space and is not well established as the other brands on our list.
Yet, the Mpow Bluetooth Transmitter Receiver falls short of nothing but excellence, and it favorably competes with the rest of the extenders.
Features and Benefits
2-in-1
Mpow Extender has plenty of resemblance with the TaoTronics Bluetooth 5.0, and one of them is the transmitter and receiver support.
A 2-in-1 device, Mpow can support both the transmission or sending of signals as well as act as a receptor for the signals.
Range
Mpow has a generous range of 50 feet, which is a tad higher than what is offered by the many extenders.
It's not the highest, though, but it will work well in your house and even allow you to catch your favorite shows even when in another room.
Latency
So far, the reception by the Mpow is great, with many of the users alluding to its strong performance, strong reception, and a lag-free experience.
The performance on the Mpow is chiefly because of the aptX low latency bundled in. However, one of the unique properties of this aptX function of the Mpow is the ability to detect compatible low latency devices.
For instance, if the indicators on the transmitter’s body stay lit, it’s an indication that the connecting devices are incompatible.
Dual Connection
Like all the Bluetooth extenders on our list, Mpow provides a multi-line connectivity, allowing you to pair your extender with up to two Bluetooth headphones simultaneously.
Safe Hands-Free Calling
When in RX mode, it’s easy for you to achieve a hands-free calling while driving. This is achieved by the integration of a built-in microphone.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Extensive compatibility
- Low latency
Cons
- Instances of audio lag
Check Mpow Bluetooth Price On Amazon
Best Bluetooth Extender Buying Guide
Bluetooth Extenders greatly vary in their functionality, each with their unique strengths and features.
To cut through the clutter and pick a model that is right for you, you must determine the essential features you need.
Fortunately, we shall provide you with a breakdown of some of the crucial elements you need to consider before making your next purchase.
Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Bluetooth Extender
Type of Bluetooth Extender
Not every Bluetooth device builds the same.
They come in different classes based on their power consumption and range. Generally, Bluetooth range extenders are available in three distinct class types.
Class 1
These devices normally extend your Bluetooth range to 300 feet or 100 meters.
They’re among the high-quality options in the market, but unfortunately, they’ve a widespread power consumption rate of 100 milliwatts.
Class 2
The Class 2 Bluetooth Extenders are a step-down to the class 1 models.
They possess a working range of 10 meters/ 33 feet, and so, an ideal option for the medium-sized areas. Their power consumption is rated at 2.5 milliwatts.
Class 3
The class 3 Bluetooth extenders are on the lowest tier, regarding range.
They have a range less than 10 meters/ 3 feet, and so, they're not the most powerful models, making them ideal for small rooms and spaces.
Their power consumption is one milliwatt.
Signal Boosting Capability
The primary role of a Bluetooth Extender is to increase the connectivity range.
Unfortunately, as the distance increases, it’s easy for the signals transmitted to weaken. And so, it's always a good idea to choose a model that boosts the signal strength, also extending the range.
Wired/Wireless
You should check to see whether your device is wired or wireless.
While a wired device might severely restrict your movement, it’s often a bit stronger because of the electrical output. A wireless device, on the other hand, offers convenience by allowing you to move easily and adjust more, but at the expense of the signal strength.
Literacy
If you don’t want to suffer issues of delayed signal transition with your Bluetooth range extender, then you need to go for a model with low literacy.
Low literacy devices have a minimal delay in signal transfer, and so you won't experience lagging connections.
Receiver/ Transmitter/Bypass?
A receiver and transmitter are opposites, with the receiver having the ability to receive a signal and a transmitter having the ability to send out signals. Normally, however, a majority of the Wi-Fi extenders have both the transmission and receiving capacity.
A bypass, or repeater, on the other hand, both receives and transmits an existing Bluetooth signal. The good thing with the bypass is that it can significantly extend the range of your signal because there’s less distance for interference to weaken the signal.
Compatibility
While most of the Bluetooth range extenders can work with nearly all devices, some might not connect with various types. Because of this, you must ensure the extender you purchase can pair with your devices.
Security
Generally, Bluetooth devices, but still, you must ensure your model has strong security settings. For instance, ensure you’ve a strong encryption that protects your information.
Set-Up
Bluetooth devices aren't necessarily the hardest things to set up, but at times, they can be a bit tricky. Always ensure they’re easy to operate, and that they work well with your Wi-Fi.
Conclusion
There’re numerous reasons why you would want to have a Bluetooth Extender.
Away from the obvious reason of extending your Bluetooth range, these devices can also help with boosting your signal strength and even avoid issues with delay.
Now, depending on your needs, you simply have to go through our list of the best Bluetooth extenders and choose a model that suits you.
Current Best Selling Bluetooth Extenders!
Editor Notes:
How far can Bluetooth extenders go?
Bluetooth offers a reliable connection that allows you to connect various devices. However, it is limited in terms of the distance it can cover, leading to a connection drop or lag.
A Bluetooth extender helps extend the connection distance, and it can extend your connection up to 100 feet indoors and 300 feet outdoors. They can also boost your signal strength and allow you to connect to multiple devices.
Can I connect my Bluetooth extender to WiFi?
Bluetooth functions by using short-range radio waves, but it doesn’t use an internet connection. As such, it will work if you have two compatible devices, but you don’t need a cellular connection or a data plan.
Is it better to use Bluetooth or WiFi?
The choice between using a WiFi connection or Bluetooth depends on various factors, including distance. If you have two compatible devices close to each other, you can share files using Bluetooth. However, Bluetooth is less secure than WiFi, and it is also slower.
1 comment
I have devices which transmit Bluetooth but not far enough to my Bluetooth headphones. Does “pass through” take a Bluetooth signal and re-transmit it? If not, is there something which will do this? I don’t want EITHER end to be physically connected.
Thank you
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