I want to connect AirPods to my PC and I'm choosing between a USB Bluetooth adapter and a PCIe Wi-Fi card with Bluetooth. The small USB adapters are much cheaper, while antenna-equipped adapters cost closer to a PCIe card. Is there much practical difference?
PCIe Bluetooth card or USB adapter for AirPods?
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unclaimed_ceramic_frog
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For AirPods near the computer, I'd start with a USB adapter. It's cheaper, doesn't take up a PCIe slot, and may be all you need. A PCIe card is more appealing if you also want Wi-Fi or need the antenna placement it offers.
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Where the antenna ends up can matter more than whether the adapter plugs into USB or a PCIe card. A tiny dongle buried behind a metal PC case might have a worse signal than one in a monitor port or USB hub on the desk. Likewise, antennas stuck behind the case can be obstructed.
An adapter with an external antenna may help with range, but check where you can actually position it before paying extra.
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I'd compare the features you need rather than picking the highest Wi-Fi or Bluetooth version number. The PCIe options bundle Wi-Fi with Bluetooth, so some of that extra cost is for Wi-Fi you might not use. They also take up an expansion slot.
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There may not be a huge difference for a nearby pair of earbuds. PCIe cards can be a good option, but I wouldn't assume the slot alone guarantees lower Bluetooth latency or a more stable connection. Placement and the particular adapter matter too.
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That's useful to consider if the PC sits under a desk too. The cheapest dongle might work better once it's moved away from the back of the case.