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Creative BT-W3
Bluetooth® 5.0 Audio Transmitter for PS4™ / PS5™ / Nintendo Switch™ / PC / Mac
VIDEO
Features
Overview
Enjoy better Bluetooth audio on your PlayStation® and Nintendo Switch™!
Creative BT-W3 is a portable Bluetooth audio transmitter equipped with Bluetooth version 5.0 and advanced audio codecs like aptX™ LL and aptX™ HD. With a simple plug-and-play functionality, you can easily enjoy high-quality Bluetooth audio with your PlayStation and Nintendo Switch, or upgrade your Bluetooth experience on PC and Mac with more stable connection and better voice calls.
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Bluetooth 5.0
With extended range of up to 30m / 100 ft
aptX LL
Lag-free audio that is essential for an enjoyable gaming experience
Codec Selection
Indicator and selection button to effortlessly choose the suitable codec for your usage
Voice Chat
Analog microphone included to enable voice chat during multi-player games1
Multiple Device Support
USB C-to-A converter provided to enable usage across a wider range of devices
1 Works with devices with 4 pole 3.5 mm audio jack. Please note that voice chat for Nintendo Switch is title-dependent, and requires additional firmware to activate the analog microphone. Please refer to the FAQ section below for more information.
Convenience
EASY CODEC SELECTION
Creative BT-W3 supports 4 different Bluetooth codecs—aptX LL, aptX HD, aptX, and SBC. Each of the codec has its own strengths and is suitable for different use cases: aptX LL is essential for a lag-free gaming experience, while aptX HD is ideal for music enjoyment. With the indicator light and codec selection button, you can easily tell which codec you're using and switch to the suitable codec for your usage effortlessly.
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aptX™ Low Latency
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aptX™ HD
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aptX™
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SBC
Creative BT-W3 works with Bluetooth headphones or speakers, and the codecs available to you are dependent on what your headphones and speakers support—i.e. you need a pair of headphones that support aptX LL to use it with Creative BT-W3! If you're unsure of the codecs supported by your Bluetooth devices, you either check its manufacturer website, or check our FAQ section below.
As long as your Bluetooth device support the corresponding codec, Creative BT-W3 will default to aptX LL first, with aptX HD next in priority, then aptX, and finally SBC.
NEVER MISS A BEAT WITH APTX LOW LATENCY
Latency is a common problem with Bluetooth headphones due to the time required to decode audio. As a result, you may get out-of-sync audio while playing games or watching movies. With aptX Low Latency, you can say goodbye to that annoying lag! This audio codec is engineered to reduce latency to 30-40 milliseconds, which is practically indiscernible by humans. That is 4-6 times shorter than the amount of latency you get with the default SBC codec! Connect your aptX LL compatible headphones to Creative BT-W3 to enjoy seamless transmissions and real-time audio synchronization, without any sacrifice in audio quality!
Connectivity
PLUG AND PLAY
Designed with convenience as the main goal, the setup for Creative BT-W3 can't be any easier.
Here's how to do it:
STEP 1:
Plug the Creative BT-W3 into PS4 / PS5 / Nintendo Switch / PC / Mac.
STEP 2:
Press Bluetooth button for 2 seconds until the indicator light flashes blue to indicate pairing mode. Go into pairing mode on your Bluetooth audio playback device as well.
STEP 3:
Wait for your device to connect with Creative BT-W3.
And you're done. In fact, you can skip step 2 the next time you want to use Creative BT-W3 with the same pair of headphones.
For devices with USB-A port, we've bundled a USB Type C-to-A converter to use with Creative BT-W3. Simply connect Creative BT-W3 to the converter first before plugging it into your device, and that's it. Then, you can follow the simple 3-step process above and you're done. Easy, huh.
NO BATTERIES NEEDED
Creative BT-W3 is powered by USB-C and draws minimal power from the connected device. As long as it's plugged in, it'll always be switched on.
The Creative BT-W3 is also completely battery-free so you don't have to worry about charging yet another device!
COMMUNICATE WIRELESSLY WITH YOUR TEAMMATES
Share your strategy or call for urgent back-up from your teammates when playing multiplayer games! Clear communication is key to winning the game, that's why we bundled a detachable microphone for you to use with your PS4 controller!
Simply plug the microphone into the 3.5 mm jack on your controller to communicate freely and lead your team to victory. Alternatively, you can also go into HFP mode by double pressing the button on your Creative BT-W3, and use the built-in mic on your headset for a quick call or for your online meetings.
For Nintendo Switch users, to use the analog microphone for in-game voice chat, simply download a firmware to enable the function.
Do note that enabling the analog mic for Nintendo Switch will turn off the HFP mode on your Creative BT-W3. Read More.
F.A.Q.
How do I know if my headphones or speakers are compatible with the codecs offered by Creative BT-W3?
To be able to use the aptX codecs, your playback device has to support the respective codecs. If you're unsure of the codecs supported by your devices, you can check their compatibility with aptX, aptX LL, and aptX HD here.
If your playback device does not support aptX codecs, it can still connect with Creative BT-W3 via the SBC codec, which is the basic Bluetooth codec supported by all Bluetooth headphones or speakers. However, you will not be able to enjoy the higher audio quality of the aptX codecs.
Can Creative BT-W3 pair with 2 headphones simultaneously?
Unfortunately, no. We care about providing you with best audio quality and user experience possible with a hassle-free product. Providing simultaneous streaming to 2 headphones compromises on performance both in terms of connection stability and audio quality. This is because the function requires the device to perform alternate streaming at very fast intervals to both headphones, and this causes latency and audio synchronization issues. Moreover, the connection will always default to the lower codec of the 2 headphones and this leads to lower audio quality. We made a measured consideration in the decision of this function, and went with the option that provides the best audio and user experience you can get at the best value.
Can I use Creative BT-W3 with my phone?
Yes, you can! You can use the Creative BT-W3 with any device that streams audio through its USB port that complies with USB Audio Standard.
Due to the wide variety of mobile phones and operating systems that may have different implementation of digital audio streaming through USB-C, it is not recommended for you to purchase this with the sole purpose on using it for your mobile devices.
You will have to approach your mobile device manufacturer to check if your mobile device is compliant with the USB Audio Standard.
How do I use Creative BT-W3 with PS4™ or Nintendo Switch™ in dock mode?
Simply connect Creative BT-W3 to the USB C-to-A converter provided, and plug it into one of the USB-A ports on the PlayStation console or Nintendo Switch dock to enjoy wireless gaming!
Can I use the Analog Microphone included with my Nintendo Switch?
For the analog microphone to work with Nintendo Switch, you'd have to download the HFP-off firmware to enable the function. Do note that enabling the analog mic for Nintendo Switch will turn off the HFP mode on your Creative BT-W3. This is necessary because the Nintendo Switch does not allow for input and output audio to be from different devices. When HFP mode is enabled on your BT-W3, the Switch will auto-register it as the input device, and the analog microphone, or any other external microphones, cannot be enabled. You can turn HFP on again with the HFP-on firmware. Please also note that its voice chat function is title-dependent. You can use the microphone with games that have built-in chat function like Fortnite and Overwatch. Otherwise, it will not work for Nintendo Switch.
Can I control volume through my Bluetooth headphones while connected to Creative BT-W3?
For Bluetooth headphones with the AVRCP profile, you can control playback volume through your Bluetooth headphones. For devices without AVRCP profile, you might only be adjusting the volume of your headphones, not the device Creative BT-W3 is connected to. The volume control synchronization between headset and connected device is dependent on headset manufacturer's implementation.
Will BT-W3 draw a lot of power from my phone or Nintendo Switch in handheld mode?
No, the Creative BT-W3 draws less than 40mA even when using the most power-intensive codec. That is about 1% of most phones' battery, and less than 1% of Nintendo Switch's battery.
My laptop already has Bluetooth, why would I still need this device?
Most laptops come with the most basic Bluetooth chipset with few or only one codec option. With Creative BT-W3, you can enjoy more premium codecs for better wireless audio enjoyment—you'd have access to aptX LL, a low latency codec that is essential for watching videos or playing games; you can also enjoy higher definition audio with the aptX HD codec for better music enjoyment. And most importantly, you are able to switch to the preferred codec anytime the situation calls for it.
Why is my BT-W3 unable to enter pairing mode?
Some Bluetooth devices broadcast their pairing aggressively and this forces BT-W3 to exit pairing mode. To avoid this problem, turn off Bluetooth on your PC, Mac, PS4 or Nintendo Switch temporarily if you experience difficulty.
Can I use the mic from my Bluetooth headphones for voice call instead of the analog microphone?
Yes, you can use your Bluetooth headset for calls in HFP mode, which can be activated by pressing the button on Creative BT-W3 twice. The LED indicator will turn solid red, indicating HFP mode is active. Do note that in HFP mode, the high-quality audio streaming capabilities of A2DP Bluetooth codecs (i.e. aptX LL, aptX HD, aptX, and SBC) will not be available. This is because HFP is a different Bluetooth profile which supports voice back, while A2DP does not.
The analog microphone will allow you to use voice chat while streaming audio on A2DP codecs at the same time. However, due to it being a near-field microphone, it is not suitable for use with laptops and computers due to the position of the 3.5 mm audio jack, and the likelihood of it picking up your keyboard sounds.
Why does the Analog Mic not work on my PS4?
If your analog mic is not working on your PS4, it's most likely due to the new feature introduced in PS4's firmware 7.50. To reinstate the mic capabilities, please follow the steps below to set-up your Creative BT-W3 again:
- Go to “Settings” on PS4 homepage
- Select “Devices”
- Select “Audio Devices”
- Uncheck “Switch Output Device Automatically”
- Ensure that Creative BT-W3 is connected to an available USB port, and the Analog Microphone to the PS4 controller's headset jack.
- Ensure the following:
- “Input Device” is “Headset Connected to Controller”
- “Output Device” is “USB Headset (Creative BT-W3)”
- Under “Output to Headphones”, select “All Audio”
Is BT-W3 compatible with Apple AirPod or AirPod Pro?
Yes; however, AirPod Pro with firmware FW3A283 seems to exhibit abnormality in music playback and HFP mode with BT-W3 as well as other Bluetooth transmitters. Please approach Apple Support for further assistance.
REVIEWS
Gamespot
The Creative BT-W3 is a premium Bluetooth transmitter that works great with the Nintendo Switch in handheld mode and any pair of Bluetooth headphones you own. It supports four different Bluetooth codecs, including a low-latency one that works best for gaming and others that excel with music, movies, and more.
The Verge
First off, it can remedy shoddy Bluetooth quality and signal if you typically experience issues with your laptop or phone. But more importantly, when you pair a set of headphones to it, they can connect to it automatically no matter what device you plug the transmitter into. If you go from laptop to laptop or from laptop to phone, then to a game console after school is done, headphones you have paired to it will connect as soon as you plug it in and power them on.
Gadget Guy
Excellent, hassle-free, and solves the lack of aptX codecs in Windows – especially for gamers (LL) and musos (HD). There are lots of BT dongles, but none have Creatives excellent support. The 3.5mm mic is a bonus – not necessarily the reason to buy.
9.2/10
Customer Reviews
F. Palafox
Awesome easy pairing!
C. H. Teo
I have bought 2 of this product first time. One is for myself and another one is for my buddy's birthday present. All are received in perfect condition. I have tested the product with my bluetooth headset (Audio Technical BT 4.40) and it works marvellous. I quite surprise by the sound quality and it is super impressive. Highly recommended to those that are interested in this products. You will never regret after buying this. Thanks.
P. M
With Creative BT-W3 dongle, your Bluetooth devices (headphones and keyboards/mice) can be used with your PCs or laptops which did not come with Bluetooth adapter inside them. Great buy !
A Closer Look
Specifications
Operating Frequency
- 2402-2480 MHz
Wireless Technology
- Bluetooth 5.0
Bluetooth Profiles
- A2DP (Wireless stereo Bluetooth), AVRCP (Bluetooth remote control), HFP (Hands-Free Profile)
Audio Codec*
- SBC, aptX, aptX Low Latency, aptX HD
Operating Range
- Up to 30m / 100 ft (unobstructed line-of-sight)
*Receivers must support the mentioned codecs
System Requirements
- Intel® Core™i3 or AMD® equivalent processor
- Intel, AMD, or compatible motherboard
- Microsoft® Windows 11, Windows 10, 32 / 64-bit
- Available USB 2.0 / 3.0 port
- Macintosh running MacOS 10.12 or higher
- 1 GB RAM
- Available USB 2.0 / 3.0 port
- Firmware Ver 5.0 or later
- Available USB port (as game audio)
- Available 3.5mm headset port on controller (as Mic input)
- Firmware Ver 20 or later
- Available USB port (as game audio)
- Available 3.5 mm headset port on controller (as mic input)
- Switch OS 5.0 or later
- Available 3.5 mm Headphone Port
- Available USB port (in docking mode)
- Voice communications is title-dependent
Package Contents
- 1 x Creative BT-W3
- 1 x USB C-to-A Converter
- 1 x Analog Microphone
- Quick Start Leaflet
- WW Warranty Leaflets
Warranty
1-year Limited Hardware Warranty
