Bluetooth and Wi-Fi: What’s the Difference?
Wireless communication technology is no longer new, but the two most common protocols that make it all possible, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, are often confused and misunderstood. While similar in many ways, they have several key differences that make choosing one over the other more of an art than a science. In this article, we’ll take a look at the two technologies, discuss their features, and better illustrate when one might be the right fit over the other.
What Is Bluetooth?
Bluetooth is a short-range radio-frequency technology that enables two or more devices to talk to one another in a limited range. By eliminating the need for wires or cables, Bluetooth provides a convenient and reliable connection between two or more devices. Bluetooth uses a 2.4 GHz radio wave, which is similar to a radio signal, to create and maintain a vital connection in a localized space.
What Is Wi-Fi?
Wi-Fi is also a wireless network technology for connecting computers, and other devices, to the internet. It operates on the same frequency as Bluetooth, but has much greater range, allowing it to support larger data transfers with fewer dropouts.
Unlike Bluetooth, the Wi-Fi signal requires an access point or router to connect your device to the internet. Wi-Fi is a high-speed technology that can transfer data at up to 54 megabits per second (Mbps), which is more than 50 times faster than Bluetooth.
Comparing Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
To better understand the differences between Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, let’s compare them on four key metrics: range, speed, power, and security.
Range
Bluetooth is a short-range technology and is best suited for connecting devices within a range of 10 to 20 meters. Wi-Fi range can vary, but routers and access points can typically provide coverage for up to 150 meters, depending on the technology standard and the type of walls, furniture, and other environmental factors in the vicinity.
Speed
When it comes to speed, Bluetooth tops out at 1 Mbps, while the top speed of Wi-Fi is 54 Mbps. This makes Wi-Fi the better option for streaming video, downloading large files, and transferring data of any kind.
Power
Because of the difference in speed and range, Bluetooth uses a fraction of the power that Wi-Fi does. Bluetooth-enabled devices can typically run on a single AA or AAA battery for months on end, while a Wi-Fi device might have to be plugged into an outlet or have its battery recharged frequently.
Security
Bluetooth is equipped with basic authentication and encryption protocols to protect data in transit. Wi-Fi, on the other hand, relies on the more comprehensive WPA2 and WPA3 protocols for network security.
Where Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Overlap
Despite their differences, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi do have several things in common. For starters, both protocols use the same frequency, so interaction between the two is minimal. Secondly, both technologies are well-supported by most OSs and mobile devices.
When to Use Bluetooth over Wi-Fi
Although Wi-Fi offers greater range and speed, Bluetooth is still the go-to option for many applications. In some cases, Wi-Fi simply isn’t available, making Bluetooth the only option. This is generally the case in remote areas or on airplanes.
Bluetooth is also preferable when the power requirements of a device are restrictive, such as in the case of a wireless mouse or a smartwatch, which might have to be plugged into an outlet or have its battery recharged frequently.
Similarly, Bluetooth is the only option when it comes to low-power beacons or sensors, which need to stay powered on 24/7. Because of its low-energy capability, Bluetooth is also ideal for applications where battery life matters, such as with smartphones or tablets.
With their key differences highlighted in the points above, it’s now much easier to understand why Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are sometimes used in tandem, and why one might be preferred over the other for certain applications. When you’re faced with the decision to choose Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, always keep in mind the differences in range, power requirements, security, and speed. Doing so will help you make the most informed decision for your particular situation.
