While dependent on modems, Wi-Fi networks usewireless routersinstead ofEthernetcables to connect devices to the internet.
We take a deep dive into the similarities and differences between Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
Overall Findings
Mostly for connecting devices to each other.
Lifewire
Lower power, shorter range, and slower data speeds.
Operates on the RF (radio frequency) spectrum.
Mostly for connecting devices to the internet.
Higher power, wider range, and faster data speeds.
Bluetooth is also used with hands-free headsets, wireless navigation systems, and remote mouse and keyboards.
AWi-Fi networkis the wireless extension of a wired modem connection.
Wi-Fi is the wireless connectivity protocol used instead of a wired connection such as Ethernet.
It requires a wirelessrouter, through which all Wi-Fi devices on the connection are channeled.
The term Wi-Fi is sometimes used interchangeably with the internet.
Wi-Fi is not the same as the internet.
The modem connects to the internet.
Although many Wi-Fi networks use the same 2.4 GHz band as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi uses more power.
Speed: Higher Power Delivers Higher Speeds
Slower.
Most use cases don’t require super fast data speeds.
Capable of fast data transfers for high-bandwidth streaming media.
Bluetooth is typically slower and offers less bandwidth than Wi-Fi.
This is one of the reasons why Bluetooth audio quality is considered inferior.
Wi-Fi can be used to stream high-quality music, video content, and other large data streams.
Bluetooth 4.0 offers greater speeds than previous versions of the technology.
However, it is capped at 25 Mbps, and the effective rate is lower than that.
Use Cases: Peripherals vs.
Whole Home Internet Access
Mostly for connecting peripheral devices like speakers, printers, keyboards, and headphones.
Shorter operational range than Wi-Fi.
Mostly for connecting to the internet.
Establishes a wireless LAN (local area web link) accessible by any unit with login credentials.
Bluetooth is primarily used to connect two devices over a short range using low energy.
Bluetooth also provides an easy way tolisten to music while driving, functioning as a wirelessauxiliary cable.
Accordingly, it’s more useful in home and office parameters than in cars.
Wirelessly connects a unit to a modem, which connects to the internet.
Can also connect to other devices in a LAN.
Bluetooth connections can stem from either an Ethernet or Wi-Fi connection.
A successful Bluetooth pairing will range up to about 30 feet.
However, in most situations, the effective range is shorter.
Bluetooth uses comparatively little energy and is fit for a personal area data pipe, or PAN.
PANs are used for communication among personal devices and contrast with a LAN.
AWi-Fi networkis the LAN through which devices can connect to a modem and, in turn, the internet.
Final Verdict
Comparing Wi-Fi and Bluetooth is like comparing apples and oranges.
Wi-Fi is superior to Bluetooth in terms of range and speed.
Bluetooth is favored for its low energy and narrow RF range, which Wi-Fi lacks.
Wi-Fi is the favored standard for establishing wireless home networks.
Bluetooth is the favored standard for wirelessly connecting computer peripherals.
Bluetooth is also increasingly found in head units, speakers, and home theater receivers.
It’s hard to conceive of much competition for either, but the closest would beWi-Fi Direct.
