What's the difference between Bluetooth and Wi-Fi?

 

WiFi and Bluetooth are wireless technologies widely used to send and receive data via radio signals. WiFi is used for high-speed Internet access by connecting nearby devices and sharing the Internet via hotspots, whereas Bluetooth is used for connecting devices nearby.

 

Read on to learn more about WiFi and Bluetooth and how they differ.

 

WiFi

WiFi is an abbreviation for Wireless Fidelity. WiFi is a small network in which smartphones, computers, and other networkable devices communicate wirelessly within a limited range and share Internet access via hotspots. WiFi is a wireless high-speed Internet and network connection technology that uses radio frequency waves. A WiFi antenna is small and can be placed on small routers. WiFi can be used to connect printers, computers, gaming consoles, mobile devices, and other devices.

 

Bluetooth

Bluetooth connects many devices and creates personal networks in the 2.4 GHz unlicensed spectrum. The operating range is determined by the device class. Bluetooth is used by many digital devices, including MP3 players, mobile and peripheral devices, and personal computers.

 

A Comparison of WiFi and Bluetooth

  • WiFi is an abbreviation for Wireless Fidelity. WiFi is a wireless technology that allows devices to connect to the Internet, whereas Bluetooth is a wireless technology that connects devices nearby.

  • WiFi requires a wireless adaptor and a router to connect, whereas Bluetooth requires a Bluetooth adaptor on all devices.

  • WiFi uses much power, whereas Bluetooth is easier to use and uses less than WiFi because each connecting device only needs an adapter.

  • WiFi is more secure than Bluetooth, while Bluetooth is less secure than other wireless technologies.

  • WiFi allows more devices and users to communicate simultaneously, whereas Bluetooth limits the number of devices connecting at any time.

  • WiFi requires a large amount of bandwidth, whereas Bluetooth requires a small bandwidth.

  • WiFi coverage extends to 32 meters, while Bluetooth covers only about 10 meters.