Bluetooth vs. Wifi — What's the Difference?

Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are both wireless communication technologies, but they serve different purposes. Bluetooth is designed primarily for connecting devices in close proximity without the need for an intermediary device. For instance, it allows headphones to connect directly to a smartphone. On the other hand, Wi-Fi is designed to provide wireless internet access, connecting devices to a local network via a router.

While Bluetooth connections are typically short-range and intended for personal use, Wi-Fi has a broader range and is suitable for both personal and public networks. Wi-Fi's primary role is to allow devices to connect to the internet, making it ideal for settings like homes, offices, and public hotspots. Bluetooth, with its direct device-to-device connections, is more apt for tasks like streaming music from a phone to a speaker.

The range of Bluetooth is notably limited compared to Wi-Fi. Standard Bluetooth devices can operate within a range of about 10 meters, though some specialized devices can extend further. In contrast, Wi-Fi networks, depending on the technology and hardware, can span distances well over 100 meters indoors.

In essence, while both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi enable wireless communication, their applications, range, and energy requirements distinguish them from each other.

Energy consumption is another differentiating factor. Bluetooth, especially its low-energy version, is designed for minimal power consumption, making it perfect for battery-operated devices like wearables. Wi-Fi, because of its higher data transfer rates and longer range, usually consumes more power.