Wireless connectivity technology, aka wireless, for various electronic equipment, is based on Bluetooth technology and radio frequency or RF.
Maybe many of us still don’t know the difference between Bluetooth and RF.
These two connection technologies are commonly used as short-range wireless links, using the unlicensed 2.4 GHz frequency wave which is intended for industrial use.
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So what is the difference between Bluetooth and RF, and which is better? Following are the differences between Bluetooth and RF as well as their advantages and disadvantages.
Table of Contents
Understanding Bluetooth
Bluetooth technology is a short-range communication system intended to replace cables for connecting portable or fixed electronic devices and is included in the IEEE standards.
Bluetooth allows short-range data exchange (using UHF radio waves in the ISM band 2.4-2.485GHz).
We can use the Bluetooth module to pair two devices via Bluetooth wireless connection.
Understanding RF
RF refers to the use of radio frequency waves to transmit data wirelessly over short distances and can include other types of wireless technology beyond Bluetooth (e.g. WiFi, satellite communications, etc.).
Radiofrequency (RF) is a measurement that represents the rate of oscillation of the spectrum of electromagnetic radiation, or electromagnetic radio waves, from frequencies ranging from 300 gigahertz (GHz) to as low as 9 kilohertz (kHz).
With the use of antennas and transmitters, RF fields can be used for various types of broadcasting and wireless communications.
The Main Differences Between Bluetooth and RF
| Radio | Bluetooth | |
| Reach | Can be more than 30 meters (with DETC technology) | About 10 meters |
| Data transfer speed | Up to 11 Mbps | Up to 2Mbps |
| Application | Using a USB receiver | Bluetooth built in feature |
| Use for gaming equipment | Mouse, keyboard, gamepad | Headset, speaker portable |
1. Differences in Characteristics
Bluetooth is a type of RF (Radio Frequency) technology that specifically operates in the 2.4GHz ISM (Industrial, Scientific, and Medical) band.
Bluetooth is an open wireless technology standard used to transmit data over short distances, typically up to 33 feet for Class 2 Bluetooth devices. RF, on the other hand, refers to the use of radio waves for wireless communications.
2. Difference in Frequency Range
Bluetooth uses short-wavelength UHF radio waves with a frequency range between 2.4 and 2.485 GHz. Radio frequencies (RF) range from 300 gigahertz (GHz) to as low as 9 kilohertz (kHz).
Overall, Bluetooth and RF are both wireless communication technologies that offer different benefits and can be used in different applications.
