Which Wireless Technology Is Better?

When it comes to wirelessly connecting peripherals to your computer, you have two main options: a 2.4GHz dongle or Bluetooth. If you’re only familiar with Bluetooth, you might be wondering what this dongle is even for – there’s a reason it exists. Let’s look at the pros and cons of each.

How is 2.4 GHz different from Bluetooth?

Let’s start by finding out what 2.4 GHz actually means in the context of computer peripherals. This refers to a type of proprietary wireless technology called USB-RFwhere are devices such as mice and headsets use a small USB dongle to connect to your computer. Unlike Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz connectivity varies from manufacturer to manufacturer. In fact, some manufacturers, such as Logitech, have multiple 2.4GHz “standards” with different levels of compatibility, but we’ll get to that later.

Typically, the 2.4GHz frequency is used in gaming-oriented peripherals as a way to provide better and faster responsiveness due to higher bandwidth and latency optimization. For example, Bluetooth only supports the maximum polling rate 125 Hz (the mouse reports its position 125 times per second), which corresponds to a latency of 8 ms. In contrast, many 2.4 GHz devices support 1000 Hz, and some recent models such as Razer BlackWidow V4 Proreaching over 4000 Hz.

Although Bluetooth also works on Frequency spectrum 2.4 GHzit prioritizes short-range, low-power connections, resulting in significantly lower throughput and higher latency compared to proprietary 2.4 GHz connections. RTINGS Analysis paints a clear picture: 2.4 GHz is faster and more stable than Bluetooth, all other things being equal.

2.4 GHz has one serious drawback

While 2.4GHz is objectively better than Bluetooth in many ways, it has one glaring problem: it’s all proprietary. Each manufacturer uses its own 2.4 GHz technology, which only works with its devices. So, if you have a Logitech mouse, a Razer keyboard, and a SteelSeries headset, you’ll need three separate 2.4GHz receivers to connect everything. And if you use these devices with laptopYou may not even have enough USB ports to connect all your devices at once.

Okay, so what? If you don’t mind limiting your selection, you can purchase everything from the same manufacturer. However, even then there are caveats, such as compatibility issues between different dongles and peripherals.

For example, if you want to use the gaming-oriented Logitech Lightspeed 2.4GHz connection, you can connect two Lightspeed devices up to one speed of light keyboard receiver. If you have a Lightspeed mouse and headset, you will still have to use two separate Lightspeed receivers. However, somehow Logitech managed to complicate matters even further. Older Logitech models use a 2.4 GHz dongle or Combining receiverwhereas in new models it is used Bolt placement.

Moreover, if you lose one of these branded 2.4GHz receivers or it stops working after the warranty period, replacing it will be quite expensive. Unlike Bluetooth dongles, you will have to buy an original replacement dongle, and often it will have to be the exact model that works with your device. For example, Logitech G502 X Lightspeed key currently $31.99 on Amazon. Razer Blackshark V2 Pro The headset receiver is even more expensive at $40.99.

Bluetooth is universal, but limited

Most of the devices around us support Bluetooth, and for those that don’t, you can easily add support using cheap bluetooth dongle. I use a $3 Bluetooth dongle on my computer and it works flawlessly with my keyboard, headphones, and other devices. xbox controller. As long as you don’t exceed your bandwidth limit, you can use multiple devices simultaneously via Bluetooth; no keys required.

It is a simple, convenient and familiar interface. You can purchase a Bluetooth mouse and keyboard that you can then use with your PC, laptop, phone, tablet, and TV without worrying about adapters. Those of us who have forgotten a 2.4GHz dongle on the road know how frustrating it can be to have a device but not be able to use it. Plus, Bluetooth is more energy efficient than 2.4GHz, meaning you can easily go days or even weeks without charging your mouse or headphones.

However, while Bluetooth is suitable for most people, it is not ideal in some cases. Firstly, it suffers from higher latency, making it unsuitable for serious gaming. While I use Bluetooth for my controller and single player games, I would never use it in competitive games like Marvel Rivals or first person shooters.

In addition, Bluetooth has approx. half rangewhich can be problematic on wireless controllers or if you like to walk around the house and chat with friends on Discord using wireless headset.

Speaking of headsets, Bluetooth suffers from worst sound quality compared to 2.4 GHz due to significantly lower bandwidth. Although some Bluetooth codecs While they promise consistent audio quality, they still pale in comparison to proprietary 2.4GHz technologies. This is compounded by a somewhat noticeable lag that can ruin the experience of rhythm games. You can forget about the game Osu! or Piano tiles via Bluetooth.

Which wireless technology should you use?

Firstly, if your device has a 2.4GHz adapter, there’s no reason not to use it in favor of Bluetooth. It has better range, performance and reliability as it is less susceptible to signal dropouts and interference. If you are a gamer, forget about using Bluetooth. While it’s fine for everyday use with a wireless controller, 2.4GHz is simply a better option.

However, if you just need something for the office, chances are you won’t even notice the difference between 2.4GHz and Bluetooth, especially when it comes to mice and keyboards. What you will notice is the increased battery life. For example, the Logitech Signature M550 promises 2 years of battery life on a single AA battery. For context I’ll have to charge my Logitech G502 Lightspeed every two weeks (although I also have RGB enabled).

Whether you choose Bluetooth or 2.4GHz, you should be aware that this is a congested spectrum. Your Wi-Fi routerMicrowave ovens and smart home devices use the 2.4 GHz frequency. To ensure maximum performance from wireless devices, keep the dongle as close and within line of sight as possible.

If possible, buy devices that support both

If you want the superior performance of 2.4GHz but also need something that works universally with any Bluetooth-enabled device, look for peripherals that support both. This is already common in wireless mechanical keyboardsbut we are starting to see it in mice And headsets Also. This way, you will always have an additional way to connect your device. Even if you lose the key, you can continue to use it via Bluetooth until a new key arrives.