Bluetooth has become increasingly common for use with various devices. Not only for smartphone accessories but also for PC peripherals like mice, wireless connections have become the norm.
In this article, we will provide a detailed explanation of the differences between Bluetooth and traditional wireless connections when choosing a wireless keyboard.
Differences Between Bluetooth and 2.4GHz Wireless
Wireless keyboards mainly connect via “Bluetooth” or “2.4GHz Wireless.”
Bluetooth Connection
As the name suggests, this method uses the Bluetooth standard. Many smartphones and tablets come with Bluetooth, and increasingly, PCs are also being equipped with this functionality.
2.4GHz Wireless Connection
This method uses the 2.4GHz frequency band, which is also widely used for Wi-Fi. Traditional wireless connections typically involved inserting a USB receiver into the PC, communicating via the 2.4GHz frequency.
Previously, Bluetooth was only used for very limited applications like data transfer, but the rise of smartphones has rapidly increased its adoption.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Bluetooth Keyboards
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
No need for a USB receiver |
Does not work in BIOS settings |
Usable with tablets and other devices |
Requires pairing setup |
|
Generally more expensive |
Bluetooth keyboards operate within the OS, meaning they won’t work in the BIOS settings screen before the OS boots. This can be inconvenient if you need to modify settings or perform recovery actions in such scenarios.
Advantages and Disadvantages of 2.4GHz Wireless Keyboards
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
Cheaper |
Cannot be used if the receiver is lost |
Ready to use by simply inserting the receiver |
Occupies a USB port |
Usable with PCs without Bluetooth |
|
The significant advantage is that any device with a USB port can use it. However, this might be less convenient for mobile notebooks with few USB ports.
Latency with Bluetooth Connections
Bluetooth devices, including keyboards, headphones, and mice, often raise questions about “response speed.”
In general, wired connections are faster in terms of response speed compared to wireless or Bluetooth connections. However, for standard typing tasks on a PC, this difference is often negligible.
Comparing Bluetooth to 2.4GHz wireless connections, the latter tends to have slightly better response times. Nonetheless, Bluetooth might not be suitable for applications requiring precise responses, like gaming.
Windows tablets, in particular, may experience more noticeable delays with Bluetooth connections, even for simple typing tasks. This is especially evident after waking from sleep mode or after periods of inactivity.
Points to Consider When Choosing a Wireless Keyboard
For Bluetooth-enabled laptops, Bluetooth keyboards are ideal. For mobile notebooks without Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless keyboards are a safe choice, though a Bluetooth receiver can often be connected via USB to use a Bluetooth keyboard.
If possible, test the keyboard with your device to ensure compatibility. Many people might not realize there are two types of wireless connections for keyboards, each with its characteristics, and the best choice depends on your specific needs and environment. We hope this guide helps you choose the right keyboard for your needs.