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2.4GHz vs Bluetooth- Which Wireless Technology Is Better?

Ismar Hrnjicevic

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  • Let’s start by clarifying what 2.4GHz actually means in the context of computer peripherals. It refers to a type of proprietary wireless technology called USB-RF, where devices like mice and headsets use a small USB dongle to connect to your computer. Unlike Bluetooth, this 2.4GHz connectivity is specific to each manufacturer. In fact, some manufacturers, like Logitech, have multiple 2.4GHz “standards” with varying levels of compatibility, but we’ll touch on that later. You’ll typically find 2.4GHz in gaming-focused peripherals as a way to provide a better and more responsive experience thanks to higher bandwidth and latency optimization. For instance, Bluetooth only supports a maximum polling rate of 125Hz (the mouse reports its position 125 times a second), which translates into a delay of 8ms. In contrast, many 2.4GHz devices support 1,000Hz, with some recent models, like the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro, reaching over 4,000Hz
  • While 2.4GHz is objectively better than Bluetooth in many ways, it has one glaring issue: it’s all proprietary. Each manufacturer uses its own 2.4GHz technology, which only works with their devices. So, if you have a Logitech mouse, Razer keyboard, and SteelSeries headset, you’ll need three separate 2.4GHz receivers to connect everything. And if you’re using these devices with a laptop, you might not even have enough USB ports to connect everything at once.
  • However, while Bluetooth is fine for most people, some of the time, it’s not ideal. First, 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.
  • Speaking of headsets, Bluetooth suffers from worse audio quality compared to 2.4GHz due to the significantly lower bandwidth. While some Bluetooth codecs promise solid sound quality, they still pale in comparison to proprietary 2.4GHz technologies. This is compounded by the somewhat noticeable delay, which can spoil the experience in rhythm games. You can forget about playing Osu! or Piano Tiles via Bluetooth.
  • Firstly, if your device comes with a 2.4GHz dongle, there’s really no reason not to use it in favor of Bluetooth. It has better range, performance, and reliability, as it’s less prone to signal dropouts and interference. If you’re a gamer, forget about using Bluetooth. While it’s fine for casual use with a wireless controller, 2.4GHz is simply the better option.
  • Whether you opt for Bluetooth or 2.4Ghz, you should know that it’s a congested spectrum. Your Wi-Fi router, microwave, and smart home devices all use 2.4GHz. To get the best performance from your wireless devices, keep the dongle as close as possible and within line of sight.
  • If you want to get the superior performance of 2.4GHz but also need something that works universally with any Bluetooth-enabled device, look for peripherals that support both options. It’s already common in wireless mechanical keyboards, but we’re starting to see it in mice and headsets as well. That way, you’ll always have an extra way to connect the device. Even if you lose the dongle, you can continue using it via Bluetooth in a pinch until a new dongle arrives.