Difference Between Wireless and Bluetooth Headphones

Key Difference – Wireless vs Bluetooth Headphones
 

Bluetooth technology and wireless are not the same thing. In fact, Bluetooth technology is a form of wireless technology, but not all wireless technologies are Bluetooth. There are functional differences between wireless and Bluetooth headphones that differentiate them. The key difference between Wireless and Bluetooth headphones is that Bluetooth is inbuilt with many devices whereas wireless headphones may require an adapter to connect to a device. Bluetooth headphones are easy to connect, user-friendly and experience less interference. It is compatible with most devices, and the technology is built into the device. Wireless headphones are sometimes also known as cordless headphones. The wireless headphones contain small electronic speakers that are to be worn close to the ears. The sound that is produced by the device can be heard by the user. The specialty of wireless headphones is the fact that there will not be cords connecting the device with the headphones. The device will transmit radio frequency waves that will be picked up by the headphone and played as music or sounds to be played. In the early days, infrared signals were used for transmitting radio waves, but nowadays new technology like Bluetooth has replaced older technologies.

Headphones usually come with large padded cups that are used to cover the ears. There are also small earbuds that are able to fit into the ear canal. The distance that the device is capable of transmitting data to the headphone or earbud is limited and usually can be for a distance of up to 100 feet for Bluetooth device.

What is a Wireless Headphone?

Wireless headphones are used mainly to connect with smartphones, gaming consoles, televisions, computers, and electronic devices without using a cable or a wire. Wireless headphones basically work by transmitting audio signals with the help of radio, IR signals that are dependent on the device. Wireless headphones are used by millions of people every day, from ordinary people to call centers. Wireless headphones are famous among gamers as it facilitates free movement without having to worry about a cord. The user does not need to worry about the cord or wire getting entangled when in use. The same is true for people in the gym and for people who do a workout in front of the TV due to the freedom it provides. Wireless headphones will also be ideal for people who want to watch a late night television show without disturbing others.

What is a Bluetooth Headphone?

Wireless headphones pair with the device it needs to work with. The connection is made with a radio or infra-red signal. Bluetooth is one of the technologies used in wireless headphones to make connections easy for the user. Bluetooth technology helps the device to transfer data over a short distance with the help of radio transmission.

A Bluetooth computer chip will be present inside the device that is able to make the Bluetooth connection. It will be assisted by a software that will help pair the device and the Bluetooth headphone. Devices that are Bluetooth enabled (e.g.cell phones and headphones) can connect or pair automatically when they are in close proximity. This is the feature in phones that helps the user to listen to music or talk on the phone without wires.

Bluetooth is a wireless technology that is being used by millions of products every day. The devices that make use of this technology include laptops, smartphones portable speakers and headsets.

What is the Difference between Wireless and Bluetooth Headphones?

Technology:

Wireless Headphone: There are many wireless standards that can be used in wireless headphones.

Bluetooth Headphone: Bluetooth is a wireless technology that is used in powering Bluetooth headphones.

Built-in:

Wireless Headphone: Wireless headphones usually require an adapter like a USB adapter to make the connection.

Bluetooth Headphone: Bluetooth technology is usually built into the device it is working on.

Compatibility:

Wireless Headphone: Wireless headphones may not be compatible with other branded devices as it may mostly be proprietary.

Bluetooth Headphone: Bluetooth headphones will be compatible with most devices.

Connectivity and Pairing:

Wireless Headphone: Wireless headphones use radio frequency for transmission.

Bluetooth Headphone: Bluetooth headphones use radio frequency for data transmission.  Wireless devices are able to pair with a wide range of devices.