The main difference between Wi-Fi and Bluetooth is how these technologies connect with different devices.

While Bluetooth is designed to offer short-range wireless communication between two devices, Wi-Fi allows you to connect devices to the internet via a wireless router.

So, what is Wi-Fi, what is Bluetooth, and when should you use either one?

What Is Wi-Fi?

Wi-Fi is a wireless technology that is essentially a middle-man in allowing you to connect devices like your smartphone, laptop, and printer to the internet. The key aspect of Wi-Fi is that it is wireless; you don't need a cable to obtain an internet connection.

However, Wi-Fi relies on a wireless router to create a wireless network. In your home, you likely have a router connected to a modem via a cable. Once a connection is established, your compatible devices can connect to your home's Wi-Fi network via the router to access the internet.

Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) is the latest generation of Wi-Fi. It's capable of speeds up to 9.6Gbps, which is significantly faster than Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) at only 6.9Gbps. Although, it's worth noting that not every wireless device supports Wi-Fi 6, and you need a Wi-Fi 6 router to leverage the speeds of the 802.11ax standard.

What Is Bluetooth?

Bluetooth is also wireless technology. However, it uses radio frequencies to connect devices together directly, rather than to the internet.

When you connect a device, like your smartphone, to a Wi-Fi network, you'll be asked for a password. With Bluetooth, you must pair the devices together, some of which will require a passcode or confirmation that you wish to accept a connection.

The main purpose of Bluetooth is to be able to establish a secure connection between devices without the need for a cable over a short distance. Say you wanted to connect your smartphone to your car to listen to music. As long as your car has Bluetooth, you can pair your phone to your car's stereo, without using the internet.

Should You Use Wi-Fi or Bluetooth?

Deciding between Wi-Fi and Bluetooth ultimately comes down to the devices you're using. Certain devices, like wireless keyboards, headphones, and speakers, don't require an internet connection to work. Instead, they use Bluetooth to connect two or more devices wirelessly.

On the other hand, household tech like smart thermostats, laptops, and smart TVs require an internet connection to access certain features, thus need to be connected to a Wi-Fi network.

In some instances, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth can work together; you can connect your smartphone to a Wi-Fi connection, then use Bluetooth to share documents and photos to another device.