What's Better, 2.4GHz or a Bluetooth Keyboard?

Have you ever tried gaming on a Bluetooth keyboard or mouse? You can feel the delay in on-screen movements. You move your mouse swiftly, but the crosshair on the screen responds sluggishly. It's due to the delay caused by your mouse's response time.

On the other hand, when using a 2.4GHz mouse for gaming, your mouse is always charging. Each technology has its pros and cons. Bluetooth provides long battery backups and spends less time charging. 2.4GHz is ultra-fast ideal for gaming applications. This blog will discuss these critical differences to help you find the perfect device for your daily driver.

Background of 2.4GHz and Bluetooth Technology

Before we dive into the specifics of each technology, it's essential to understand that these are communication technologies. The device, whether a keyboard, mouse, headphone, speaker, or any other peripheral, communicates with the computer through wireless or wired technology. Wired is easy to understand, whereas there are two dominant wireless technologies.

Based on user demand, manufacturers use 2.4GHz or Bluetooth technology in their wireless keyboards. Here is a little history and regulatory bindings on both these technologies:

Bluetooth: Standardized and Widely Compatible

Jaap Haartsen led the team that invented Bluetooth technology in 1994. Now, the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) manages the technology. The group standardizes Bluetooth technology and invests in its research. It has 35,000 members. IEEE regulates the Bluetooth frequencies. Bluetooth (5.x) is their latest version that features LE (Low Energy) technologies.

2.4GHz: Freedom for Manufacturers to Enhance Performance

2.4GHz gives developers more freedom than Bluetooth. Gaming mechanical keyboard manufacturers use 2.4GHz because it allows faster response times and less control over their design. Regulations such as FCC, RED, and Industry Canada regulate the 2.4GHz band. It is to reduce interference between devices and ensure that the device performance remains top-notch.

What is a Bluetooth Keyboard, and is it Better?

Let's move to the main section of our blog, Bluetooth keyboards. Calling a device better depends on the user's choice and requirements. Bluetooth has unique features that stand way ahead of 2.4GHz. While there are drawbacks, Bluetooth remains ideal for office work and casual gaming. Here are the key points that make Bluetooth keyboards great:

● Standardization: Stable Performance with Compatibility

Due to its high number of members and standardized design, it has a very high acceptance rate. Almost all laptops, desktops, smartphones, TVs, gaming consoles, and tablets feature Bluetooth devices. Users can connect their Bluetooth gaming keyboard to any device without compatibility issues.

● Seamless Connectivity: Multi-Device Switching

Modern Bluetooth offices or gaming keyboards feature multi-device connections, enabling users to switch between devices. Some modern devices even allow copy-pasting across devices using specialized software.

● Low Energy Consumption: Spend Less Time Charging

The biggest reason Bluetooth technology is popular is its low energy consumption. Bluetooth SIG is currently focusing on improving the energy consumption of its devices. Their latest LE Power Control allows Bluetooth transmission to change dynamically. The previous version used fixed power, leading to higher energy consumption.

● No USB Dongle Requirement: Free the USB Ports

Compared to 2.4GHz, Bluetooth gaming keyboards do not require a USB dongle for connection. Imagine trying to connect a USB-A with your tablet that does not have a USB-A port. Modern devices have built-in Bluetooth receivers, so there is no need to occupy USB ports.

Should You Buy a 2.4GHz Keyboard?

Are you a gamer? If so, then 2.4GHz is the perfect choice for you. Speed and wireless communication allow every gamer freedom of movement and portability. Take your gear over to a LAN party or gaming session. Combine a 2.4GHz keyboard with mechanical switches, and you get the ultimate 2.4GHz mechanical gaming keyboard for your taste of speed. To understand why it is fast and what makes a 2.4GHz keyboard good for gaming, here are the top reasons:

● Ultra Low Response Times: Competition Ready

1000Hz is the communication frequency of modern mechanical gaming keyboards. It results in a 1ms response time, which is low enough to be compatible with monitors. E-sports competitive gaming monitors and peripherals all together have a 1ms response time. In comparison, Bluetooth has an 8ms response time, which can feel sluggish. 8ms can easily throw you off your game.

● Dedicated USB Dongle: Maximum Resources

Even though a USB dongle may occupy your USB port, it also frees the Bluetooth protocol for other peripherals. Bluetooth can connect to multiple devices, but when it does, it can become even more sluggish due to its low communication speed. A dedicated USB dongle with 2.4GHz mechanical gaming keyboards pours all its resources into ensuring stable response times, leading to consistent performance, which is vital for competitive gaming.

● Reliable Connection: No Delay or Stutter

The 2.4GHz frequency band allows manufacturers to select rarely interrupted or dropped frequencies. Bluetooth uses a generic frequency band, sometimes interfering with other wireless networks, causing stutter or delay.

● Working Distance: Office and Gaming Compatible

A typical 2.4GHz wireless keyboard can work at a distance of 33ft (10m). That makes it ideal for gaming and office applications where the receiving computer can be far away. Presentation or meeting rooms can be long, and 2.4GHz can support longer distances to accommodate such instances.

Our Pick: Dual Mode Bluetooth 60% Gaming Keyboard MK005BT

ONE LINER

MK005BT is a high-end gaming mechanical keyboard with contemporary looks, wired and Bluetooth communication, and high-end Outemu mechanical switches, ideal for most gamers.

SPECS

Layout: 60% (61 Keys)

Switches: Outemu Blue Mechanical Switches

Port: USB-C Charging

Connection: Bluetooth or Wired

Keycaps: Double-Shot PBT

Weight: 555g

DESCRIPTION

If you play GTA-6, Stray, Stardew, or Red Dead Redemption or work in an office where you type a lot, then MEETION MK005BT is for you. The gaming mechanical keyboard has a minimalist look with the absolute essential 60% keyboard layout. MEETION has featured an anti-ghosting capability on the keyboard for players that want to execute multiple keypress maneuvers. The keyboard has clicky blue mechanical switches to give a satisfactory audible experience.

Moreover, the keyboard has double-shot PBT keycaps that have longevity and extraordinary RGB light passthrough. The keyboard can work wirelessly with Bluetooth technology or connect directly using the USB-C connection. The keyboard can work and charge simultaneously. It's an ideal keyboard for casual gaming and typing office work.

Final Word

Saying Bluetooth is better than 2.4GHz and vice versa is a statement depending on user requirements. We can see that each technology offers its perks to enhance the gamer's or office workers' experience. To summarize the discussion, here are the bullet points:

● Use a Bluetooth Gaming keyboard for casual gaming or office work.

● 2.4GHz is ideal for long-distance connection and low-latency applications. Competitive gamers can go for 2.4GHz with wired connection capability.

We hope you found value in the article. Check out all the MEETION line-up and website blog for more information.