Bluetooth Tethering vs. Wi-Fi Hotspot: What’s the Difference? Know When to Use Which

In today’s digital age, it is difficult to spend even a moment without the internet. When the data on our laptop or another phone runs out, we often immediately ask a friend to turn on their Hotspot.

Usually, we use Wi-Fi Tethering for this purpose, but there is another useful feature hidden in your smartphone — Bluetooth Tethering. Many people aren’t familiar with how to use it properly. So, let’s understand in simple terms what Bluetooth Tethering is and how it differs from a Wi-Fi Hotspot.

What Exactly Is Bluetooth Tethering?

Bluetooth Tethering is a smart feature that allows you to share your smartphone’s internet connection with another device, such as a laptop, tablet, or another phone, using Bluetooth.

For this, both devices need to be paired via Bluetooth. Once the devices are paired, you can easily use the internet on the other device without entering a Wi-Fi password.

How Is It Different from Wi-Fi Tethering?

Although both features are used to share an internet connection, there are significant differences in their technology and benefits.

Battery Consumption

When you turn on Wi-Fi tethering, also called a Mobile Hotspot, your phone may start using more battery power. On the other hand, Bluetooth Tethering generally consumes much less power, allowing your phone’s battery to last longer. This makes it a useful option while traveling.

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Internet Speed

If you want to stream HD videos or download large files, Wi-Fi Tethering is generally the better option because it can provide higher internet speeds.

In comparison, Bluetooth Tethering usually offers slower internet speeds, making it more suitable for basic activities such as web browsing and messaging.

Range and Device Limit

A Wi-Fi Hotspot generally provides a greater range, and you can connect multiple devices to it at the same time.

Bluetooth Tethering, however, works over a shorter distance, usually around 10 meters, and is mainly used to share your internet connection with one device at a time. 

Security

Bluetooth Tethering can be considered more secure in some situations because the devices need to be manually paired before the internet connection can be shared.

A Wi-Fi Hotspot can be discovered by nearby devices when it is visible, although a properly secured Wi-Fi Hotspot with a strong password can also provide good security. Bluetooth is not completely immune to security risks, but pairing adds an additional step before the connection is established.

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Which Option Is Better for You?

If you are traveling, your phone’s battery is low, and you only need to check emails or WhatsApp, Bluetooth Tethering can be a smart choice. If you want a faster connection for playing games with friends or watching movies online, using a Wi-Fi Hotspot is a better option.