Since Nils Rydbeck developed the technology for Ericsson in 1989 that would allow headphones to be connected without the need for cables, we have not been able to live without Bluetooth. This technology is already essential for any device we have at hand: mobile phones, laptops, tablets… it has even been installed in household appliances. Now the question that arises is, how far is the Bluetooth signal capable of operating so that the connection does not fail or is of good quality? This will depend on factors such as the type of device – there are 3 established ranges – the environment in which we want to operate and the obstacles that stand between the paired devices.
Optimum distance based on device range
We have all debated about the range of Bluetooth, what distance is the correct one to avoid interference and what objects to avoid to receive the signal optimally. The conclusion we come to is always “the shorter the distance, the better.” Well, even though it is true, it is not entirely accurate.
The right thing to do would be to talk about the bluetooth classes to be able to make an estimate of how far our device will work correctly. In this case, we are talking about 3 classes that offer ranges that go from covering less than 10 meters to being able to reach 100. We find them classified as follows:
- Class 1 devices: are those that have a transmission capacity of 100 mW. This power translates into a range of up to 100 meters.
- Class 2 device: are those that have a transmission capacity of 2.5 mW. This power translates into a range of up to 10 meters.
- Class 3 devices: are those that have a transmission capacity of 1 mW. This power translates into a range of less than 10 meters.
Although there are devices that can reach 100 meters, the truth is that most devices that incorporate Bluetooth technology are established in class 2. Therefore, to enjoy a good connection, it is recommended not to exceed 10 meters. Does this mean that at that distance we will always enjoy the highest quality? No. There are several factors that can alter the connection.
The distance varies depending on the environment
When calculating the range of action of our device when we connect it to Bluetooth, we have to take into account the obstacles that stand in its way. Although the power gives it a range capacity of 10 meters, if between one device and another there are objects such as microwaves, walls or any element that generates interference, we can lose the connection quality.
Likewise, it is also advisable to avoid covering the area of the device in which the emission and reception of the Bluetooth signal between both devices is located. Therefore, although manufacturers establish standard measurements for their devices, our advice is that, if the conditions are right, the best way to pair two devices is to have both as close as possible, avoiding walls that attenuate the signal or elements that cover emission areas.
