2.4 GHz Wireless
Updated: 02/06/2025 by Computer Hope
2.4 GHz Wireless is an RF (Radio Frequency) range for wireless communication for wireless keyboards, wireless mice, and game controllers to communicate with the computer. This technology requires a dedicated USB receiver (dongle) like the one in the picture that plugs into the computer's USB (Universal Serial Bus) port.
Note
Although this wireless technology operates on the same frequency as Bluetooth, it's different.
2.4 GHz Wireless vs Bluetooth
Because 2.4 GHz Wireless and Bluetooth are so similar, we've created the following comparison table to help show some of their differences.
| Feature | 2.4 GHz Wireless | Bluetooth |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Proprietary radio frequency | Standardized wireless protocol |
| Battery life | 3 months - 1 year | 6 months - 2 years |
| Connection | Requires a USB receiver | Uses the Bluetooth built-in to the computer. |
| Range | 10-30 meters | 5-10 meters |
| Interferences | Can be affected by microwaves, Wi-Fi routers, and other RF devices | Uses frequency hopping to avoid interference |
| Devices | Gaming controllers, keyboards, and mice. | Accessories, cars, earbuds, headphones, smartphones, speakers |
Advantages of 2.4 GHz Wireless over Bluetooth
When comparing a 2.4 GHz Wireless device and a Bluetooth device, you may choose 2.4 GHz for the following reasons.
- Faster response time.
- Longer range.
- Don't need to configure Bluetooth or its drivers.
Disadvantages of 2.4 GHz Wireless compared to Bluetooth
Choose Bluetooth over 2.4 GHz for the following reasons.
- Each 2.4 GHz device requires a USB port for the receiver.
- More susceptible to RF interference.
- Bluetooth is a standard that's widely accepted in most devices. Not all devices support 2.4 GHz.