Bluetooth vs RF
What is RF?
RF stands for radio frequency. It is an alternating currant that if input to an antenna, an electromagnetic field is generated that can be used for wireless broadcasting and/or communications. The field is referred to as an RF field or a radio wave.
What is Bluetooth?
Bluetooth is a specific type of RF. It is meant to use very little power and allows for short range connections. Bluetooth connections are universal, meaning that as long as both devices you are trying to connect are Bluetooth, you can connect any type. For example, except in very rare circumstances, which generally have to do with the special features and not the Bluetooth connection itself, all Bluetooth headsets are compatible with all Bluetooth cell phones.
Bluetooth Headsets vs RF Headsets
Bluetooth technology runs on 2.4GHz RF. Most Bluetooth headsets run with Class 2 Bluetooth, which provides a range of up to 33 feet. There are a couple of Class 1 Bluetooth headsets that have ranges up to 300 feet. Bluetooth headsets are generally small and worn on or in the ear. Generally they are better for use with cell phones.
There are some stations that allow you to use your Bluetooth headset with your office phone for a wireless connection. Some of these, like the Sennheiser VMX office, utilize both Class 2 and Class 1 Bluetooth. Class 2 with your cell phone, for a 33 feet range and Class 1 with your office phone for a 200 foot range.
Other RF wireless headsets run on different frequencies, from 900MHz to 3.2GHz. Sometimes you can run into interference with the 900MHz headsets and cordless phones and the 2.4GHz headsets and WiFi connections. But for the most part, if you are just using the headset with an office phone, the connections are crystal clear and allow ranges of up to 300 feet. Our most popular RF wireless headset is the Plantronics CS55.
