Bluetooth 5.0 is here and we are sure you’ve got questions about it, like is it better than Bluetooth 4.2? What’s the real difference? What does Bluetooth 5.0 even mean? Like really mean? Well, in that case we got you covered. However to understand Bluetooth 5.0, you have to understand what Bluetooth is, how it works, and how each iteration is different.

Bluetooth 5, Headphones? Better than 4.2? What is it?

What is Bluetooth?

Bluetooth is a form of wireless communication that enables data to be shared over a certain distance by the use of radio waves. Bluetooth headphones, watches, speakers etc. are all built with a chip containing a Bluetooth radio and connectivity software. In order to send data between two devices, whether it be photos, music, or information, two (or more) devices will need to pair to one another and establish an ad hoc network. These types of networks do not require a centralized unit, like a router. Rather, the devices in this network communicate directly to one another and automatically assign one as a slave and the other as a master once the devices are within range of the Bluetooth radio waves.

What is the Difference Between Various Bluetooth Versions?

Bluetooth 3.0 was introduced in 2009 as a high speed alternative to Bluetooth 2.0 and 1.0. At that time it was significantly faster than previous iterations, featuring a processing rate of 20 megabits per second. There’s also enhanced power control which means your smart device (most likely a cellphone back in the day) can function at the lowest level possible (and adjust as needed) to save energy while still engaging in a strong connection with a paired device, like headphones. Bluetooth 4.0 took connectivity a step further allowing for better connectivity over a wider range while 4.1 introduced Low Energy protocol (Bluetooth LE) which focused on retaining a strong connection without draining battery. Bluetooth 4.2 optimized speeds from 27 to 251 bytes for extremely fast downloads up to 2.6 times faster than older Bluetooth versions

Bluetooth 5.0 Explained

So, now you are probably wondering what Bluetooth 5.0 has to offer. This iteration of the wireless communication standard has been optimized to process information and data for the Internet of Things (IoT). Bluetooth 5.0 will allow the transfer of more data, over a longer range, at a faster processing time. That’s 2x the speed, 4x the range, and 8x the data to be exact. In addition, as wireless communication continues to grow and our gadgets become “smarter” with the IoT, Bluetooth 5.0 will also look out to retain the quality of connections. Moreover, Bluetooth 5.0 includes updates that help reduce interference with other wireless technologies to ensure Bluetooth devices and the growing IoT environment can all exist without cramping each other’s style.

Now, you have questions about Bluetooth 5.0 headphones, so let’s answer those. Yes, Bluetooth 5.0 will make a difference, just like 4.0+ makes a difference when comparing to 3.0. Bluetooth 5.0 headphones will possess a serious increase in range and data speed capacity. This ensures a quality connection for the best lossless audio.

Some awesome Bluetooth cans you check out are Sennhesier PXC 550 (v4.2) if you are looking for great connectivity, smart controls, and the best inactive noise cancellation. Sennheiser Momentum’s also offer exceptional audio with active noise cancellation and a wireless connection. Both of these headsets can be found in our Sennheiser Store. BeoPlay H7 is another great wireless headphone if you don’t care for ANC, but want a good-looking and sounding headphone. This baby is in our Bang and Olufsen Store.

Any questions? Let us know in the comments section.

We have a new article published around the same topic that you may want to read, check it out here.