Connectivity
What is Bluetooth 5 and how do its versions differ?
Bluetooth 5 is the current generation of short-range wireless connection. Compared with Bluetooth 4 it improved range, speed and power consumption. Versions 5.2 and 5.3 add efficiency and stability improvements. To benefit from them, both connected devices must support that version.
What changed in each version
Bluetooth 5.0 raised the maximum range and speed in low-energy mode compared with version 4.2. Bluetooth 5.2 introduced LE Audio, a more efficient way to transmit sound. Bluetooth 5.3 refined power use and resistance to interference.
They are all backward compatible: 5.3 earbuds work with a 5.0 phone, but the connection will use the features of the older of the two versions.
What the version does not tell you
The Bluetooth version alone does not determine sound quality: the audio codecs and the design of the earbuds matter more. It does not guarantee a fixed range either, which depends on walls, interference and each device's antenna.
What to check before you buy
- Any 5.x version is good for daily use.
- For gaming or video, latency matters more than the version.
- Check which version your phone supports: it is half of the connection.
Products with Bluetooth 5 in our store
This is how it appears on their spec sheet. Open each one to see all its specifications.
Guides to help you choose
Frequently asked questions
Not by itself. The version improves stability and power use; audio quality depends on the codec and on the earbuds.