For those in the search of cordless office phones or wireless headsets, it’s likely that you’ve come across Bluetooth or DECT options in the past. While most people are already familiar with Bluetooth – which is regarded to be the standard for connecting mobile phones to cars, headphones, and even keyboards, many of us are unfamiliar with DECT. Here, we’ll take a brief look at both options, and try to determine which offers the best wireless solution.
If you’ve got a history with VoIP, then you probably already know a little about DECT. However, the differences between the two can be difficult to distinguish. When you’re purchasing technology, there’s no real gold standard for DECT or Bluetooth being the best solution. At the end of the day, your decision will be based on how your workers use the technology available to them. Both DECT and Bluetooth solutions are equipped with a range of specific benefits – and the one you choose will depend on the functions of your office.
Defining DECT
Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications, or DECT, is a wireless standard that is used primarily in cordless telephones and accessories. DECT started life in Europe, and is actually the standard across almost every market besides Northern America. As the standard for most of the markets across the world, DECT is utilised for business VoIP and consumer phones, and can be used with both wireless LAN and PBX. Even some baby monitors use DECT.
Defining Bluetooth
Although most people are already familiar with Bluetooth, it can still be helpful to get a quick recap of the technology for a good comparison. Bluetooth was introduced originally in 1994 as an alternative solution to data cables. It works by transferring information using radio transmissions. Bluetooth has been one of the primary standards for audio and music streaming around the world. In simple terms, it is a wireless communication protocol that works to connect devices and wirelessly transferring data. Though it’s slower than Wi-Fi, Bluetooth is also very simple to use and can work across numerous devices.
Which Is Better, DECT or Bluetooth?
The DECT vs Bluetooth argument isn’t new. In fact, it’s been going on for some time now, and the decision of which one to adopt will often come down to your specific needs. Each comes with its own strengths and weaknesses, but neither one completely defeats the other.
DECT:
• Is range specific to each device, but can be capable of 300-500 feet in most cases
• Secure 64-bit encryption
• Only connects to base stations and one other device
• Was designed with a focus on telecommunication and voice
If all you need is for your headset to work with your computer softphone or desk phone, then the chances are that DECT will be the best option. DECT is also a great solution for open offices, or those who enjoy wandering around and taking advantage of the huge range that it provides. In other words, DECT can make a lot of sense for contact or call centre agents.
Bluetooth:
• Has a class two range limited to around 33 feet
• Has a greater compatibility with a range of devices
• Offers a more-secure 124-bit encryption
• Can connect to eight devices at once
Bluetooth solutions often make the most sense when headsets are going to be used alongside mobile and desk phones, as well as other devices. Because of a wider range of capability, Bluetooth makes sense for the mobile and remote workforce. For mobile teams, an option to have an on-the-go headset is often a key factor in wireless decisions. Range can also be mitigated when a Bluetooth device is used with a mobile phone.
