USB vs Bluetooth Power Consumption?

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USB vs Bluetooth Power Consumption?

I think I already know the answer to this, but I'd like verification (or clarification).

I've one portable 'headset' (i.e. full DSP headphones with microphone) that is USB which I use for video iChat MAINLY when I'm plugged in: however I have and do need to use it in battery mode, at times, when traveling but it does seem to consume battery power (sound is good, though).

I've also a set of standard (battery powered, noise canceling) headphones that I use when traveling to listen to music, watch a DVD whilst flying, etc. They don't SEEM to drain much if any battery power.

I THINK I would like to get a Bluetooth 'earset' so that I can use video iChat without the USB headset draining the battery...

...my assumption being (which I'm looking to be verified or shot down) that Bluetooth devices consume little (to no?) battery power?

Smart folks - comments, please?

20" 2GHz Intel Core Duo iMac 2Gb RAM 250Gb, G4 Dual 1 GHz PM & 12" 867 MHz PB,, Mac OS X (10.4.5), MacBook Pro Intel Core Duo 2 Gb RAM 100Gb 7200 RPM HD

Posted on Mar 15, 2006 7:38 PM

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Answer 1

Mar 15, 2006 10:11 PM in response to cbd2

Using Bluetooth devices with your MacBook will definitely consume battery power. The Bluetooth radio needs power to communicate with your Bluetooth device, just like your Airport card needs power to connect to a wireless network.

I can't speak to how much power it will consume compared to having a device connected over USB. But I would guess it would be comparable, if not worse, with the Bluetooth device.

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Answer 2

Mar 15, 2006 8:27 PM in response to cbd2

I have read that Bluetooth does consume energy. I have read recommedations that turning the Bluetooth off when not using it can prolong battery life.

I don't know, I'm just throwing it out there. I've never even had a notebook, but this is something I'm interested in too.

Good luck!

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Answer 3

Mar 5, 2007 5:16 PM in response to cbd2

I am looking into buying an external mouse, but I am trying to decide between the wired or wireless Apple Mighty Mouse. Which do you think would drain the battery quicker on my MacBook Pro? Also, I have read some reviews on the Apple Mighty Mouse and many have claimed to be disappointed by the hindered use of the scroll ball, supposedly getting too dirty or something. Is this something I should consider?

Thanks in advance for the response, I'm a switcher who is very new to all this.

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Answer 4

Mar 5, 2007 5:38 PM in response to My MacBook Is My Life

I'm almost certain that bluetooth would drain the battery more quickly. I'm not 100% but I have a bunch of bluetooth peripherals and it seems to suck power pretty fast compared to USB. That being said I don't know if the actual difference would be noticeable to you. You could probably go either way. Personally I'd go with the wireless Mighty Mouse.

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Answer 5

Mar 5, 2007 8:33 PM in response to contractcooker

Thanks for the advice, I was thinking that the wired Mighty Mouse would use less power, but I just have a problem with long the cord. I just can't stand having such a tangled mess on my desk. I'll probably just opt for the Bluetooth, I usually have my MacBook plugged in anyways.

Thanks again for providing the reccomendation, contractcooker.

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