I'm building a desk assistant robot and I'm trying to decide whether to go with WiFi or Bluetooth for the communication part with my PC. The robot will always be right next to my computer, so range isn't a concern. I'm considering Bluetooth because there's no need for WiFi passwords, pairing is usually straightforward, and it fits well with gadget-type devices. However, I've also noticed some downsides—like not all PCs have Bluetooth, it tends to have slower data rates, and there can be quirks with coding or drivers. On the other hand, WiFi seems faster and more universal, making it easier for streaming data or updates, but it requires some setup and might feel unnecessarily complicated for a stationary device. Which option would be easier to implement and maintain in the long run? From a user's perspective, what might feel smoother in practice?
3 Answers
Since your robot isn’t going to be moving around, USB could also be a simple and effective solution! Just plug it in and you’re good to go.
If your PC has a USB port, you could easily add Bluetooth by using a USB dongle, or go for a PCIe WiFi card that includes Bluetooth. But remember, the choice really depends on how much data you'll need to transfer. If you expect to go beyond 1-2 Megabits, WiFi is the better bet. Ultimately, you just need to pick one and make it work for your specific use case.
I recommend going with WiFi—or USB if you’re okay with a wired connection. Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) can actually be a bit trickier than it seems on PCs with various quirks, especially when it comes to pairing and data throughput. Plus, if you're using something like an ESP32, you can run it in STA mode and host a lightweight server for easier communication. This way, you can also implement features like Over-The-Air updates later on. If OP is aiming for ease of use, going USB with a basic command protocol might involve less hassle overall!