Comparing UWB and Bluetooth AoA for Indoor Positioning: Cost, Accuracy, and Refresh Rates

Indoor positioning systems have become increasingly important across various industries, enabling precise location tracking and navigation within enclosed environments. Two prominent technologies in this domain are Ultra-Wideband (UWB) and Blueiot‘s Bluetooth Angle of Arrival (AoA). In this article, we will compare UWB vs Bluetooth based on key factors such as cost considerations, accuracy, and refresh rate. Understanding these factors can help decision-makers choose the most suitable technology for their specific indoor positioning requirements.

Cost Considerations

The cost factor is a crucial aspect to evaluate when choosing between UWB and Blueiot’s Bluetooth AoA for indoor positioning. Blueiot’s Bluetooth AoA benefits from leveraging existing Bluetooth infrastructure and is generally cost-effective, making it more accessible for various deployments. Conversely, UWB requires dedicated infrastructure and specialized UWB tags, contributing to higher implementation costs. Its enhanced accuracy and stability come at a premium price, making it better suited for specific use cases that demand utmost precision.

Accuracy and Refresh Rate

Both Bluetooth AoA and UWB provide impressive accuracy levels. Blueiot’s Bluetooth AoA typically achieves accuracy within the range of 0.1 to 0.5 meters, while UWB boasts even higher precision, with accuracies ranging from 0.1 to 0.3 meters. In terms of refresh rate, Bluetooth AoA offers a high-frequency update, enabling real-time tracking. UWB, on the other hand, offers a medium refresh rate, providing timely and consistent positioning information.

Conclusion

Choosing between UWB and Bluetooth AoA for indoor positioning depends on several factors, including cost considerations, accuracy requirements, and the need for real-time updates. Bluetooth AoA is generally more cost-effective due to leveraging existing Bluetooth infrastructure, while UWB requires dedicated infrastructure and specialized tags. In terms of accuracy, UWB excels with higher precision, making it suitable for applications that demand utmost accuracy. However, for applications where real-time tracking is a priority, Bluetooth AoA’s high-frequency refresh rate provides dynamic and responsive positioning information.