Written by Dan Barraclough Reviewed by Maïté Bouhali Updated on May 10, 2023 On this page RFID Vs Bluetooth Asset Tracking What is RFID Asset Tracking? Which Asset Tracking System Should You Choose? Expand RFID and Bluetooth BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) asset trackers are both examples of Internet of Things technology. This means they form part of a network that consists of sensors, computers, and other pieces of technology, which communicate and send data through the internet.These days, both methods of asset tracking are robust, and use minimal power to send and receive location signals. They’re suitable for both small scale and mid size tool tracking, and are used by companies from a huge range of industries – from healthcare to construction.While RFID and Bluetooth asset trackers work on a send and receive basis, there are some differences between the two asset tracking systems that may influence you when choosing the best one for your business.You can find out all you need to know about RFID vs Bluetooth asset trackers in the sections below. Alternatively, use the menu to navigate to the information you require. Compare prices from asset tracking suppliers Get free quotes RFID vs Bluetooth Asset Trackers: Comparison TableThe table below explains the main differences between Bluetooth BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) and RFID asset tracking.Passive RFID TrackingActive RFID TrackingBluetooth TrackingLifetime20 years3-5 years2-5 yearsCost of reader$3,000-$20,000$500-$1,850$25Range of reader1-2ft300ft20ftType of toolSmall/mediumMedium/largeMedium/largeWhat’s important to note is that RFID tracking is available as passive technology or active technology. This makes a difference to aspects such as the cost and lifetime of the equipment. You can find out more about the differences between active RFID tracking and passive RFID tracking in our main RFID tracking article.RFID Vs Bluetooth Asset Tracking – Who are they best for?Bluetooth – Best cheap asset tracking systemCost is a big factor in the RFID vs bluetooth debate. If you’re looking for a cheap asset tracking system, Bluetooth is the way to go. It’s soft on the wallet, offers up a good range, and because it’s Bluetooth, it’ll automatically hook up with a range of everyday devices. This means you can easily transfer usage data to your laptop, tablet or mobile phone, and use that data to keep on top of proactive maintenance and job allocation.Active RFID tracking – Best for large assetsActive RFID asset tracking works in a similar way to Bluetooth asset tracking – both methods send information out to a reader using battery powered tags. Active RFID tracking offers up the largest range, making it a great choice for tracking large pieces of machinery on a building site.You may also want to think about GPS asset tracking for your larger pieces of machinery. A GPS tracker can feed off the power source of the machinery you attach it to, meaning its lifetime is far longer.Passive RFID tracking – Best for medium to large businessesAn RFID reader may be expensive, but don’t forget that you won’t be paying to replace expensive tags over the years. With a one-off payment and some passive RFID tag stickers, you’ve got yourself an asset tracking system. Simply stick these stickers onto boxes of inventory, and have instant access to inventory info. RFID vs Bluetooth: What’s the difference?Here, we directly compare the two asset tracking systems to help you pick the right solution for your specific needs.RFIDRFID stands for radio frequency identification, but the way in which RFID asset tracking works will differ according to whether it’s active or passive.Active asset tracking essentially means the tags that you attach to your tools emit a radio frequency, which is picked up by the RFID reader. The tags require a small battery, which has a lifetime of around three to five years. This means you’ll need to replace your tags once the power runs out.Passive asset tracking essentially means the tags on your tools don’t emit any kind of radio frequency. Instead, the reader emits a radio signal which bounces off the tags, feeding the location of the tag back to the reader.BluetoothBluetooth asset tracking has come a long way in recent years. Thanks to the development of Bluetooth Low Energy technology, Bluetooth systems are costing less and lasting longer.A Bluetooth Low Energy asset tracking system works in a similar way to active RFID tracking – the tags emit a signal to communicate with the reader. This means the tags are always sending location data back. RFID vs Bluetooth: Which Asset Tracking System Should You Choose?In this case, there’s no right or wrong answer. Both RFID and Bluetooth asset tracking have their advantages and disadvantages, and both RFID and Bluetooth asset tracking solutions are suitable for small, medium, and large assets.What it should come down to is what kind of system your company can afford, and whether you want the hassle of replacing your tags once the batteries have run out of power. You can easily find out how much an asset tracking system will cost your company – all you need to do is fill in our online form, and the best suppliers for your requirements will be in touch. Written by: Dan Barraclough Dan’s a Senior Writer at Expert Market, specialising in digital marketing, web design, and photocopiers, amongst other topics. Reviewed by: Maïté Bouhali Business Software Editor Maite began her career with Expert Market nearly four years ago as a writer. She quickly developed a passion for the challenges faced by small businesses and now endeavours to help them make informed decisions for their future. In her current position as Business Software Editor, Maite works closely with writers to ensure that each article is informative, well-researched, engaging, and actionable for readers. With extensive knowledge of CRM, vehicle tracking devices, and fuel cards, she is meticulous in her review of each article and provides detailed feedback before publication. Whether you're seeking to stay informed on the latest trends in business software or need guidance in selecting the most appropriate software for your organisation's needs, Maite is here to help. With her sharp eye for detail and commitment to quality, she is dedicated to supporting businesses in achieving their goals.