Both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi allow you to stream music wirelessly, but they work in different ways.
With Bluetooth, audio is transmitted directly from your phone, tablet, or computer to the streamer. This makes Bluetooth simple to set up and compatible with virtually any device. However, the audio signal is compressed during transmission, which can reduce sound quality compared to the original source. Since your device is doing the streaming, any sounds from the device, such as notifications, videos, or phone calls, can interrupt or take over the audio playback.
With Wi-Fi streaming, your phone acts more like a remote control. Once playback has started, the streamer connects directly to the music service through your home network and streams the music itself. This allows for higher audio quality, supports lossless streaming services, and means you can continue using your phone for other tasks without affecting playback. For example, you can receive a phone call, watch a video, or leave the house with your phone while the music continues playing.
For casual listening, Bluetooth is convenient and easy to use. For the best sound quality, greater flexibility, and access to services such as AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, and lossless streaming, Wi-Fi is generally the preferred option.