Alternative to Qualcomm QCA9377 with Bluetooth 4.1 instead of 5
Alternative to Qualcomm QCA9377 with Bluetooth 4.1 instead of 5
On qualcomm's site they claim Bluetooth 5 support, but checking Device Manager shows only up to Bluetooth 4.1 (ROG gl702vmk). Most manufacturers list it as Bluetooth 4.1, while ASUS advises updating drivers but nothing changed. Qualcomm appears to focus on enterprise solutions, leaving consumer support limited. Several other brands like Dell and Lenovo also say it's Bluetooth 4.1. Why the discrepancy?
The information available about your laptop indicates it runs Bluetooth 4.1 and features the Intel 8260, not the Qualcomm QCA9377. This chip wasn't available until two years prior to your device's release.
hey, thanks for commenting i bought my laptop on amazon in 2018, so maybe they updated the internals by then. i added a picture of my device manager. but even if mine didn’t have it, on the dell and lenovo websites i found, that they also say that chip is bluetooth 4.1. i just think it’s weird that qualcomm says it’s 5, but then all the manufacturers say 4.1
I would opt for an Intel AX200, especially since it’s the sole 1x1 MIMO unit, making it a budget-friendly choice.
I checked my laptop's Wi-Fi card and it lists as QCNFA435. There aren't many details available, but an Aliexpress listing shows a Bluetooth 4.1 chip. Device Manager says it's a QCA9377, which seems to have worked before. I also found the Aliexpress page you mentioned. Updated May 13, 2020 by theTobster500.
QCNFA435 represents the card layout, while QCA9377 denotes the integrated circuit on that card.