BLE Application throughput limits on Windows (1M , 2M and LE CODED PHY)

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BLE Application throughput limits on Windows (1M , 2M and LE CODED PHY)

Kaviya Singaravelu 20

Hello Microsoft Support Team,

I am evaluating Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) Throughput using a Windows PC connected to a BLE dongle communicating with a DUT (Device Under Test).

I would like to understand the maximum and minimum application throughput that can be achieved on Windows for the following BLE PHYS:

-> 1M PHY

-> 2M PHY

-> LECODED PHYs

Specifically, I would appreciate clarification on the following:

what is the maximum application throughput achievable on windows for each of the above PHYs?
Are there any limitations imposed by the Windows Bluetooth Stack or Driver that affect throughput?
Does Windows limit the number of ATT packets or Link Layer Packets transmitted per connection event?
Are there any configurable parameters (such as MTU size, Data Length Extension, Connection interval, or other Bluetooth settings) that can be adjusted to achieve the highest possible throughput?
Is there any Microsoft documentation or recommended methodology for validating BLE Throughput on windows?

Our objective is to characterize both the maximum and minimum BLE throughput acheivable on a windows host while communicating with the DUT.

Thank you for your assistance. I look forward to your guidance.

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Answer 1

Hi Kaviya,

Windows does not publish official BLE throughput limits for 1M PHY, 2M PHY, or LE Coded PHY, so there is no Microsoft-defined maximum or minimum throughput value for Windows hosts. Actual performance depends on your BLE adapter, driver, DUT, radio conditions, and connection settings.

In general, 2M PHY provides the highest throughput, 1M PHY provides moderate throughput, and LE Coded PHY prioritizes range and reliability over speed, making it slower than 1M and 2M PHY.

To achieve the best performance, make sure both devices support and negotiate:

2M PHY
Data Length Extension (DLE)
The largest possible ATT MTU
A short connection interval

These settings typically have the biggest impact on BLE throughput.

Microsoft does not document a fixed limit on the number of ATT or Link Layer packets per connection event, nor does it provide an official BLE throughput benchmark methodology. The recommended approach is to perform throughput testing on your actual Windows PC, BLE dongle, and DUT combination, as real-world results can vary significantly between hardware platforms.

Harry.