10 Best USB WiFi Adapters To Buy In 2021 [Review+Comaprison]

Review By Taylor / December, 22, 2024

The Internet has become an inseparable part of our lives, where every action and movement is guided and governed by it. It is hard to even imagine a day without a net. The best gift of technology has been the USB WIFI adapters which ensure that there is no problem in connecting and accessing Wi-Fi even if your hardware does not have an inbuilt Wi-Fi network card. Making the laptops truly portable, the USB WIFI adapters are external options which when plugged into the USB port open up a whole new world at your disposal.

Saving on the cost of upgrading the entire system, this boon of technology makes your old PC’S come in sync with the present-day requirements. A great game of pirates or subway surfer can now go on without any obstruction from any corner of the house, all one has to do is to just plug in a small portable WIFI adapter in the USB port of the computer or laptop he/she is using.

best USB wifi adapter

As the demand and awareness for a particular commodity rise its supply also increases in multiples. A number of players have entered the best USB WiFi adapter segment making the buyers spoilt for choices. Smartness rests in taking a call after carefully gauging the pros and cons of the various varieties and balancing them on the scale of your own needs and wants. A judicious and economical option that suits the user’s profession and interest can help him/her avail maximum value and satisfaction.

Top USB WiFi Adapter For PC In The Market

A detailed study from various external sources and personnel assessment has made us craft a genuine list of adapters that fall perfectly in place on all our efficiency scales. The list of best Wi-Fi adapters is skilfully followed by a detailed description of each product’s features, advantages, and disadvantages. To help the buyers further a buying guide has been incorporated to make for a more value-driven buy. Finally, in a conclusive manner the article ends with a firm take on the most economical, editors preferred options in the said segment.

Last update on 2022-01-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best USB WiFi Adapter for PC [Value for Money]


1. EDIMAX EW-7833UAC (Great Reliability and Range Coverage)

EDIMAX EW-7833UAC

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Edimax EW-7833UAC USB Wi-Fi Adapter has been crafted to give pleasant surprises to its users with its undeniably amazing speed and range. With 11 ac Wi-Fi speed, it is the perfect solution for downloading that game or streaming your favorite movie. Great directional signal support is provided by the Beam Forming Technology which ensures that no signals are wasted and the entire Wi-Fi experience is amazing with good range, increased throughput, and coverage.

Clever placement of three antennae (3T3R MIMO technology), which acts as a transmitter and thus receives signals better for improved performance makes this device a front runner in the segment. What makes this feature more fascinating is the fact that the external antennae are 180 degrees adjustable. With the dimensions of 8 x 5.5 x1.5 inches and the weight of merely 4.2 ounces, its portability can be vouched for. This device has an alluring transfer speed of 1300Mbps + 450Mbps, working at 2.4GHz +5GHz frequency. As far as compatibility with different platforms is concerned it has shown great results with it being windows 7/8/8.1-Linux Kernel 2.6-4.4-Mac OS 10.7-10.13 compatible. All in all, great product with super easy installation at value pricing.

Specifications

  • Dimensions – 8 x 5.5 x 1.5 inches
  • Provides speed of 1300Mbps+ 450Mbps
  • The USB version is USB 3.0
  • Incorporates 3 Internal and I External Antennae
  • Supports Windows 7/8/8.1/10
  • Frequencies 2.4GHz+ 5GHz
  • Compatible with Mac OS 10.7-10.13, Windows and Linux Kernel
  • Weight is 4.2 ounce
  • To ensure high security it is WPA&WPA2 Encrypted

Things We Like

  • Great reliability and speed
  • High coverage and range
  • Equipped with Beam Forming Technology
  • Sporting 3T3R MIMO technology
  • Compatible with almost all platforms
  • USB 3.0 interface for thrilling speed
  • Transfer speeds of 450Mbps and 1300Mbps provide super-fast streaming
  • Increased throughput
  • Simple installation
  • Secure Wi-Fi

Things We Don’t

  • Not very convincing on the far test
Sale
Edimax EW-7833UAC AC1750 Dual-Band Wi-Fi USB 3.0 Adapter, Supports Windows 7/8/8.1/10, Mac and Linux, White
  • 11ac Super Fast Wi-Fi Speed: Speedy Wi-Fi 5 AC1750 Wi-Fi for HD streaming...
  • USB 3.0 Interface: Unleash the full potential of 802.11ac wireless...
  • Faster Wi-Fi with Beamforming Technology: With beamforming directional...

Last update on 2022-01-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API



2. TP-LINK ARCHER T9UH AC1900 (Value For Money)

TP-LINK ARCHER T9UH AC1900

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Talking about the best USB wireless adapters, the one name which always strikes is the TP-LINK ARCHER, this product has a blazing speed owing to the interface of USB 3.0. The dimensions of 4 x 1.4 x 0.6 inches and the weight of 3.45 pounds make this product high on functionality and portability. Especially known as one of the best USB wifi adapters for gaming. connectivity issues have been carefully dealt with by providing the dual-band of 24GHz and 5 GHz, this leads to undisrupted connectivity ensuring amazing gaming and streaming experience. To add to the ease this adapter comes with a WPS button which ensuring a quick installation.

To make sure that the range is stable and the speed is consistent a high gain antenna has been incorporated. In the quest to make the signals follow the desired direction and give a targeted performance (ensuring a great deal of efficiency and productivity), Beamforming Technology has been put to use. The warranty of 2 years and the never-ending 24x 7 technical customer support ensure glitch-free working and higher levels of user satisfaction. The product is high on compatibility with it supporting Windows(XP/7/8/81/10)- Linus Kernel (2.6.24-4.7)- Mac OS (10.6-10.11). This wireless adapter with its high-performance foldable antennae, great connection speed, and MU-MIMO technology is a product to vouch for.

Specifications

  • The product dimensions stand at 4x 1.4×0.6 inches
  • Weighing approximately 3.45 pounds
  • Operating on Windows, Mac OS
  • Sports wireless speed of AC1900
  • Dual bands of 24GHz AND 5GHz
  • The interface of USB 3.0
  • Antennae for stability and high connectivity
  • Great range with Beamforming Technology
  • Comes with WPS button for easy installation

Things We Like

  • The blazing speed of 1900Mbps
  • The interface of USB 3.0
  • High on compatibility, works with all routers
  • Targeted and stable working
  • Antennae for good range coverage
  • Comes with 2year warranty
  • 24X7 technical support
  • Equipped with Beamforming and MU-MIMO technology
  • Targeted working and flexible connectivity
  • Uninterrupted signal speed
  • Distance from a router, not an issue

Things We Don’t

  • The hike in price might be a concern
TP-Link AC1900 USB 3.0 WiFi Adapter for PC(Archer T9UH)- Dual Band Wireless Network Dongle for Desktop with 2.4GHz/5GHz High Gain Antennas, Supports Windows 10/8.1/8/7, Mac OS 10.9 - 10.14
  • Lightning Fast Speed: AC1900 wireless speed with the next generation...
  • Ultimate Range: High gain antennas ensure superior range and stability
  • Beamforming Technology: Delivers a more targeted and highly efficient...

Last update on 2022-01-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

3. NETGEAR AC1200 A6210 (Secured and Easy Wi-Fi Connectivity)

NETGEAR AC1200 A6210

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Netgear AC1200 is amidst those wireless Wi-Fi USB ADAPTERs which have an extraordinary range and provide great coverage. So gone are the days of distance issues. The interface of USB 3.0 on this device sporting portable dimensions of 16.2 x 13.5 x4.1, make access to the Wi-Fi very fast and thus leads to extraordinary speed while streaming videos and playing games. The Beamforming technology which has been proficiently incorporated in this Adapter makes any outside interference inconsequential, leading to effective connectivity at all times.

This device has a user-friendly appeal and usage. Its lightweight of 249 g and an interesting feature of the desktop dock make the stationing of the device on the desk very easy. Connecting the desktop or laptop to an 11ac network is no big deal with this adapter, its high gain antennae have been equipped with the ability to improvise performance and give amazing speed to the users. The compatibility of the device is quite versatile with the latest Wi-Fi devices and also there is backward compatibility with 802.11 a/b/g/n devices. The security of the connection is very well thought about by putting the Push and Connect feature. company website

Speed of 1200 megabits per second is great for the gamers within us and makes it a true value for the money spent. Installation of this Wi-Fi adapter is a cakewalk with the Netgear Genie Application. A reliable, secured, flexible and speedy connectivity is possible with Netgear without any hassles.

Specifications

  • Dimensions stand at 16.2x 13.5x 4.1
  • Weighs around 249 g
  • The Interface in use is USB 3.0
  • Data is transfer speed 1200 MB/S
  • Compatibility with 11ac Wi-Fi and 802.11 a/b/g/n devices
  • Push-button Wi-Fi connection for secure connectivity
  • Dual-band for reduced interference
  • High gain antennae for better coverage
  • Equipped with Beamforming technology for stability

Things We Like

  • Connects devices to an 11ac network with an ease
  • Three times faster access than USB 2.0
  • Equipped with the Beam Forming Technology
  • Very easy to install
  • Has secure connectivity with Push and Connect Feature
  • Flexibility in placement with a desktop dock
  • Fat speed of 1200MB/s
  • Presence of High Gain Antennae induces efficiency
  • High on reliability and stability
  • Great performance and transfer speed
  • Amazing compatibility with all devices

Things We Don’t

  • It does not support Apple Mac
NETGEAR AC1200 Wi-Fi USB 3.0 Adapter for Desktop PC | Dual Band Wifi Stick for Wireless internet (A6210-100PAS)
  • Ultimate range and performance
  • Faster access with USB 3.0; compatible with USB 2.0
  • High gain antennas for improved performance.Compatible with USB 2.0 and the...

Last update on 2022-01-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

4. PANDA WIRELESS PAU06 300MBPS (Upgrading And Power Saving Abilities)

PANDA WIRELESS PAU06 300MBPS

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Working in tandem with the device to which it is connected, the Panda Wireless PAU06 works at a good speed of 300mbps bringing about undisrupted streaming and data transfers. Its ability to work with low power consumption leads to an increase in the device’s battery life. It very proficiently and quickly makes any device to which it is connected communicate with the 802.11g/n wireless router at anyplace- anytime. Panda ADAPTER is compatible with a lot of platforms like the 32bit and 64-bit Windows XP, Mac OS 10.4-10.10, fedora, and mint.

Alluring ease of establishing a connection between the router and the computer comes with this device owing to the presence of the WPS button. The installation is also quite easy and fast. Since a lot of security issues crop up with the wireless Wi-Fi devices, this gadget is secured by 64b/128bit WEP, WPA, and WPA2, so that no unscrupulous activity is undertaken through the network.

The reliability and easy and quick connectivity to any wireless network through a proficient upgrade of the system make this adapter a savior for those with old devices. Sporting backward compatibility with 802.11g 2.4ghz wireless network ensures a higher level of performance and makes this 15.7 x9.9 x 1.3 cm device weighing 9.07g a desirable choice to make.

Specifications

  • Easy to move around with dimensions of 15.7x 9.9x 1.3 cm
  • Height stands at 13mm
  • Makes any computer communicate with 802.11g/n wireless router
  • Compatible with 32-bit and 64-bit windows
  • Portable at 9.07g weight
  • Consumes less power –extends battery life
  • Secured connectivity with 64b/128bit wep, WPA and wpa2
  • Quick WPS button connection between computer and router
  • Backward compatibility 802.11g 2.4ghz wireless network

Things We Like

  • Ensures good battery life for the devices
  • Make any computer communicate with 802.11n network
  • Good data transfer speed-300mbps
  • Secured network to prevent unauthorized use
  • High on compatibility with all platforms
  • Warranty of 1 year
  • Backward compatibility with 802.11g 2.4ghz wireless network
  • Makes all laptops highly portable
  • Equipped with latest in trend standards
  • Compatible with windows, mint, fedora, Ubuntu, etc.
  • Quick and hassle-free installation

Things We Don’t

  • Comes with a limited warranty
Sale
Panda Wireless PAU06 300Mbps Wireless N USB Adapter - w/High Gain Antenna - Win XP/Vista/7/8/10, Mint, Ubuntu, MX Linux, Manjaro, Fedora, Centos, Kali Linux and Raspbian
  • Works with any 2.4Ghz wireless g/n routers. Max. wireless connection speed:...
  • Multi-OS support: 32-bit and 64-bit Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10, MX LInux,...
  • The Panda Wireless PAU06 adapter is designed to run on an Intel/AMD based...

Last update on 2022-01-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

5. ASUS USB-AC68 DUAL BAND AC1900 (Powerful design For Optimal Coverage)

ASUS USB-AC68 DUAL BAND AC1900

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A rightful entrant in our list of the best wireless USB Wi-Fi adapters, ASUS USB- AC68 Dual-Band AC1900 device provides great coverage with its 3.0 USB interface. This unit helps in making every computer or laptop with a USB port communicate with ease with a 1900ac Wi-Fi. The dual-band makes sure that there is no loss of signal and the stability and the connection is not compromised with at any stage. The presence of Beam Forming Technology further ensures that no external signal interferes with the connection and thus helps in providing a very good range within the set parameters.

Dual interior antennae and the 3-position external antennae which are foldable make sure to catch all the signals from the Wi-Fi, thus avoiding any sudden flow cut while streaming a video or while listening to music. A complete boon of technology this little device with portable dimensions of 3 x 1.8 x11.5 and weight of 45.4 g makes every computer and laptop in sync with the modern Wi-Fi. It not only helps in accentuating the battery life of the product by consuming less power but also increases the Wi-Fi speed by 300%. It is no less than a miracle for those who have been contemplating a change of computers owing to the absence of an internal network card in their hardware. Easy installation and 250mbps speed make it a winner in its segment.

Specifications

  • The product dimensions are 3 x 1.8 x 11.5
  • Weight stands at 45.4 g
  • Provides up-gradation to dual-band 1900ac Wi-Fi
  • The Interface of USB 3.0
  • 3-position external foldable antennae
  • 3X4 MIMO design
  • Flashing speed of 250Mbps
  • Convenient placement option
  • Beamforming and airadar technology for undisrupted connectivity

Things We Like

  • Makes any computer compatible with 1900ac Wi-Fi
  • Equipped with Beam Forming Technology and 3×4 MIMO design
  • Better range and coverage due to dual internal and 3-position external antennae
  • Comes with USB 3.0 cradle
  • Convenient desktop placement
  • Highly portable due to its dimensions
  • Powerful Dual-Band Wi-Fi to catch the signal
  • Intelligently crafted foldable design for antennae
  • Easy installation
  • Great speed of data transfer(250Mbps)

Things We Don’t

  • High price might be a deterrent for some
Sale
ASUS USB-AC68 AC1900 Dual-band USB 3.0 WiFi Adapter, Cradle included
  • Instantly upgrades desktops/laptops to Dual-Band AC1900 Wi-Fi for extended...
  • Powerful 3x4 MIMO design with Dual 3-position external antennas, Dual...
  • Included USB 3. 0 cradle provides additional placement options to optimize...

Last update on 2022-01-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

6. TP-Link TL-WN725N WiFi Adapter

TP-Link TL-WN725N WiFi Adapter

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The one thing that I liked about the TP-Link TL-WN725N WiFi Adapter is the compact and small body. It just weighs around 0.16 ounces and so it became easier for me to carry the product from one place to another. Apart from this, I found that the TP-Link TL-WN725N WiFi Adapter has a constant 150 Mbps sharing speed. So when I tested this feature at different places I found it to be perfectly working. On all the devices, it was the same.

Moreover, I found that the TP-Link TL-WN725N WiFi Adapter includes a decent coverage. The adapter is packed with a 2.4 GHz bandwidth. So it always provided me proper HD streaming to the devices. The TP-Link TL-WN725N WiFi Adapter comes with an easy compatible option. The device seems to be compatible with both Windows and Mac OS. I found that the device also works well with Linux Kennel.

Specifications

  • Dimensions 0.7 x 0.6 x 0.3 inches
  • Speed 150 Mbps
  • USB USB 2.0
  • Antennae NA
  • OS Linux, Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 10
  • Frequency 2.400-2.4835GHz
  • Weight 0.16 ounces
  • Security 64/128 WEP, WPA/WPA2

Things We Like

  • Advanced Security
  • SoftAP Mode
  • 150 Mbps wireless speed
  • Miniature Design

Things We Don’t

  • No Antennae present

Last update on 2022-01-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

7. Nineplus Wireless USB WiFi Adapter

Nineplus Wireless USB WiFi Adapter

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The one thing that impressed me the most about the Nineplus Wireless USB WiFi Adapter is the option of having high-speed internet. It sports two separate bands of 1.4 GHz and a 5 GHz. So, you can always get a better and stable signal.

Furthermore, the product features of long-range WiFi hardware. To increase the range, the Nineplus Wireless USB Wifi Adapter comes with two Antennas of 5 dbi. I have checked the signal strength in the farthest corner and it seems to be working fine.

Another important feature that I liked about the Nineplus Wireless USB WiFi Adapter is the connectivity settings. The product comes with an upgraded USB 3.0. Because of this, it helped me to get 10x better connectivity with the product. Apart from this, I found that the Nineplus Wireless USB Wifi Adapter comes with an easy connectivity option. I could easily connect it with both Mac and Windows OS. So playing online games is never a problem.

Specifications

  • Dimensions 2.6 x 0.8 x 0.4 inches
  • Speed 1200 Mbps
  • USB USB 3.0
  • Antennae 2
  • OS MAC Windows 10/8/8.1/7/Vista/XP
  • Frequency 5GHz/2.4GHz
  • Weight 2.4 ounces
  • Security 64/128 WEP, WPA/WPA2

Things We Like

  • 802.11ac MU-MIMO
  • AC1200Mbps Speed
  • USB 3.0 Fast Connection
  • Soft AP Setting as Access Point
  • Dual 5dbi Antenna enlarge far Connect

Things We Don’t

  • Big in size
  • May be tough to carry for few
Sale
Wireless USB WiFi Adapter for PC - 802.11AC 1200Mbps Dual 5Dbi Antennas 5G/2.4G WiFi USB for PC Desktop Laptop MAC Windows 10/8/8.1/7/Vista/XP/Mac10.6/10.13, WiFi USB Computer Network Adapters
12,472 User Reviews
Wireless USB WiFi Adapter for PC - 802.11AC 1200Mbps Dual 5Dbi Antennas 5G/2.4G WiFi USB for PC Desktop Laptop MAC Windows 10/8/8.1/7/Vista/XP/Mac10.6/10.13, WiFi USB Computer Network Adapters
  • Dual High Gain WiFi Antenna - Weak Signal Increased by Wireless Adapter for...
  • 1200Mbps High WiFI SPEED 802.11ac 5G/2.4G - Ultra-fast AC1200 wireless...
  • Super USB 3.0 WiFi Adapter for desktop PC - USB 3.0 Adapter Speed is...

Last update on 2022-01-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

8. EDUP WiFi Adapter for Gaming

EDUP WiFi Adapter for Gaming

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While reviewing the product, I found that the EDUP WiFi Adapter for Gaming has a decent body built and a hardware configuration. I found that the product includes a proper outer packing film that can protect itself from the dust.

Apart from this, I found that the EDUP WiFi Adapter for Gaming has dual bandwidth options available with the product. This feature allowed me to take advantage of the stable 2.4 GHz channel and get high speed with the 5 GHz channel. It covered all the rooms in my home.

The one thing that I liked the most about the product is the option to have upgraded security with the product. It is supported by the WLAN routers and so having the WPA 2 security encryption was a necessity. Needless to say, I was very happy. Moreover, the one thing that I liked is simple to install. Yes, you need to install the drivers but at the same time, they will not consume much time. Just install the driver and you can get a Plug and Play option to operate with the EDUP WiFi Adapter for Gaming.

Specifications

  • Dimensions 2.1 x 0.8 x 6.7 inches
  • Speed 1300 Mbps
  • USB USB 3.0
  • Antennae 1
  • OS Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 10
  • Frequency 5GHz/2.4GHz
  • Weight 2.4 ounces
  • Security 64/128 WEP, WPA/WPA2

Things We Like

  • Faster Speed
  • Wider Coverage
  • Easier Installation
  • Advanced Security
  • Windows & Mac OS Compatible
  • Wi-Fi Hot Spot

Things We Don’t

  • Price is high
AC 1300M USB WiFi Adapter, 2.4G/5G Wireless WiFi Dongle For Windows 11 / 10/ 8/ 7/ XP Mac 10.7 to 10.15 Support Laptop Desktop PC Gaming
  • EDUP AC1300 USB 3.0 WiFi Adapter delivers maximum 300Mbps on 2.4GHz to meet...
  • 6dBi High Gain Antenna allows longer distance Wi-Fi signal reception,...
  • Support Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8/8.1/7/XP, Vista, Mac OS 10.6 to...

Last update on 2022-01-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

9. Cudy WU1300S Wireless Adapter

Cudy WU1300S Wireless Adapter

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The one thing that I liked the most about the Cudy WU1300S Wireless Adapter is the option of having high-speed internet connectivity. Since it has dual bands, I could get accumulative of 1300 Mbps. The 2.4 GHz channel gives 400 Mbps while the 5 GHz channel provides 867 Mbps.

Apart from this, I found that the Cudy WU1300S Wireless Adapter comes with good compatibility. It has decent hardware and the OS support is the same for both Windows and Mac. Even I had a Linux in my office and it could easily connect there.

The Cudy WU1300S Wireless Adapter includes a Soft-AP mode. This mode is dedicated to making the adapter turn into a hotspot. I tried this feature using my PC and I could connect to multiple other devices easily.

However, the one thing that impressed me the most about the product is the option of having impressive compatibility. Though the installation takes time, it can reach out to a long-range and can easily connect to different routers available. So I always found it worthy with the Cudy WU1300S Wireless Adapter.

Specifications

  • Dimensions 0.8 x 0.6 x 0.3 inches
  • Speed 1300 Mbps
  • USB USB 3.0
  • Antennae 1
  • OS Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 10
  • Frequency 5GHz/2.4GHz
  • Weight 0.64 ounces
  • Security 64/128 WEP, WPA/WPA2

Things We Like

  • 802.11a/b/g/n/ac
  • 867Mbps on 5GHz
  • 400Mbps on 2.4GHz
  • USB 3.0 Port
  • Good Compatibility
  • Work with Any router

Things We Don’t

  • It may take time to install
Sale
Cudy WU1300 AC 1300Mbps WiFi USB Adapter for PC, USB 3.0, USB WiFi Dongle, 5Ghz /2.4Ghz, WiFi USB, USB Wireless Adapter for Desktop/Laptop, Compatible with Windows Vista /7/8/8.1/10, mac OS, Linux
  • AC1300 WiFi SPEED - Up to 400Mbps on 2.4GHz and 867Mbps on 5GHz. Provides...
  • USB 3.0 PORT - USB 3.0’s blazing fast speed is about 10 times faster than...
  • COMPACT AND CONVENIENT. Wi-Fi USB adapter WU1300's compact design is...

Last update on 2021-12-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

10. ANEWISH Dual-Band WiFi Adapter

ANEWISH Dual-Band WiFi Adapter

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When it comes to performance, the ANEWISH Dual-Band WiFi Adapter seems to be a reliable option to have. Especially because of the high speed and the option of having 802.11ac standard connectivity, I found that it can easily provide a maximum speed of 1200 Mbps.

Furthermore, I found that the product uses a 5dbi antenna. This antenna seems to be regular in size, but it is highly strong and can easily reach out to the farthest corner of your home. The speed and transmission are always fast considering this product.

But the one thing that has impressed me the most is the USB 3.0 design. Now, most of the laptops and PCs are having the 3.0 input. So it felt every updated to have the latest technology involved. Moreover, it also allows a better signal strength than the old model.

Apart from this, the ANEWISH Dual-Band WiFi Adapter comes with proper dual-band technology. The bands include a 2.4 GHz channel and a 5 GHz channel. Having such configuration helps you to get faster speed and also an extended range with the dongle.

Specifications

  • Dimensions 7 x 2.7 x 1 inches
  • Speed 1200 Mbps
  • USB USB 3.0
  • Antennae 1
  • OS Windows 10/8.1/8/7/2000/Vista (32bit or 64bit) and Mac 10.9-10.13, Linux Kernel (2.6.24-4.7)
  • Frequency 5GHz/2.4GHz
  • Weight 2.88 ounces
  • Security 64/128 WEP, WPA/WPA2

Things We Like

  • 802.11a/b/g/n/ac
  • 867Mbps on 5GHz
  • 400Mbps on 2.4GHz
  • USB 3.0 Port
  • Good Compatibility
  • Work with Any router

Things We Don’t

  • Not the most stable network

Last update on 2021-12-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Best USB WiFi Adapters Buying Guide

WHY GO IN FOR A USB WI-FI ADAPTER?

The first and foremost question which stands to be answered is the fact as to why a USB adapter is needed. 

  • To put it simply the best and the most economical way of making an older computer or laptop lacking in the inbuilt LAN Card Wi-Fi compatible is to invest in a Wi-Fi USB adapter.
  • These adapters are more affordable options than an internal wireless adapter and have a great deal of portability.
  • External USB Wi-Fi adapters are very easy to use by just pushing and plugging, they can be easily used for a number of devices and thus are very flexible in use.
  • With these adapters, the world comes at your disposal, as you can easily access the internet wherever you go. 
  • Increases productivity and functionality as one can work from anywhere and everywhere, adding so much to convenience and comfort.

MAKING A RIGHT CHOICE

MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE

When the options are umpteen the choices get more and more difficult. One should go for the adapter which is apt for his/her usage and the kind of work he/she undertakes. A larger area will need a USB Wi-Fi device with better coverage and a good antennae strength. Thus the choices will definitely depend on the specs, strength, portability of the device, but most importantly on the usage which it will be put to.

Size

One might not think about it but the size of a USB adapter is a very important consideration while making the final purchase. The USB ports are generally located close to one another and if care is not taken one might end up buying a big adapter that might block other ports and render them useless.

Speed

The one concern which almost everyone has while buying the USB Wi-Fi adapter is its speed of transferring data. No one enjoys continuous buffering and unwanted stops. So gauge into the difference between claims and real speeds of the adapter you are planning to invest into.

Frequency of Wireless

How well the Adapter catches the signal from the wireless will ensure how uninterrupted you can work on the internet. It is important to check into your personnel space and preference before you decide what to go in for. An adapter with 2.4GHz is more common and is preferable if there are too many structures inside the house. On the other hand, since 5.0GHz is a less common variety, it will make sure you have fewer interferences.

Compatibility

Buying a USB adapter and then realizing that it is not compatible with your platform can be a sheer waste of money. Thus before plunging in and zeroing in on a device read the manual carefully or just ask the dealer- how well it supports the various formats.

Router Friendly

To establish good communication between the wireless Wi-Fi and the computer in which the USB Wi-Fi adapter is plugged in, the adapter needs to transmit the same protocol as the router does. So check the transmission protocol of your router, whether it is 802.11b or ac and then pick up a USB accordingly for better efficiency.

Installation

Many of us are not very tech-savvy and do not want to incur extra costs on installations. An adapter that comes with an easy installation guide and is convenient to use can thus be the perfect answer. Long hours spent on starting the device can be really taxing, so make a judicious choice.

Economies

A good buy is one that gives one maximum features of reliable, stable and speedy connectivity and at the same time does not burn a hole in the pocket. Such options are available in the market, it just requires careful assessment of various varieties and choosing what is apt and is economical too.

Convenient Placement

Bulky USB adapters are a big no because they make the laptops less portable. Nowadays lighter varieties and those which come with placement stick are better choices to make as they add a great deal to the comfort of working and the aesthetics.

CONCLUSION

Wi-Fi USB adapters have surely made our lives more flexible and easier by upgrading the existing devices in tandem with wireless Wi-Fi for great connectivity. Now it is possible to stream videos, watch movies, and undertake a gaming session even if you own a computer or a laptop which does not have an in-built network card. Apart from the savings in confers upon the user, it is a very versatile option with the easy plug and plays start. Now it is possible to make all your laptops and PC’s communicate with the wireless signal without interference and lag, all you need to do is to plug in the USB adapter and there you go. 

To avail of all these benefits, it is important to understand what are the essential features needed for the effective working of these adapters and what is our own requirements and specs of our PCs. The above list of the Best USB WiFi Adapter can come in handy in making the ultimate buying decision, as it has been crafted after thoughtfully examining in detail each feature of prevalent and favored options. So make a sensible choice for happy usage.

?EDITOR’S CHOICE

While crafting this article a lot of products grabbed our attention due to some feature or the other, but the one product which stood out on almost all aspects like the technology, make, speed, frequency compatibility, size, and the price was the NET GEAR AC1200 A6210. There were a number of features that stood out in this adapter, making it our editor’s choice.

NETGEAR AC1200 Wi-Fi USB 3.0 Adapter for Desktop PC | Dual Band Wifi Stick for Wireless internet (A6210-100PAS)
  • Ultimate range and performance
  • Faster access with USB 3.0; compatible with USB 2.0
  • High gain antennas for improved performance.Compatible with USB 2.0 and the...

Last update on 2022-01-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

  • Connecting any computer or laptop to an 11AC Wi-Fi is no big deal now, as this adapter upgrades these units to communicate easily with the 11 AC Wi-Fi.
  • Talking about any Wi-Fi adapter the first feature to look out for is its data transfer speed. This device fulfills this condition par excellence by undertaking data transfer at the speed of 1200 megabits per second. Adding to the joy of using the Beam Forming Technology is the dual-band feature which makes sure that the signal is caught with precision and there is no hassle while a buyer is downloading an important file or just watching a video.
  • For the non-technical people who are very worried about the cumbersome installation processes of the various Wi-Fi adapters, this unit is a great joy. The Netgear Genie Application makes installation very smooth and easy in any of the pc or laptops. Basically, this one is the best USB WiFi Adapter for PC and gaming as well.
  • A total package of reliability and high speed this unit is also very compatible with all platforms and routers making it a worthy buy.
  • With the Dimensions standing at 16.2x 13.5x 4.1 and a weight of 249 g, this USB can just be plugged very discreetly into the laptops and PCs without causing any portability issues to the device it is plugged in.
  • Its high gain antennae are another feature that makes it an all-time favorite, as it helps in catching signals better. So even if you are in your secluded corner of the house be sure to get good connectivity with this device on.

Nothing has been left to the imagination in this adapter with a 3.0 interface, even the security concerns of unwanted Wi-Fi usage have been put in place with a push-button option. 

So, all in all, it has everything which a buyer of USB Wi-Fi-adapter especially whos looking for PC or gaming, making it the best buying option from all perspectives of speed, strength, looks, quality, size, and compatibility.