USB Wi-Fi
USB Wi-Fi and PCIe Cards
127 adapters from TP-Link, Asus, Lanberg, Cudy, Mercusys, Intel and Tenda. To give wireless to a computer that lacks it, or to replace an old slow card.
- TP-Link 41 · Asus 16 · Lanberg 16 · Cudy 12 · Mercusys, Intel, Tenda, Baseus
- 64 products with a 36-month and 54 with a 24-month warranty
- USB sticks, USB units with antennas and internal PCIe cards
- Many models add Bluetooth on the same card
USB or internal card?
USB adapter. It goes in a port and works immediately, on any computer. You move it to another machine, or remove it when not needed. The small stick-sized models are discreet; models with an external antenna perform noticeably better at a distance.
PCIe card. It fits inside a desktop computer. Advantages: larger antennas that stick out behind the case, a steadier connection and usually better performance. Drawback: you have to open the machine and have a free PCIe slot.
The mistake most people make
They buy the smallest possible stick-sized adapter and then complain about an unstable signal. Physics does not change: a tiny antenna inside plastic cannot hear what an external one hears.
If the computer is in the same room as the router, a stick is fine. If it is two walls away — which is why you want Wi-Fi instead of a cable in the first place — get a model with an antenna or a PCIe card.
And one thing that gets forgotten: if the computer is stationary and a cable can reach it, wired is always better than any adapter.
What to check
USB port. A fast adapter in an old USB port is limited by the port, not the Wi-Fi. The fastest models need a current port.
Bluetooth included. Several PCIe cards and some USB adapters add Bluetooth. If your computer lacks it, you gain two things in one purchase.
Operating system. Most are recognised automatically, but the newest standards may need a driver from the manufacturer.
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Frequently asked questions
- Does it need installation?
- Most are recognised automatically by current operating systems. The newest standards may need a driver from the manufacturer.
- Stick or antenna?
- A stick if the computer is near the router. With an antenna or a PCIe card if there are walls or distance.
- Will it be as fast as a cable?
- No. If the computer does not move and you can run a cable, wired always wins on stability and latency.
- Does it also provide Bluetooth?
- Many models do, especially PCIe cards. It is stated in the specifications.
If the computer stays put, first see whether you can run a cable. If not, choose a model with an antenna rather than the smallest one available.