Get Wi-Fi connectivity easily with these wireless adapters
Weindependently evaluateall of our recommendations.
If you punch links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Unfortunately, that smaller size comes with a big tradeoff in terms of range.
PHOTO: Amazon
Mostly, its just handy for keeping it out of your way.
That said, considering it costs about as much as a nice lunch, the EDUP-1635 offers impressive performance.
There’s also aWPS buttonfor connection to the main router if you prefer that methodand your router supports it.
PHOTO: Amazon
The external antenna also powers fast transfer speeds to ensure sustained performance even farther away from your router.
Even if your rig already includes built-in Wi-Fi, the correct adapter can give you an excellent performance upgrade.
Lifewire / Rebecca Isaacs
Why Buy a USB Wi-Fi Adapter?
PHOTO: Amazon
For example, you might have an older laptop that doesn’t offerdual-band Wi-Fior faster802.11acspeeds.
Range
Most USB Wi-Fi adapters work reasonably well when close to your router.
This is something of a double-edged sword.
Rebecca Issacs
Single-Band or Dual-Band Wi-Fi?
Choosing a single-band or dual-band USB Wi-Fi adapter largely depends on what your home router supports.
If you’re purchasing an adapter for a laptop, you’ll travel with it.
PHOTO: Amazon
However, you’ll want to use a dual-band adapter for maximum compatibility.
Also, remember that most laptops today already offer at least single-band Wi-Fi built right in.
What about tri-band Wi-Fi?
Lifewire / Imad Khan
Tri-band routers offer an extra 5GHz frequency band to divvy up devices for maximum performance.
Speed and Wi-Fi Standards
Most modern dual-band adapters should be more than adequate for most online activities.
By contrast, streaming a Netflix movie in 4K UHD only requires 25Mbps bandwidth.
PHOTO: Amazon
If you’re a gamer, consider more than just speed.
In this case, pick one with low latency for maximum lag-free performance.
Of course, an adapter with external antennas will sacrifice some portability.
Rebecca Issacs
This is even more important if it’s from a lesser-known brand.
PHOTO: Amazon
Lifewire / Rebecca Isaacs
Rebecca Issacs
Lifewire / Rebecca Isaacs
Iman Khan
Lifewire / Rebecca Isaacs
