Wi-Fi adapter is a universal device that will eliminate the laying of wires when connecting to the Internet. Such devices began to gain popularity due to the unique properties of receiving a router signal if there is no built-in adapter or the standard one cannot cope. But it's easy to get confused with the many different models.
Before choosing the right product, it is important to decide on the scope and the required power. If the load on the adapter is small, then there is no point in buying an expensive model. A standard device with a bandwidth of up to 150 Mbps is enough. Otherwise, it is better to pay attention to multi-antenna devices that support dual-band signal transmission. You also need to pay attention to the form and additional functions.
We've compiled a list of the best Wi-Fi adapters based on expert opinions and customer reviews. Our recommendations will help you make the best choice for your requirements and desires. There are many competitors on the world market for equipment, but we have selected the best manufacturers and recommend that you pay special attention to them:
- Tenda
- ZYXEL
- TP-LINK
- Alfa network
1 | Alfa Network AWUS036ACH | 4,259 p. |
2 | TP-LINK TL-WN822N | 790 p. |
3 | TP-LINK Archer T6E | 2 126 p. |
4 | ZYXEL NWD6605 | 2,290 p. |
5 | Tenda u3 | 726 p. |
6 | Tenda u9 | 1,299 p. |
Interface: USB 2.0
The main advantages
- Mobile docking design allows you to find the optimal location to ensure a stable signal and interaction with the router
- The distance from the adapter to the computer can be several meters, and only a standard USB cable of the required length is required to connect
- The gadget is equipped with two antennas with optimal gain to increase the quality of communication through walls. Antennas are non-removable, but can be folded, allowing point setting in places with limited space
- Supports all modern encryption modes, which provides reliable protection against third-party connections
- The data transfer rate reaches 300 Mbps, which exceeds the maximum bandwidth of many providers
The main advantages
- Support for MIMO technology regulates the ability to transfer data through the adapter at a speed of up to 300 Mbps
- SoftAP mode allows you to transform a wired Internet connected computer / laptop into a classic wireless access point
- Universal drivers guarantee full compatibility with Windows (XP to 10), Mac OS (10.6 to 10.12), Linux Os and Raspberry Pi / Pi2 operating systems
- Transmitter power 20 dBm predetermines stable communication up to 15 meters
- The standard USB 2.0 connection interface allows you to use the device even in old PCs that are not equipped with modern high-speed ports
The main advantages
- Compatible with the 802.11ac standard guarantees a high-quality picture when viewing a video stream with 4K resolution
- Support for 2.4 / 5 GHz frequency bands predetermines a maximum aggregate wireless speed of up to 633 Mbps
- The basic USB 2.0 connection interface allows the device to be used in older computers / laptops that do not have modern high-speed ports
- The software embedded in the adapter contains a set of drivers for popular operating systems, which eliminates the need for a separate search on the Internet or manual installation from the media
- MU-MIMO support for high wireless performance and easy synchronization with multiple devices simultaneously
Interface: USB 3.0
The main advantages
- The adapter is compatible with major types of operating systems (Windows XP / Vista / 7/8/10, Mac OS 10.10 Yosemite, Linux, Ubuntu)
- The device supports the modern Wi-Fi 802.11ac standard, which allows you to work at high speeds up to 867 Mbps
- There is a connector for connecting external antennas with a convenient fastening that provides reliable contact
- The use of the Realtek RTL8812AU chipset significantly improves the stability of the adapter. The hardware part will help to avoid sudden errors and disconnections
- The adapter includes support for a signal in two different bands - 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz
The main advantages
- The form factor of a familiar USB flash drive allows you to install a Wi-Fi adapter into any USB port on your PC. Neighboring connectors remain free to connect devices
- Dual-band 802.11n / ac support ensures maximum traffic speeds when synchronized with compatible devices
- To connect to a PC, a USB 3.0 connector with increased bandwidth is used, which guarantees stable power supply to the device and interaction with the router. Network transmission speed reaches 5Gbps
- The fold-out antenna is hidden in the case and can be used to increase the signal when located remotely from the source
- The adapter provides traffic speeds up to 867 Mbps, guaranteeing online watching your favorite movies in HD quality
Detachable antenna
The main advantages
- PCI-E connection interface allows you to mount the adapter directly into the system unit, without taking up extra space and USB ports
- Detachable antennas with tilt-and-turn design are provided for signal amplification
- The adapter is capable of working simultaneously in two bands (2.4 and 5 GHz), providing the best connection quality and maximum traffic speed
- Compatible with all popular security protocols to ensure secure encrypted transmission of all personal data
- Low-profile design and lack of active cooling systems allows you to install additional peripherals in adjacent PCI slots