Top 10 Best WiFi Adapters – Reviewed by Software Engineer

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Dogzily.com – Best WiFi Adapters: WiFi adapter is a tool that connects electronic devices with an internet connection. This tool is useful to help you when using a computer without wireless function or when the function is broken. 

This adapter is also ideal for upgrading your device’s communication standards. There are many brands of PC WiFi adapters in all sizes and shapes, such as TP-Link, D-Link, Prolink, and ASUS. You may be wondering which one to choose. 

Therefore, we will provide tips on choosing a good USB WiFi adapter to make it easier for you. This article has been reviewed by our software engineer, Yosua Surojo. Happy reading!

Best WiFi Adapters

What Is The Function Of A USB WiFi Adapter?

A WiFi adapter is a WiFi connecting device to a computer or laptop. This device is also known as a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) card, wireless LAN adapter, or WiFi dongle (USB). The PC WiFi adapter has the function of receiving and sending signals from the router to the device via a wireless connection.

The way this tool works is by capturing WiFi signals around the device using radio waves. After that, the adapter will send it through the USB port or PCIE slot (WiFi adapter PC). In addition to capturing signals, WiFi adapters can also be used to strengthen existing WiFi signals.

Collaborating With Experts: How to choose a WiFi Adapter

In the following, we will explain four important points to consider when choosing a WiFi adapter. Make sure you read each point carefully so you don’t choose the wrong one.

① Select the shape of the adapter according to your needs

WiFi adapters come in all sizes and shapes. These tools range from small with a built-in antenna, to large with an external antenna. Therefore, choose the shape of the adapter that suits your needs and usage.

Built-in antenna type, for easy portability

Most wireless LAN adapters come with a built -in antenna the size of a USB memory or fingertip. When installed on a computer, this USB WiFi adapter will not interfere with adjacent ports.

The built-in antenna type also has a plus because it doesn’t get in the way when carried. This type is the most recommended if you want to take it with your computer or laptop.

External antenna type, for reception sensitivity

Furthermore, there are several types of WiFi adapters with external antennas that are the size of a palm. This makes this type less practical to carry around. However, this type of adapter generally has a high transmission sensitivity or reception rate. This type is recommended for use in rooms far from the WiFi router or for stationary use.

② Check the communication standard and speed

WiFi has communication standards such as WiFi 4 (11n), WiFi 5 (11ac) and WiFi 6 (11ax). However, the 11ax communication standard is still relatively new, so not many devices use it. There are also theoretical connection speeds like 433 + 300 Mbps.

When choosing a wireless LAN adapter, adjust the communication standard and speed with the WiFi router you are using. If the specifications are low, the performance of the main unit (router) will also be reduced. So, check the specifications of the router first and choose an adapter with the same or higher specifications.

In addition to communication standards, USB WiFi adapters are also distinguished by frequency, namely single band and dual band. Single band WiFi adapters operate on one type of frequency, namely only 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz. Meanwhile, dual band WiFi adapters can work at 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies.

③ Check availability of WPS button for easy setup

Some people may not be familiar with electronic devices so they have difficulty installing or using a WiFi adapter. If you encounter a similar problem, a product equipped with a WPS button would be a good choice. WiFi Protected Setup (WPS) is a security system that connects routers and devices more quickly and easily.

You can finish the setup easily after installing the driver from the dedicated CD. Only by pressing the WPS button, the setting process only takes 10 minutes so even beginners can do it easily. If your laptop does not have a DVD drive, you can install the driver from the product’s official website .

④ Pay attention to the additional functions available

In addition to communication standards and connection speed, additional functions on the adapter are equally important for the convenience of communication. There are several functions of a wireless LAN adapter that depend on the base unit or shared device. For that, make sure you check it first.

Beamforming function, for use in remote rooms

Beamforming is a technology that shoots WiFi signals directly at compatible devices rather than scattering them in all directions. This function is used to increase the signal strength and range of WiFi. In this way, the speed and stability of the WiFi signal can be increased, even in places where radio waves are difficult to reach.

However, these functions are not guaranteed to be effective in all environments. You can also only use it when using a compatible WiFi adapter and router. Therefore, please check the availability of this function in advance on the router you are using.

MU-MIMO function, for use by multiple devices simultaneously

In the past, connecting or connecting with many devices simultaneously would cause a decrease in internet speed. MU-MIMO is a communication technology that allows a stable connection and does not slow down even when used by multiple devices at the same time. 

Just like the Beamforming function, you also need a compatible device to use the MU-MIMO function. Check the user guide or product description to see if the device you are using also supports this function.

⑤ Adapt the adapter according to your device’s operating system

When choosing a WiFi adapter, make sure you check its compatibility with the operating system used by your device. This is because the adapter may not work properly if it is installed in an incompatible device.

Generally, the seller will write the compatible operating system in the product description section. If not, you can also check directly on the official website of the product you are going to buy. For your convenience, choose an adapter that supports the latest operating systems such as Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 10.

Top 10 Best Recommended WiFi Adapters

Next, we will recommend the ten best WiFi adapters that we have determined based on how to choose above. These products are carefully selected by considering product quality, buyer reviews, and the level of trust in the seller.

1. Advanced USB Dongle Wifi Wireless Adapter Receiver WF-01

USB Dongle Wifi Wireless Adapter Receiver is a WiFi dongle that can be used on laptops, PCs, or set-top boxes. This product is compatible with set-top boxes Advance STPA01, Evinix H-1, Tanaka Samurai, Tanaka Jurassic, and others. So, you can easily enjoy digital TV internet connection. In addition, this USB WiFi adapter has a range of up to 70 meters.

If you have been connecting to the internet via cable and want to turn it into a WiFi hotspot connection, this product can be selected. 

Thanks to the SoftAP mode feature, you can change the connection mode from a WiFi receiver to a WiFi hotspot transmitter. That way, you can connect and enjoy the internet on multiple devices at once.

Currently there are many LAN adapters that use dual band technology like this product. This WiFi adapter made by Prolink is equipped with two frequency bands at 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz with their respective functions.

The 2.4 GHz frequency band is perfect for everyday use, such as web browsing, e-mail and social media. Meanwhile, the 5 GHz frequency allows you to enjoy 4K video streaming without buffering. For those of you who are multitasking, this product is highly recommended.

Are you looking for a pocket-friendly USB WiFi adapter? If so, you can consider this product. Even though the price is affordable, the quality is unquestionable. This product is compatible with 11n (WiFi 4), 11g (WiFi 3), and 11b (WiFi 1).

The D-Link N150 Wireless Pico USB Adapter offers speeds up to 150 Mbps. Plus, its simple setup makes this product easy and ready to use in minutes.

This product is a portable WiFi adapter with a collapsible external antenna. This design does not require a lot of space, making it easier for you to carry and store it.

This WiFi adapter is equipped with complete features, such as WPS, MU-MIMO, and Beamforming buttons. So, you can easily access the internet with a fast connection. For those of you who often upload and download large files, the transfer process will be faster using this product.

In order to function properly, installation is generally required when the adapter is first connected to the computer. This can be inconvenient if you don’t really understand the installation of electronic devices and networking.

Well, if you find it difficult to install yourself, this product is the right solution. You don’t need to install drivers when installing it on devices using the Windows operating system. Just insert this tool into the USB port, the adapter is ready to use immediately. Very practical, right?

For stationary use, an adapter equipped with an antenna is recommended because it has better signal capture strength. If you are only going to use the adapter for home or indoor work, this product is worth a try.

It is equipped with a high-gain 6dBi antenna that can be adjusted for better reception. In fact, you can rotate the antenna up to 180 degrees. That way, you can choose the antenna position with the fastest transfer rate.

8. ASUS AC1200 Dual-band USB WiFi Adapter USB-AC53 Nano

This product is the smallest MU-MIMO wireless LAN adapter in the world. ASUS AC1200 Dual-band USB WiFi Adapter is designed with a travel-friendly design that is compact and durable.

You can keep it installed on your laptop and tuck it into your carrying case when you travel. This product is ideal for those of you who often use a laptop and need to be connected to the internet wherever you go.

The built-in omni-directional antenna embedded in this adapter supports receiving wireless signals from a 360 degree angle. That way, you can enjoy internet facilities from anywhere in your home.

This product is very suitable if you are often in a corner or room far from the router. In addition, this tool also uses USB 2.0 type which is compatible with almost all terminal devices.

For those of you who like to play online games, a slow internet connection is your biggest enemy. Slow connection can cause lag so you might miss crucial time during the game.

Those of you who don’t want to experience this need to choose this D-Link product. This product is equipped with Wireless AC Wave 2 technology, which is a network standard that provides high-throughput wireless speeds. You can also enjoy playing online games without lag and make crystal clear audio and video calls.

What’s The Difference Between a USB Bluetooth and a WiFi adapter?

USB Bluetooth and WiFi adapters have similarities and differences. Both function as a means of connecting WiFi to the computer. In other words, both of them allow wireless connection to electronic devices. However, these two tools work on different connection types. USB Bluetooth uses Bluetooth short-range RF wireless to send and receive data.

Meanwhile, a WiFi adapter is a radio transceiver that allows devices to send and receive data via radio signals. WiFi adapters are usually connected via a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) network.

How to use a USB WiFi adapter?

How to use a USB WiFi adapter is very easy. You simply plug the WiFi adapter into the USB port on your laptop or PC. Then, wait a few moments until the driver is automatically installed.

If the driver doesn’t install automatically, you can install it using the driver installer file. This file is usually included in the sales package or can be downloaded on the internet. Once the drivers are installed, you can connect the device to a WiFi network.

How to fix WiFi adapter not detected?

The first thing you need to do when the WiFi adapter is not detected is to run the Network Adapter Troubleshooter. With the Troubleshooter, you can easily find out what problems you are experiencing. Follow the given instructions to solve your problem.

If the problem is not resolved and the WiFi adapter is still not detected, you can try reinstalling the driver. Problematic drivers usually cause the WiFi adapter to not be recognized by your laptop or PC device. You can download the driver installation file on the official website.

Conclusion

You can connect your various personal devices to the internet using the help of a WiFi adapter. Wireless adapters are also easier to use than wired types. So, why not immediately try a WiFi adapter to make it more practical?

In order not to choose the wrong one, make sure the hardware and software of the adapter and your personal device are compatible. Then, choose a product that fits your needs and budget. 

5 Best Wi-Fi Adapter Recommendations

  1. Advance ｜USB Dongle Wifi Wireless Adapter Receiver ｜WF-01
  2. TP-Link ｜300Mbps Mini Wireless N USB Adapter ｜TL-WN823N
  3. Prolink ｜AC650 Wireless USB Adapter ｜DH-5102U
  4. D-Link ｜N150 Wireless Pico USB Adapter ｜DWA-121
  5. TP-Link ｜AC1300 Wireless Dual Band USB Adapter ｜Archer T4U

Other recomendations: