Best WiFi USB Adapter PC

Expand Range Boost Signal Strength Using Wi-Fi Adapters

You may be asking why do I need a USB Wi-Fi adapter. Well, if you should own a computer that does not support Wi-Fi, or the WiFi card no longer works, an adapter can receive a signal from the wireless router or other wireless devices. You can do this without having to purchase a new computer. Now, the computer will have access the internet when it’s in range of the Wi-Fi hotspot or wireless network. The best Wi-Fi USB adapter PC will provide you a list of the best adapters for you to use and won’t break the budget.

Another use of these adapters is they allow computers to connect to the internet or other computers without having to use any wires. The adapters send data via radio waves to routers that passes it on to broadband modems or networks. These adaptors work just by inserting them into any open USB port on the computer.

Some of these adapters may also increase the range of connectivity. This allows users to connect to the Wi-Fi in places that were previously not available such as dead zones.

Table of Topics

Just click on the topic of interest and you will be taken directly to that section. Or, you can scroll down to read them all.

• Benefits of Adapters
• Best Rated Wi-Fi Adapters
• Conclusion
• Shop Wireless Wi-Fi Adapters

Benefits of Adapters

Below is a short summary of some of the benefits adapters can provide:

• Frees computer users from cables – This makes the computer a mobile device that can access the internet anytime it’s within the proximity of a free Wi-Fi hotspot or wireless network they have the right to access. This action does not require any cables to be connected to the PC. Note: Be aware of potential security issues when using this option.
• Eliminates installing internal hardware – Most PC’s, laptops or desktops, today come with built-in wireless adapter cards. Sometimes they can go bad and have to be replaced. This can be a chore if you are not familiar with computers. A nice work around this problem is purchasing a USB Wi-Fi adapter which is easy to install. All you do is plug it in the USB port on the computer. That’s all there is to it. In some cases, you need to install a driver for your operating system to accept the device.
• No need to run cables – Computers in the past were connected to the internet source via an Ethernet cable. This is not needed as the USB Wi-Fi adapters don’t require any cables to activate them. This method allows for multiple devices to access the internet via a wireless router. No more cables to connect, just USB Wi-Fi adapters to insert into any open USB port.
• Do not have to upgrade the computer – If your laptop or desktop did not come with the wireless network adapter installed, you will not need to upgrade in buying a new one. All you need is a USB Wi-Fi adapter. Just plug it into the USB port on the computer for internet access. Thus saving you lots of money on having to buy a new computer.
• Can be used on multiple devices – When using a USB Wi-Fi connector is it can be shared across multiple devices very easily. Because it’s an external device that plugs into a USB port, it can be un-mounted and unplugged when needed on another computer. Most computers come with several USB ports, so the adapter can be used on any computer. This is true for both Windows-based and Mac operating systems.

Best Rated Wi-Fi Adaptors

Below are some of the best rated Wi-Fi adapters for your consideration. Look them over carefully and then decide on which one is best for your operating system.

 

TOP RATED ADAPTER

 

#1. Techkey 600Mbps Wireless Wi-Fi Adapter

 

Model: AC600 Series ASIN: B07LFC7VDC Ratings: 2,590 Overall Score: 4.6

Awards: Amazon’s Choice

This model WiFi adapter AC600 series supports all WLAN routers WPA/WPA2 & WEP. The coverage area is 300 feet and support 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz bands.

PROS

• Helps eliminate dead zones
• Coverage area up to 300 feet
• Supports 2.4 GHz & 5.8 GHz dual bands
• Faster speeds
• Increased signal strength
• Works great on PC’s that do not have built-in Wi-Fi
• Works with both USB ports 3.0 & 2.0

CONS

• No install instructions
• Some users experienced connection issues

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: Techkey
• Color: Black
• Weight: 0.634 ounces
• Dimensions: 7.6 x 4.8 x 0.7 inches
• Compatible Systems: Windows XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10, Mac 10.6-10.14
• Wireless Network: WPA/WPA2/WEP
• Interface: USB 3.0 & USB 2.0
• LAN Card: 802.11ac

SECOND PLACE WINNER

 

#2. Techkey 1750Mbps Wireless Wi-Fi Adapter

 

Model: 8541711316 ASIN: B07PKMFPF7 Ratings: 2,206 Score: 4.5

This adapter provides 450Mbps speed on 2.42 GHz band and 1300Mbps speed on 5.8 GHz band. Upgrades PC’s to 802.11ac. It also has 2 high-gain antennas.

PROS

• Works on USB Ports 3.0 & 2.0
• 2 long range high gain 5dBi antennas
• Upgrades PCs to 802.11ac
• Create Wi-Fi hot spot using Soft AP feature of PC
• Drivers are constantly updated

CONS

• Does not support Linux

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: Techkey
• Color: Black
• Weight: 0.9 ounces
• Dimensions: 2.5 x 1.5 x 0.3 inches
• USB 3.0 Speed: 1300Gbps
• USB 20 Speed: 480Mbps
• Operating Systems: Windows XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10, Mac OS 10.4-10.15
• Wireless Security: WPS/WEP/WPA/WPA2/802.1X
• Wireless Speed 802.11ac: 1300Mbps
• Wireless Speed 802.11n: 450Mbps
• Wireless Standard: IEEE 802.11 b/g/n/a/ac
• Compatible With USB 2.0: Yes
• Built-in WiFi: Turn off built-in WiFi on laptop PC before using this product

THIRD PLACE WINNER

 

#3. QGOO AC600Mbps Wireless Wi-Fi Adapter

 

Model: AC600Mbps ASIN: B07HK5CJ45 Ratings: 1,434 Score: 4.5

Awards: Amazon’s Choice

This adapter has a 300 feet coverage area and has 2.4 GHz, 5.8 GHz dual bands. It supports the 802.11ac network and say goodbye to those nasty dead zones.

PROG

• No more dead zones
• Faster speeds
• Supports WPA/WPA2 & WEP routers
• Coverage area up to 300 feet

CONS

• Does not support Linux
• The antenna can break off easily
• Drivers may be out of date

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: QGOO
• Color: Black
• Weight: 2.08 ounces
• Dimensions: 7.3 x 4.1 x 0.7 inches
• Compatible Systems: Windows 7/8/8.1/10/XP/Vista, Mac OS10.6-10.15
• Bands: 2.4GHz & 5.8 GHz

HONORABLE MENTION

 

#4. QGOO 1200Mbps Wireless Wi-Fi Adapter

 

Model: AC1200 ASIN: B07S5QF3WW Ratings: 705 Score: 4.5

Awards: Amazon’s Choice

This adapter has speeds up to 1200Mbps, 867Mpbs for 5.8 GHz and 300Mbps for 2.4 GHz bands. Supports both USB port types. Uses wireless adapter speed of 802.11ac. The adapter supports Linux.

PROS

• Supports dual bands 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz
• Supports Linux
• Works with both USB port types
• Provides up to 300Mbps for 2.4 GHz & 867Mbps for 5.8 GHz bands
• Easy to install
• Improved speeds

CONS

• Some users reported trouble downloading the drivers

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: QGOO
• Color: Black
• Weight: 0.9 ounces
• Dimensions: 2.5 x 1.5 x 0.3 inches
• Compatible Systems: Windows 2000/XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10, Mac OS 10.5-10.14
• Works With: All Wi-Fi routers
• Antenna: 1 5dBi long range high gain dual-band
• Supports USB Ports: 3.0 & 2.0
• Linux Supported: Yes
• Drivers Required: No, for Windows 10, All others Yes

#5. UPTOU 600Mbps Wireless Wi-Fi Adapter

 

Model: AC600 ASIN: B07P83V7S6 Ratings: 155 Score: 4.5

This wireless adapter has the latest network standard 802.11ac. It’s compatible with all WLAN routers. It supports dual band and two modes 2.4 GHz at 150Mbps and 5 GHz at 433Mbps.

PROS

• Easy to install
• CD driver included
• Supports 2.4 GHz & 5 GHz bands
• Supports all WLAN routers
• Strong signal strength

CONS

• Some users reported connection issues

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: UPTOU
• Color: Black
• Weight: 0.81 ounces
• Dimensions: 5.7 x 0.8 x 0.4 inches
• Support Systems: Windows XP/VISTA/7/8/8.1/10, Mac OS X 10.6-10.13.4, Linux
• In The Box: Adapter, Antenna, CD Driver, Manual, Warranty Card

#6. Techkey 1200Mbps Wireless Wi-Fi Adapter

 

Model: 1200Mbps ASIN: B07J65G9DD Ratings: 9,106 Score: 4.4

Awards: Amazon’s Choice

This wireless Wi-Fi adapter helps eliminate dead zones and has a coverage range of 300 feet. Supports dual bands 2.42 GHz and 5.8 GHz. It comes with a high gain 5dBi antenna and works with all WLAN routers.

PROS

• Rotatable antenna
• Works with all WLAN routers
• Coverage area up to 300 feet
• Supports 802.11ac network
• Works with USB 3.0 & 2.0 ports

CONS

• Does not support Linux

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: Techkey
• Color: Black
• Weight: 2.39 ounces
• Series: AC1200
• Dimensions: 2.5 x 1.5 x 0.3 inches
• Support Systems: Windows 2000/XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10, Mac OS 10.4-10.15
• USB Port Compatibility: 3.0, 2.0, 1.1 devices
• Supports WLAN Routers: WPA/WPA2/WEP
• In The Box: Adapter, CD Driver, User Manual
• WiFi Speeds: 2.42 GHz 300Mbps, 5.8 GHz 867Mbps

#7. TP-Link AC1200 Wireless WiFi Adapter

 

Model: Archer T5E ASIN: B084JPFKQ5 Ratings: 3,711 Score: 4.4

Awards: Amazon’s Choice & Best Seller

This wireless WiFi adapter has WiFi speeds of 300Mbps on the 2.4GHz band and 867Mbps on the 5GHz band. It’s easy to install. It comes with 2 antennas and has Bluetooth 4.2

PROS

• Includes low-profile bracket for mini tower computer case
• Compatible with Linux
• Bluetooth compatible
• Easy to install
• Great speed
• Signal strength is very good

CONS

• Does not support Mac OS users

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Brand Name: TP-Link
• Color: Black
• Weight: 8 ounces
• Dimensions: 4.76 x 3.28 x 0.85 inches
• Bluetooth Compatibility: Yes, 4.2
• Antennas: 2 External High Gain
• System Compatibility: Windows 32/64-bit 7/8/8.1/10
• Security: WPA/WPA2
• Bluetooth: Supports 4.2 Technology
• Wireless Network: 2.4GHz & 5GHz bands
• Speeds: 300Mbps 2.4GHz & 867Mbps on 5GHz band 

#8. Techkey AC1200 Wireless WiFi Adapter

 

Model: AC1200 ASIN: B07FDSLCBR Ratings: 2,617 Score: 4.4

Awards: Amazon’s Choice

This wireless adapter has excellent speed and will extend the connection on your desktop or laptop PC. You get 1200Mbps on two bands 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz. It also works with both USB ports 3.0 and 2.0. It comes with 2 5dBi antennas.

PROS

• Great speed
• 2 high gain long range 5dBi antennas
• Works with both USB ports 3.0 & 2.0
• Easy installation
• Extends WiFi connection

CONS

• Does not support Linux
• Some experienced disconnection from the internet

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: Techkey
• Color: Black
• Weight: 0.9 ounces
• Dimensions: 6.97 x 5.04 x 0.55 inches
• Compatible Systems: Windows 2000/XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10, Mac OS 10.4-10.15
• Security Network: WPA/WPA2/WEP
• Band Speeds: 2.4GHz 300Mbps, 5.8GHz 867Mbps
• Work With: All WiFi routers
• Antennas: 2 5dBi High Gain Long Range
• Dual Band: 802.11ac
• Premium Chipset: RTL8812BU
• In The Box: Adapter, CD Driver, User Manual

#9. Cudy WU600 Wireless WiFi Adapter

 

Model: WU600 ASIN: B07FRXYXFJ Ratings: 1,444 Score: 4.4

Awards: Amazon’s Choice

This model WiFi adapter is built with 802.11ac wireless technology that offers 150Mbps on 2.4GHz and 433Mbps on 5GHz bands. Easy to install.

PROS

• Easy to install
• Compatible with all routers
• Compact and convenient
• SoftAP mode allows you to turn PC into a WiFi hotspot

CONS

• Does not work with Bluetooth devices
• Does not support Linux and Mac OS

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: Shenzhan Cudy Technology Co., Inc.
• Color: Black
• Weight: 0.176 ounces
• Dimensions: 1.42 x 0.71 x 0.31 inches
• Speeds: 433Mbps 5GHz & 150Mbps 2.4GHz
• USB: 3.0
• Compatibility Systems: Windows XP/7/8/8.1/10
• In The Box: Adapter, User Guide

 #10. TP-Link AC600 Wireless WiFi Adapter

 

Model: Archer T2U + ASIN: B07P5PRK7J Ratings: 1,372 Score: 4.4

Awards: Amazon’s Choice

This wireless adapter uses a 5dBi high-gain antenna and dual bands 2.4GHz and 5GHz. The speeds are 200Mbps for 2.4GHz and 433 for 5GHz bands.

PROS

• USB extension included
• High gain 5dBi antenna
• 2-year warranty
• Easy to install
• Increased range

CONS

• Does not support Linux

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Brand Name: TP-Link
• Color: Black
• Weight: 0.64 ounces
• Dimensions: 2.28 x 0.71 x 6.83 inches
• USB:0
• Antenna Gain: 5dBi
• Antenna Type: High Gain Omni Directional
• Wireless Standard: Dual Band 802.11ac
• Connection Speeds: 2.4GHz 200Mbps, 5GHz 433Mbps
• Security: WPA/WPA2
• Operating Systems: Windows XP/7/8/8.1/10, Mac OS X 10.9-10.14
• Support: https://www.tp-link.com/support

#11. EDUP 1635 Wireless WiFi Adapter

 

Model: EDUP-1635 ASIN: B075R7BFV2 Ratings: 1,163 Score: 4.4

This wireless adapter comes with 600Mbps and an 802.11ac dual band wireless network. It has bands 2.4GHz with 150Mbps and 5GHz with 433Mbps speeds.

PROS

• Easy to setup and install
• Dual band support 2.4GHz and 5GHz
• 600Mbps WiFi speed
• 11ac wireless adapter

CONS

• Does not support Linux
• Some users experienced issues loading the driver on Windows 10

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Brand Name: EDUP
• Color: Black
• Weight: 2.39 ounces
• Dimensions: 9 x 1.1 x 5.5 inches
• Operating Systems: Windows XP/Vista/7/8.1/10, Mac OS X 10.6-10.15 14 Sierra
• USB:0
• Support Standard: 11 ac/a/b/g/n
• Antenna Gain: 2dBi
• In The Box: Adapter, Antenna, Driver CD, User Manual
• Support: 1-323-248-1976
• Warranty: 1-Year and 45 days no questions asked return policy

 #12. SUPOLA 1200M Wireless Wi-Fi Adapter

Model: 1200M ASIN: B07P98DX2H Ratings: 145 Score: 4.4

This model adapter has an adjustable Omni-Directional antenna and provides Wi-Fi speeds up to 1200Mbps on a dual band. The 2.42GHz band has 300Mbps and the 5.8GHz band has 867Mbps speeds. It also has a coverage area up to 300 feet.

PROS

• Coverage up to 300 feet
• Adjustable Omni-Directions antenna
• Wi-Fi speeds up to 1200Mbps
• Can be used on both USB ports 2.0 & 3.0
• AP Mode Wi-Fi signal emission
• Easy to install
• Supports all WLAN routers

CONS

• Does not support Linux
• Some users reported signal gets lost or dropped

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: SUPOLA
• Color: Black
• Weight: 1.06 ounces
• Dimensions: 2.4 x 1.45 x 0.4 inches
• Operating Systems Supported: Windows 2000/XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10, Mac OS X 10.6 – 10.15
• WLAN Routers: WEP/WPA/WPA2
• Wi-Fi Transfer Rate: 2.42GHz 300Mbps, 5.8GHz 867Mbps
• Wi-Fi Adapter Speeds: 150Mbps on 802.11g, 300Mbps on 802.11n, 1200Mbps on 802.11ac
• USB Ports: Works with 2.0 & 3.0
• In The Box: Adapter, Driver CD, User Manual
• Warranty: 2-Years

#13. TP-Link TL-WN725N Wireless Wi-Fi Adapter

Model: TL-WN725N ASIN: B008IFXQFU Ratings: 25,679 Score: 4.3

This WiFi adapter is dual band supporting 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. The 2.4GHz has 200Mbps speed and the 5GHz has 433Mbps speed. It’s compatible with all USB ports.

PROS

• Compatible with any USB port
• Dual band support
• Easy to use and install
• Supports 2.4GHz & 5GHz bands
• Strong signal strength

CONS

• Does not support Linux

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Brand Name: TP-Link
• Color: Black
• Weight: 0.07 ounces
• Dimensions: 0.73 x 0.58 x 0.27 inches
• Operating Systems: Windows XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10, Mac OS X 10.9 – 10.13
• Security Network: WPA/WPA2
• WiFi Speeds: 200Mbps on 2.4GHz & 433Mbps on 5GHz Bands
• Warranty: 2-Years Limited
• Support: https://www.tp-link.com/support

#14. Panda PAU06 Wireless WiFi Adapter

 

Model: PAU06 ASIN: B00JDVRCI0 Ratings: 3,276 Score: 4.3

Awards: Amazon’s Choice

This model adapter only runs on 2.4GHz bands. The WiFi speed is up to 300Mbps. It compatible with many operating systems.

PROS

• Low power consumption to save PC battery life
• WiFi speed 300Mbps on the 2.4GHz band
• Compatible with many operating systems
• WPS button can be used to setup connection

CONS

• Single band
• Does not work with 5GHz bands

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: Panda Wireless
• Color: Black
• Weight: 0.32 ounces
• Dimensions: 6.2 x 3.9 x 0.5 inches
• WiFi Speed: 300Mbps on 2.4GHz Band Only
• Operating Systems: Windows 32-bit and 64-bit XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10, MX Linux 17/18/19, Manjaro 16/17/18/19/20, Linux Mint 14/15/16/17/18/19, Ubunto or Lubuntu 12.10/…/16.04/17.04/18.04/20.04, Fedora 18/…/27/28/29/30/31/32, openSUSE Leap 42.1/42.2/42.3/15, CentOS 6.4/6.5/6.6/7/8, Kali Linus, Parrot, W ifislax, Tails, Zorin, Raspbian and Kali for Raspberry Pi 0/1/2/3/4 (Client & A P)
• Security: WEP 64/128-bit, WPA, WPA2 (TKIP+AES)
• Upgrades Computer: 802.11n standard
• Chipset: RT2800usb (Ralink RT5372)
• Warranty: 1-Year
• In The Box: Adapter, Installation CD, User Manual

#15. Blueshadow 802 Wireless WiFi Adapter

 

 

Model: 802 ASIN: B077XJB1Z8 Ratings: 1,505 Score: 4.3

This model works with any WiFi router and has 600Mbps speed. Supports 2.4GHz and 5GHz dual bands. WiFi speeds of 150Mbps on 2.4GHz band and 433Mbps on 5GHz band.

PROS

• Easy to install
• Supports 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands
• WiFi speed of 150Mbps on 2.4GHz band and 433Mbps on 5GHz band
• Compact size
• Strong WiFi reception

CONS

• Not compatible with Linux and Windows Vista
• Some users reported it stopped working after 1-2 months

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: Blueshadow
• Color: Black
• Weight: 0.634 ounces
• Dimensions: 1.25 x 0.62 x 0.3 inches
• Frequency Range: 2.412GHz – 2.483GHz, 5.15GHz – 5.825GHz
• Security Encryption: WFA, WPA, WPA2, WPS2.0, WAPI
• Interface: USB 2.0
• Operating Systems: Windows 2000/XP/7/8.1/10 32 & 64-bit, Mac OS X 10.4 – 10.12
• Wireless Speed: 600Mbps
• Standard: 802.11n/g/b & 802.11ac
• In The Box: WiFi Adapter, Driver CD, User Manual

#16. TRENDnet AC1900 Wireless WiFi Adapter

 

Model: TEW-809UB ASIN: B01EOQ61KI Ratings: 1,404 Score: 4.3

Awards: Amazon’s Choice

This dual band WiFi adapter has 1300Mbps and supports 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. It has 4 5dBi dual band antennas which are detachable. It also has a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty.

PROS

• Fast performance
• Wireless dual band adapter
• Easy to install
• 1300Mbps dual band speed
• 3-Year warranty
• 4 5dBi high gain antennas

CONS

• Does not support Linux
• Poor technical support

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Brand Name: TRENDnet
• Color: Black
• Weight: 11.2 ounces
• Dimensions: 7 x 3 x 9 inches
• Encryption: WEP, WPA / WPA2-PSK
• Beamforming: Yes
• Upgrades Computer: Yes, 1300Mbps WiFi AC or 600Mbps WiFi N
• Operating Systems: Windows XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10, Mac OS 10.6 – 10.13
• Frequency: 2.4GHz (FCC) 2.412 – 2.462GHz, (ETSI) 2.412 – 2.472GHz
• Antenna Gain: 2.4GHz / 5GHz, 4 x 5dBi Dual Band External/Detachable
• Power Consumption: Max 6.6 Watts
• Standards: IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac
• In The Box: Adapter, CD-ROM (Drivers & Users Guide), 4 High Gain Dual Band Antennas, USB 3.0 Micro-B to USB Type A Cable (0.91 m / 3 ft.), Quick Installation Guide
• Warranty: 3-Years

#17. ALFA AWUS036ACH Wireless WiFi Adapter

 

Model: AWUS036ACH ASIN: B00VEEBOPG Ratings: 1,017 Score: 4.3

This WiFi adapter model has 1200Mbps data transfer speed and can be used by Windows, Mac and Linux users. Dual band support 2.4GHz and 5GHz.

PROS

• Great range and signal strength
• Dual band support
• 1200Mbps speed
• 4GHz 300Mbps speed
• 8GHz 867Mbps speed
• No drivers required for Windows 10
• Excellent WiFi speed

CONS

• Does not support Linux

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Brand Name: ALFA
• Color: Black
• Weight: 9.1 ounces
• Dimensions: 5.51 x 5.51 x 2.36 inches
• Antennas: 2 5dB dual-band
• Wireless Security: WFA, WPA, WPA2, WPS2.0, WAPI
• Interface: USB 3.0
• WiFi Speeds: 300Mbps 2.4GHz bands & 867Mpbs for 5.8GHz bands
• Operating Systems: Windows 2000/XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10, Mac OS 10.5-10.13
• Wireless Network: 11b/g/n/a/ac
• In The Box: Adapter, User Manual, Driver CD

#18. QGOO AC1200 Wireless WiFi Adapter

 

Model: AC1200 Series ASIN: B07FJMRLKY Ratings: 938 Score: 4.3

This wireless adapter is compatible with Windows, Mac and *Linux systems. It provides speeds up to 300Mbps for 2.4GHz bands and 867Mbps for 5.8GHz bands. It has a coverage area up to 300 feet. *Some Linux users reported difficulties in finding the correct drivers for Linux. They also reported when found, Linux does work.

PROS

• Coverage area up to 300 feet
• WiFi speed up to 1200Mbps
• Easy to use and install
• Easy setup
• Strong WiFi signal

CONS

• Difficulty in finding the correct drivers for Linux with this adapter
• Losing the internet connection at random times
• Driver CD does not have the proper Linux drivers

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Brand Name: QGOO
• Color: Black
• Weight: 2.75 ounces
• Dimensions: 6.69 x 3.54 x 0.79 inches
• Operating Systems: Windows XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10, Mac OS X 10.4 – 10.14, Ubuntu Linux
• WiFi Speeds: 300Mbps 2.4GHz bands & 867Mbps for 5.8GHz bands
• USB: 3.0 & 2.0
• Chipset: RTL8811AU
• Dual Band: Yes (902.11ac
• Security: 64/128-bit WEP/WPA-PSK/WPA1-PSK/WAPI
• Antenna: High gain 5dBi
• In The Box: Adapter with Antenna, Driver CD, User Manual
• Warranty: 2-Years

#19. Cudy WU650 Wireless WiFi Adapter

 

Model: W:U650 ASIN: B07RN44SHW Ratings: 521 Score: 4.3

Awards: Amazon’s Choice

This adapter provides WiFi speeds for 2.4GHz bands of 200Mpbs and 433Mpbs for 5GHz bands. It is compatible with Windows and Mac systems.

PROS

• Easy to install
• WiFi speeds up to 600Mbps on dual band
• 4GHz speed of 200Mbps and 433Mbps on 5GHz bands
• Find hotspot using Soft-AP mode

CONS

• Does not support Linux and Windows Vista

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: Shenzhen Cudy Technology Co., Ltd.
• Color: Black
• Weight: 2.11 ounces
• Dimensions: 0.79 x 0.55 x 0.28 inches
• Operating Systems Supported: Windows XP/7/8/8.1/10, Mac OS 10.9 – 10.15
• Soft-AP Mode: Yes
• Warranty: 1-Year
• In The Box: Adapter, Driver CD, User Guide

#20. Cudy WU1300 Wireless Wi-Fi Adapter

 

Model: WU1300 ASIN: B07XXQTW27 Ratings: 191 Score: 4.3

Awards: Amazon’s Choice

This adapter works with Windows, Mac and Linux systems. Provides speeds up to 1300Mbps. 400Mbps on 2.4GHz bands and 867Mbps on 5GHz bands. Upgrades laptops to 802.11ac.

PROS

• Works with any router
• Excellent transmission speed up to 1300Mbps
• Easy to use and install
• Dual band adapter

CONS

• Does not work with Mac OS systems
• Made in China

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: Shenzhen Cudy Technology Co., Ltd.
• Color: Black
• Weight: 0.81 Ounces
• Dimensions: 0.79 x 0.55 x 0.28 inches
• Operating Systems Supported: Windows Vista/7/8/8.1/10, Mac OS, Linux
• USB Ports: 2.0 & 3.0
• Wi-Fi Speeds: 400Mbps on 2.4GHz band and 867Mbps on 5GHz band
• In The Box: Adapter, Driver CD, User Manual

#21. Blueshadow AC1200 Wireless WiFi Adapter

 

Model: AC1200 ASIN: B086Z7Q1CK Ratings: 532 Score: 4.2

This model adapter is compatible with Windows and, Mac systems. Works with all WiFi routers. Provides WiFi speeds of 867Mbps for 5GHz bands and 300Mbps for 2.4GHz bands.

PROS

• Excellent WiFi speed
• Easy installation
• Uses both USB ports 3.0 & 2.0
• Upgrades PCs to 802.11ac

CONS

• Does not support Windows Vista, Linux, and AP systems
• Users report random disconnects from the internet

OTHER KEY FACTS

• Manufacture: Blueshadow
• Color: Black
• Weight: 2.39 ounces
• Dimensions: 5.91 x 3.54 x 0.79 inches
• Operating Systems Supported: Windows XP/7/8/8.1/10, Mac OS X 10.8 – 10.14
• USB: Works with Both 3.0 & 2.0
• WiFi Speeds: 1200Mbps with 300Mbps on 2.4GHz and 867Mpbs on 5GHz bands.
• Antennas: 2 5dBI High Gain Long Range
• Create Hotspot: Yes, Using AP Mode

 Conclusion

The wireless Wi-Fi adapters are great for users when their computers built-in wireless internet card fails. Or, you just want to expand the area for a better speed or signal from the router.

As you review our list of adapters, look them over carefully. Find the one that supports your operating system as these adapters will not work on operating systems not listed in the review of the product. Some of these adapters will work with Linux and some will not. This is also true for the Windows systems as well.

Some of these adapters will be a hit or miss. It all depends on your router and computer.

If you should read any of the reviews that mention Linux and that it might work, I would verify with the manufacture first it works with Linux before ordering the adapter.

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