Usb wi-fi adapter: models to connect your desktop computer (and not only) to the network

L’usb wi-fi adapter It has become an increasingly rare accessory with the spread of computers and laptops with built-in wireless connectivity, yet these products are still essential for many. Who has a fixed pc with provision for LAN connectivity but without integrated wi-fi for example, it must necessarily resort to an additional dedicated card to be installed in the case, or to one of these gadgets. Similar speech for those who work on a dated laptop and want to give the device an edge in online connections by updating it with a more effective wi-fi antenna.

How to choose the right wi-fi usb adapter for you

In these scenarios, usb wi-fi adapters come in handy: use the most popular ports in the world of consumer electronics to launch connected devices directly on the network (local or Internet). The only problem is that of such accessories on the market there are manyand each gadget boasts peculiarities that make it more palatable for some and wasted for others.

• L’encumbrance of these accessories must be carefully evaluated: very compact products even struggle to see, but have miniaturized antennas less effective at greater distances and in more difficult situations.
• The standard wi-fi supported gives an idea of ​​how fast, versatile and stable connections guaranteed by accessories can be. From the old wi-fi n you switch to wi-fi B.C and then to wi-fi ax (or wi-fi 6): With support for the latest versions of the standard, even the guaranteed connection is on average more reliable – provided, however, that the other components of the network also support the same standard.
• There data transfer speed it is expressed in megabits per second (Mbps). Some gadgets report a value that results from the combination of all the communication channels used by the adapter, but they are valid only for routers compatible with these signal aggregation systems.
• Some of the bulkier gadgets can count on a cable or a support baseto avoid having to connect them directly to the computer case.
• There compatibility with the computer and the operating system in use is fundamental and generally reported by the manufacturer.

The best adapters to connect your computer to wi-fi

Net of the key features of these products, however, some remain more reliable of others: either because some manufacturers have decades of experience in the sector, or because the relative simplicity of these devices has meant that dozens of competitors appear on the market ready to offer cheap but not very performing gadgets. Below we have rounded up some of the most interesting adapters, from the most affordable and basic to the most equipped and expensive.

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