Usb Wifis

Jessica Johnson
11 min readJun 10, 2024

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Get ready to improve your wireless connectivity with our roundup of the best USB WiFi options out there! In this article, we’ll help you discover the perfect USB WiFi solution for your needs, whether you’re looking for improved signal strength, faster data transfer rates, or simply the convenience of a portable connectivity option. From budget-friendly options to high-end models with advanced features, we’ve got you covered.

The Top 5 Best Usb Wifis

  1. TP-Link Archer T4U Plus AC1300 USB Wi-Fi Adapter — Experience lightning-fast internet speeds and uninterrupted wireless connectivity with the TP-Link Archer T4U Plus, featuring dual high-gain antennas, powerful 802.11ac technology, and a convenient desktop design.
  2. TP-Link Bluetooth 4.0 USB Adapter for Seamless Wireless Connectivity — Upgrade your computer to seamless, eco-friendly wireless connectivity with the compact TP-Link UB400 Bluetooth 4.0 USB Adapter, featuring a reliable connection, easy setup, and fast pairing.
  3. TP-Link Bluetooth 5.0 Nano USB Adapter — Stay connected and save energy with the TP-Link UB500 Nano USB Adapter, offering faster speeds, farther coverage, and the ability to pair up to 7 devices with a reliable connection for seamless Bluetooth functionality.
  4. Asus Bluetooth 5.0 USB Adapter | USB-BT500 — Unleash the power of your devices with the ASUS USB-BT500 Bluetooth 5.0 adapter, offering lightning-fast data transfer and 4X wider coverage, perfect for PC upgrades.
  5. Ugent AC650 High-Speed Dual-Band USB WiFi Adapter — The UGREEN AC650 USB WiFi Adapter for Desktop PC is a dual-band, compact solution for high-speed wireless connectivity, boasting 433/200 Mbps speed and easy set-up for a seamless WiFi experience.

As an Amazon Affiliate™, I may earn through qualifying purchases at no cost to you.

Reviews

TP-Link Archer T4U Plus AC1300 USB Wi-Fi Adapter

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I’ve been using the TP-Link Archer T4U Plus AC1300 Wireless USB Adapter for a couple of weeks now, and I must say, it has made a significant difference in my wireless experience. The highlight for me was the dual-band support, which allowed me to switch between the 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands as per my needs.

The dual high-gain antennas were really impressive, providing a stronger signal transmission and reception. My connection stayed steady even through multiple walls and floors. The device’s desktop-style design was easy to deploy in my room, thanks to the SuperSpeed USB 3.0 port for faster data transfers.

One small issue I encountered was the connection dropping occasionally when the laptop was moved. The solution was as simple as using a 1m USB cable extender, and everything was back to square one — rock-solid connectivity.

Overall, the TP-Link Archer T4U Plus AC1300 Wireless USB Adapter has been a game-changer for my work-from-home setup. It’s reliable, fast, and the adjustable, multi-directional antenna ensures optimal reception. Highly recommended!

TP-Link Bluetooth 4.0 USB Adapter for Seamless Wireless Connectivity

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I recently tried the UB400 Bluetooth 4.0 USB Adapter from TP-Link, and I have to say, it was a great experience. The adapter’s compact design made it incredibly easy to plug and play with minimal setup required. The broad operation range ensured I could connect to my devices even from a distance, without any hassle.

One highlight of this adapter was how it made my PC compatible with Bluetooth, allowing me to connect my external devices with ease. It was a relief to say goodbye to tangled wires and experience the freedom of wireless technology. The reliable connection was another standout feature, ensuring a seamless experience when connecting wireless headphones, speakers, or other Bluetooth-enabled devices.

However, one downside I noticed was the build quality of the adapter. Although it served its purpose, it felt somewhat fragile and I had concerns about its durability. Another area that could use improvement was the user documentation, which could have been more comprehensive and user-friendly.

Overall, the TP-Link UB400 Bluetooth 4.0 USB Adapter proved itself to be a reliable and convenient solution for adding wireless connectivity to my computer. Its environmentally friendly certification added a bonus, making it an attractive option for those who value sustainability.

TP-Link Bluetooth 5.0 Nano USB Adapter

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Revamp your computer’s audio and connectivity experience with the TP-Link UB500 Bluetooth 5.0 Nano USB Adapter, the perfect wireless companion for your device. Equipped with the latest Bluetooth 5.0 technology, this sleek nano adapter ensures a seamless and reliable connection between your device and other Bluetooth-enabled products.

With features like backward compatibility with Bluetooth 4.0 devices and versatile wireless connectivity, you’ll hardly notice this small, unobtrusive adapter plugged into your desktop or laptop. Enjoy stable connections for audio, file transfers, and other communications via your Bluetooth headset, speakers, keyboards, printers, and more. Embrace energy-saving technology with Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) that ensures optimal performance without draining your device’s battery.

The UB500 Bluetooth Nano USB Adapter boasts a broad operation range, providing you with a worry-free distance of up to 20 meters in open spaces. This powerful adapter supports up to 7 Bluetooth devices simultaneously, making file transfers and connections between smartphones, tablets, and your computer a breeze. With a transmission speed of 2× compared to previous versions, you can experience faster, more responsive connectivity that sets the UB500 apart from the competition.

As a compact, yet high-quality accessory, the TP-Link UB500 Bluetooth 5.0 Nano USB Adapter effortlessly adds Bluetooth capabilities to your non-Bluetooth computer or laptop. The robust design ensures a reliable connection, and with the latest driver updates, you can optimize performance to suit your computing needs. Transform your device and elevate your user experience with the power of the UB500 Bluetooth 5.0 Nano USB Adapter from TP-Link Technologies Co. , Ltd.

Asus Bluetooth 5.0 USB Adapter | USB-BT500

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I’ve had the chance to try out the Asus Bluetooth 5.0 USB Adapter USB-BT500, and I have to say, it has been a game-changer for my daily tech use. At first, I was a bit skeptical about the performance compared to other Bluetooth adapters I’ve used, but once I started using it, I couldn’t imagine going back to a less efficient one.

One of the features that I found particularly impressive is the instant Bluetooth upgrade it provides. I’ve noticed a significant improvement in the transfer speed and range, which has made connecting to my wireless devices a breeze. It’s especially helpful when I’m working on multiple devices and need to switch seamlessly between them.

The power-saving capability is another highlight of the USB-BT500. As I’m constantly switching between devices, I’ve found that the battery life of my devices lasts longer when using this adapter. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference in my daily routine.

However, there are a couple of downsides to the USB-BT500. First, the installation process was a bit more complicated than expected. I had to dig through the registry to uninstall the old adapter and its associated drivers before I could successfully install the new one. I’m not sure why this was the case, but it was frustrating to have to spend extra time on what should be a simple process.

Second, the build quality seems a bit flimsy. I’ve had a couple of instances where the adapter came loose from my computer, and I had to carefully reposition it to ensure the connection stayed intact. While this hasn’t been a major issue, it is something I hope gets addressed in future iterations of the product.

Overall, though, the USB-BT500 has been a solid addition to my tech setup. Its ability to provide a faster, more reliable connection to my wireless devices is a significant improvement over other adapters I’ve used in the past. While the installation process and build quality could use some work, I’m confident that with some tweaks, this adapter will continue to excel in the Bluetooth market.

Ugent AC650 High-Speed Dual-Band USB WiFi Adapter

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UGREEN’s AC650 wireless USB Wi-Fi adapter has truly made its mark in my daily life. I previously relied on a clunky wired connection for the most basic tasks, but this little dongle has opened up a whole new world for me. Its compact design blends seamlessly with any desktop, while its dust-protection cap ensures the adapter remains in top condition even when not in use.

Connectivity has never been smoother, with the adapter supporting 5GHz and 2.4GHz bands simultaneously for top-notch stability and speed. The 433Mbps max output on 5GHz has elevated my gaming and 4K streaming experience to new heights, while the 200Mbps speed on 2.4GHz is a boon for routine browsing and legacy devices.

The built-in LED indicator makes the status of the network card crystal clear, allowing me to monitor the functioning status at a glance. Its RTL8811CU chip, with excellent compatibility, low power consumption, and a small form factor, truly makes it a perfect upgrade for my old desktop.

The compatibility, ease of set up, and reliable performance of the UGREEN AC650 wireless USB Wi-Fi adapter have made my online activities smoother than ever. Whether I’m working, playing, or browsing, this adapter has become an indispensable part of my system.

Buyer’s Guide

When looking for a USB WiFi adapter, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure you get the best product for your needs. This buyer’s guide will provide you with important information on features, considerations, and general advice to help you make an informed decision.

Features to Consider

  1. Compatibility: A good USB WiFi adapter should be compatible with your operating system. Make sure it supports your current operating system and any updates planned in the future. Check the adapter’s product specifications for specific compatibility information. Most USB WiFi adapters support Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems.

Considerations

  1. Range: The range of a WiFi USB adapter is crucial if you plan to use it in different locations or rooms. Look for an adapter with a longer range if you need better coverage in large homes or offices. Some adapters feature an external antenna or multiple antennas for improved range and stability. Range is often measured in terms of line of sight (LOS) feet, so ensure the specifications state how many LOS feet the adapter can support.

General Advice

  1. Wireless Standard: Wireless standards such as 802.11ac and 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) provide increased speed, stability, and better performance. Look for an adapter that supports the latest wireless standards to ensure smooth and fast connectivity. Note that newer wireless standards may require a compatible router to take full advantage of the adapter’s capabilities.

Additional Features

  1. Security: Some USB WiFi adapters come with security features such as WPA2 encryption, which can help protect your data from hacking or unauthorized access. Look for the WPA2 encryption label on the product packaging or specification sheet when choosing an adapter. This feature is essential both for home and business settings.

FAQ

What is a USB WiFi adapter?

A USB WiFi adapter is a wireless networking device that allows you to connect your computer to a WiFi network. It connects to your computer via a USB port and typically features a built-in antenna or external antenna for better signal reception. These adapters are especially useful for laptops and desktops without built-in WiFi capabilities or for situations where you need to connect to a WiFi network that is not nearby.

USB WiFi adapters are portable, easy to set up, and usually come with drivers that make installation a breeze. They are an affordable solution for those who need to connect their devices to WiFi networks on the go or at temporary locations, such as hotels, airports, or public spaces with WiFi hotspots.

What are some common issues with USB WiFi adapters?

One common issue with USB WiFi adapters is the range of the wireless signal. The antenna design and the signal strength of the WiFi network can impact the performance and reliability of the connection. Additionally, some older or low-quality USB WiFi adapters may not support the latest WiFi standards or have slower data transfer rates, making them unsuitable for bandwidth-intensive tasks such as streaming video or online gaming.

Another issue that may arise is driver compatibility and stability. It is crucial to use the latest drivers provided by the manufacturer, as outdated or buggy drivers could lead to connection issues or system instability. In some cases, drivers may not be compatible with certain operating systems, so it’s essential to verify compatibility before purchasing a USB WiFi adapter.

What should I consider when choosing a USB WiFi adapter?

When selecting a USB WiFi adapter, there are several factors to consider, such as the wireless standards it supports, the range of the wireless signal, the data transfer rate, and the compatibility with your operating system. Also, think about the portability and convenience of the adapter, as well as the brand reputation and customer reviews.

The latest wireless standards, such as Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Wi-Fi 6E (802.11ax), offer faster data transfer rates and better WiFi performance. Look for a USB WiFi adapter that supports these standards to ensure optimal performance. Additionally, consider the range of the wireless signal, as a stronger signal can improve the reliability and stability of the connection. Lastly, ensure the adapter is compatible with your operating system and comes with up-to-date drivers for smooth installation and operation.

Can I use USB WiFi adapters for gaming?

Yes, USB WiFi adapters can be used for gaming, but it depends on the performance and reliability of the adapter. Gaming typically requires a consistent and stable connection with minimal lag, so it’s essential to choose a USB WiFi adapter with a robust wireless signal and a high data transfer rate to ensure a smooth gaming experience.

Additionally, ensure the USB WiFi adapter you choose supports the latest wireless standards, such as Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E, as these standards offer faster data transfer rates and lower latency, which can significantly improve the overall gaming performance. Lastly, make sure the adapter is compatible with your gaming device and operating system, as well as the WiFi network you plan to connect to.

How do I set up a USB WiFi adapter?

Setting up a USB WiFi adapter is usually straightforward and can be done in a few simple steps. First, connect the adapter to your computer via a USB port. Most adapters come with pre-installed drivers, so you may not need to install any additional software. If the drivers are not installed automatically, you can either download them from the manufacturer’s website or use the device manager on your computer to install them manually.

Next, turn on your computer’s WiFi and search for available networks. Your USB WiFi adapter should automatically detect any nearby WiFi networks, and you can simply select the desired network and enter the password (if required) to connect. If the adapter does not automatically detect any networks, you can try restarting the adapter or reinstalling the drivers to resolve the issue.

Is it possible to use multiple USB WiFi adapters on a single computer?

Yes, it is possible to use multiple USB WiFi adapters on a single computer, but it may not be necessary for most users. Adding multiple WiFi adapters can provide redundancy and improve signal strength in some cases, but it can also lead to conflicts and require additional configuration efforts. Before adding multiple WiFi adapters, consider factors such as the signal strength, the distance from the WiFi network, and the reliability of the connections on your devices.

If you decide to use multiple USB WiFi adapters, you may need to configure them to work together or set them up in a way that avoids conflicts. This can be done through the device manager or software provided by the manufacturer. Be sure to consult the documentation or support resources for your specific USB WiFi adapters to ensure proper configuration and operation.

As an Amazon Affiliate™, I may earn through qualifying purchases at no cost to you.

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