USB & PCIe Wi-Fi adapters

REV UP YOUR LAPTOP OR DESKTOP’S WIRELESS CAPABILITIES WITH AN 802.11AC WI-FI ADAPTER.

Wi-Fi can be a great way to connect a multitude of devices to a network with little fuss. But in a world with increasing demand for high bandwidth media streaming and the ability to handle large files, real-life speeds can be a letdown.

Updates to the 802.11ac Wi-Fi standard mean that many new devices can use all sorts of techniques to maximise throughput. While 2.4GHz generally gives longer range and better wall penetration, 5HGz networks support high bandwidths. To help bring older computers up to date, we’ve tested a bundle of the latest 802.11ac spec USB and PCIe Wi-Fi adapters.

USB models can be a simple way to upgrade the existing Wi-Fi on a laptop (or desktop) with no in-depth install needed. Some models can be very compact, while others sport large antennas. USB adapters can also be connected via a USB extension cable, so can be positioned away from the computer for the best reception. PCIe adapters are often available in higher speeds, with an array of antennas for better reception.

HOW WE TESTED

Wi-Fi adapters were connected to a Linksys EA9500 router on the 5GHz band, and tested indoors at 1m range with no obstructions, then at a 10m range, with three walls in between. Network speeds we measured with LAN Speed Test, between two computers.

Note that some high-speed wireless connections are bottlenecked by the Gigabit Ethernet at each end. As a comparison, a wired Ethernet connection tested at 919/903Mbps up and down.