8 Best USB WiFi Dongle for 2024

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Introducing the 8 Best USB WiFi Dongle for 2023, your ultimate guide to finding the perfect wireless solution for seamless internet connectivity. With the advent of new technologies and increasing reliance on online resources, having a reliable and fast internet connection is crucial. USB WiFi dongles serve as compact and portable devices that can significantly enhance your browsing experience. In this comprehensive review, we will explore and evaluate the top eight USB WiFi dongles available in 2023, providing detailed insights into their features, performance, compatibility, and value for money. Stay ahead of the game and enjoy uninterrupted internet access with our expert recommendations.

 

The TP-Link AC1300 USB WiFi Adapter(Archer T3U) is a dual band wireless network adapter that provides a strong high-speed connection for PC desktops and laptops. It offers AC1300 Wi-Fi extender capabilities and supports MU-MIMO for a lag-free experience. The adapter is USB 3.0 for fast speeds and is portable for convenient use anywhere. It is compatible with Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7, XP, and Mac OS X 10.9-10.14. With a rating of 4.5/5 stars, this TP-Link adapter has received positive reviews for its ease of use and reliable performance.

Key Features

  • AC1300 Dual Band Wi-Fi Extender for PC, Desktop, and Laptop
  • MU-MIMO for lag-free Wi-Fi experience
  • USB 3.0 for 10x faster speed than USB 2.0
  • Mini and portable size for easy carry
  • Supports Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7, XP/ Mac OS X 10.9-10.14
  • Specifications

  • Color: Black
  • Dimension: 1.59Lx0.78Wx0.41H
  • Size: AC1300
  • Pros

  • Easy plug-and-play installation
  • Fast and reliable internet connection
  • Compact and portable design
  • Supports both 2.4G and 5G dual-band Wi-Fi
  • MU-MIMO technology for stable connection with multiple devices
  • Cons

  • May require USB extension cord for better reception
  • No antenna for improved signal strength
  • CD driver might not be usable for devices without CD-ROM
  •  

    The TP-Link AC1300 USB WiFi Adapter is a top choice for users who need a reliable and high-speed wireless connection. With its ease of use and compact design, it provides fast internet speeds and stable connectivity even in areas with poor Wi-Fi signal. The adapter’s MU-MIMO technology ensures a lag-free experience, and its compatibility with various operating systems makes it a versatile option for different devices. While it may require an extension cord for optimal reception and lacks an antenna for improved signal strength, the TP-Link AC1300 WiFi Adapter is an excellent investment for anyone looking to enhance their PC’s internet capabilities. Overall, it offers great value for its price.

     

    The TP-Link USB WiFi Adapter for PC (TL-WN725N) is a compact and convenient solution to upgrade your Wi-Fi speeds up to 150 Mbps for lag-free video streaming and internet calls. With its mini design, it can be easily plugged in and forgotten. The 2.4GHz band Wi-Fi coverage ensures strong signal throughout your house. This adapter is compatible with a range of operating systems including Windows, Mac OS, and Linux Kernel. It supports various wireless security standards for secure connections. The TP-Link USB WiFi Adapter comes with industry-leading support and a 2-year warranty. While it requires driver installation, the process is straightforward. Please note that it only supports 2.4GHz networks and does not support 5G. Overall, it offers an affordable and reliable solution for enhancing Wi-Fi connectivity on your desktop or laptop.

    Key Features

  • Upgrade your Wi-Fi speeds up to 150 Mbps
  • Stronger Wi-Fi coverage with 2.4GHz band
  • Mini design for convenient use
  • Supports various wireless security standards
  • Compatible with Windows, Mac OS, and Linux Kernel
  • Specifications

  • Dimension: 0.73Lx0.58Wx0.27H
  • Size: N150 Single Band
  • Pros

  • Compact and plug-and-play design
  • Strong and reliable signal strength
  • Compatible with multiple operating systems
  • Industry-leading support and warranty
  • Cons

  • Requires driver installation
  • Only supports 2.4GHz networks
  • May not be suitable for gaming
  •  

    Overall, the TP-Link USB WiFi Adapter offers a convenient and affordable solution to upgrade your Wi-Fi speeds. It provides reliable and lag-free performance for activities like video streaming and internet calls. The mini design allows for easy portability and its compatibility with multiple operating systems makes it versatile. While the need for driver installation and its limitation to 2.4GHz networks may be minor drawbacks, the strong signal strength and industry-leading support make it a worthwhile choice. Whether you need to enhance Wi-Fi connectivity on your desktop or laptop, this adapter is a great option to consider.

     

    The Linccras USB WiFi Adapter is a high-speed and easy-to-use solution for adding wireless connectivity to your desktop PC. With its drive-free installation and dual-band support, it offers convenience and flexibility. The mini WiFi dongle design ensures portability, while the wide adaptability makes it compatible with various systems. Moreover, Linccras provides excellent after-sale service, ensuring a positive shopping experience for the customers. With its compact size, strong performance, and reliable connectivity, this USB WiFi adapter is a great option for anyone seeking to enhance their desktop PC's wireless capabilities.

    Key Features

  • Drive-Free USB Wifi Adapter
  • Dual Band Wifi Adapter
  • Mini Wifi Dongle
  • Wide Adaptability
  • Linccras After-sale Service
  • Specifications

  • Color: Black
  • Dimension: 1.18Lx0.78Wx0.39H
  • Pros

  • Easy drive-free installation
  • Dual-band support for faster speeds
  • Compact and portable design
  • Wide compatibility with various systems
  • Excellent after-sale service
  • Cons

  • Lack of instructions
  • Some connectivity issues
  •  

    The Linccras USB WiFi Adapter is an excellent solution for those looking to upgrade their desktop PC’s wireless capabilities. With its drive-free installation, dual-band support, and wide compatibility, it offers convenience and flexibility. The mini WiFi dongle design makes it portable, and the excellent after-sale service ensures a positive shopping experience. However, the lack of instructions and occasional connectivity issues may be minor drawbacks. Overall, this WiFi adapter provides strong performance, reliable connectivity, and a great value for its affordable price.

     

    Upgrade your PCs or laptops to 802.11ac standards with the TP-Link AC600 USB WiFi Adapter. With dual-band connectivity, high gain antenna, and plug-and-play ease, enjoy lag-free connections and faster speeds. Perfect for web surfing, gaming, and streaming online, this compact adapter provides long-range coverage. Compatible with a wide range of operating systems, this adapter is a reliable choice for improving WiFi performance.

    Key Features

  • AC600 USB Wi-Fi Adapter
  • Dual-band 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Bands
  • Smooth Lag Free Connections
  • 5d Bi High Gain Antenna
  • Supports Win11/10/8.1/8/7/XP, Mac OS 10.9-10.14
  • Specifications

  • Color: Black
  • Dimension: 2.28Lx0.71Wx6.83H
  • Size: AC600
  • Pros

  • Long-range and lag-free connections
  • Faster speeds with 802.11ac standards
  • Flexible dual-band connectivity
  • Enhanced reception with high gain antenna
  • Compatible with various operating systems
  • Cons

  • Antenna rotation limited to 90 degrees
  • Speed improvement may not be significant for some
  • Driver availability can be challenging
  •  

    The TP-Link AC600 USB WiFi Adapter is a reliable choice for upgrading your PCs or laptops to faster and more stable WiFi connections. With its compact design and dual-band capability, it provides flexible connectivity and improved speeds. The high gain antenna enhances signal reception, ensuring smooth browsing, gaming, and streaming experiences. While the speed improvement may vary, this adapter offers a convenient plug-and-play solution for those seeking better WiFi performance. Compatibility with a range of operating systems adds to its versatility. Overall, the TP-Link AC600 is a solid option for anyone looking to enhance their wireless networking capabilities.

     

    Introducing the Cudy AC 650Mbps USB WiFi Adapter for PC, a compact and powerful wireless dongle that provides ultra-fast WiFi speed. With upgraded 433Mbps + 200Mbps WiFi speed, this adapter offers a 300% speed boost compared to other wireless adapters on the market. It supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi bands, ensuring a better user experience with faster and more reliable internet connections. The compact design makes it portable and convenient for mobile users. It is compatible with Windows, Mac OS, and Linux systems, offering good compatibility for a wide range of users. The Soft-AP mode allows you to turn a wired internet connection into a Wi-Fi hotspot. Overall, the Cudy AC 650Mbps USB WiFi Adapter is a reliable and versatile solution for anyone in need of a wireless USB adapter.

    Key Features

  • 433Mbps + 200Mbps Wi Fi Speed
  • Dual-band 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi
  • Compact design for portability
  • Good compatibility with various operating systems
  • Soft-AP mode for creating Wi-Fi hotspot
  • Specifications

  • Dimension: 0.55Lx0.28Wx0.75H
  • Size: 650Mbps Nano Wi Fi USB Adapter
  • Pros

  • 300% speed boost compared to other adapters
  • Supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi bands
  • Compact and portable design
  • Good compatibility with multiple operating systems
  • Soft-AP mode for creating Wi-Fi hotspot
  • Cons

  • Not compatible with mac OS Big Sur
  •  

    The Cudy AC 650Mbps USB WiFi Adapter is a reliable and compact solution for anyone seeking faster wireless internet speeds. With its dual-band support and improved speed, it offers a significant performance boost compared to other adapters on the market. The compact design makes it convenient for mobile users, and the good compatibility ensures it can be used with various operating systems. The Soft-AP mode is a useful feature for turning a wired internet connection into a Wi-Fi hotspot. However, it is important to note that it is not compatible with macOS Big Sur. Overall, the Cudy AC 650Mbps USB WiFi Adapter is a quality product that delivers excellent performance and convenience.

     

    The GenBasic WiFi 4 USB Nano Wireless Network Dongle Adapter is a small and compact plug-and-play device designed for single board computers (SBCs) running Linux. With up to 150Mbps speed, it offers reliable and fast wireless connectivity. The dongle measures only 19mm x 14mm x 5mm, ensuring neighboring USB ports remain accessible. It is built with low power design to stay within the 500mA power budget of USB 2.0 ports. This WiFi dongle supports the latest WPA3 security standards, providing enhanced protection against password brute forcing and dictionary attacks. It also offers advanced functionality such as AP mode and monitoring/sniffing mode. The GenBasic WiFi 4 USB Nano Wireless Network Dongle Adapter is compatible with Linux and Windows and is designed to be easy to use without the need for installation.

    Score: 8.3/10

    Key Features

  • Small plug and play 2.4GHz Wi Fi for single board computers
  • Supports all current Linux LTS versions and Windows
  • Latest WPA3 security standards compliant
  • Advanced functionality: AP mode, monitoring/sniffing mode, and 40MHz channels
  • Requires 150Mbps PHY rates and 40MHz channels for optimal performance
  • Specifications

  • Color: Black
  • Dimension: 0.75Lx0.50Wx0.20H
  • Pros

  • Easy plug and play setup for Linux
  • Compact size keeps neighboring USB ports accessible
  • Supports latest WPA3 security standards
  • Offers advanced functionality like AP mode and monitoring/sniffing mode
  • Cons

  • Limited to 2.4GHz band only
  • Not the fastest option for wireless connectivity
  •  

    The GenBasic WiFi 4 USB Nano Wireless Network Dongle Adapter is a reliable and convenient solution for adding wireless connectivity to single board computers running Linux. With its small size and plug-and-play functionality, it offers easy setup and hassle-free operation. The support for the latest WPA3 security standards ensures a secure connection. The dongle’s advanced features, including AP mode and monitoring/sniffing mode, make it versatile for different purposes. While it may not be the fastest option available, it provides satisfactory performance for IoT applications and small projects. Overall, the GenBasic WiFi 4 USB Nano Wireless Network Dongle Adapter is a solid choice for those in need of a compact and reliable WiFi dongle for Linux.

     

    The TP-Link Nano AC600 USB Wifi Adapter is a compact and portable solution for wireless connectivity. It offers a fast and high-speed Wi-Fi connection with its strong 2.4G/5G connection, ensuring a lag-free internet experience. The adapter has a sleek and miniature design that allows users to plug it in and leave it in place. It comes with industry-leading support, including a 2-year warranty and free 24/7 technical support. The adapter is compatible with various operating systems, including Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7, XP, and Mac OS X 10.9-10.14. While the adapter is easy to set up and offers dual-band capabilities, it may struggle with more demanding activities and its WiFi signal strength may be weaker compared to other adapters or built-in WiFi cards.

    Key Features

  • AC600 Nano size wireless Dual band USB Wi-Fi adapter
  • Strong 2.4G/5G connection
  • Sleek and miniature sized design
  • Industry leading support: 2-year warranty and free 24/7 technical support
  • Supports Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7, XP/ Mac OS X 10.9-10.14
  • Specifications

  • Color: Black
  • Dimension: 0.59Lx0.28Wx0.73H
  • Size: AC600 Dual Band
  • Pros

  • Compact and portable design
  • Easy plug-and-play setup
  • Dual-band capabilities for less crowded Wi Fi networks
  • Cons

  • Not suitable for demanding activities like online gaming or HD video streaming
  • Weaker Wi Fi signal strength compared to bulkier adapters
  • Inconsistent data transfer speeds
  •  

    The TP-Link Nano AC600 USB Wifi Adapter is a convenient and affordable option for those looking to improve their wireless connectivity. Its compact size and plug-and-play functionality make it a great choice for travelers or users with limited space. The dual-band capabilities provide flexibility in accessing less crowded WiFi channels. However, the adapter may struggle with more demanding tasks and its WiFi signal strength may be weaker compared to other options. Overall, if you need a basic wireless connection for web browsing and light usage, the TP-Link Nano AC600 is a reliable choice. Just keep in mind its limitations for more bandwidth-intensive activities.

     

    The USB WiFi 6 Wireless Adapter by QGOO is a high-performance dual-band adapter that quickly adds Wi-Fi 6 connectivity to your desktop or notebook. With speeds up to 1200 Mbps on 5GHz and 574 Mbps on 2.4GHz, this adapter is perfect for high-bandwidth activities like 4K streaming and gaming. It offers lower latency and features like OFDMA, MU-MIMO, and beamforming for faster, more efficient connectivity. The USB 3.0 interface provides greater throughput performance, stability, and compatibility. The adapter also supports WPA3 Wi-Fi security and is easy to set up. Compatible with Windows 11/10/7, this USB WiFi 6 adapter is a reliable solution for enhancing your wireless network.

    Key Features

  • Dual band Wi Fi 6 High Speed
  • Lower latency
  • High Gain & Beamforming
  • USB 3.0&WPA3
  • Easy Setup and Technical Support
  • Specifications

  • Color: Ax18
  • Dimension: 6.38Lx3.11Wx0.59H
  • Pros

  • Fast Wi-Fi 6 speeds for high-bandwidth activities
  • Lower latency for smooth gaming and streaming
  • High gain antennas and beamforming for superior range
  • Secure WPA3 Wi-Fi encryption
  • Easy setup and compatibility with Windows
  • Cons

  • Not compatible with Mac OS or Linux
  • Some driver issues reported
  • May require driver download on certain PCs
  •  

    The USB WiFi 6 Wireless Adapter by QGOO is a reliable and affordable solution for upgrading your desktop or notebook to Wi-Fi 6. With fast speeds, low latency, and a secure connection, it is perfect for activities like streaming, gaming, and virtual meetings. The high gain antennas and beamforming technology ensure superior range, while the USB 3.0 interface provides stable performance. While compatibility may be limited to Windows, the easy setup and technical support make it accessible for most users. Overall, this adapter offers great value for the money and is a worthwhile investment for improving your wireless network.

     

    Buyer's Guide: USB WiFi Dongle

    Are you tired of slow internet speeds or constant network dropouts? A USB WiFi dongle might be the solution to all your connectivity woes. These compact, portable devices can provide a stable and high-speed wireless connection for your desktop, laptop, or even gaming consoles. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your needs. Fear not! We're here to help you navigate the world of USB WiFi dongles with our expert advice.

    Key Considerations:

    • Compatibility: Ensure that the USB WiFi dongle is compatible with your operating system and devices such as Windows, macOS, Linux, or gaming consoles like PlayStation or Xbox.
    • Wireless Standard: Look for the latest wireless standards such as 802.11ac or 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6) for faster speeds and better performance. Also, check if it supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands.
    • Speed and Range: Higher speeds (measured in Mbps) allow for faster data transfer, while longer range ensures better coverage throughout your home or office.
    • Security Features: Opt for a dongle with built-in security protocols like WPA2 or WPA3 to safeguard your network from unauthorized access.
    • USB Compatibility: Check the type and version of the USB port on your device. USB 2.0 is the most common, while USB 3.0 offers faster data transfer speeds.

    Pros of USB WiFi Dongles:

    • Easy installation and setup – simply plug and play!
    • Portable and can be used with multiple devices.
    • No need for internal hardware upgrades.
    • Enhanced mobility due to the absence of wires.
    • Can be replaced or upgraded easily.

    Cons of USB WiFi Dongles:

    • May cause interference if placed near other devices.
    • Limited range compared to wired connections.
    • Susceptible to damage or loss due to small form factor.
    • Performance may vary depending on signal strength and network congestion.
    • May consume additional USB ports, limiting available connections.

     

    FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

    Q: Can a USB WiFi dongle improve my internet speed?
    A: Yes, a USB WiFi dongle can help if your current built-in wireless card is outdated or incompatible. It can provide faster speeds and a more stable connection, enhancing your internet experience.

    Q: Are USB WiFi dongles reliable for gaming?
    A: USB WiFi dongles can be suitable for gaming, but their performance might not match that of wired connections. For optimal gaming performance, a wired Ethernet connection is recommended.

    Q: How can I ensure compatibility with my device's operating system?
    A: Check the product specifications or manufacturer’s website to verify if the USB WiFi dongle is compatible with your operating system. Most dongles support multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux.

    Q: Can I use a USB WiFi dongle with my gaming console?
    A: Some USB WiFi dongles are designed to be compatible with gaming consoles like PlayStation and Xbox. Ensure that the dongle explicitly states its compatibility with your gaming console before making a purchase.

    Q: Can I use a USB WiFi dongle with a desktop computer?
    A: Absolutely! USB WiFi dongles are a great solution for desktops without built-in wireless capability. Simply plug the dongle into an available USB port and enjoy wireless connectivity.