Wireless adapters for gaming has become a new normal. Even though most PCs and computers come with a built-in wifi card but to enjoy a seamless gaming experience, you should stick to the wireless adapters for gaming. The difference between built-in and dedicated cards can be pretty significant. It can easily be demonstrated by running a simple speed test before and after installing a dedicated Wi-Fi card.
These will improve the range and reduce delays or lags while you are playing your favorite games online.
The wireless adapter would be installed on a PC or laptop before connecting to a Wi-Fi network. This is what will improve the range and reduces the delays or lags while you are playing your favorite games online.
People have switched to wireless adapters for gaming because of their long list of advantages, apart from the good speed, you will be free of cables too. This way the apartment looks clean and tidy while you enjoy a fast network without extra USB cables or Ethernet cables. A variety of wireless-enabled devices can be connected to the wireless adapter of your PC. Overall your PC would become a central Wi-Fi hub to meet all your requirements. In some cases, a gaming device without Wi-Fi can be forged with an internet connection via a wireless gaming adapter.
The adapter would be connected via a USB cable or in some cases PCI slots, this would make sure that you remain online all the time.
You should know that there are many great wireless adapters for gaming available in the market. They come in many types and kinds to meet your requirements. This is the reason why people prefer a wireless adapter for gaming in case of a built-in Wi-Fi or LAN port failure.
If you are confused, which wireless adapter for gaming you should buy and invest in then this article is for you. Here we are going to review the 15 best wireless adapters for gaming. So go ahead and take a look at the following list of best wireless adapters for gaming and don’t forget to check out the buying guide for wireless gaming adapters at the end of the article.
Contents
- 1 Best Wireless Adapters For Gaming
- 1.1 1. ASUS Dual-Band Wireless AC1900 PCI-E Adapter
- 1.2 2. NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 Wi-Fi USB Adapter
- 1.3 3. ASUS PCE-AC88 PCI-E Adapter
- 1.4 4. Trendnet TEW-809UB
- 1.5 5. Edimax EW-7833UAC
- 1.6 6. OurLink Dual Band Dongle Adapter
- 1.7 7. Linksys WUSB6300
- 1.8 8. TP-Link T6E Wi-Fi PCI Express Wireless Network Card
- 1.9 9. D-Link Systems DWA-192 Wi-Fi Network Adapter
- 1.10 10. TP-Link Archer T4UH V2 Wireless Dual Band USB Dongle
- 1.11 12. Alfa Dual-Band AC1200 Wireless
- 1.12 13. TP-Link Archer T9E PCI E Wireless Network Card
- 1.13 14. NET-DYN Dual Band USB Wireless Wi Fi Adapter
- 1.14 15. ANEWKODI 600Mbps USB Wi-Fi Adapter Dual Band
- 1.15 Buying Guide for Wireless Adapters for Gaming
- 1.16 Conclusion
Also check – Best Wireless Microphones For Youtube Vlogging / Wireless Earbuds Under 100
Best Wireless Adapters For Gaming
1. ASUS Dual-Band Wireless AC1900 PCI-E Adapter
Our first pick for the best wireless adapter for gaming is ASUS Dual-Band Wireless Adapter. It is powerful, fast, and reliable. This one has what every pro gamer would look like in their wireless adapter for gaming. It features two internet antennas and dual 3 positions external. It offers extra coverage for desktops and foldable external antennas make it portable which provides a good reception for laptops.
It provides 300% more speed compared to other adapters. You will also find dual bandwidth as well, that is, 2.4GHz and 5 GHz. Which provides the combined rate of 1900Mbps. Users will get extra stability, extended coverage, and increased dynamic speed.
It’s also very easy to set up as well, all you need to do is to plug it in a USB 3.0 port and allow for updates. Users would find 3×4 MIMO design and AiRador Beamforming features. Overall it’s a perfect fit and it’s all you need to experience fast and lag-free gaming and HD streaming as well.
2. NETGEAR Nighthawk AC1900 Wi-Fi USB Adapter
NETGEAR Nighthawk is simple to use a wireless adapter and it is capable of providing a superb speed with excellent bandwidth as well. So if you want a seamless gaming experience without any delays or lags then this is what you need.
This one also comes with dual-band signals and would be able to connect to two devices with different signal requirements so you can enjoy gaming and HD streaming simultaneously. The adapter features 3×4 MIMO so you will be able to upload or download data from the wireless network. It will work with any router so that’s a relief. It is compatible with both Windows as well as Mac.
It features Beamforming and by using it and USB 3.0 port you will get a faster, more reliable, and more stable connection with an increased speed. It also features a magnetic cradle which allows flexible placement of the receiver. Users have found the set easy and then can easily control and monitor it with the help of their smartphone. Overall this one can be a great pick too so do take a look at this one and consider it as your next buy.
3. ASUS PCE-AC88 PCI-E Adapter
With ASUS PCE-AC88 PCI-E Adapter you get an amazing speed of the network which will make your gaming experience larger than life. There will be no lagging and delaying so hardcore gamers who like to play hardcore games would love it. Users will get a clear, smart, and reliable network connection.
It comes with an external magnetic antenna base that would provide extra stability. The new NitroQAM technology would also is a plus point for customers. It provides a maximum speed of 2100Mbps. Overall it is from a reputed and trustable brand and one would certainly want it as their wireless adapter for gaming.
4. Trendnet TEW-809UB
Trendnet TEW-809UB is one of the most popular wireless adapters for gaming to buy. This one features four stable antennas and each features a strength of 5dBi. This one comes with only drivers and no software is included. The Windows would be in control of network duties. It supports Beamforming, it lacks MU-MIMO.
The wireless adapter comes with a dual-band signal as well. So it would be a perfect choice for those living with weak signals. It features a range as well. Overall you can consider this one.
5. Edimax EW-7833UAC
If you are looking for the best Mid Range USB Wi-Fi Adapter then Edimax should be your first choice. This one comes at a reasonable price and features many great reasons for you to buy it. With Windows 10, the installation seems straightforward and it will also manage the settings as well. The adapter has lived up to our expectations and it stood well in almost all the tests.
6. OurLink Dual Band Dongle Adapter
OurLink Dual Band Dongle Adapter is our next choice for one of the best Wireless Adapter for Gaming. As the name suggests the adapter dongle works at the dual signal that is, 5GHz at 433Mbps and 2.4GHz at 150Mbps, collectively it offers 600Mbps.
It features a 5 dBi omnidirectional dual-band antenna and 802.11 AC technology, which is responsible for improved connection and speed. Since it’s a dongle, it creates a hotspot to share your Wi-Fi. The installation process is also easy and user friendly. Beamforming and SoftAp features are also available. Overall the wireless adapter would give you great value for your money.
7. Linksys WUSB6300
Linksys is one of the best nano wireless adapters for gaming. This one is for those who are looking for a compact and lightweight wireless adapter. The speed is 860Mbps at 5GHz and 300Mbps at 2.4GHz. The latest technology also supports Beamforming and MU-MIMO. The range of the wireless adapter is quite impressive as well. Overall this one lives up to the expectations of a hardcore gamer so that might be your perfect option as well.
8. TP-Link T6E Wi-Fi PCI Express Wireless Network Card
TP-Link is another best Wireless Adapter that you need to know about. Here with this wireless adapter, you get a very high speed, that is, 1300Mbps. It will be 867Mbps on 5GHz and at 2.4GHz, 400Mbps. The connection would be reliable, fast, and stable and it will be perfect for both streaming as well as online gaming.
The range is also very impressive with 2x external antennas. It will be perfect for all those who have to use high-intensity network usage.
Additionally, this adapter comes with a 2-year warranty and 24/7 support as well. Whether it’s smooth web surfing or playing heavy online games, this adapter won’t let you down.
9. D-Link Systems DWA-192 Wi-Fi Network Adapter
Next on the list of best Wireless Adapter for Gaming. This one features a speed of 1900Mbps on your desktop or laptop with a flexible dual-band that provides 1300Mbps on 5GHz and 600Mbps on 2.4GHz. It also has the advanced AC Smart Beam router which is responsible for better quality connection for lag-free gaming and HD streaming.
Set up is pretty easy with the WPS button and it provides a fast and reliable connection with USB 3.0. It is compatible with almost all brands of routers. Last, the adapter has a very unique design, which can be a criterion for some people who want good looking things in their home.
10. TP-Link Archer T4UH V2 Wireless Dual Band USB Dongle
TP-Link is an ultra-fast, powerful, and reliable wireless network. This one is portable and is the perfect choice for those who want to travel with a high-speed internet connection. Here the adapter speed is compatible with all 802.11ac. And it’s three times faster as well.
This one also offers a dual-band, 2.4GHz, and 5GHz, with speeds of 867Mbps and 400Mbps respectively. The combined speed is 1300Mbps which is enough to stream HD videos and lag-free online gaming. It supports USB 3.0 which is 10 times faster than USB 2.0. With the WPS button, the installation is pretty easy and it also features encryption to provide security. The High Gain External Antennas is also a plus point of this wireless adapter for gaming.
12. Alfa Dual-Band AC1200 Wireless
Alfa Dual-Band AC1200 adapter is another leading option for the wireless adapter for gaming. This is pretty easy to use, as you just have to slide it in the USB port and enjoy a fast and reliable internet connection.
It also comes with removable 5dBi dual-band dipole rubber duck antennas which are powerful and stable. The data transfer speed is 300Mbps and 867Mbps. It also features an RP-SMA female antenna port.
13. TP-Link Archer T9E PCI E Wireless Network Card
This wireless adapter is designed for gamers and that is why this one has also made a place in our list. It is also a dual-band adapter that features a combined speed of 1900Mbps. It also features three external antennas that will give you maximum connection range with stability and reliability of the connection. It features HeatSink Technology and supports Beamforming. The installation is pretty easy as well.
14. NET-DYN Dual Band USB Wireless Wi Fi Adapter
This one is also a dongle style adapter that you need to take into consideration. The adapter comes with a lifetime warranty and this is what has impressed the users the most. It is a dual-band adapter so you can stream HD Videos as well as play online games without any issue. Here the users have also found its ability to speed up the connection pretty reliable and impressive.
15. ANEWKODI 600Mbps USB Wi-Fi Adapter Dual Band
We have yet another dual-band wireless adapter for gaming. This one, too, features a reliable, powerful, and fast connection. Players have loved the way it made their gaming experience immersive and lag-free. The set of this adapter is also effortless. There are many reasons why you should buy this adapter so do consider it as a reliable option for your next wireless adapter for gaming.
Buying Guide for Wireless Adapters for Gaming
Take a look at these features and things that you need to consider while buying a wireless gaming adapter and choosing the best for yourself.
1. Types of Wireless Gaming Adapter
A) USB Wireless Adapters
USB Wireless Adapters are one of the most common types. These adapters are installed within your PC’s ports to offer improved connectivity. These will provide seamless connectivity which results in faster gaming and streaming.
These are pretty easy to set up so beginners like these gaming adapters. These are also effective and used for the devices that don’t come with their Wi-Fi and they can connect those devices which otherwise would have been difficult to connect with.
B) Ethernet Port Wireless Adapters
Just like the USB type wireless adapters, these are connected to an Ethernet port and provide seamless connectivity. If you own a gaming consoles like Xbox or Playstation, then Ethernet Wireless Adapters should be the best option for you.
C) PCI-E Wi-Fi Cards
If you want longer range Wi-Fi connectivity then you might wanna go for PCI-E Wi-Fi Cards. These promises less legging and greater speed which makes it a little expensive as well. They are not easy to install either, you need to have some knowledge for installing them.
2. Speed
After all, everything depends on the speed and this is why speed is one of the most important features to look for in a wireless adapter for gaming. The speed of the adapter will be directly proportional to the speed of the data transfer. So look for an adapter with more data transfer. Generally, a speed of 500Mbps is considered ideal and you can go for more than this as well.
3. Range
After Speed, Range is another feature that you need to consider. The range is known as the distance between the router and your device, the more this distance is while providing a good speed, is what consider as a good range. The range can be impacted by the in-between walls or obstruction.
4. Dual-Band Connectivity
Some adapters can be connected to two devices having different Bands. So there are a few adapters that provide two different Bands, which are 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. This means the adapter would transmit two different wireless signals and you connect to one that is ideal for your gaming experience.
Having two wireless signals would mean you will get simultaneous streaming as well as gaming without any difficulty.
Conclusion
So these are some of the features that you need to consider while buying a wireless adapter for gaming. Here we have come to an end for our article, Best Wireless Adapter for Gaming. We have picked these adapters based on their performance and good features. We have also considered the customer reviews and picked the ones that are most suitable for the gaming experience as well as streaming.
You can pick anyone from the aforementioned list of best wireless gaming adapters, and you won’t be disappointed. We hope you have found a couple of good wireless adapters for gaming and will buy one from our list too. Thank you for visiting us and it was our pleasure to help you out with picking up the best wireless adapters for gaming.