The 5 best USB Wi-Fi adapters for gaming – Inverse
When you’re gaming, hardwiring into your internet via an Ethernet cord will likely produce the most stable connection — but if you have to game wirelessly, you do have options. The best USB Wi-Fi adapters for gaming both add a connection to devices without a wireless network card and boost your connection speed for a lower ping while gaming. In order to pinpoint the ideal option for your gaming setup, you’ll want to consider the data transfer rate, the hardware interface, and the compatible operating systems.
Let’s start with the data transfer rate: This measures how quickly data is transferred between two points on a network, and it’s measured in megabits per second (Mbps). Ultimately, the necessary transfer rate will depend on the game you’re playing — 300 Mbps should suffice for most games — but the larger the number, the faster the connection.
All of these dual-band Wi-Fi adapters utilize a USB hardware interface, but keep in mind that there are different types of USB connections. Supposedly, USB 2.0 offers data speeds around 480 megabits per second, while USB 3.0 ports can transfer up to 5 gigabits per second. Again, it’s going to depend on your specific gaming needs, but USB 3.0 is definitely faster.
Finally, ensure that your Wi-Fi adapter of choice is compatible with your operating system. All of these options work with Windows 10, as that’s the most popular operating system among PC gamers; that said, there are some adapters that also work with earlier versions of Windows as well as other operating systems entirely.
According to the above criteria and real Amazon reviewers, these are the best USB Wi-Fi adapters for gaming:
1. The overall best USB Wi-Fi adapter
There are multiple reasons why the ASUS dual-band Wi-Fi adapter is the best option for most gamers: For one, it can be plugged straight into the USB port for use as a dongle, or it can be placed on the included cradle and plugged in with the wire. For another, it’s fast, with a USB 3.0 connection, data transfer rates of 1,300 megabits per second, and three-position antennas that amplify reception, but can be folded for portability and travel. It features ASUS’ AiRadar technology, which is designed to improve coverage, boost speeds, and stabilize the connection.
- Data transfer rate: 1,300 megabits per second
- Hardware interface: USB 3.0
- Compatible operating systems: Windows 10/8.1/8/7; Mac OS 10.7/10.8/10.9/10.10/10.11
One reviewer wrote: “Best ever. I even bought another one. I’ve owned half a dozen wireless extenders. My son doesn’t even have to direct connect because this signal is so strong for his gaming.”
2. The widest coverage
This TRENDnet dual-band adapter boasts increased coverage thanks to its four high-gain antennas, which are all adjustable and detachable. It also offers beamforming, which (according to the brand) “increases real-time performance by directing stronger wireless signals to each device’s specific location.” It’s not the most space-savvy option since it takes up a decent amount of room on your desk, but for those in basements, garages, apartments, or other spaces with room to …….
Source: https://www.inverse.com/gaming/best-usb-wi-fi-adapters-for-gaming