With the hunt for faster speeds, technology has reached new heights and come far with USB modems. These are now widely used for the provision of internet connection and much more. Known to be highly travel-friendly, there are things you must know before choosing one. With our detailed review, you'll have the information needed to make the right pick.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for USB Modems
Comparison Chart of the Best USB Modems
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Our Top Pick  |
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Best Budget Option  |
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What is a USB Modem?
A USB modem, also known as Universal Serial Bus modem, looks like a USB flash drive. This device is extremely easy to carry and is known for its portability. It can be easily connected to your computer or your laptop for you to use.
How Does a USB Modem Work?
A USB modem can be connected to your computer or laptop by plugging it in. After this, the device detects the modem and you either have to install it or simply set up your connection and run it.
What is a USB Modem Used For?
There can be several ways you can use a USB modem, but for some of the products available, you will also have to consider what they have to offer.
Better Internet Connection
USB modems can be connected directly to the device you are using or to a wireless router at your home or office. This way, you will get a faster internet connection and you will not have to rely on getting extra routers to connect more devices to the same internet connection.
Fax Documents
Using a USB modem that also allows you to fax documents is a feature adored by people who are still in the habit of doing so. The modem will also allow you to see the caller ID, so you do not receive unexpected faxes from people.
What Makes a Great USB Modem?
Whenever you purchase a product, you should also be aware of what features to look for, so you make the right decision that is most suited to your use. When it comes to a USB modem, here's what you should look for:
Frequency Available
If you are using a USB modem for your internet requirements, it is a good idea to have a range of frequencies to provide your device. That way, the highest frequency will be used for your device that is connected to the internet at that moment.
Range of Connectivity
Usually, the main thing you require from a good USB modem is how much range the device will be able to give you. So, when you are working, you should not have to worry about the fact that WiFi signals won't reach your room.
Minimizing Ring Detection
The modems used to turn your computers or laptops into fax machines provide an extremely helpful feature. However, poor quality modems might interfere with your phone lines and cause disturbances when you are using your phone. In order to avoid that, choose a unit that is able to minimize, or completely finish, any extra ring detection you might face.
Quick Take - Best USB Modems
In a hurry? Below are our recommendations for the best USB modems:
Review of the Best USB Modems
With the wide variety of USB modems available out there in the market, it makes sense to go over the reviews of a few products before you choose one that best fits your needs.
Best Overall:
US Robotics 56K USR5639
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
People have mostly reported this USB modem to be immensely helpful because it is user-friendly. For many customers, this has been a product of choice for their parents and they have had no problems using this so far.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This USB modem allows you to turn your computer or laptop into a fax machine and you can easily utilize another form of communication at home without extra hassle. It is also very compatible with many server systems, so that is always an advantage.
Who Will Use This Most
People who still enjoy using fax machines will certainly make the most use of this product. Not only does this allow for an added way of communication, but it also gives you features that are surely not to be missed.
Bottom Line
This USB modem gives you the highest level of ease and comfort with the features it has to offer. It can be used by people of all ages very conveniently, and this way, you will not have to change your operating system or server.
Runner-up:
NET-DYN USB Wireless WiFi Adapter
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Proving to be exceptionally good at giving the people the speed they want, this product definitely surpasses many others in our line-up. It is compatible with most of the operating systems, so its versatility is appreciated.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Most of the products do not come with a lifetime warranty, but this USB modem does. So even if there's something wrong with the modem at any point in time, the company makes sure to replace your product with a new one whenever necessary.
Who Will Use This Most
With this product, you will not have to compromise on speed and connectivity because this modem is going to make sure it proves itself and lets you stream as many videos and games online as you want.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a USB modem that is able to give you good speed when you want to spend a day gaming online, this could be the unit for you. Not just this, but you will also get a good range of internet connection throughout your house so you will not have to stay huddled around the modem anymore.
Best for the Money:
Sewell Direct 56K USB Modem, V.90/V.92
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Customers that opted for this product have been content with the variety of features you can get with this. Most importantly, automatic detection by the computer allows you to work faster and much more efficiently.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is the perfect modem for someone who always has trouble connecting the modem to two things at once. So, with the option of two jacks that come with the product, you can easily forget any worries about owning a splitter or losing it and not getting your work done because of it.
Who Will Use This Most
People using devices that work with the Windows operating system will use this modem the most because of its compatibility. This also does not let any disturbances through so more people will be attracted to it.
Bottom Line
Serving its purpose, this USB modem allows people to work more conveniently with the two jacks, because usually, people have to look for splitters. This is a cost-effective product, so that lures in more customers.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
People that chose this USB modem were the ones who did not use fax machines as much, so this gave them the perfect solution to have a handy device that could always help them with emergency faxes.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The additional features that come with this modem are truly helpful for a person, even if they do not use the modem as much. Always knowing who the caller on the other side is will always prove to be a helpful feature.
Who Will Use This Most
This is the go-to unit for anyone who is a frequent user of faxes or even a person who does not fax as frequently. You can use this modem to find out the speed and it even gives you the option of auto-dial. Also, with it being easy to install, anyone can use it simply.
Bottom Line
Having a USB modem that can also serve as a fax machine is a great thing to own. Just plug in the device and install it, and it will start completing tasks for you.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The buyers of this USB modem were impressed by how easy this was to install. This product works by simply attaching it to the fax machine and going directly to your computer to print. This is what most of the customers loved about it.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Miyagle USB 56K USB Modem stands out because of its ability to turn windows computers into fax machines. Many customers have proven that this worked as advertised, making it one of the highest-ranking USB modems on Amazon.
In addition, it can be recognized by a computer faster so you won't have to wait for it to connect. And the most significant advantage of this product is the ease of use which won’t need you to have a complex setup to get it to work.
However, note that this one has no indication sounds, so you won't get notified if it is connected successfully. Another minor downside is the lack of instruction which some buyers found challenging.
Who Will Use This Most
This USB modem is perfect for sending and receiving faxes from other businesses, so if you are a businessman, you will benefit from this. This is also best for non-techy savvy as it is straightforward to set up.
Bottom Line
This USB modem can be a reliable tool for anyone, especially those who send documents by fax regularly. If you need a USB modem that will work on many Windows operating systems and provide efficiency, look no further!
Pros and Cons of USB Modems
With all the perks that you get from this type of device, you should also be aware of the specific benefits and possible disadvantages that might come along with the purchase of a new device. So, go through the following list to get a better idea.
Pros
Below are the main pros:
Turns the Device Into a Fax Machine
Are you a person who is still comfortable having documents faxed to you? You may even have parents who prefer that way of sending important papers, which is why this USB modem is going to be the perfect addition to your electronic paraphernalia.
Portable
Having a device you can carry when you are going on trips is helpful since you do not have to rely on external WiFi all the time. Whenever you need to send important documents, all you need is to plug in the modem to your computer and you are good to go. What is more, this does not even restrict you to your own country. Using a USB modem for internet connection is an issue faced by many people across the globe. So carry this around with you, anywhere in the world and you will have internet at any time.
High-Speed
With a USB modem connected right into your device, you will not have to worry about getting lower speed for your work. Not just this, but you can also easily connect various devices to the WiFi and not fret about the range signals can reach.
Cons
Below are the main cons:
Should Be On You At All Times
With a USB modem, you would expect your life to become more convenient. However, in some cases, this could also be considered an extra hassle. The reason for this is the fact that this becomes a thing that you must always have on you while traveling. Without this, you will have to rely on external sources of internet connection, many of which might not be as reliable.
Conclusion
Nowadays, having enough information about the new innovations is always vital, so it is better to stay updated on new things in the market. Even more importantly, when you have to purchase a new USB modem, it is sensible to go over the products available in the market and look at the details closely before making a choice.
People Also Ask
Sometimes, you may face the same problem, or you may have the same question as the next person, and for this reason, it is a good idea to go over the frequently asked questions that other people have.
What is the Difference Between a Data Card and a USB Modem?
Data cards were used mainly for storage purposes before laptops and desktops had the option of connecting a USB. However, both are wireless connections.
How Do I Connect a USB Modem to a Wireless Router?
A USB modem can be connected through the port into a wireless router. Using your laptop or desktop, you can then search for wireless connections that are available and choose between WiFi and the direct internet connection, according to your needs.
