Imagine playing a really intense game with your friends and your internet connection disappears. Isn’t that frustrating?
If you’re one of those extreme gamers who wants exceptional WiFi connection for all your gaming pleasures, this article aims to provide the best WiFi adapters – complete with detailed reviews.
After reading this article, you will be ready to choose the best WiFi adapter for your gaming experience.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for WiFi Adapters For Gaming
Comparison Chart of the Best WiFi Adapters For Gaming
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What is a WiFi Adapter and What Do They Do?
In layman terms, a WiFi adapter is a piece of equipment that lets computers connect to other computers without any wires connected. Their purpose is simple – transmitting data through radio waves, which transfers them to modems and internal networks, so you can use them on your home devices. This internet accessory takes the shape of a USB or a PCI network card that connects directly with your laptop or computer to provide you access to the internet. The USB module plugs into the USB port of your hardware device while the PCI card fits into an empty place in the motherboard.
Can Any WiFi Adapter Work for Gaming?
Not every WiFi adapter can give you a seamless gaming experience, therefore, wireless adapters are a crucial component of gaming equipment. If the internet connection is slow or unresponsive, online streaming could be interrupted and the game could come to a halt. In order to gain maximum speed and connectivity while gaming, you will need a device that supports the 802.11ac standard, which is the fifth generation of WiFi. You will also need an adapter that not only streams at bullet speed but also stays consistent and does not falter in-between.
What to Look for When Buying WiFi Adapters for Gaming
For the best gaming experience, you must look for factors, including:
Speed
If you are a gamer, the first feature you will look for in any wireless adapter would be speed. The whole crux of a wireless adapter is to provide you a seamless experience without any lagging or inconsistencies.
Beamforming Technology
You need minimum interference in your signals, which means that beamforming is also a crucial feature required in your WiFi adapter. This technology permits the WiFi signal to narrow its focus to the device without any hiccups or interruptions, certifying a fast and consistent speed for every device connected.
Number of Antennas
When you look for a wireless adapter for gaming use, you may need good coverage as well, which is determined by the type of antennas in the model. If there are more antennas in a wireless adapter which are adjustable, it indicates the maximum coverage the device can reach.
Software
The operating software that the wireless adapter supports is also a key feature that determines if the device will be compatible with your gaming computer.
Quick Take - Best WiFi Adapters For Gaming
In a hurry? Below are our recommendations for the best WiFi adapters for gaming :
Review of the Best WiFi Adapters for Gaming
With so many adapters available, you’re bound to get confused, and you are bound to find yourself questioning what product is the best one for gaming. To help you out, here are some top products.
Best Overall:
ASUS PCE-AC88 AC3100
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Hardcore gamers who have purchased this device recognize the difference in their speed and performance instantly, which supports the device’s claim of providing 60% faster WiFi for your gaming desktop. Moreover, buyers find the installation process to be effortless, and due to the high demand and excellent performance, this model is recognized to be the best WiFi adapter for your gaming needs.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This device is considered to be a preeminent competitor for other WiFi adapters in the market because of its premium quality. The efficient design of this device allows a seamless experience for all gaming users so they can enjoy a lag-free, low latency, and speedy internet service. Due to its one-of-a-kind features and specifications, it stands out as one of the best WiFi adapters for gaming.
Who Will Use This Most
One major problem faced by users is the heat-up of adapters that interferes with connectivity and this device does wonders to eliminate that issue. Its technologically-advanced style, design and impeccable speed attract the uncompromising and die-hard gamers, who expect resilience and consistent speed. However, because it’s only compatible with Windows operating software, this device limits itself to a niche of gaming consumers. Despite that, Windows users are great fans of it.
Bottom Line
If you want to get most out of a device and you’re looking for something that outperforms any WiFi adapter anywhere in the market, this device is for you. Expect the best with this product, because its flawless quality will give you a stable connection and a joyful experience while gaming each time.
Runner up:
ASUS USB-AC68 AC1900
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
This device was widely praised by a lot of members of the gaming community. The installation process is a breeze and the consistency of the signals is also exceptional. This device performs well without any stuttering and works really well in the 5 GHz band, making it a popular USB wireless adapter.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The unique AiRadar technology this device uses ensures strong connectivity and maximum coverage, which is pretty impressive for its price point. Moreover, the innovative features and sleek design of the product with its position antennas makes it a very valuable and useful device for gamers who want brilliant reception and fast speed.
Who Will Use This Most
This device would be recommended for anyone who is interested in getting their hands on the fastest USB WiFi adapter, but the end-users are more or less gamers. It's also designed for people who want fast internet on-the-go to keep up with their work when they are traveling.
Bottom Line
Want the best for less? This fast and powerful USB WiFi adapter guarantees exceptional performance at a lower price. No more lagging, buffering, or inconsistent speeds! This device has got you covered for all your gaming needs.
Best for the Money:
TP-Link AC1300 PCIe Wireless WiFi PCIe Card
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
This device is the best for the money for a reason. Customers enjoy a smooth, lag-free experience with this wireless adapter. It provides really good speed, as well as a solid connection to stream 4K and HD videos seamlessly, and it lasts longer since it does not heat up.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The product is a knockout as far as the value for money is concerned. It is equipped with the latest technology that provides up to 867 Mbps over 5 GHz and is three times faster than any wireless-N speed. Usually, cheap products are not durable, but the best factor about this device is the heat sink feature that allows this product to last for a long period of time.
Who Will Use This Most
This device is a steal for gaming fanatics on a budget or for individuals who want a reliable internet connection for entertainment purposes. This wireless adapter is also for users who want a good, long-term device which is sturdy and does not wear out quickly.
Bottom Line
If you're strapped for money and want a top-tier wireless adapter for a show-stopping price and performance, this device is perfect for you. Fulfill all your gaming needs with this fast, dependable wireless adapter that promises durability and a strong connection, always.
Best USB WiFi Adapters for Gaming:
TRENDnet AC1900
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Consumers who have used this product find the overall quality of the device to be truly exceptional and hard-wearing. The sturdy casing makes up for a durable wireless adapter, which helps increase its lifespan. Its performance and stability are up to the mark and like any other top-quality wireless adapter.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This product shines in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bandwidth, with a consistent and speedy connection that allows you to stream videos and play games online easily, and use other social media apps without any lag or buffer. With its beamforming technology, it also provides admirable real-time performance and has high wireless coverage.
Who Will Use This Most
The users of this sturdy device would be those looking for an upgrade on their 802.11n- equipped laptop to an 802.11ac performance aptitude. This is also ideal for those gaming users who would prefer to keep the router in the same space as the computer. Gamers who want high-security and great performance can opt for this sturdy and durable wireless adapter.
Bottom Line
If you are going for a strong, reliable wireless adapter with good specifications and high internet speed, this device is most definitely going to satisfy all your needs. The design and sleek metal casing will prove to be good and long-wearing and will deliver security, as well as a stable connection.
Best WiFi Adapters for PC Gaming:
Netgear Nighthawk A7000-10000S
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Gamers with personal computers will find this product to be extremely useful. It works flawlessly because of the beamforming and four high-gain external antennas that confirm reliable and blazing fast internet connection for uninterrupted streaming and gaming while maintaining impressive signals, even from long distances. The setting up of this device is pretty simple and the performance is stellar.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This is the top pick for PC gamers who want a super-fast and extremely stable connection, and the combined 1900 Mbps speed of this device ensures just that. Furthermore, it provides security and uses WPA or WPA 2 to encrypt your data, so you don’t have to be afraid of malicious sites or viruses. The 3x4 MIMO design gives more bandwidth capacity for download purposes, as well.
Who Will Use This Most
The users of this device would most definitely be desktop users, who will be able to maximize the value of their money the most. This device is designed perfectly for gaming users who would want extremely speedy connections for their PCs – and this device makes sure that gamers do not face any lagging while using the wireless adapter.
Bottom Line
If you get anxious about unintentionally being exposed online and security is your main concern, this device has you covered. The special features of this wireless adapter are the reason it comes in our top-tier list of wireless adapters for gaming. Feel safe at your desk while it takes care of all your internet issues.
Best PCI WiFi Adapters for Gaming:
Rosewill RNX-AC1900PCE
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Users find the setup process to be very simple and experienced low latency and decent speed with this wireless adapter. Online gaming is seamless and the heat-sink feature allows it to work consistently and without any lag. This device provides fine reception and is priced reasonably.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The features of this product resemble a lot of those wireless adapters that are high-end and more expensive, but this one is priced quite low and is very affordable for users looking for moderately priced adapters with notable high-quality speed and unfailing connection.
Who Will Use This Most
This card allows every user to have a better internet connection. It lets users view higher quality videos and gamers play in the 5 GHz band while serving a good connection to the rest of the consumers who want to use WiFi for daily tasks, web browsing, and operations at the 2.4 GHz band.
Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a card that has splendid standards of quality and the latest features and technology at a budget price, this product is for you. It has a sleek design with ventilation that makes for a stable connection and a great speed, all with a low-price tag.
Benefits of Investing in a Quality WiFi Adapter
Now that you have read the detailed reviews on the top WiFi adapters for gaming, let’s breakdown why you should actually invest in a supreme wireless adapter.
Improved Performance
If you want to have the best gaming experience, you need to look for an adapter that suits your gaming needs. A good WiFi adapter improves your coverage capacity and increases performance. You don’t want the screen to hang up on you while you’re in the middle of an intense game with your friends, do you? Gaming is all about real-time play and your internet connection can make or break that for you.
Better Speed
The perfect wireless adapter can give you a competitive edge over your other opponents online and you can triumph over your victory because of your superior internet connection speed.
No Clutter Involving Wires
Your gaming space will be free of useless cables and you will be able to stretch and sit comfortably while not having to worry about disrupting the connection if you accidentally touch the cables.
Types of WiFi Adapters
Wireless adapters are devices that transmit data to your computer through wireless networks. They enable you to gain access to the internet without cables and ensure more space and less clutter. There are several types of WiFi adapters that are available in the market to choose from. These include:
PCI Adapters
Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) adapters are wireless cards attached to the computer’s motherboard and allow you to connect to any wireless network. They fit inside the computer through an internal card slot.
USB Wireless
This adapter is just like the name suggests. They are USB-shaped adapters that plug into your computer and help you connect to wireless networks. They are the easiest to install but take up some space outside of your computer.
Ethernet Port
These types of adapters are less popular today. They function by plugging the device into the computer’s Ethernet port. These are usually found in gaming consoles like Xbox or PlayStation.
Conclusion
Looking for the right gaming equipment to support your computer and staying within the budget can be an intimidating task. Hopefully, this article helped you clear out some uncertainties and gave you a sense of direction regarding which wireless adapter you should choose. A good WiFi adapter is a necessary piece of equipment to give you the dreamy gaming experience you want, so take your time and invest wisely.
