Having a consistent and fast internet connection is one of the basic needs of all computer users. Whether you're a tech junkie or a gaming guru, reliable internet is a must, isn’t it?
The need for efficient internet services is growing every day and your devices alone cannot fulfill that need. So, what do you do now?
The easiest way of ensuring a smooth internet is to have an M.2 WiFi card. We have brought you a complete guideline on what these cards are and why you need them.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for M.2 WiFi Cards
- OUR TOP PICK: Intel 7260.HMW
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265 802.11ac
- Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 8265
- Dual-Band Wireless- AC 8260 8260AC
- Intel AC 8260 IEEE 802.11ac
Comparison Chart of the Best M.2 WiFi Cards
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Our Top Pick  |
| View Latest Price →Read Customer Reviews |
Best Budget Option  |
| View Latest Price →Read Customer Reviews |
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| View Latest Price →Read Customer Reviews |
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| View Latest Price →Read Customer Reviews |
What is an M.2 WiFi Card?
An M.2 WiFi card is an accessory that helps your device get a wireless internet connection. The card establishes a connection with your modem or router to catch internet signals. It is primarily for computers that do not have built-in WiFi.
The M.2 WiFi card is a better replacement for Ethernet port connections, as there are no wires involved. These cards are fairly new and they maintain a speedy and constant internet connection.
Moreover, they create a direct link with your router. This way, there is a lesser loss of data and the traffic is great.
How to Choose an M.2 WiFi Card
To enjoy the best internet connection via an M.2 WiFi card, you need to buy the right one. Here are some of the features that you have to look for while choosing one.
Device Compatibility
It's essential to consider the device's compatibility. Not all devices are compatible with M.2 WiFi cards, particularly the older models. Due to this, your money will go to waste if you buy a card which is incompatible with your device. So, look carefully at the specifications of both your device and the card before making a decision.
Size
The second most important thing is the size of the card. M.2 WiFi cards come in different sizes, so you have to be careful about the size, too. Look at the specifications of your device to check the measurements of the card slot. Then, see which card comes with the same measurements and install it in your device.
Number of Antennas
This is somewhat tricky as people tend to ignore the antennas on the cards. Be careful about it, too, as it leads to problems in fixing the card later on. So, count the antennas on the card on your computer, as well as the antennas on the card that you want to buy.
Quick Take - Best M.2 WiFi Cards
In a hurry? Below are our recommendations for the best M.2 WiFi cards:
Review of the Best M.2 WiFi Cards
M.2 WiFi cards are a sure way of improving your internet experience on a computer. But you have to install the perfect one in your computer. Keeping this in mind, we have brought you a complete review of the best ones you can opt for.
Best Overall:
Intel 7260.HMW
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers are mostly happy with this Intel M.2 WiFi card. They like it for all the built-in features it comes with. The Intel hotspot assistant is very much appreciated, as it makes the lives of users quite easy. The connection speed and storage capacity are both amazing, too.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Intel wireless card has made it to our list because of its impressive functioning. It offers high-speed internet, which is what all internet users of this era want. The Intel Smart Connect Technology also makes it more enjoyable, as it makes the user interface simpler.
Who Will Use This Most
This M.2 WiFi card is for almost all kinds of computer users. It has very high compatibility with most models of computers and laptops. So, no matter the kind of operating system your device has, this card will suit it.
Bottom Line
To sum up, this Intel WiFi card is the best overall on our list, as it delivers all that it promises. It has a long chain of happy customers who vouch for it. It is not only easy to install, but also easy to configure according to your needs.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
People who bought it lately have become fans of Intel M.2 WiFi cards. They like its dual-band functionality most, as it enables them to connect their PlayStations, too. Buyers have also reported greater ease in using it due to the smaller footprint.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It distinguishes itself from other M.2 WiFi cards in the market with its incredible bandwidth per stream. There are hardly any other cards in the market which offer a bandwidth of 433 for each stream. Its upload and download speeds also make us like it more than others.
Who Will Use This Most
It is most useful for people who want a strong Bluetooth but do not need a broad range. The area coverage for the Bluetooth is quite small, but the connectivity is flawless. The same is the case with its WiFi connectivity, so keep area coverage in mind when choosing this option.
Bottom Line
In our opinion, the Intel WiFi card is a must-have for those who work from home. It helps in transferring data with greater speeds with almost no losses. This makes it cool for high-edge gamers, too.
Best for the Money:
Intel Dual-Band Wireless-AC 8265
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
The buyers of this WiFi card have reported that what they received was well-worth the money they spent on it. They have liked its Bluetooth 4.2 working too, but found it complicated to turn off the Bluetooth already on the computer. Despite that, they love it and recommend it to others.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It gains our attention due to its high-affordability and even higher functionality. The MU-MIMO technology makes it stand out to us, as well. This increases the reliability and safety of connections on the card.
Who Will Use This Most
The card is going to work best for those who are low on budget. It satisfies those who want a high-quality WiFi card. It is also useful for people whose computers have faulty or no Bluetooth adapters.
Bottom Line
As the last word, this is one of the most affordable M.2 WiFi cards in the market at present. If it meets the specifications of your computer, then go for this without any hesitation.
4. Dual-Band Wireless- AC 8260 8260AC
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers have given very positive reviews about this WiFi card. They are fond of the dual-band wireless network, which helps them stream the internet on multiple devices. They have reported a considerable decrease in lag and buffering in their internet through its use.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It catches our eye with the dual bands of 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, which offer multiple connectivity. It also impresses us with its 4.2 Bluetooth connectivity that has a better memory for your connected devices. Its flawless connectivity with old and new versions of Windows is also great.
Who Will Use This Most
This dual-band wireless card is perfect for those who have to connect a lot of devices at the same time. If you want to connect your gaming console with it, too, even then, it will work fine. Moreover, it is most useful for people who have DELL computers, as it has very high compatibility.
Bottom Line
All in all, it is one of the best options for modern gamers and online streamers. The card has its own drivers and is very easy to install even if you are not a techie. The adapter performs multiple functions for you, so investing in it will be a wise move.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers recommend it fully, as they had an amazing experience with it. They loved the way it served the functions of both a WiFi card and a Bluetooth adapter. Buyers also liked it for the way it fits with most common computer models.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It stands out to us because of its multiple operating system compatibility. Usually, M.2 WiFi cards are either for Windows or for Linux, but this one works well with both. Moreover, it is also great because it weighs less than its competitors and serves more.
Who Will Use This Most
The Intel WiFi card is great for all computer users who have either Windows or Linux as their operating system. It will work as a Bluetooth adapter, too, so they will not have to invest in an adapter separately. It is perfect for those who love streaming 4K videos or HD movies.
Bottom Line
The bottom line is this is one of the most amazing WiFi and Bluetooth combo adapters. It works fine as both and you don’t have to worry about any lags in the Bluetooth or buffering in WiFi. So, go for it if you love a smoothly working internet and greater connectivity.
Benefits of Investing in a Quality M.2 WiFi Card
An M.2 WiFi card is a great way of getting a reliable and speedy internet. Here are some benefits you can enjoy from investing in a quality card:
Speedy Connection
An M.2 WiFi card can increase the speed of your internet connection dramatically. They have proven to be 50 to 600 percent faster than the usual SATA. Just think of the crazy internet speed you will get to enjoy if there is a 600 percent increase in it. They improve the quality of other forms of connections, too. Bluetooth connectivity, headphone connection, and other interfaces are much faster and smoother, as well.
Efficient Communication
With greater speed of connection, there is an improvement in communication, too. The wireless connection with M.2 WiFi cards is seamless and has less data losses. This leads to speedier communication with all devices and other network sites. They work well with command systems and help in processing data easily, too.
Greater Storage
Storage is something computer users are always struggling with. However, there are no more worries when you have an M.2 WiFi card in your computer. They have a storage capacity of their own, which helps you save more data on your computer. When the storage issues are resolved, the computer starts working more smoothly.
Requirements for Using an M.2 WiFi Card
As M.2 WiFi cards are not compatible with all models of computers and laptops, they have specific requirements. Make sure your device fulfills all these requirements before you get a new card.
Card Space
The most basic requirement for an M.2 WiFi card is the space for one in your computer. No matter how competitive the card is, you will not be able to benefit from it if it does not insert into your computer. Also, keep in mind that even when your computer has a slot for a WiFi card, it won’t necessarily fit. This is because the cards are of different sizes and they have different requirements for each slot.
Suitable Key
Just as the cards need a particular slot for insertion into your computer, they need keys. There are several combinations and stand-alone key patterns that M.2 WiFi cards demand. So, the computer should have an A and/or E key to let the card function properly. Make sure that your computer has any other keys the card requires other than an A and/or E key.
Compatibility with Hardware
The M.2 WiFi card has to be compatible with your computer at all costs. In addition, it should be compatible with other hardware, like your gaming console and PlayStation. This way, it will be easier to continue gaming without having to mess around with wires and cables.
Conclusion
Considering all this, it is highly recommended that you get an M.2 WiFi card at your earliest convenience. It will not only make your work easier but will also help you save time. The way, it improves internet connection and network stability is just amazing.
So, go ahead and get one to be free of all the cables running to your router for an internet connection.
