To be able to surf the Internet we basically have two options: cable or Wi-Fi. Sometimes the network card that comes with a laptop doesn’t work properly and we need to buy another one. In this article we are going to give you 5 keys to choose the best Wi-Fi adapter. We are going to review the main points that you must take into account and in this way make the connection work as well as possible.
What to consider when buying a Wi-Fi card
Choosing one or the other option can make an important difference. Of course not all network adapters are going to work the same. You can find alternatives that work very well, that have a great range and good speed, but others that are more limited and with which you have problems accessing the network.
Make it double band
Something that cannot be missing is that the Wi-Fi adapter is dual band. Today most devices can operate in both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands . Each of them has its advantages and disadvantages, so depending on the circumstances it may be better to use one or the other.
In general, we can say that the 5 GHz band is the one that offers the highest speed, although it has less range. In contrast, the 2.4 GHz has greater range and stability, but offers a more limited speed. If you have an adapter that is dual band, you can choose one or the other as you are interested.
Wi-Fi 6 Compatibility
You should also check that the Wi-Fi network card is compatible with Wi-Fi 6 . This will allow you to reach the maximum speed of the Internet. If you only have Wi-Fi 5, although it may be enough in many cases, you will not achieve as much top speed and it would be far from what you could have if you connect by cable.
Therefore, this factor should also be taken into account. If you want to browse as fast as possible and have good speed both up and down, buy a card that supports Wi-Fi 6.
Size
Another point to consider is the size and weight of the Wi-Fi card. Perhaps if you are going to put it on a desktop computer, you will not mind that it takes up a lot of space or that it weighs a lot, since it will always be in the same place. On the other hand, if you are going to use it on a laptop, things are different.
There are wireless network cards that are the size of a small pen drive. Others are going to be bigger, especially those with even multiple antennas. If you are going to use it on a trip, for example, it may be convenient for you to acquire a card that you can keep without problems and take it with you anywhere.
Range
Of course, it is also important to take into account the distance that the signal will reach. It is possible that you connect next to the router and you do not care if that card has good power or is very limited, but maybe you are going to connect much further from the access point and that is where it will be important.
Here there can be big differences between one and the other. Normally those that have a large external antenna will have a greater range than another that only has an internal antenna. However, you will have to look at the specifications of each one and verify what range of range it offers.
Bluetooth option
Although it is not something really decisive, it is an option that comes with some Wi-Fi network cards. Being able to have a Bluetooth connection also integrated is a factor to take into account. You will be able to dispense with connecting another additional device and you will have an all-in-one for your computer.
Thanks to the Bluetooth connection you will be able to exchange files, connect a mouse, headphones… You should check which category it is compatible with, since ideally it should be Bluetooth 5.2, which is the most recent.
In short, as you have seen, these factors are key to buying a Wi-Fi network card. These are some points that you should take into account if you are going to change the wireless network adapter in your computer. Also, choosing a good option can prevent the Wi-Fi card from slowing down your computer.
