The best USB Wifi keys in the UK 2023

For work or leisure, the USB Wi-Fi key is one of the most indispensable means to access a remote Internet access point. It allows you to improve your connection speed or to add a Wi-Fi link to your computer. But to take full advantage of its performance, it is essential to choose the right equipment. So to help you find the best USB Wi-Fi key, follow this buying guide.

Comfast - USB 3.0 WiFi Key 1
8/10

Best value for money

Comfast - USB 3.0 WiFi Key

The best USB Wifi key in 2021

This Wi-Fi adapter is ideal for ensuring a faster network environment. Equipped with dual high-gain omni-directional antennas, this dual-band technology provides frequency rates ranging from 2.4 Ghz for 400 Mbps to 5.8 Ghz for 867 Mbps.

8 £ on Amazon

This Wi-Fi adapter is ideal to guarantee you a faster network environment. This is a Wi-Fi dongle with a USB 3.0 interface with a maximum speed of 1300 Mbps. Ultra-fast, the Wi-Fi dongle is equipped with a dual omnidirectional antenna for dual frequency technology at 2.4 Ghz to 5.8 Ghz. This makes it easier for your computer to receive Wi-Fi signals to ensure stable and smooth wireless connections. It's even capable of boosting the PC's network speed to the 802.11ac standard.

Compliant with USB 3.0, this wireless adapter can support up to 5 Gbps to provide the best performance and stable internet connection. The Wi-Fi dongle is also backward compatible with USB 2.0 and 1.1 interfaces, and also matches with Windows 10 - 8.1 - 8 - 7 - Mac OS X 10.9 and 10.15 systems. It also supports WiFi sharing with other wireless devices such as laptops, tablets and smartphones. It should be noted that its antennas can be set on a 180 ° rotation and can have a coverage area of up to 100 meters.

TL-WN823N, TP-Link WiFi Key N300 2
7/10

Best value for money

TL-WN823N, TP-Link WiFi Key N300

The best entry-level USB Wifi key

TP-Link TL-WN823N N300 is a USB Wi-Fi dongle with a compact miniature design and fast Wi-Fi speed up to 300 Mbps. It is perfect for HD video, voice transmission or online gaming.

6,44 £ on Amazon

TP-Link TL-WN823N N300 is a USB Wi-Fi dongle with a compact miniature design. It adopts fast Wi-Fi speed up to 300 Mbps, perfect for HD video, voice transmission or online gaming. The TL-WN823n is designed to connect a laptop or desktop computer to a wireless network with an upgrade to 802.11n. It is also compatible on the 2.4 GHz frequency band depending on the Internet service provider.

For installation, the adapter comes with an installation CD to ensure broad compatibility. The Wi-Fi key supports Windows 10 - 8.1 - 8 - 7 - Mac OS X 10.9 - 10.13 and Linux operating systems as well as WEP, WPA, PA2/WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK 64/128 (TKIP / AES) protocols. Ergonomically designed, it takes a length of 39 mm with 18.35 mm wide for a thickness of 7.87 mm. To its functions is also added a button of security WPS for an encryption to the connection configuration.

Asus Usb-ac68 - Usb 3.0 Wi-fi Gaming Adapter 3
9/10

Best value for money

Asus Usb-ac68 - Usb 3.0 Wi-fi Gaming Adapter

The best high-end USB Wifi key

The ac68 USB Wi-Fi stick is a dual band AC1900 Wi-Fi adapter with a Mimo 3x4 design consisting of 2 adjustable antennas in three levels. This Wi-Fi stick provides PCs with 802.11ac technology with a frequency of 5 GHz for a speed of 1300 Mbps and 2.4 GHz for 600 Mbps.

64,53 £ on Amazon

The ac68 USB Wi-Fi dongle from ASUS is a dual-band Wi-Fi adapter AC1900 with a Mimo 3x4 design consisting of 2 adjustable antennas at three levels. This Wi-Fi stick provides PCs with 802.11ac technology with a frequency of 5 GHz for a speed of 1300 Mbps and 2.4 GHz for 600 Mbps. This makes this adapter an ideal option to cope with any task and even the most demanding in terms of bandwidth.

For a great comfort of use, the ac68 comes with a desktop stand to place it in the best position. Its 3-position Mimo 3x4 design, combined with its stand allows for easy adjustment for better performance and exceptional signal coverage. The device incorporates ASUS AiRadar Beamforming technology that optimizes Wi-Fi reception. To do this, the Wi-Fi stick adopts a USB 3.0 interface for 10 times faster throughput than the 2.0.

TP-Link Archer T2U Nano WiFi AC Key & Bluetooth Dongle 4
8/10

Alternative

TP-Link Archer T2U Nano WiFi AC Key & Bluetooth Dongle

An excellent USB Wifi key

Archer T2U Nano is an ultra-compact Wi-Fi stick with a total throughput of up to 600 Mbps. The Wi-Fi adapter is compatible with dual-band technology with a frequency power of 2.4 GHz for 200 Mbps and 5 GHz for 433 Mbps.

15,33 £ on Amazon

Archer T2U Nano is an ultra-compact Wi-Fi dongle that supports Wi-Fi AC standard and can go up to a theoretical 600 Mb/s. It is a high-speed dual-band adapter of 256QAM technology to offer data rates of 150 to 200 Mb/s at 2.4 Ghz and 433 Ghz at 5 Ghz.

With a miniature size and sleek design, the device takes a length of 18.6 mm and a width of 15 mm perfect for any USB port and leave it in place. To use it, the Wi-Fi stick comes with an installation CD to offer easy installation and wide compatibility including Windows 10 - 8.1 - 8 - 7 - XP - Mac OS X 10.9 and 10.13.

Buying guide • November 2023

Best USB Wifi key

Any specific needs?

The best USB Wifi key in 2021

The best entry-level USB Wifi key

The best high-end USB Wifi key

An excellent USB Wifi key

Your guide : Samuel

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Comparison table of the best USB Wifi keys

TOP OF THE LINE CHEAP TOP OF THE LINE ALTERNATIVE
Comfast - USB 3.0 WiFi Key 5
8/10
TL-WN823N, TP-Link WiFi Key N300 6
7/10
Asus Usb-ac68 - Usb 3.0 Wi-fi Gaming Adapter 7
9/10
TP-Link Archer T2U Nano WiFi AC Key & Bluetooth Dongle 8
8/10
OUR SELECTION
Comfast - USB 3.0 WiFi Key
TL-WN823N, TP-Link WiFi Key N300
Asus Usb-ac68 - Usb 3.0 Wi-fi Gaming Adapter
TP-Link Archer T2U Nano WiFi AC Key & Bluetooth Dongle
This Wi-Fi adapter is ideal for ensuring a faster network environment. Equipped with dual high-gain omni-directional antennas, this dual-band technology provides frequency rates ranging from 2.4 Ghz for 400 Mbps to 5.8 Ghz for 867 Mbps.
TP-Link TL-WN823N N300 is a USB Wi-Fi dongle with a compact miniature design and fast Wi-Fi speed up to 300 Mbps. It is perfect for HD video, voice transmission or online gaming.
The ac68 USB Wi-Fi stick is a dual band AC1900 Wi-Fi adapter with a Mimo 3x4 design consisting of 2 adjustable antennas in three levels. This Wi-Fi stick provides PCs with 802.11ac technology with a frequency of 5 GHz for a speed of 1300 Mbps and 2.4 GHz for 600 Mbps.
Archer T2U Nano is an ultra-compact Wi-Fi stick with a total throughput of up to 600 Mbps. The Wi-Fi adapter is compatible with dual-band technology with a frequency power of 2.4 GHz for 200 Mbps and 5 GHz for 433 Mbps.
Brand
Wonsun
TP-Link
Asus
TP-Link
Maximum speed
1300 Mbps
300 Mbps
1900 Mbps
600 Mbps
Wi-Fi band
2.4 Ghz - 5.8 Ghz
2.4 Ghz
2.4 Ghz - 5 Ghz
2,4 Ghz - 5 Ghz
Installation driver
No
Yes
No
Yes
Operating system
Windows 10 - 8.1 - 8 - 7 - Mac OS X 10.9 and 10.15
Windows 10 - 8.1 - 8 - 7 - Mac OS X 10.9 - 10.13 and Linux
All
Windows 10 - 8.1 - 8 - 7 - XP - Mac OS X 10.9 and 10.13

Help us improve this table:
Report an error, request the addition of a feature to the table, or suggest another product. Thank you for your kindness!

Buying guide - USB Wifi key

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How to choose your USB Wifi key

Here are the basic criteria to take into account when choosing a USB Wifi key.

#1 - The Wifi speed

The performance of a USB Wifi adapter is mainly evaluated by the speed of the wireless connection or the Wifi throughput to transmit the wireless network signal. This performance will give it an ability to capture the signal needed for high-speed uses. The speed of an adapter of 300 Mbps is sufficient to transmit the stream of an HD video and online games without interruption. The transfer rate of a USB Wifi adapter can reach a speed of more than 1200 Mbps. The size of the speed is very important, as this throughput performance can decrease in relation to the range. The faithfully emitted signal also depends on this range and the interference present.

#2 - The shape of the USB Wifi adapter

The form factor is usually established in relation to its use and performance. Smaller sizes are more transportable. Nano adapters are tiny in size, but can have a large capacity. Mini adapters may have a configuration button. Adapters with a cable are more stable and convenient. Those with an antenna are better at picking up the Wi-Fi signal connection. Those with two antennas can accommodate 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz frequency types.

#3 - The compatibility

A USB Wifi adapter is compatible, with respect to frequency, with the wireless network and the desktop computer's operating system. The antenna can use either the 2.4 GHz or the 5 GHz frequency. It can use both frequency bands simultaneously. The wireless network follows the 802.11 protocol standard. An adapter following the latest standard also complies with the previous specifications. Old archaic versions of Windows, Linux or Mac OSX systems are also to be checked if they are compatible with the adapter of your choice.

#4 - The technology

The

manufacturers of adapters and equipment for the Wifi network must follow the 802.11 standard. The letters following this specification of wireless links indicate the date of standardization, frequency, throughput and network capture range. It is best to choose USB Wifi adapters that follow the 802.11n, 802.11ac, or 802.11ax standards. Dual Band technology manages to integrate both frequency bands. And Beamforming technology optimizes the signal by directing it to the receiver. This technology is among the best Wifi technologies.

#5 - The options

The USB base of the adapter must be 2.0 or 3.0. For transfer speed, the USB interface in 3.0 is faster than its predecessor. The SoftAP mode allows to share the connection with other computers. A WPS button can be present to control the WPS encryption method. A recent model normally offers the SoftAP option that allows sharing the wireless connection to a smartphone or additional machines.

What is a WiFi dongle?

A USB WiFi dongle (or WiFi-Dongle) is a device similar to a USB flash drive in its shape, except that it allows you to receive data from a WiFi network after connecting to a computer. A WiFi signal allows you to access the Internet remotely and without cables.

These adapters, equipped with an internal antenna, are therefore extremely convenient to connect remotely to a network of a laptop without built-in WiFi or to that of a desktop computer. They are also very easy to use. Indeed, the Wifi keys found on the market only require a USB port on the computer and an operating system compatible with their design. The price of these dongles is usually very affordable.

The different types of USB Wifi keys

Here are the different types of Wifi USB keys that exist on the market.

Wireless Wifi adapter

A wireless Wifi USB adapter has the appearance of a conventional USB flash drive. Its size can be quite small, about 19 × 16 × 7 mm. On the other hand, there are models with longer and larger bodies. With a dongle of this type, you just plug it into the USB port and you're done! You just have to make sure that the computer that will host it has a WiFi network. Then, once connected, the adapter will be able to share the Wifi signal with all the computers in the vicinity. For a secure connection, you may prefer models that support the following encryptions: Wpa-spk / Wpa2-PSK, Wpa / Wpa2 and Wep.

Wired Wifi adapter

A

wired USB adapter can boost the Wifi signal strength and range of your devices. It is equipped with a high gain antenna, which also allows it to provide even more powerful Wifi coverage to both your devices and your routers and access points. This equipment is to be mounted outside on a pole or wall. If you choose this type of dongle, make sure that the model is compliant with the Universal Serial Bus Rev.2.0 standard. The antenna should be able to cover long distances. Your kit should include a user manual, a driver, a USB cable and of course an antenna.

Wifi adapter with antenna

For

flexible deployment of the Wifi network, you may want to look at USB adapters with an antenna. They don't work with a wire, and even if they are bulkier than a classic Wifi USB dongle, they still have the advantage of being very efficient. Indeed, this type of dongle can offer faster speeds and excellent wireless reception. Its transmission rate can be more than 300 Mbps. Also in terms of aesthetics, many people find this device elegant and stylish.

Wifi USB key or Wifi CPE sensor?

Wifi USB key

To be able to free yourself from wiring to your router and other devices in your Wifi network, use a USB Wifi key. With this equipment, you won't need to install an Ethernet cable throughout your home, unless you choose a wired USB adapter. However, WiFi dongles for PCs have one drawback, namely a small internal antenna. For better reception of WiFi signals, it will be necessary for the access point to be close to the dongle. If you don't take this precaution, your connection speed may decrease.

Wifi CPE sensor

A CPE WiFi sensor allows you to have a long range wireless connection. It requires a cabling to your WiFi devices (LAN network cable or USB cable). This solution is also very cumbersome. And its price is really high.

Verdict

Opt for a USB Wi-Fi key because it is easy to carry when traveling and with this equipment you can easily access the Wi-Fi network of a hotel and all the public places you will frequent.

Why buy a USB Wifi key?

To connect to the Wifi network

The USB Wifi adapter is an accessory used as a link between the Wifi network and your desktop computer. It allows to capture the wifi signal and to transmit it to your desktop computer. Thus, you can use the Internet connection.

To avoid cables

To benefit from an Internet connection, it was necessary to use cables. And the constraints were the distance between the transmitter and the receiver. By using a Wifi USB adapter, the problems of distance and cables are solved. The USB Wifi adapter serves as a receiver and transmitter for older computers at the same time.

To install 1 or more PCs in a Wifi network

It is quite possible to have a Wi-Fi connection on other computers and smartphones thanks to a USB Wi-Fi key. This small accessory can transmit the signal to another computer. For two or more PCs, an access point or a Wifi modem router is required.

For more connection performance

With a computer already equipped with a Wifi receiver and transmitter, the adapter will serve as an antenna that will better capture the network. It will direct the signal by optimizing the use of the existing flow. Distance will no longer be a major concern.

For an easy and efficient solution

There are many formats of WiFi adapters to allow a machine to use the wireless network. The USB adapter is the easiest and most convenient to use. And it is the cheapest adapter format.

Good to know

The antenna that a Wifi key is equipped with increases the reception range while stabilizing the signal.

The best brands of USB Wifi keys

In our opinion, the best brands of USB Wifi keys in 2022 are :

Alfa
Fubiao
TP-Link
Techkey
XVZ

Alfa is an excellent brand of USB wifi key. It also manufactures waterproof connectors, antenna cases, routers and amplifiers.

Fubiao is a company that has focused entirely on manufacturing innovative products. It aims to offer high-performance equipment at unbeatable prices such as hulls and Wifi USB adapters.

Wishing at all costs to make home automation or the connected home accessible, TP-Link is a reference in the sector. It manufactures connected plugs, light bulbs, wireless cameras, and of course USB Wifi dongles.

TechKey is a renowned manufacturer of computer accessories. It is especially a leader in the field of Bluetooth and Wifi sensor gadgets. Its products are manufactured to the highest specifications.

XVZ is a very popular brand and one that is especially popular on Amazon. The high ratings there are a testament to the effectiveness of its products, including Wifi adapters.

What is the price for an USB Wifi key

The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).

However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.

We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.

Entry-level
10 £ to 20 £
Mid-range
20 £ to 30 £
High-end
more than 30 £
Price range diagram

Tips

Restart the router.

Have you tried turning it off and on again? It's a common joke in the computer world, but it's not without merit. To determine who is responsible for the slow speed of your connection, proceed with the inspection. First, check that the router is not the source of the problem. The quickest way to make sure is to turn the router off and on. Then you'll easily see if it's not the computer or the adapter. Remember: resetting your router can solve your connection problems.

Follow a speed test.

A

speed test allows you to measure the Internet speed your computer is actually using. That way, if your connection seems slow, you can accurately determine whether it's a problem with your router, your adapter, or your computer itself.

Attention to location.

A

WiFi adapter may provide a wireless connection, but it doesn't always guarantee a stable connection. If possible, keep your computer close to the router. And if that's not possible, remember that the fewer walls and electronic devices between your adapter and your computer, the better.

Wireless range extenders.

They're

not expensive and are compatible with almost all the latest routers and modems. They are really useful if you have a large property and the new antennas are not powerful enough to cover the whole property. This kind of device will also allow you to get your signal through despite a thick wall that stands between your router and your workstation.

Routing channels.

Wi-Fi congestion is a real problem. If you live in a densely populated area, like an apartment building, there are so many people using wireless devices that the waves are thick and the signals bounce around. Like walkie-talkies and baby monitors, routers can operate on multiple frequencies, the most common being 2.4 GHz. Within this frequency, there are 13 channels, and each channel is separated by 20 MHz from the two surrounding channels. Each of the 13 channels overlaps with at least two others. Most people never change their router's default channel, so changing yours can help alleviate some of these congestion issues.

FAQ

What are the differences between a USB Wifi key and a 4G key?

Although they are both portable and easy to use, the Wifi USB key and the 4G key work in a totally different way. Indeed, the first one plays the same role as a modem and has the same options as an Internet box. On the other hand, the 4G key requires a subscription with a mobile operator to give you access to Internet.

How to install a USB Wifi key?

Most of them have an integrated Plug & Play system, which gives you the possibility to use it immediately after installation. Some come with a CD that includes the WiFi antenna driver to install on your computer. Just set up the software and follow all the instructions.

Other than the PC, with which other devices will I be able to use a USB Wifi key?

The USB Wifi stick doesn't just work with a laptop, you can also install it on a desktop computer, printer, tablet and smart devices. For example, it allows you to greatly improve the reception quality of your smart TV's Wifi signal. Even better, it will be useful if you like to watch streaming videos.

What are the differences between the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bandwidths?

Some USB Wifi keys give you the choice between 2 bandwidths: 2.4 and 5 GHz. It is possible to activate them at the same time or to use only one. The 2.4 GHz is relatively slow. It can however cover a greater distance. On the contrary, the 5 GHz is 3 x faster, but covers only a small distance.

Sources

Note: Below are some of the sources we have consulted in writing this article. Links to other sites are not continuously updated. It is therefore possible that a link may not be found. Please use a search engine to find the desired information.
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  2. how does it work?, femmeactuelle.fr
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  4. WiFi key: what is it? which one to choose?, cherchenet.fr
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  7. The best USB Wi-Fi adapter 2021, pcgamer.com
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  10. Best USB Wi-Fi Adapter 2021, ign.com
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See more

Updates

March 2022 : Translation of this buying guide from our partner meilleurtest.fr

See more
Our selection
Comfast - USB 3.0 WiFi Key 9
Comfast - USB 3.0 WiFi Key
TL-WN823N, TP-Link WiFi Key N300 10
TL-WN823N, TP-Link WiFi Key N300
Asus Usb-ac68 - Usb 3.0 Wi-fi Gaming Adapter 11
Asus Usb-ac68 - Usb 3.0 Wi-fi Gaming Adapter
TP-Link Archer T2U Nano WiFi AC Key & Bluetooth Dongle 12
TP-Link Archer T2U Nano WiFi AC Key & Bluetooth Dongle

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