So I created this quick, newbie guide to have help you focus on what's really important to you.
If you are looking for recommendations (specific models), be sure to start my chat tool (Bottom right).
Step 1: Where will you use it?
Think of the application of your new wifi card.
- Home or Commercial?
- Office or Gaming?
- PCI or M.2?
- Operating system support (Windows, Mac or Linux)?
Brands have made wifi cards that are better suited for each application.
Step 2: Choose your price range
How much are you willing to spend on your next wifi card?
The more you spend, the better the features. But you need a limit, a budget.
A budget will allow you to narrow down alternatives and save you time.
Step 3:Â Speed and Bandwidth
Speed is a combination of several factors and cannot be resumed to "Mbps".
"Mbps" is just part of the speed equation. Higher number is better.
Technology also affects speed. 802.11b routers have the slowest connection, while 802.11ac will perform better.
If you choose a USB 2.0 card you will limited by the its bandwidth (60MB/s).
Note: Distance to the router and obstacles may also affect the quality and speed of your wifi network.
Step 4: Choose your wifi antenna
The higher the "dB", the better the antenna will perform. But it is usually more expensive.
The size of the antenna doesn't really matter but the number of them does.
If your manufacturer provides you with 2 antennas you should use both for better performance.
Step 5: Frequency
Your card may cover 2.4Ghz or 5Ghz bands. Some covers both. But which one should you choose?
In most cases it doesn't matter.Â
If you had issues in the past, this is what I would consider:
- 2.4 GHz if you have lots of walls
- 5 GHz if you have too many wireless devices (Or neighbours)
Step 6: Brand and Quality
There are many low-quality models in the market. They all promise great performance but fail to deliver it.
If you want to skip the crappy wifi cards, be sure to start my chat tool (Bottom right). I'll give you recommendations (specific models and brands).
Note: Check the bottom right of this page. Click the picture to start my tool.
I need to get a wifi 6e card that is reliable and fast, with a heat sink
ReplyDeleteThis TP Link is fast and reliable but I can't help but wonder why you need a heat sink.
Deletewww.amazon.com/Network-PCIE-Wifi-6-Card/dp/B089FCX3C3/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=wifi+card+for+pc&qid=1624906087&sr=8-3&_encoding=UTF8&tag=gelsonluz07-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=902f1ede10e6c15bed316c58eda374ff&camp=1789&creative=9325