Step 1: Identify your USB port type

Before anything else, check what USB ports your device has. USB-A (rectangular) or USB-C (oval)? One generation of dongles does not work in the other without an adapter. Most desktop PCs have USB-A. Most modern thin laptops have USB-C. Some have both. If your device has only USB-C, look for a USB-C WiFi dongle or use a USB-C hub.

Step 2: Match the WiFi standard to your router

There is no point buying a WiFi 6 dongle if your router is WiFi 5, and vice versa. Check your router’s spec:

• Router says 802.11ac or WiFi 5 – a WiFi 5 dongle is fine, a WiFi 6 dongle will also work at WiFi 5 speeds
• Router says 802.11ax or WiFi 6 – buy a WiFi 6 dongle to get full performance
• Upgrading your router soon – buy WiFi 6 now to be ready

Step 3: Single-band or dual-band?

Always buy dual-band (2.4GHz + 5GHz) unless you are on a very tight budget. The 5GHz band is faster and less congested than 2.4GHz. Single-band 2.4GHz-only dongles are cheaper but you are locking yourself into the slower, noisier band.

Step 4: Consider your distance from the router

If the router is in the same room or the next room, any decent dual-band WiFi 5 or WiFi 6 dongle will work fine. If you are connecting across a large house, through thick walls, or over a long distance, choose a dongle with an external antenna. The antenna increases size but significantly improves range. Nano dongles are convenient but their small internal antenna limits performance at range.

Step 5: Check driver support for your OS

Windows 10 and 11 – almost any dongle will install automatically. macOS – check the manufacturer explicitly supports your macOS version. Linux – look for Mediatek MT7612U or Realtek RTL8812BU chipsets which have good community driver support. Avoid chipsets without confirmed Linux support if you are on Linux.

What to ignore on the spec sheet

Maximum theoretical speeds. These are achieved in laboratory conditions with no interference, no other devices, and the device positioned optimally. Real-world speeds are a fraction of the maximum. A WiFi 6 dongle rated at “1200 Mbps” will deliver 150-400 Mbps in a typical home. Compare real-world review results, not maximum theoretical figures.