Best USB Network Adapters of 2026
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USB network adapters are small devices that allow users to connect to a network or the internet using a USB port. They are particularly useful for laptops or desktops without built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, or for those who need to connect to a wired network using a USB port. These adapters are easy to install and use, and come in a variety of speeds and features, from basic models to high-speed, dual-band options. They are a convenient and affordable solution for anyone looking to expand their network connectivity options.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 USB Network Adapters
TP-Link AC600 USB WiFi Adapter
Upgrade your PC or laptop's connectivity with the TP-Link AC600 USB WiFi Adapter. With dual-band 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, this compact device provides lag-free connections up to 433 Mbps. The high gain 5dBi antenna greatly enhances the reception and transmission of WiFi signals, giving you reliable connectivity even from long-range. This USB WiFi adapter is compatible with Windows versions 10/8.1/8/7/XP and Mac OS X 10.9-10.14, allowing you to surf, stream, and game without buffering or interruptions.
TP-Link Archer T3U AC1300 USB WiFi Adapter
The TP-Link Archer T3U AC1300 USB WiFi Adapter is an excellent device for those who need high-speed internet connectivity. The device provides a strong, high-speed connection of 2.4G/5G dual-band Wi-Fi throughout your home, making it ideal for PC, desktop, and laptop users. With MU-MIMO technology, the Archer T3U delivers lag-free Wi-Fi experience. The USB 3.0 interface provides 10x faster speed than USB 2.0, and its mini and portable size allows you to carry the device everywhere. The Archer T3U is compatible with Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7, XP, and Mac OS X 10.9-10.14.
Amazon Basics USB 3.0 Ethernet Adapter
The Amazon Basics USB 3.0 Ethernet Adapter connects a computer or laptop to a router, modem, or network switch to deliver Gigabit Ethernet. It supports Wake-on-LAN function, Green Ethernet & IEEE 802.3az-2010 (Energy Efficient Ethernet), and IPv4/IPv6 pack Checksum Offload Engine (COE) to reduce CPU loading. This USB network adapter is compatible with Windows 10/8/7 but not with MacOS, Chrome OS, Windows RT, Linux or Android.
UGREEN USB C to Ethernet Adapter
The UGREEN USB C to Ethernet Adapter is a reliable and affordable solution to extend or replace an RJ45 port for your devices. With its 1000Mbps hyper speed, it ensures stable network speed for online working, meeting, classing, gaming, HD video streaming, upload, download, and more. You can easily connect it to your device without installing any drivers, thanks to its plug-and-play feature. The adapter is compatible with most laptops, tablets, smartphones, Nintendo Switch, and Steam Deck with USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 port. It is also built to last with its new aluminum shell and reinforced connect design, making it extremely strong, durable, and heat-dissipating.
UGREEN AX900 USB WiFi 6 Adapter
The UGREEN WiFi 6 Adapter offers fast wireless speeds by supporting the latest WiFi 6 technology, letting you stream videos smoothly and enjoy low-latency internet. It connects to both 5GHz and 2.4GHz bands, so you can choose the best option for your network, especially if you use a WiFi 6 router. This adapter is designed for easy use with Windows 10 and 11, with built-in drivers that save you from downloading and installing extra software. Plus, it can both receive and share WiFi, allowing your desktop to connect to the internet and share that connection with other devices, adding convenience and flexibility.
NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 6E USB 3.0 Adapter (A8000)
The NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 6E USB 3.0 Adapter (A8000) is a high-performance USB network adapter that allows you to access the exclusive WiFi 6E band for superior HD video conferencing, gaming, and streaming. With fast AXE3000 WiFi speed of up to 3Gbps, this adapter offers 2.5 times faster speeds than WiFi 5. The flippable antenna helps you find the strongest WiFi signal and best coverage, ensuring a reliable connection. Its compact cradle allows for flexible placement, making it convenient to use with your desktop or laptop. Compatible with any WiFi 6E or WiFi 6 router or mesh system, this adapter requires a WiFi 6E router or mesh system to access the 6GHz band. It also supports the latest WiFi security standard, WPA3, ensuring your network is protected.
UGREEN USB C to 2.5G Ethernet Adapter
The UGREEN 2.5G Ethernet Adapter offers a significant speed boost, letting you enjoy internet speeds up to 2.5Gbps. This means faster downloads, smooth 4K or 8K streaming, and lag-free gaming experiences. It uses an advanced Realtek chip that keeps your connection stable while consuming less power and generating less heat, so your device runs cooler. If you have a 1Gb network, this adapter lets you upgrade easily by connecting to compatible 2.5Gb devices, giving your older equipment a fresh performance boost. Plus, its durable aluminum body and clear indicator lights ensure it’s built to last and easy to use.
uni USB-C to Ethernet Adapter
The uni USB-C to Ethernet Adapter is perfect for providing gigabit ethernet connectivity when wireless connectivity is inconsistent or over extended. With speeds up to 1Gbps, it allows for stable and reliable downloads without interruption. The compact and lightweight design features a non-slip design and braided nylon cable for durability. It is compatible with a wide range of USB-C devices, including MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, Dell XPS, and Surface Laptop. Additionally, it comes with a hassle-free 18-month warranty and 24/7 professional customer service.
Tenda AX900 USB WiFi Adapter
The Tenda AX900 Adapter brings fast and reliable WiFi 6 connectivity to your desktop PC, offering speeds up to 900Mbps—perfect for streaming 4K videos or gaming with low lag. It supports dual-band operation, letting you switch between 5GHz and 2.4GHz for the best connection based on your needs. You can also share your internet by turning your PC into a Wi-Fi hotspot, which is handy for connecting other devices without extra hardware. Plus, it keeps your online activity safe with strong WPA and WPA2 encryption, ensuring your connection stays private and secure.
UGREEN USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter
The UGREEN USB Ethernet Adapter offers super fast 1Gbps network speeds, allowing you to enjoy smooth streaming, quick downloads, and stable connections. If you’re a Nintendo Switch player, this adapter connects directly to your dock for a lag-free gaming experience. It’s easy to use with its plug-and-play design on most modern systems like Windows 11, macOS, and Chrome OS, so you can get online without hassle. Plus, it supports a wide range of laptops and desktops with USB 3.0 ports, making it a versatile choice for improving your wired internet connection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are USB Ethernet adapters better than Wi-Fi?
USB Ethernet adapters can provide faster speeds compared to a standard wireless connection or an older network card. Additionally, a wired connection offers more security, stability, and reliability compared to a wireless connection.
2. Does it matter what USB Wi-Fi adapter I get?
Yes, when choosing a USB Wi-Fi adapter, compatibility is crucial. Ensure that the adapter is compatible with your computer's operating system, whether it's Windows or Mac. This ensures that the USB Wi-Fi adapter will work effectively with your computer and provide the desired wireless connection.
3. Can you convert a USB port to Ethernet?
Yes, it is possible to connect an Ethernet cable to a USB port using a USB to Ethernet adapter. This allows you to connect to a wired LAN, router, or modem even if your computer doesn't have an Ethernet port. Simply plug the Ethernet cable into the USB to Ethernet adapter, providing you with Ethernet capability.
4. How do I choose a network adapter?
To choose a network adapter in Windows 10, go to Start > Settings > Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings. From the list of network connections, select the connection you are using to connect to your ISP, whether it's Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
5. Is USB to Ethernet as fast as Ethernet?
USB to Ethernet adapters can support high data transfer speeds similar to Ethernet. Depending on the cable specification, both USB and Ethernet cables can offer fast transfer speeds. In general, USB is capable of surpassing Ethernet in terms of speed.
6. What is the difference between USB 2.0 and 3.0 Ethernet adapter?
USB 3.0 Ethernet adapters offer better data transfer speeds and power management compared to USB 2.0. USB 2.0 has a transfer rate of 480 Mbps, while USB 3.0 can transfer at 4.8 Gbps, which is ten times faster than the previous standard.
During our usb network adapter research, we found 24 usb network adapter products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 480,047 customer reviews through our big data system to write the usb network adapters list. We found that most customers choose usb network adapters with an average price of $19.03.
The usb network adapters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of usb network adapters, including TP-Link, UGREEN, NETGEAR, uni, Tenda. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.
USB Network Adapters Comparison Table
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| Brand | TP-Link | TP-Link | Amazon Basics | UGREEN | UGREEN | NETGEAR | UGREEN | uni | Tenda | UGREEN |
| Item Weight | 0.64 ounces | 0.32 ounces | 33 Grams | 1.59 ounces | 0.138 ounces | 0.988 ounces | 2.12 ounces | 0.776 ounces | 0.352 ounces | 2.12 ounces |
| Hardware Interface | USB | Micro USB 3.0 Type B | Ethernet, USB | USB 3.0 Type C | USB 2.0 | - | USB 3.0 Type C | Ethernet | USB 2.0 | Ethernet, USB |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | Space Grey | Black | - | Space Grey | Grey | black | Space Grey |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop, Laptop | Computers (desktops, laptops), running Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7, XP, and Mac OS X 10.9 to 10.14 | Computers, laptops | Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet | Desktop, Laptop | - | Desktop, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet | iPhone 15/16 Pro/Max, MacBook Pro 2023 - 2016, MacBook Air 2022 - 2018, MacBook 2017 - 2015, iPad Pro 2022 - 2018, iPad Air 4 / 5, Samsung S22 / S21, Samsung Tab S8 / S7, Chromebook, Dell XPS, HP Spectre 13 / x360 | Desktop, Laptop | Desktop, Laptop |
| Data Transfer Rate | 600 Megabits Per Second | 1300 Megabits Per Second | 1000 Megabits Per Second | 1 Gigabytes Per Second | 600 Megabits Per Second | - | 2.5 Gigabits Per Second | 1 Gigabits Per Second | 900 Gigabits Per Second | 1 Gigabits Per Second |
| Compatible Operating System Family | MacOS, Windows | MacOS, Windows | ChromeOS, Linux, MacOS, Windows | Android, Windows | Windows | - | Android, Windows | ChromeOS | Windows | ChromeOS, Linux, MacOS, Windows |
| Data Link Protocol | USB | USB | Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, USB | Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, USB | - | - | Ethernet | Ethernet, USB-C, Gigabit Ethernet | USB | Gigabit Ethernet |
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