Best USB Network Adapters for Gaming of 2025

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 5, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

USB network adapters for gaming are a great way to improve your online gaming experience. They allow you to easily connect your gaming console or computer to the internet, providing a stable and reliable connection with low latency. These adapters are designed to provide high-speed data transfer rates, which is especially important for online gaming where even a slight delay can result in a loss. They are also easy to set up and use, making them a convenient choice for gamers. Whether you're a casual or professional gamer, a USB network adapter can help you get the most out of your gaming sessions.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

TP-Link AC600 USB WiFi Adapter Cover #TOP 1
TP-Link AC600 USB WiFi Adapter
ftb score rating icon 9.8
TP-Link AX1800 WiFi 6 USB Adapter Cover #TOP 2
TP-Link AX1800 WiFi 6 USB Adapter
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ASUS 2.5G Ethernet USB Adapter Cover #TOP 3
ASUS 2.5G Ethernet USB Adapter
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 USB Network Adapters for Gaming

TP-Link AC600 USB WiFi Adapter

Archer T2U plus
Black
TP-Link AC600 USB WiFi Adapter Cover
TP-Link AC600 USB WiFi Adapter for PC (Archer T2U Plus)- Wireless Network Adapter for Desktop with 2.4GHz, 5GHz High Gain Dual Band 5dBi Antenna, Supports Win11/10/8.1/8/7/XP, Mac OS 10.9-10.14

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.

What We Like
Dual-band 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands for flexible connectivity
High gain 5dBi antenna greatly enhances WiFi signal strength
Supports Windows versions 10/8.1/8/7/XP and Mac OS X 10.9-10.14
#TOP 2

TP-Link AX1800 WiFi 6 USB Adapter

Archer TX20U Plus
TP-Link AX1800 WiFi 6 USB Adapter Cover
TP-Link WiFi 6 USB Adapter for Desktop PC - (Archer TX20U Plus) AX1800 Wireless Network Adapter with 2.4GHz, 5GHz, High Gain Dual Band 5dBi Antenna, WPA3, Supports Windows 11/10

The TP-Link AX1800 WiFi 6 USB Adapter offers lightning-fast wireless speeds, dual-band connectivity, dual high-gain antennas with beamforming, next-generation security, and reduced latency and congestion. It supports WPA3 encryption and flexible deployment for the best reception, making it your ideal WiFi adapter for gaming, downloading, and streaming needs.

What We Like
Lightning-fast WiFi 6 speeds
Dual-band connectivity
Enhanced security with WPA3 encryption
Reduced latency and congestion
Flexible deployment for the best reception
#TOP 3

ASUS 2.5G Ethernet USB Adapter

USB-C2500
grey, black
ASUS 2.5G Ethernet USB Adapter Cover
ASUS 2.5G Ethernet USB Adapter (USB-C2500) Wired LAN Network Connection for Mac OS, Linux, Windows, Backward Compatible on 2.5G, 1G, 100Mbps, Ideal for Gaming

The ASUS 2.5G Ethernet USB Adapter provides a stable, hyper-fast 2.5Gbps networking connection, making it ideal for gaming. It features easy installation with plug-and-play functionality for MAC OS and Linux, while Windows OS has an integrated driver for automatic installation. The adapter is compact, lightweight and portable, making it perfect for working, traveling, and business. It is widely compatible with USB 3.0 ports and provides premium protection against corrosion, tearing or fraying, thanks to the stylish aluminum case and high-quality nylon-braided cable.

What We Like
Hyper-fast 2.5Gbps networking connection
Easy installation with plug-and-play functionality
Compact, lightweight and portable

UGREEN Gigabit USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter

FBA_20256
Black
2.4 *0.9*0.6 inch
UGREEN Gigabit USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter Cover
UGREEN USB to Ethernet Adapter, 1000Mbps Ethernet Adapter with USB 3.0, Driver Free, RJ45 LAN Network Adapter Compatible with Nintendo Switch, Laptop, PC, MacBook, Windows, macOS, Linux

The UGREEN Gigabit USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter offers a fast and stable 1000Mbps data transfer speed, making it ideal for online gaming, HD video streaming, and more. It is driver-free for Windows, macOS, and Chrome OS, as well as Nintendo Switch and Switch Oled, making it easy to use. The adapter is compatible with most desktop PCs, laptops, TV boxes, and Nintendo Switch and Switch Oled. Its compact and portable design makes it easy to carry around in a briefcase or pocket.

What We Like
1000Mbps data transfer speed
Plug and play, driver-free for various devices
Compatible with Nintendo Switch and Switch Oled
Wide compatibility with most desktop PCs, laptops, and TV boxes
Compact and portable design
#TOP 5

D-Link USB WiFi Adapter AC1300

DWA-181-US
Black
D-Link USB WiFi Adapter AC1300 Cover
D-Link USB WiFi Adapter Dual Band AC1300 Wireless Internet for Desktop PC Laptop Gaming MU-MIMO Windows Mac Linux Supported (DWA-181-US)

The D-Link USB WiFi Adapter AC1300 adds fast WiFi connectivity to your laptop or desktop computer with speeds up to 400Mbps (2.4GHz) or 867Mbps (5GHz). Its low-profile design makes it perfect for laptops and ultrabooks, while its support for MU-MIMO and Dual Band technology enables use in 2.4GHz or 5GHz WiFi networks. Additionally, it supports WPA3/WPA2/WPA Encryption and can be used with Windows, Mac, and Linux. To ensure the best performance, update to the latest drivers available on D-Link's website.

What We Like
Fast AC1300 MU-MIMO WiFi connectivity
Low-profile design that can stay plugged in
Supports MU-MIMO and Dual Band technology
#TOP 6

WAVLINK USB WiFi Adapter for Desktop PC

WN693A5
Black
WAVLINK USB WiFi Adapter for Desktop PC Cover
USB WiFi Adapter for Desktop PC, AC1900 WiFi Adapter Dual Band Wireless Network Adapter with 2.4GHz/5GHz High Gain Antennas, MU-MIMO, Supports Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, XP, Mac OS 10.7-10.15

The WAVLINK USB WiFi Adapter for Desktop PC is a dual-band wireless network adapter that supports both 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz bands, with a total speed of up to 1900Mbps. Equipped with 4 dual-band high-gain 3dBi antennas, it provides strong signal and stable connection, and the SuperSpeed USB 3.0 port ensures maximum throughput performance. The wifi adapter can also be used as a WiFi hotspot and supports WPS easy setup, and comes with a magnetic base design with a 3.28ft cable for flexible placement. It is compatible with Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, XP, and Mac OS 10.7-10.15.

What We Like
Dual-band wireless network adapter for stable and fast wireless signal
Equipped with 4 dual-band high-gain 3dBi antennas for strong signal and stable connection
Can be used as a WiFi hotspot and supports WPS easy setup
#TOP 7

NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 6E USB 3.0 Adapter (A8000)

A8000-100PAS
Black
NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 6E USB 3.0 Adapter (A8000) Cover
NETGEAR Nighthawk WiFi 6 or 6E USB 3.0 Adapter (A8000) - AXE3000 Tri-Band Wireless Gigabit Speed (Up to 3Gbps) - New 6GHz Band – Works with Any Router Or Mesh System - for Windows PC

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.

What We Like
Superior HD video conferencing, gaming, and streaming
Fast AXE3000 WiFi speed of up to 3Gbps
Flippable antenna for finding the strongest WiFi signal
#TOP 8

EDUP AC600M USB WiFi Adapter

FBA_EDUP-EP-1607
Black
AC600M
EDUP AC600M USB WiFi Adapter Cover
EDUP AC600M USB WiFi Adapter for PC, Wireless USB Network Adapters Dual Band 2.4G/5.8Ghz Wi-Fi Dongle Antenna for Laptop Desktop Compatible Windows 10/11/8.1/8/7/XP/Vista/Mac OS X 10.6~10.15.3 Black

The EDUP AC600M USB WiFi Adapter is a dual-band wireless USB network adapter that offers ultra-speed and stable signal. It supports various operating systems such as Windows, Mac OS, and Linux. The adapter can create a Wi-Fi hotspot to offer Wi-Fi signals for more Wi-Fi devices. The installation process is simple, and the CD included in the package has the necessary drivers. A warranty of 3 years is also provided.

What We Like
Supports various operating systems
Ultra-speed and stable signal
Creates a Wi-Fi hotspot to offer Wi-Fi signals for more Wi-Fi devices
#TOP 9

Wireless WiFi Adapter for Desktop PC

XHT-6B16-01
black
AC-1300
Wireless WiFi Adapter for Desktop PC Cover
Wireless WiFi Adapter for Desktop PC - QGOO AC1300Mbps USB 3.0 Network Dongle with 5dBi High Gain Dual Antennas, Dual Band 2.4G/400Mbps 5G/867Mbps for Laptop Computer Compatible Windows11/10/8/7

Features
Dual Band High Speed: Support Dual Frequency Seamless Switching, As Far As Possible In The Process Of Use Has Been In High Speed State. The WiFi Speed Can Be Up To 867Mbps On 5GHz Band Or 400Mbps On 2.4GHz Band For Online Gaming And HD Video.
Super-Fast 1300Mbps USB WiFi Adapter - Wifi Adapter Provides Long-Range And Lag-Free And Stable Wifi Connections,Upgrade Your PCs Or Laptops To 802.11ac Standards Which Are There Times Fast Than Built-In Wireless N Adapter Speeds.
Technical Support:Compatible With Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, Standards IEEE 802.11 Ax/ac/a/b/g/n ( Not Recommended For Linux Mac System), Support Multiple Languages.
Plug And Play: This WiFi Adapter Is Driver Free For Windows 11/10. Just Need To Plug It Into Your Computer, And Enjoy A High-Speed Wireless Network. Other Systems Can Easily Install The Driver Through Driver(USB Driver Is Included In The Package).
High Gain Dual 5dBi Antennas: High Gain 5dBi Antennas Provide Good Signal Receiving Capabilities And Beam-Forming Technology Smartly Focuses Wi-Fi Signals Towards Connected Devices, Optional Dual Bands With Beam-Forming Offer Flexible Connectivity.

Wireless USB WiFi Adapter - Nineplus 1200Mbps Dual-Band 5GHz/2GHz with 5Dbi Antennas

Nineplus
Black-1200Mbps
AC1200
Wireless USB WiFi Adapter - Nineplus 1200Mbps Dual-Band 5GHz/2GHz with 5Dbi Antennas Cover
Wireless USB WiFi Adapter for PC - Nineplus 1200Mbps Dual 5Dbi Antennas 5G/2.4G WiFi Adapter for Desktop PC Laptop Windows11/10/8/7/Vista/XP, Wireless Adapter for Desktop Computer Network Adapters

The Nineplus Wireless USB WiFi Adapter provides fast and stable long-range WiFi connections for your desktop PC or laptop. With dual-band 5GHz and 2GHz bands, you can enjoy web surfing, gaming, and streaming without buffering or interruptions. The high-gain 5dBi antennas greatly enhance WiFi signal reception and transmission. The adapter uses USB 3.0 for super-fast transfer speeds, and is compatible with Windows 11/10/8/8.1/7/Vista/XP, Mac OS 10.9-10.15, and Linux. The adapter is easy to set up and comes with online technical support. Plus, the 2-year service ensures peace of mind with a new replacement for any problems with the adapter.

What We Like
Fast 1200Mbps WiFi connections for lag-free and stable web surfing, gaming, and streaming
Dual-band 5GHz and 2GHz bands provide upgraded speeds for a better online experience
High-gain 5dBi antennas greatly enhance the reception and transmission of WiFi signal strengths
Super-speed USB 3.0 for up to 10x faster transfer speeds than USB 2.0
Easy to set up and comes with online technical support, plus 2-year service for peace of mind
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are USB WiFi adapters good for gaming?

USB wireless adapters The adapters are easy to install, making them suitable for even the newest of gamers. They can also be used in devices that do not have their own Wi-Fi connection, effectively getting a device online that would not otherwise have been able to connect.

2. Do you need a network adapter for a gaming PC?

Unless you have Ethernet ports where your gaming PC will dominate, you'll need a WiFi card to connect it to the internet. Some motherboards come with built-in WiFi connectivity, but they're not known to be very good, so getting a separate card is a better way to go.

3. Is 2.4 GHz dongle good for gaming?

The better option: 2.4 GHz wireless This is ideal for gaming and other uses where you want the added stability and performance that Bluetooth wireless can't offer.

Editor's Notes

During our usb network adapter for gaming research, we found 24 usb network adapter for gaming products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 468,270 customer reviews through our big data system to write the usb network adapters for gaming list. We found that most customers choose usb network adapters for gaming with an average price of $18.58.

The usb network adapters for gaming are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of usb network adapters for gaming, including TP-Link, ASUS, UGREEN, D-Link, WAVLINK. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

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.