You will appreciate the best USB WiFi Adapters for MacBook in stock If you’ve ever had a problem with your MacBook Wi-Fi device because trying to use a USB dongle to fix your Wi-Fi has been an unconventional experience for a long time. This was especially the case during the last two versions of macOS. Fortunately, Edimax released a converter that not only works on current and previous operating systems but may also work in the future.
The adapter is Edimax Dual-Band AC1200. It costs $ 25 ($ 20 on Amazon at the time of writing this report). As a converter, it’s okay. Supports 802.11n and 802.11ac, with speeds of up to 866Mbps, and has plenty of modern Wi-Fi technologies under the hood. It works with Linux and Windows.
I’m sure among the millions of other Wi-Fi adapters that are in the world, there are a few other ones that are already running on macOS Sierra. But I tested many recently and had no luck until I finally landed on this, so I consider this a PSA, as opposed to recommending the “best” option for anyone dealing with this stupid issue.
USB WiFi Adapters for MacBook
When it comes to using the converter, it’s pretty simple. As has long been the case with Wi-Fi and macOS dongles, you will need to install a driver and restart your computer to use the dongle. In this case, a strange tool is also installed to manage the Wi-Fi connection, because you will not be able to do it from Apple’s built-in Wi-Fi tool.
For some reason, using a third-party USB dongle on Apple laptops has been a problem for a long time and often requires an odd solution due to driver problems. While you still have to deal with installing third-party drivers, Edimax Dual-Band AC1200 is not as obnoxious as previous solutions. The software makes sense to use, works well enough, and most importantly, it can greatly improve Wi-Fi connection on older Macs.
Top 4 Best USB WiFi Adapters for MacBook
Here are the best WiFi adapters you can get for your MacBook.
1. Edimax
This mini wireless adapter is the best product for those who want to save money and get a variety of options at a low price. Edimax USB Wi-Fi adapter can provide you with a wireless data rate of 150Mbps 802.11n that guarantees the furthest range with the widest coverage. In a word, the speed of 802.11n is 6 times higher than the speed of 802.11b. However, it is backward compatible with 802.11b / g as well.
We also love its energy-saving design to support intelligent transmission power control as well as automatic idle setting. Another thing we can only mention is that Edimax EW-7811Un is compatible with WMM Standard. This means that you will have a better flow of real-time data (Skype, video, music, etc.).
Speaking of ports, this PC wireless adapter has a USB 2.0 (Type A) port and its data rates are up to 150Mbps. The frequency range varies from 2.4GHz to 2.4835GHz. There is also an internal chip antenna. By the way, this Edimax converter has an EZmax setup wizard and supports multiple languages.
2. TP-LINK
Another example of the best desktop wireless adapter is TP-Link AC1900. Although not as cheap as the previously cited Edimax product, TP-Link AC1900 has a reasonable price and some helpful options that every first-class USB Wi-Fi adapter should have.
TP-Link AC1900 has 600Mbps at 2.4GHz or 1300Mbps over 5GHz. This flexible connection allows you to choose which one is most suitable for you. This wireless adapter supports 802.11ac wireless data rate and has backward compatibility as well.
In addition to ASUS USB-AC68, this 5GHz wireless adapter is equipped with beamforming technology. Another thing that you should be aware of is the TP-Link ultimate range – there are high gain antennas that add stability and a better range to their overall performance.
It’s always best to get additional wireless security encryption, and when you get it with just the click of a really cool button. TP-Link AC1900 also has a fast USB 3.0 port.
3. Linksys and USB 6300
This wireless USB adapter will be an ideal choice for Windows computers. Linksys WUSB6300 is compatible with Windows XP / Vista / 7/8/10 as well as all wireless routers, extenders and AC 802.11ac access points provided by Belkin and Linksys. You won’t have any problem installing it because this Wi-Fi adapter comes with a CD Setup Wizard in case you need any kind of help. However, we think you won’t need it because all you have to do to install this adapter is connect it to the router and get the free Smart Wi-Fi app.
Linksys WUSB6300 also has a portable design, so it can travel with you easily hidden somewhere in your bag or even a jeans pocket. What’s more, thanks to 128-bit encryption, all your data will be protected.
Its high speed allows users to enjoy high-quality video streaming or high-quality browsing. Besides, it is good enough for games. Linksys Wi-Fi adapter can reach up to 867Mbps on the 5GHz AC wireless band and 300Mbps on the 2.4GHz wireless band.
4. EDIMAX EW-7833UAC AC1750
Edimax is rich in Wi-Fi wireless adapters, here is another best wireless product this company has offered – EW-7833UAC AC1750. We love this converter because it is very compatible with operating systems including not only Windows but also Mac and Linux OS.
Its Beamforming technology ensures reliable communication and coverage, so you never have to worry about lost signals. This Edimax model boasts fast Wi-Fi 11ac speed thanks to the latest generation AC1750 Wi-Fi for HD broadcasting and gaming. The speed is flexible, so you can use the 450Mbps (2.4GHz) and 1300Mbps (5GHz) bands.
Another thing that helps Edimax EW-7833UAC AC1750 provide high-quality performance is 3T3R MIMO technology. This wireless adapter is equipped with three transmitting antennas and three receiving antennas that improve its operation. Apart from that, there is a USB 3.0 port and 64/128-bit WEP encryption, WPA and WPA2 to enhance security.