The Wireless Adapters You Never Knew You Needed

There’s an unspoken rule in tech that if your device has wires, it probably runs faster than its wireless counterpart. This is true to a certain point, but if there’s a faster alternative, wouldn’t you switch over?

What is a Wireless Adapter?

We’re talking, of course, about wireless adapters. They’re hardware you can attach to computers through a USB port, and it’ll connect your wireless devices. Think meters of wires, but chopped down, and all that remains is a small device, usually with a small antenna.

Wireless adapters usually come in the form of a dongle that you attach to USB ports. This dongle serves as the receiver for your other wireless devices, should you need it. If your computer can’t otherwise connect to a wireless network, then a wireless adapter solves that problem for you.

When Do You Actually Need to Use One?

Now, to answer the age-old question on when to use it: it always depends. However, since they serve as a bridge for wireless networks, that’s where they shine. Here are a few instances where they’re really needed:

• No Built-in WiFi: Need to connect to a WiFi network, but you can’t? A PC WiFi wireless adapter can help.
• Built-in WiFi is Faulty: Is the WiFi already built into your laptop, but it’s not working as intended? A wireless network adapter is the solution.
• Slow Connection: If your WiFi connection works but it’s too slow, a USB wireless adapter can fix that problem, too.
• Convenience:If you’re not a fan of bringing your own Ethernet cables, then a wireless network adapter is your friend.
• Specific Connection Needs:You may be surprised to know that they’re not limited to providing WiFi. Some wireless adapters can also help in bridging connections for Apple, Android, and Xbox devices.

The Most Common Types of Wireless Adapters

In recent years, WiFi adapters have remained popular since they provide the most basic function. However, more and more people have been using wireless adapters for more than WiFi. Here are a few of them:

• Apple CarPlay Wireless Adapter:These come in adapters or dongles, depending on your preferences. It’s a specific adapter you can use if you don’t feel like using your car’s native touchscreen interface. And, as the name suggests, it’s only applicable to Apple devices.

• Android Auto Wireless Adapter:As a counterpart to the CarPlay adapter, this one is for Android devices. It serves the same function and connects to your Android phone through Bluetooth.

• Xbox Wireless Adapter:A bit different from the previous two, this is a wireless adapter usually for Xbox controllers.

• Microsoft Wireless Display Adapter:This wireless adapter is used for displaying what’s on your phone or tablet to a TV. It’s basically for viewing pictures or videos on a bigger display.

The Best Brands Available Right Now

If you need a wireless adapter based on the types we listed, then you need to look for the best.

After all, you don’t want to end up with a device you just found on a flimsy ad. Here are some of the top brands you can buy for each of the specific functions above, including WiFi adapters:

Is it Worth Buying in 2025?

The biggest question here is, “Is it really worth buying even in 2025?” It’s a simple but loaded question with a simple answer: it depends on your needs.

We discussed above the different types of wireless adapters, when you need them, and a price list. If you’re still having trouble deciding if you need one, then think of the following factors before you buy:

The Need for a Wireless Adapter

The highlight of a wireless adapter’s function is for WiFi. If you’re content with the speed of your current connection, then you can opt out of buying one. But if you really need the upgrade, especially for mobile devices, then it may be time to buy one.

The other functions are for CarPlay, Android Auto, Xbox, and Microsoft display. Think about these functions if you really need them on a daily basis. If having a wireless adapter makes these functions smoother, then by all means, get one.

The Cost

The price table we provided will help here tremendously. Take note that the brands and models we listed above are the top of the line. They’re the best for each function, regardless of the price tag.

If the prices intimidate you, you can always look for alternatives. But if you’re after the best that money can buy, then no need to look for other brands and models.

Closing Words

Wireless adapters are slowly taking over wired connections because let’s face it, they’re really convenient for everyone. But that doesn’t mean the wired alternatives are going away. It will all boil down to individual needs and preferences.