ASUS
ASUS USB-AC56 Wi-Fi Adapter
Best reliable upgrade for improving wireless connectivity.
Enhance your desktop or notebook PC's wireless capabilities with this dual-band Wi-Fi adapter. It supports the IEEE 802.11ac standard, delivering impressive speeds of up to 300 Mbit/s on the 2.4 GHz band and 867 Mbit/s on the 5 GHz band. The external design, featuring both internal and a high-gain external antenna, ensures excellent network coverage, even in areas with weak Wi-Fi signals. Installation is straightforward, simply plug it into a USB 3.0 port for an instant wireless connection without needing to open your computer.
$59.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.3
/ 5
Category Rank
673
/ 1002
#673 in Network Cards & Adapters
Price vs Category Average
-94%
Below average
Interface Type
USB
/ USB
Who it's for
- Users with older PCs seeking a substantial upgrade to their wireless connectivity.
- Individuals needing versatile network options for various devices and environments.
- Desktop users or laptop owners struggling with weak or inconsistent Wi-Fi signals.
Who should skip it
- Laptop users or mini-PC owners with limited USB port availability.
- Tech enthusiasts or users planning to upgrade to Wi-Fi 6 routers soon.
- Beginners or those preferring a completely plug-and-play experience without extra steps.
Performance breakdown
Wireless Throughput
Dual-band 802.11ac delivers reliable speeds for high-definition streaming and gaming.
Signal Range
High-gain external antenna significantly improves reception in challenging home environments.
Installation Simplicity
USB plug-and-play design makes upgrading your connection effortless and quick.
Data Transfer Speed
USB 3.0 interface ensures the hardware keeps pace with modern wireless standards.
Build Versatility
External form factor works seamlessly across both desktop and notebook setups.
Connection Stability
Dual-band support maintains a consistent link even in crowded signal areas.
Key Specs
Interface Type
USB
Wireless Protocol
Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac)
Max Wireless Speed
867 Mbps
Max Wired Speed
0 Mbps
Number of Ethernet Ports
0
Form Factor
External Adapter
Antenna Type
Internal, External Detachable
Dual Band Support
Yes
Know before you buy
Yes, this adapter is designed specifically to add wireless connectivity to desktops or laptops that lack built-in Wi-Fi or have outdated internal cards.
You can plug this into a USB 2.0 port, but you will likely experience slower data transfer speeds. To achieve the maximum performance and stability the adapter is capable of, a USB 3.0 port is highly recommended.
Yes, the high-gain external antenna is designed to pick up signals more effectively than standard internal antennas. It is particularly useful if your computer is located further away from your router or in a room with poor reception.
Yes, it is a dual-band adapter. It supports 2.4 GHz for better range and 5 GHz for faster, less congested speeds, allowing you to choose the best connection for your specific needs.
While it features plug-and-play convenience, you may need to install the provided drivers to ensure your operating system recognizes the device and functions at full capacity.
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Ready to buy?
$60