Connecting Desktop PC to WiFi?

[nkucz]

Hey guys,

 

I know that optimally you should connect your gaming PC to the internet via ethernet cable to get the best results. However, for some of us, including myself this is simply not possible for reasons of our own. For example, I'm currently enrolled in school in live in apartment/dorm type thing off campus, but we are connected to the schools WiFi and that is our only solution for internet. I assume that the next best option would be to buy a dedicated Wireless Network PCI card, but there are so many options with so many different reviews. Some are extremely expensive while others are rather cheap, I'm not sure how much I need to spend in order to get a really solid card. After all my research I have come across a few options that I'd be willing to pay for! (The cheaper the better, at the end of the day this is a budget build). Anyway, I will link the cards below and I'm asking for your help in deciding which one of these to get or if you have a better option please link it below!

 

Gigabyte:

https://www.amazon.com/Gigabyte-GC-WB867D-I-Bluetooth-Adapter-Computer/dp/B00HF8K0O6/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

 

Asus:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JNA337K/?tag=pcpapi-20

 

TP-Link (honorable mention):

https://www.amazon.com/TP-LINK-450Mbps-Wireless-Express-TL-WDN4800/dp/B007GMPZ0A/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1479293767&sr=8-2&keywords=tp+link+wireless+network+card

 

Upcoming Build:

http://pcpartpicker.com/user/nkucz/saved/x3hgsY

 

Thanks guys!

[spamy666]

I'd personally go for the Gigabyte one

[ProjectBox153]

The Gigabyte option looks good because it has Bluetooth capability as well. It should be good for you.

[LogicalDrm]

Do you know what protocol network uses? From those I'd pick Asus, but would also check some USB options too. TP-Link has its up with movable antenna in case you have bad reception in your room.

[nkucz]

6 hours ago, LoGiCalDrm said:

Do you know what protocol network uses? From those I'd pick Asus, but would also check some USB options too. TP-Link has its up with movable antenna in case you have bad reception in your room.

I have absolutely no idea, they don't post any information about their network online. I'd rather go with the Gigabyte if I don't really need the Asus as it's like another $20. The Gigabyte also has a movable antenna (as does the Asus) which I really like as a feature. 

[LogicalDrm]

17 minutes ago, nkucz said:

I have absolutely no idea, they don't post any information about their network online. I'd rather go with the Gigabyte if I don't really need the Asus as it's like another $20. The Gigabyte also has a movable antenna (as does the Asus) which I really like as a feature. 

Gigabytes problem is that its only N900 while two others are AC. But if you aren't sure which standard network uses, it might not matter.

[nkucz]

1 hour ago, LoGiCalDrm said:

Gigabytes problem is that its only N900 while two others are AC. But if you aren't sure which standard network uses, it might not matter.

What are the downsides between N900 and AC, also if the Asus is going to make a noticeable difference and will last longer, I have no problem spending a little extra to get it I guess. 

[manikyath]

two generic recommendations:

 

- get something with an antenna on a wire, so the antennas arent pressed against the back of what is essentially a farraday cage

- get something PCIe (you seemingly already nailed this one)

 

beyond that, they're essentially all the same amount of suckyness.

[KnightSirius]

I'd definitely go for the Asus simply because of the Wireless AC support which could be useful in the future for you.

As @manikyath mentioned, getting one that has the antennas able to be positioned away from the rear of the case is ideal. Two models up in the Asus line-up, the AC68 supports this and I've had experience with it and it's a very good product!

 

If you can spare the extra cash I think it's worth the extra 30 bucks or so. You may be able to find it cheaper if you look around I just checked amazon as that is what you posted above.