Best linux usb or pcie wifi adapter

[mockedarche]

So im leaving windows to linux as im getting into programming and mostly only watch youtube. Doesn't have to support 5ghz doesn't have to be insanely fast but I need great compatibility. Preferably with ubuntu, fedora, and parrot os. I have this wifi usb adapter https://www.trendtechcn.com/Product.aspx?ProductId=322 which i've read works perfectly fine with linux but can't seem to get working. Make file always spits out an error (even with drivers from vendor and multiple github files). Any suggestions on what wifi adapter you have on linux or ones that the chipset doesn't change. (note don't care about monitor mode)

[Sauron]

There's a pretty in depth review of some linux friendly adapters here, check it out.

[Alex Atkin UK]

Have you tried looking at devices that are supported by native kernel modules?  eg https://wikidevi.com/wiki/Rt2800usb

 

There are quite a few sellers on eBay who also specifically point out Linux support.

[mockedarche]

@SauronThank you so much so to put it short I bought one of the adapters that was suggested (one that needed drivers installed). After a couple hours of trying different drivers I FINALLY got it working... 15 bucks... MY FULL 250Mbs down and 5ghz...... MY internet is faster on this cheap 15 bucks wifi adapter than my 30 bucks one for windows....

[Alex Atkin UK]

Personally I would always go for one that uses stock Linux kernel drivers, but at least you got it working.

I'd still be a little concerned that a later kernel update might break compatibility though.

[mockedarche]

@Alex Atkin UK im using dkms so I assume it will be fine after an update. 

[Alex Atkin UK]

Not necessarily, the kernel API often changes preventing legacy (drivers written for older kernels) from compiling.  So you are still reliant on whoever is writing that driver to continue updating it, which is arguably less likely to happen than a driver that is part of the Linux kernel itself.

 

Plus you are going to have to manually keep an eye on that driver for any bug/security fixes that might be important.

For these reasons I would much prefer to stick with a card that already has its driver merged in the kernel and so is likely to be getting active support.

[mockedarche]

@Alex Atkin UK Actually found out in the software and updates it finds a better driver. Not sure if it will carry over but the fact I can get it just by one click means a much better chance of support. Also its a LTS release and ubuntu so kernel changes will be less likely to rush out. I am not an elite mega hacker or have mission critical information on my computer. Any bugs or security issues simply aren't a major issue. Remember this is linux and while yes still easily hackable far less likely especially since I dont use this computer for any dark web or stuff. I'd rather spend 15$ and get a full 250 Mbits down than spend 25-30$ and get 50Mbits down (im sure there are better ratios than this) but on average 5ghz support and ac support are much more expensive or hard to find.