The best USB Wi-Fi adapters offer a convenient way to get a desktop PC or older laptop online with the performance you need for smooth streaming and uninterrupted video calls. Not only do they make it easy to add wireless capabilities to a desktop PC, they can also breathe new life into a laptop that doesn’t meet the latest Wi-Fi standards.

Netgear’s Nighthawk A7000 handles today’s demanding internet activities like 4K streaming and online gaming. While it’s not the most compact adapter on our list, it’s a worth the trade-off if you don’t want to sacrifice speed or range.

During our testing, we found the A7000 was more than capable of handling the latest online games, albeit from an impressive three floors away from the main router. It also achieved speeds that were more than capable of handling even the highest-definition video streaming services, from Netflix to Disney+.

A simple installation CD makes setup easy: just plug it in, enter your Wi-Fi password, and you're up and running in minutes. There's also a WPS button for connecting to your main router if you prefer that method and your router supports it. The adapter also folds up easily, so you can throw it in your laptop bag for travel, although it's worth noting that its bulky size can make it a little tricky to use with thinner laptops. Fortunately, a magnetic mount is included so you can position it next to your computer, not only keeping it out of the way but also helping you get a better signal.