AX1800 USB WiFi Adapter for Desktop PC, WAVLINK USB WiFi
AX1800 USB WiFi Adapter for Desktop PC, WAVLINK USB WiFi Dongle, Dual Band 5Ghz(1201Mbps)+2.4Ghz(574Mbps), MU-MIMO, Beamforming, WPA3 Encryption, Support Win 11/1
From the brand
AX1800 USB WiFi Adapter for Desktop PC, WAVLINK USB WiFi Dongle, Dual Band 5Ghz(1201Mbps)+2.4Ghz(574Mbps), MU-MIMO, Beamforming, WPA3 Encryption, Support Win 11/1
Not the best looking, but works very well as a WiFi antenna. I used this with an older device which did not support the latest standards and struggled to keep a high quality connection. Much better now, and probably would beat the solution in most laptops, so good to connect to a hub to improve the quality of your connection.
This device gave me an excellent WiFi signal for my desktop in my upstairs office with the router being downstairs. Achieved 100 Mbps on a speed test. Had a slight problem downloading the driver. The delivery included a USB stick marked “Driver”, but the instructions only referred to downloading from the internet. No reference to the USB stick. A minor point, but worth sorting.
This device is designed to work on Windows PC’s. I installed the driver from the supplied USB stick and plugged it in and our Win10 machine could see it. Then going into the wireless configuration page I could select our home network, enter the security code and away it went. I could get 153 Mbps download and 36 Mbps upload. This number isn’t that scientific though , as we already use WifI repeaters to get the signal up to the top of the house. When I connected my mobile phone ( Old Galaxy S9 ) to the same network and ran the test I got 214 Mbps download so this device isn’t the fastest but it performed well for its price. It looks good and comes with a very sturdy USB cable. I couldn’t see an obvious way to make it act as a transmitter but that is probably more my issue than the device !
So far, I have been very pleased with the performance of this WAVLINK AX1800 dual band USB Wi-Fi adapter, this has replaced a double antenna Wi-Fi USB dongle that was plugged into the rear of my PC.
On connection using a rear USB 3.0 port on my Window 11 PC, I had to install the driver that’s on the supplied USB stick, then reboot the PC. I then went to the network settings followed by the change adaptor options, removed my old adaptor and added this adaptor and network password as the default Now even though the Wi-Fi adaptor is a few rooms away from my hub I’m getting maximum signal strength.
I ran a few speed tests across my network and record consistent download speed of around 450Mbps. Speed tests on the internet with my BT connection resulted in speeds of around 283Mbps download and 109Mbps upload using the 5GHz band, this is low for this 5GHz/1200Mbps and 2.4GHz/574Mbps adaptor, this speed depends somewhat on the remote test server. But the main problem is my BT Smart Hub 2, this is not up to the task with my 900Mbps fibre connection. The new BT Smart Hub 3 is due out soon, this has Wi-Fi 6 Speed which this WAVLINK is specified for best speeds, this should really boast the connection speed of this WAVLINK Wi-Fi adapter to my PC.
Build quality is very good, it is fairly heavy, and has good rubber grip on the base. The base is also magnetic, this is great if placing on a metal PC case. The USB 3 cable is a decent length at 1M, and is surprisingly thick.
Overall, for me this WAVLINK AX1800 dual band Wi-Fi adaptor has produced a fast reliable connection each time the PC is switched on. Hopefully it will reach full potential when I update my Smart Hub. At 32.99 at the time of review this is excellent value, also at present there is a 3 discount voucher that can be applied.
I hope you find my review helpful
This wireless dongle works with Windows 11 and 10, which makes it a great choice for improving the wireless capabilities of your desktop. You can also plug this in and connect, which makes the setup super simple. There is a manual guide included if anyone needs help with the setup. The connection this device gives you is fast and also secure which makes it reliable. I have had no issues so far with this product.
Unlock the full potential of your internet connection and enjoy a superior online experience with this exceptional WiFi adapter.
Lightning-Fast Speeds: The adapter delivers remarkable dual-band speeds, making it a game-changer for desktop PC users. With an impressive 1201Mbps on the 5GHz band and 574Mbps on the 2.4GHz band, lag and buffering become a thing of the past. Whether you’re streaming high-definition content, gaming online, or downloading large files, this adapter ensures a seamless and uninterrupted experience.
MU-MIMO Technology: Multi-User Multiple Input Multiple Output (MU-MIMO) technology takes wireless performance to the next level. It allows multiple devices to receive data simultaneously, significantly improving network efficiency and reducing latency. With this adapter, you can connect multiple devices to your network without compromising speed or stability.
Enhanced Coverage and Stability: Thanks to its advanced beamforming technology, this WiFi adapter focuses and strengthens the signal towards your connected devices. This targeted approach enhances coverage and ensures a stable connection, even in areas with weak WiFi signals. Say goodbye to dead zones and enjoy reliable internet access throughout your home or office.
Robust Security Features: The product prioritizes your digital safety with its WPA3 encryption. This latest encryption standard offers enhanced protection against unauthorized access and ensures your data remains secure. Rest easy knowing that your sensitive information is safeguarded from potential threats.
Future-Proof Compatibility: With support for Windows 11 and Windows 10, this USB WiFi adapter ensures compatibility with the latest operating systems. Whether you’re upgrading your PC or purchasing a new one, you can rely on the product to provide seamless connectivity without any compatibility issues.
In conclusion, this 5-star adapter for Desktop PC is a top-notch solution for anyone seeking high-performance, reliable, and secure WiFi connectivity. Its remarkable speed, advanced features like MU-MIMO and beamforming, robust security measures, and future-proof compatibility make it a must-have for desktop PC users.
There is little to criticise with this device, that is really nicely packaged, and when you take it out, looks incredibly well made as a physical unit. I have to say that, as a non-radio specialist, it does look like the little (fixed) antenna are perfectly positioned to guarantee interference, but turns out not, of if so, only the good type (in which case, perhaps that was the point).
I took it out, plugged it in, and it found drivers straight away. There is that big device with the pointy things, and that worked fine as is, but for some strange reason there was also a thing that looks like a metal dongle that you can shove into the side of the computer and take up one port for no obvious reason. If I were the sort of person who read instruction manuals I would know what this was for, but since the thing worked straight away without it, I just put it into a drawer I keep such things that I do not know what they are for. Since the thing works great without it, I am going to assume it is a kind of souvenir object, so I do not forget this Wavlink brand and talk about it, but if there is some additional value to it, I would be keen to hear what it is.
My reception was always bad before, and now it certainly seems better. I am totally happy with what I have, just have this uncomfortable feeling that that other thing was important for something. Sadly, I threw the manual out that came with it, but happily, it works well without it anyway.
I found this to be a well-made and reliable adapter that has a premium feel about it. However, on my PC rig connecting to a BT Smart Hub 2 on 45MBS broadband, I am not getting any faster speeds with this than my 3 year old and much smaller form factor Netgear USB 3 adapter. I will report back if I find that overall this is faster, but if you are expecting big increases in speed over a previous adapter I am not sure you will find that. Full marks BTW to the manufacturer for making driver installation a breeze – as well as a mini CD there is a USB stick with the drivers on – that is a very nice touch !