WLAN stick or card? - Advantages and disadvantages
If you want to use a WLAN network at home, you can choose between a WLAN stick or a WLAN card. In this practical tip, we list the advantages and disadvantages of both components.
The advantages of a WLAN card
The WLAN card is often permanently installed in the device and is therefore a real powerhouse:
- A WLAN card is permanently installed in the motherboard of the computer.
- The antenna can be exchanged as desired, which means that the WLAN signal can have a longer range.
The disadvantages of a WLAN card
- The WLAN signal may be shielded. This is especially the case if you have placed the PC on a wall.
- Older PCs in particular often do not have the respective slot, so you will probably have to do without retrofitting.
The advantages of a WLAN stick
The WLAN stick offers a small and handy solution:
- You can simply insert the stick into a free USB slot on your PC or laptop.
- Older PCs can also benefit from the use of the WLAN stick. However, no separate antenna is installed here.
The disadvantages of a WLAN stick
- Due to the lack of an antenna, reception can be worse than with a WLAN card.
- Since the stick protrudes from the housing of your PC, you must be careful not to accidentally break it off.
The conclusion: WLAN card vs. Stick
- A WLAN card is particularly worthwhile if you live in a large apartment and have to bridge a greater distance to the router. However, it is not suitable for older PCs. You can get a WLAN card for around 18 euros.
- If you are only a few meters away from the router, you should grab the stick. Here, the WiFi signal will be sufficient due to the short distance. If required, you can get a WLAN stick for around 8 euros.
If you don't see any WiFi networks under Windows 7, you should take a look at our next practical tip.
DSL comparison calculator
in cooperation with communicationAds.net