The best network cards for computers and laptops in 2022

Not everyone knows, but without a network card it would be impossible to access the Internet from a PC. That is, thanks to this device, people get access not only to the local network, but also interact with high networks. For example, with the Internet.

What is a network card?

It was already written earlier that this is an integral part for any stationary PC and laptop, since with the help of such an adapter, users can connect to the Internet.

What are network cards?

• built-in - an integral part of the motherboard, the use of which does not cause problems, because the card drivers are installed with other drivers;
• external - an adapter that is connected via a USB connector, additional installation of drivers is, of course, necessary, but, as a rule, occurs automatically;
• internal - a card that is installed in the slots of the motherboard itself, however, installing this is not as easy as the two previous categories.

What to pay attention to?

• data transfer rate;
• tires and speed of action;
• compatibility with microprocessors;
• connectors.

Top 4 Best Internal Network Cards for a Small Price in 2022

Attention! Comparative characteristics by goods are given in the table at the end of each sub-rating.

TP-LINK TG-3468

1 place

The device is suitable for users who do not want to bother. The model is compatible with operating systems, respectively, connects to each computer.

• no difficulty in using;
• easy installation;
• price;
• functionality;
• life time;
• compactness;
• the presence of a low profile bar.

• Not detected.

It is worth noting one feature of the device - it independently selects the data transfer rate due to special functions. It is also possible to power on a remote computer using Wake-on-LAN.

D-link DFE-520TX/A

2nd place

The adapter does not load the central processor, but, on the contrary, frees up "space" for the execution of other application programs.

• uninterrupted network operation;
• compact body;
• reliability;
• easy to install in the board;
• price;
• performance;
• works on some operating systems without installing drivers;
• stability.

• flimsy body;
• no hardware acceleration of packet processing.

The adapter is economical, automatically selects the required speed, determines the type of network, which facilitates the use of the card, since there is no need for constant manual settings. The device has a built-in buffer that quickly connects a computer to an Ethernet network.

Gembird NIC-R1

3rd place

The model supports the function of automatic network configuration. The adapter also provides an additional slot for an optional BIOS circuit.

• price;
• life time;
• diagnostic LED indicators;
• does not hang;
• reliability.

• Not detected.

A good adapter, inexpensive and of high quality, which is easy to install and copes with the tasks.

TP-LINK TL-WN781ND

4th place

WPA/WPA2 encryption guarantees the security of personal information, which indicates protection against external threats.

• removable antenna;
• compactness;
• stability;
• intended for a wireless network;
• Fits a standard PCI Express slot, x1, x2, x8, or x16;
• functionality;
• channel capacity.

• Not detected.

The device makes life easier for users, as the connection is constantly at the highest level, due to which the user quickly downloads files, IP-telephony and streaming videos.

Comparison table of goods:

Options	Interface	Transfer rate	Bus bandwidth	Wake-on-LAN support	Hardware encryption	Low Profile Card	Operating system	average price
Model name	Characteristic
TP-LINK TG-3468	PCI-E	10/100/1000	32	there is	No	there is	Windows 10/8.1/8/7/Vista/XP	566 rub.
D-link DFE-520TX/A	PCI	10/100	32	No	No	No	Windows 98SE/2000/ME/XP	346 rub.
Gembird NIC-R1	PCI	10/100	32	there is	No	there is	Windows 95/98/200/ME/XP/2007, Unix, Linux	380 rub.
TP-LINK TL-WN781ND	PCI-E	10/100	32	No	Yes	No	Windows 98 SE/2000/ME/XP NetWare	346 rub.

The cost of these models only pleases users, because high-quality devices are rarely sold at a low price. Also, these adapters are easy to install and serve for a long time.

Top 4 Best Expensive Internal Network Cards in 2022

Intel EXPI9301CT

1 place

With a huge data flow, the system does not “hang”, it continues to work as before.

• installation does not cause problems;
• work without interruption;
• amount of mood;
• design;
• reliable;
• RSS support;
• board architecture.

• Not detected.

According to numerous customer reviews, there are many fakes on the market that are sold next to the original models. The device is of high quality, works well, gets along with each OS, and during operation it is not noticeable at all.

D-link DGE-560T/B1

2nd place

The device has some problems with the drivers, but in general, the work is no different from the work of other models. Everything is also top notch.

• low profile;
• remote network load;
• energy saving function (in the absence of data flow, energy consumption is reduced);
• easy operation;
• quality.

• drivers may not work correctly on Linux.

The network adapter is notable for its performance, with its help it increases the bandwidth. Also, thanks to the device, users have more functionality.

ASUS XG-C100C

3rd place

The device will not cause inconvenience during operation.

• supports five speed modes;
• fast work;
• easy to install;
• QoS technology, which is used to prioritize network traffic;
• support for Jumbo Frames up to 9000;
• durability;
• quality.

• the radiator can get very hot.

Buyers claim that the model is of high quality, but it is difficult to find and buy. But as for the work, everything here is at the highest level, there are no problems either with the installation or with the work process itself. It is also important to note that even a large data stream does not degrade the quality of work.

HP Intel Ethernet I210-T1 GbE NIC

4th place

A reliable device, whose users are pleased not only with long-term operation, but also with universal compatibility with many operating systems.

• reliability;
• assembly;
• quality;
• durability.

• Not detected.

The network adapter copes with a large data stream, and over time there are no problems either.

Comparison table of goods:

Options	Interface	Transfer rate	Bus bandwidth	Wake-on-LAN support	Hardware encryption	Low Profile Card	Operating system	average price
Model name	Characteristic
Intel EXPI9301CT	PCI-E	10/100/1000	not specified	there is	there is	there is	Windows 2000/2003 Server/2008 Server/XP/Vista/7/8 Linux, FreeBSD, Novell Netware 6.5, DOS	2114 rub.
D-link DGE-560T/B1	PCI-E	10/100/1000	not specified	there is	No	there is	Windows 2003/2000/XP, Linux 2.2/2.6	1090 rub.
ASUS XG-C100C	PCI-E	10/100/1000/10000	32	No	there is	No	Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Linux	7687 rub.
HP Intel Ethernet I210-T1 GbE NIC	PCI-E x1	10/100/1000	not specified	No	No	there is	Windows 98SE/2000/ME/XP	2885 rub.

The cards in the rating are functional, work without interruptions, and are popular among Internet users.

Top 4 Best External Network Cards for a Small Price in 2022

TP-LINK UE200

1 place

The device is small and does not take up much space, so it is easy to take it with you. Also connect to it quickly, which saves a significant amount of time.

• compactness;
• design;
• folding cable;
• quality materials;
• appearance;
• transmission stability;
• universal compatibility;
• Supports Plug & Play.

Not detected.

The device is suitable for those whose computer is not equipped with an additional network port.

Gembird NIC-U2

2nd place

Compact equipment that will provide users with uninterrupted access to the Internet.

• reliable design;
• appearance;
• comfortable operation;
• speed;
• automatic installation of the Plug and Play driver.

• Not detected.

The adapter automatically detects the connection speed.In addition, one- and two-way exchange is available to users at a supported rate of information exchange.

5bites UA2-45-02BK

3rd place

An ordinary adapter does its job well, transfers information quickly and does not slow down anything.

• appearance;
• quality;
• durability;
• reliability;
• no need for drivers;
• no effort required to connect;
• availability of necessary functions.

• Not detected.

Users in such devices primarily appreciate ease of use. The specific model has everything you need, so there will be no need for additional expenses.

TP-LINK TL-WN727N

4th place

The device operates even at a distance, the speed remains the same even when performing several activities on the Internet at the same time (for example, watching a movie and playing online games).

• quick security button;
• compactness;
• trouble-free operation;
• design;
• range (acts even at long distances).

• Not detected.

With built-in CCA technology, users avoid channel confusion as the technology is automatically able to select free channels.

Comparison table of goods:

Options	USB interface	Transfer rate	Number of RJ-45 connectors	Chip	Supported operating system	average price
Model name	Characteristic
TP-LINK UE200	2.0	10/100	1	RTL8152B	Windows XP/Vista/7/8/8.1/10), Mac OS X (10.6/10.7/10.8/10.9/10.10), Linux	573 rub.
Gembird NIC-U2	2.0	10/100	1	RTL8152	Windows XP/Vista/7/8/ANDROID/MAC	580 rub.
5bites UA2-45-02BK	2.0	10/100	1	8152b	Windows 98se/2000/ME/XP/Vista/Win7/8, Linux, Android 2.1-4.0, Mac Os 8.6 or above	570 rub.
TP-LINK TL-WN727N	2.0	150	1	not specified	Windows 7/8/XP	373 rub.

The products in the rating are rated by users who have been using the devices for a long time, and there have been no problems with operation over a long period of use.

Top 5 Best Expensive External Network Cards in 2022

Xiaomi Ethernet Network Adapter

1 place

The model leaves only a positive impression when working.

• exploitation;
• action at a distance;
• durability;
• appearance.

• Not detected.

A high-quality adapter that will become an indispensable thing for those who do not have the opportunity to access the Internet using a network cable.

ESPADA UsbGL

2nd place

Decent network card.

• speed;
• design;
• durability;
• ease of operation;
• supported by Linux distributions;
• LEDs;
• works with Ubuntu.

Not detected.

A compact LAN adapter that does not open the system unit for connection.

D-link DUB-E100

3rd place

The device conserves computer power. The card does not have an external power supply, therefore it is compact compared to other devices.

• drivers for the OS that are installed automatically without outside intervention;
• appearance;
• reliability;
• no connection delay;
• quality.

• short wire;
• gets very hot.

The card is designed to connect to household appliances and devices to the Internet.

Apple MD463ZM/A

4th place

The famous brand has also distinguished itself by the production of adapters. There is no doubt that the product is of high quality and meets all the necessary requirements of users.

• transfers data quickly
• compactness;
• manufacturing quality;
• neat appearance;
• functionality;
• reliability;
• simple installation.

• will not work without drivers;
• warms up a little
• no LEDs.

The model works without problems and complaints. The conductor is branded, suitable for the equipment of the same manufacturer, because it often happens that products from other brands worsen the condition of the “nest”.

ASUS OH102 Ethernet Adapter

5th place

A universal model that will provide the Internet not only for a PC or laptop, but also for a tablet. Accordingly, this is an ideal addition to any device.

• quality;
• no additional software installation required;
• speed;
• PXE network boot function;
• light;
• power indicator LED;
• there is a function of remote inclusion Wol;
• Wake-on-LAN support.

• does not work on the Android operating system.

The adapter is compatible with almost all devices, saves energy at low load.

Comparative characteristics of goods:

Options	USB interface	Transfer rate	Number of RJ-45 connectors	Chip	Supported operating system	average price
Model name	Characteristic
Xiaomi Ethernet Network Adapter	2.0	10/100	1	not specified	Window 2000/XP/Vista/7/8/10, Mac OS X 10.x	2030 rub.
ESPADA UsbGL	3.0	10/100/1000	1	not specified	Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista	948 rub.
D-link DUB-E100	2.0	10/100	1	8152b	Windows 98sWindows XP, MAC OS X	1000 rub.
Apple MD463ZM/A	Thunderbolt	10/100/1000	1	not specified	Microsoft Windows Vista/XP/Me/2000/98SE; MAC OS version from 10.4 to 10.7; linux	2487 rub.
ASUS OH102 Ethernet Adapter	3.0	10/100/1000	1	not specified	Windows, MAC OS Windows, Mac, Chrome OS and Nintendo Switch game console	1790 rub.

The high cost does not add even more functionality to the devices. In general, there is no difference at all between budget and premium network cards, so it is important to pay attention only to those characteristics that are important specifically to you and your loved ones.

Network cards are responsible for access to the Internet. But the data transfer is not fast, and the extremely low speed of the Internet does not allow comfortable use due to the low quality of the device. Accordingly, it is extremely important to choose an adapter that will make life easier for users. We recommend that you review our rating based on reviews again to choose the best adapter.