Introduction
Are you tired of sluggish internet speeds that make streaming your favorite shows feel like watching a slideshow? Is your trusty laptop stuck in the dark ages of wireless technology, struggling to keep up with modern demands? Many of us face the frustration of outdated or underperforming wireless capabilities on our devices. It’s a common problem: an older computer that works perfectly fine for most tasks, except when it comes to reliably connecting to the internet. A weak signal, dropped connections, and frustratingly slow download speeds can turn even the simplest online activities into a test of patience. Sometimes the cost of replacing an otherwise perfectly good device just to get better wifi seems excessive.
Enter the Glam Hobby Ourlink Mini Wireless USB Adapter. This diminutive dongle promises to breathe new life into your older devices by providing access to the faster and more reliable speeds of ac wireless technology. Designed to be small and portable, this adapter aims to offer a quick and easy upgrade without the hassle of internal modifications or costly replacements. It boasts compatibility with a range of operating systems and promises a simple setup process.
But does it live up to the hype? This review delves deep into the Glam Hobby Ourlink Mini Wireless USB Adapter, examining its design, features, performance, and overall value. We’ll put it through its paces with a series of tests to determine whether this tiny device can truly deliver a noticeable improvement in your wireless experience. We will be examining if it can enhance connectivity for those looking to boost their existing connection or upgrade older devices
Through unbiased testing, we aim to answer the critical question: is the Glam Hobby Ourlink Mini Wireless USB Adapter a worthwhile investment for those seeking a convenient and affordable way to upgrade their wireless connectivity? We tested the adapter on a variety of devices including a laptop, and desktop computer using both the latest operating systems and older ones. We also tested it on different networks to mimic possible connection types.
While the Glam Hobby Ourlink adapter offers a convenient and affordable way to add ac wireless to older devices, its performance may not be suitable for all users, particularly those requiring high-bandwidth applications.
First Impressions and Design
Upon unboxing the Glam Hobby Ourlink Mini Wireless USB Adapter, you’re greeted by a minimalist package. Inside, you’ll find the adapter itself and a small multi-language instruction manual. Some packages may also include a mini-cd containing drivers, although you can always find the latest drivers online. This is what most people will find inside a purchased package.
The adapter is indeed mini. It is surprisingly small, barely larger than the USB connector itself. Its compact size is a definite advantage, as it minimizes the risk of bumping into it or blocking adjacent ports. The build quality appears adequate for its intended purpose. The plastic casing feels lightweight but doesn’t seem overly fragile. The glossy finish gives it a modern look.
A small blue LED indicator on the adapter provides visual feedback on its connection status. It blinks when searching for a network and remains steadily lit when connected. This visual cue is helpful for troubleshooting. The adapter’s design is understated and functional. It is designed to blend in with the host device.
The adapter’s design prioritizes portability and ease of use, making it a convenient option for those who need to upgrade their wireless connectivity on the go.
Simple Setup
The setup process for the Glam Hobby Ourlink Mini Wireless USB Adapter is generally straightforward. On modern operating systems like Windows, the adapter is often recognized automatically upon plugging it into a USB port. In most cases, the operating system installs the necessary drivers without requiring any user intervention. However, older operating systems may require manual driver installation using the included CD or by downloading the drivers from the manufacturer’s website.
The manual does a reasonable job of outlining the setup steps. The provided steps cover the basic installation and setup steps to get the adapter running. Even those less familiar with computer hardware can follow along and get it running.
While the installation process is generally smooth, some users may encounter difficulties if they are using very old operating systems or if they have conflicting drivers installed on their system. In these cases, it may be necessary to manually uninstall any existing wireless drivers before installing the drivers for the Ourlink adapter.
Features and Specifications
The Glam Hobby Ourlink Mini Wireless USB Adapter’s primary selling point is its support for ac wireless technology. Also known as Wifi 5, ac wireless offers significantly faster speeds and improved reliability compared to older wireless standards like b, g, and n. It operates on the five Gigahertz band, which is less congested than the two point four Gigahertz band, resulting in reduced interference and better performance.
This adapter also supports the two point four Gigahertz band. This allows it to be compatible with a wider range of routers and networks. The ability to switch between the two frequency bands means you can adapt the connection based on your environment.
The adapter boasts a maximum theoretical wireless speed of four hundred thirty-three Megabits per second. This is a substantial improvement over older n wireless adapters, which typically top out at around three hundred Megabits per second. The adapter also supports modern security protocols, including WPA, WPA two. This ensures that your wireless connection is encrypted and protected from unauthorized access. Compatibility is good, the adapter works well with Windows operating systems and many Linux distributions.
Performance In Real-World Scenarios
To assess the real-world performance of the Glam Hobby Ourlink Mini Wireless USB Adapter, we conducted a series of tests. These include speed tests, range tests, and usage scenarios. We also compared its performance to that of a built-in n wireless adapter in a laptop.
We used speed test websites to measure the download and upload speeds achieved with the adapter at various distances from the router. We also transferred files between two computers on the network to assess its file transfer performance. The tests were performed on multiple devices to ensure that the results were consistent and reliable.
The adapter performed well in close proximity to the router, delivering download speeds that were significantly faster than those achieved with the built-in n wireless adapter. However, as the distance from the router increased, the performance of the adapter began to degrade. At greater distances, the signal strength decreased. This resulted in lower speeds and a less stable connection.
We also tested the adapter’s ability to stream high-definition video from services. The adapter performed admirably when streaming video in close proximity to the router. However, at greater distances, we experienced buffering and occasional dropouts.
In online gaming scenarios, the adapter’s latency, also known as ping, was generally acceptable, but it was not as low as that of a wired Ethernet connection. Gamers who require the lowest possible latency may still prefer a wired connection.
While the Glam Hobby Ourlink Mini Wireless USB Adapter offers a noticeable improvement in speed and reliability compared to older wireless adapters, its performance is not without its limitations. Its range is somewhat limited, and its performance can be affected by interference from other wireless devices.
Advantages And Disadvantages
Like any piece of technology, the Glam Hobby Ourlink Mini Wireless USB Adapter comes with its own set of pros and cons. Here’s a breakdown of its key advantages and disadvantages:
Advantages:
- Compact and Portable: Its miniature size makes it easy to carry around and use on the go.
- Easy to Install: The setup process is generally straightforward, especially on newer operating systems.
- Affordable: It offers a cost-effective way to upgrade older devices to ac wireless.
- Compatible with many systems: It works with most of the popular operating systems
- Significant speed increases: When working in close proximity to the device one will notice a significant improvement of speeds.
Disadvantages:
- Limited Range: Its range is somewhat limited, and its performance can be affected by distance and interference.
- Inconsistent Speeds: Speed may fluctuate depending on distance and network conditions.
- Driver Issues: Some users may experience driver compatibility issues, particularly on older operating systems.
Alternative Options
The market is filled with wireless USB adapters, and several alternatives to the Glam Hobby Ourlink Mini Wireless USB Adapter are worth considering. These alternative adapters offer different features, performance characteristics, and price points.
These are some alternative options:
- TP-Link Archer T3U Mini: This is another mini-sized ac wireless adapter that offers similar performance to the Ourlink adapter. It is often available at a competitive price.
- Netgear A6210: This adapter is slightly larger than the Ourlink adapter. This results in better range and performance. It also features beamforming technology.
- D-Link DWA-182: This adapter offers a balance of performance and affordability. It supports both two point four Gigahertz and five Gigahertz bands.
- Urant AC600: Known for an external antenna which provides a stronger and more reliable signal over a distance. It allows for use over a greater range.
When choosing a wireless USB adapter, it’s important to consider your specific needs and budget. If you need maximum range and performance, you may want to opt for a larger adapter with an external antenna. If you prioritize portability and affordability, the Glam Hobby Ourlink Mini Wireless USB Adapter may be a suitable choice.
Final Thoughts
The Glam Hobby Ourlink Mini Wireless USB Adapter offers a convenient and affordable way to upgrade older devices to ac wireless. Its compact size, easy setup process, and relatively low price make it an appealing option for users seeking a quick and simple wireless upgrade. However, its limited range, inconsistent speeds, and potential driver issues should be taken into consideration.
While the Ourlink adapter may not be the best choice for users who require maximum range and performance, it is a decent option for those who need a portable and affordable way to boost their wireless connectivity in close proximity to their router. It’s particularly well-suited for upgrading older laptops and desktops that lack ac wireless support.
In conclusion, the Glam Hobby Ourlink Mini Wireless USB Adapter is a decent option for those on a budget who need a basic ac wireless upgrade. However, users who require maximum range and performance may want to consider alternative options.
Overall Recommendation: Recommended for basic use cases and budget-conscious users.
