Televisions have been popular throughout the 20th century since their creation. For a long time, television has improved, improved and only gotten better - in terms of technology. Now you can easily watch any movie, listen to music or view photos from a black box.
Although now they look more like black squares hanging on the wall. Oh, Malevich! You predicted the future in your time. And now everyone has your prediction. And we look at the black square and see all the charms and beauty of this world.
Modern TVs are equipped with a module that can receive a Wi-Fi signal. At the same time, you can connect it to your home router and receive a TV signal from the Internet or from a computer. It is also very convenient to broadcast from a laptop and watch movies in widescreen HD quality with the whole family.
What to do if this adapter is not available? The fact is that not all TV manufacturers install it inside. In this case, a Wi-FI adapter will help to connect the TV to a wireless network.
Advantages and properties
- Connect to a wireless network without using twisted pair or other wires.
- Synchronization with laptops, computers, phones and other devices for sending videos, movies, photos, music to the TV screen.
- Display your PC desktop on your TV screen.
- Watch movies in wider resolution. Agree, watching a movie from a laptop with the whole family is not very convenient.
- Receiving a digital TV signal from the provider via the router. That is, the Internet cable that is connected to the router will supply not only the Internet, but also TV.
- Control your device from your phone or tablet. This feature is not available on all models.
Why do you need a Wi-Fi adapter for TV?
The scope of application of external modules is very wide. It’s not always just about going online. Here is just a short list of what a Wi-Fi adapter for a TV is needed for:
- actually, a device for a TV to access the Internet via Wi-Fi;
- connection to a local network – allows you to transfer files from a PC for playback on TV wirelessly (DLNA standard);
- Miracast standard – screen mirroring from a phone or laptop to TV;
- devices that expand the function to SMART TV. Equipped with separate remote controls.
The various modules also have many features. Simple options do not require configuration or additional software. Devices with advanced features contain batteries or a short USB cable to power themselves. Some devices can be controlled from a smartphone. When choosing a Wi-Fi unit for your TV, first of all you need to understand what functionality you need.
So, you have decided what a Wi-Fi adapter for a TV is, you can imagine what it looks like, and you definitely won’t confuse it with a router or a regular flash drive. Now it's time to get serious and choose the perfect model for your device. What should you pay attention to when purchasing so as not to get into trouble?
TOP rating of the best adapters for connection
To select this rating, I specifically looked at the characteristics of the models first. I correlated two main parameters: price and quality. And then I looked at the reviews to see how this or that model behaves in real life. You can view the review and make a comparison yourself based on your criteria.
Wi-Fi TV receiver Dongle M3
Huge support for television and digital video formats. There is built-in RAM and the ability to connect an external SD drive. Does not work with 5 GHz frequency.
| CPU | ARM Cortex A7 Rockchip RK3036G 1.2 GHz |
| operating system | Linux 3.0.8 |
| External antenna | 2.4GHz |
| Picture size | 480/720/1080P |
| Formats | AVI, DIVX, MKV, TS, DAT, MPG, (MPEG1,2,4,) MP4 |
TOSHIBA WLM-20U2
A good budget option for home. Reliable model without interruption with a high-quality antenna. Will be able to work continuously and stably in a 3-7 room apartment.
| Price | 1620 |
| Supported Standards | Wi-Fi 1 (802.11b) Wi-Fi 3 (802.11g) Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) |
| Frequency | 2.4 – 5 GHz |
| Interface | USB 2.0 |
| Antenna | 1 internal |
Samsung WIS12ABGNX/NWT
Specialized device for Samsung TVs. DLNA allows you to connect mobile devices, phones, photo and video cameras. Has version 1.5.
| Standards | 802.11 (b, n, g, a) |
| TV support | Samsung D5000, D8000, C550, D550, E 490 |
| Connection | DLNA |
| average cost | 1400 |
USB WiFi adapter UWA-BR100
Designed for Sony equipment. Well suited for almost all TVs of this company. Works stably in a small apartment. A larger home may require a stronger transmitter or installation close to the receiver. The only negative is the high price.
| Data Standards | IEEE 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 8 |
| Compatibility | for Sony AV equipment |
| Frequency | 2.4 – 5 GHz |
| Encryption | WPA, WPA2, WEP |
| Price | 7000 |
LG AN-WF500
This is a full-fledged module with an external adapter to improve signal reception. It also has a built-in Bluetooth transmitter for connecting headphones or other wireless headsets. A small drawback is that it is connected via a wire, and the model itself must stand or be fixed next to the TV.
| Model support | LG LB5800, LB6100, LB6190, PB6600 |
| Network protocols | 802.11n, 802.11g, 802.11b, 802.11a |
| Data transfer | WiFi |
| Built-in Bluetooth | Version 3.0 |
| Price | 3200 |
Stream TV DIB-200 from D-Link
Budget model with micro-USB and HDMI port for connection. You can connect from your phone or tablet. Works with operating systems based on Android and iOS.
| Connecting mobile devices | Android 4.2 and above, iOS 5.0 and above |
| Video format | 1080p |
| Interface | HDMI, micro USB |
| Price | 800 |
Philips PTA01/0
To output digital media files for older Philips models without a Wi-Fi module. Excellent data transmission quality without interference or interruptions.
| Device Compatibility | 32PFL7605, 32PFL7655, 32PFL7665, 32PFL7675, 32PFL7685, 32PFL7695, 32PFL8605, 37PFL7605, 37PFL7675, 37PFL8605, 40PFL7605, 40PFL8605, 42P FL7655, 42PFL7665, 42PFL7675, 42PFL7685, 42PFL7695, 42PFL8605, 46PFL7605, 46PFL7655, 46PFL7665, 46PFL7695, 46PFL8605, 46PFL8685 52PFL8605, _PFL58x6 (Eu), _PFL6xx6 (Eu), _PFL74x6 (Eu), _PFL7606 (Eu), _PFL7656 (Eu), _PFL7676 (Eu), _PFL7696 (Eu), _PFL58x6 (LatAm), _PFL6xx6 (Lat Am), _PFL7xx6 (Lat Am) , _PFL8xx6, (Lat Am), _PFL7xx6 (Asia), _PFL35x7 (Eu), _PFL4xx7 (Eu) |
| Frequency | 2.4 GHz |
| Encryption | WPA/ WPA2/ WEP |
| Price | 2230 |
| Connection | USB 2.0 |
How to choose?
I’ll immediately note one very important detail; I advise you to take a module from the same manufacturer as your TV. Then there will be no connection problems. No matter how some models claim that they supposedly fit all models, disconnects or interruptions may occur during viewing.
Such devices cost a little more, but believe me, the picture quality will be better. Once, a friend of mine bought a cheap model. The result is that the picture was interrupted and the flash drive was constantly heating up due to the flow of data.
In no case should you confuse an external Wi-Fi adapter for a laptop or computer and a module for a TV. Yes, they use the same protocols and standards, but the problem lies in the TV's firmware. The fact is that if you connect the adapter from a PC, most likely nothing will work, and there will be no signal. Perhaps in the future the firmware on TV devices will be made more cross-platform.
There are three types of connection:
- PCMCIA
- HDMI
- USB
PCMCIA is an older type of digital connection. Nowadays, Wi-Fi modules with USB and HDMI interfaces are more often sold. For devices from LG, Philips, Samsung, Panasonic, Toshiba, Sony, you should take a proprietary Wi-Fi unit. For others, cross-platform modules may be suitable - for example from D-Link.
Wi-Fi adapter is...
A Wi-Fi adapter or wireless adapter is a device for connecting a TV to a wireless network. If your TV does not have built-in Wi-Fi, but does have a Smart TV function, in most cases it should support external Wi-Fi adapters. You can find confirmation of this in the TV menu or instructions for it.
Tuner standards and signal strength
As you may have noticed, most models that work with a Wi-Fi network have so-called data transfer standards. This is a very important indicator for both the receiver (in this case, our module) and the sender (router or router).
The maximum speed and range depend on the supported standards. The receiver uses these standards more often.
| Standard | Radius | Frequency | Data transfer rate |
| 802.11a | up to 30 meters | 5 GHz | 54 Mbit/s |
| 802.11g | up to 50 meters | 2.4 GHz | 54 Mbit/s |
| 802.11n | up to 100 meters | 2.4 or 5 GHz | theoretically up to 480 Mbit/s |
It must be borne in mind that these throughput and footage indicators are maximum under ideal conditions. That is, in life, walls, radio waves, telephone and electromagnetic waves usually reduce both the range and speed by an order of magnitude.
Also consider the operating frequency of the receiver and transmitter. If they operate at different frequencies, the receiver will not be able to pick up the signal. According to standard settings, routers have a frequency of 2.4 GHz, which increases the range.
But cunning system administrators can set the frequency to 5 GHz, which slightly increases the security of the network. This is usually done to connect Wi-Fi cameras. Because of this unpopular standard, attackers will not be able to connect to both the router and the Wi-Fi camera. So be sure to look at the operating frequency of the module.
It is imperative to take into account the number of obstacles from the router to the TV. The best option is 5-10 meters with 1-2 walls. Walls should not be more than 20 cm wide. If there are many more obstacles in the way, a microwave oven, a radiotelephone or other sources of interference, then the signal will be weaker and the radius will be smaller.
Because of which the speed will drop. Packets that will be sent to TV will be lost in the chaos of waves of different frequencies, and the video or film will slow down.
All current models have WPA and WPA2 encryption standards. WPA is needed to support older routers, but this technology is not very reliable and the network can be hacked. WPA2 is a modern signal encryption technology and is almost impossible to crack.
Let's summarize and highlight the main aspects for choosing the right device:
- TV brand – it’s worth taking branded adapters.
- If the TV does not have its own line of modules, it is worth taking a cross-platform one with compatibility between different TV devices.
- Supports 2.4-5 GHz frequency and 802.11 standard – class a, g and n.
- With WPA2 or WPA encryption.
TP-Link TL-WN822N
We are talking about a popular manufacturer of routers and adapters, which this time provides a compact and efficient device. At the same time, the coverage radius affects hard-to-reach places.
Stable operation is guaranteed, although there are still small errors. Most problems can be resolved with a simple reboot.
- Products from this brand have wide technical support, but Windows OS may sometimes not install the driver correctly.
- Therefore, it is recommended to carry out this procedure manually. The disadvantage is the lack of 5 GHz.
- The adapter's throughput is 300 Mbps with Wi-Fi 4. This is quite enough for high-quality movies.
In addition, the wave radius of a single-band adapter is higher than that of a dual-band adapter.
This means that walls will not interfere with a stable connection and comfortable viewing. There is also a decent supply of wire, allowing you to place the adapter in the desired location.
How to install and configure
- We plug the Wi-Fi module into the TV into any of the available connectors.
- Next, on the TV, from the remote control, go to settings or options.
- Go to the “Networks” section. Depending on the type of firmware, the name of the configuration section may be different (Wireless networks, wireless connection), the main meaning is here.
- Now we connect to the wireless network. Select your network.
- Enter the access password and connect.
WPS connection
- We go to the router and look for the WPS quick access button. It is usually located on the back panel. For Zyxel Keenetic routers, the button is located on the front of the device - it has a wave or key icon. Just press the button.
- To do this, set the setting to WPS in the TV settings. You will be asked to enter your PIN or password.
- We go back to the router and click on the same WPS button for access.
How to connect a Wi-Fi adapter to your TV
The procedure for connecting a Wi-Fi adapter - a wireless signal transmitter - to a TV is simple. The module is connected to the connector, after which a connection to the network is made through the standard Smart TV menu. Select the "wireless connection" or "WiFi" option, then enter the password using the remote. Having completed this procedure once, you will no longer have to think about connecting to the network.
At the end, I’ll note whether it’s possible to connect a Wi-Fi adapter to a TV without a Smart TV. Directly - no, but the opportunity to expand its functions always remains. You need a Smart set-top box that will act as a “computer” for TV. This is a small device that runs on Android or iOS. It is usually connected via an HDMI port.
Having any of the compatible gadgets - an adapter, a functional module, a set-top box or simply a router - you can access the Internet and enjoy all the benefits of modern technologies. The only question is to find the right option for the price. Therefore, when buying a new or used TV, pay attention to the presence of a built-in Wi-Fi module.
Doesn't connect - problem solution
Let's first look at what frequency our router operates at; perhaps the wireless network settings were previously set to 5 GHz. The fact is that the module usually operates according to the standard at a frequency of 2.4, and if the router settings are set to 5 GHz, there will be no connection.
- Open the browser and enter 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 in the address bar.
- We register the login and password that was set earlier.
- In the menu we look for “Wireless network” , “ Wi- Fi” or “SSID”.
- Set the frequency to 2.4 GHz. Also make sure all 802.11 class a, g and n standards are installed.
If this does not help, then you need to register the network settings on the TV. We go into the network settings and manually register the IP, mask and DNS. You can use the Google config as DNS:
- Main: 8.8.8.8
- Alternative: 8.8.4.4
What is it for?
The Wi-Fi adapter is designed for wirelessly receiving movies, audio and photos from the Internet, computer, smartphone, tablet, etc. to play this media on a big screen.
Using a Wi-Fi adapter, you can quickly synchronize your TV and another device. This makes it possible to set up a local network between a PC and a TV, without the use of wires and over a long distance.
You can simultaneously work on your computer and stream media content to your TV, or use it as a second screen without using a router.
How to boost or improve the signal
Sometimes there is a connection, but there may be problems with video interruption when the picture starts to lag. This means that the speed has dropped and packets are being lost. There are several things you can do:
- Try to place the router as close to the TV as possible.
- There should not be any significant interference on the way to the signal in the form of telephones and microwaves.
- Go to your router settings. Then to the wireless network. Make sure that the desired option is in the “country” subsection. This is necessary for the device to automatically detect the communication channels used. This way, Wi-Fi will not conflict with radio and telephone waves according to the standard in your country. If there is no country setting, then set the channel to mode: 1, 3 or 5.
- Turn the antennas towards the TV and tilt them at an angle of 45 degrees.
SMART TV set-top box
Smart TV allows you not only to receive a signal from a PC, laptop or phone, but also to organize Internet access directly from the TV. For film buffs, this is just a godsend. You can go to any website from a TV running a set-top box and watch TV series, movies, Youtube, Twitch, or just read articles and browse pages.
Expensive modern models have this function, but they are also expensive. So you can just buy a cheap TV with a high-quality picture and an additional set-top box. The set-top box also has a Wi-Fi receiver that allows you to connect to a local network. Therefore, the connection can be made in two ways: via wire and via Wi-Fi.
Features of Smart TV set-top boxes
- Access the Internet using the built-in browser interface.
- Search is carried out using the numeric keypad. Not very convenient, but practical.
- Supports all existing codecs and Flash player.
- Some models have a card reader system that supports well-known card formats. So you can easily connect a card from a photo or video camera and watch photos from your vacation.
- The built-in memory allows you to record football matches, movies, cartoons even when the device is turned off.
- Can act as a digital set-top box.
- High speed of receiving and processing information.
iconBIT Movie One (PC-0036W)
| operating system | Android 4.4 |
| Memory cards | microSD, microSDHC |
| Built-in memory | 1GB |
| Inputs | USB 2.0, HDMI, 3.5 mm audio/video, LAN (RJ-45) |
| Price | 3845 |
iconBIT Movie Ultra HD 4K (PC-0035W)
| operating system | Android 7.1 |
| Memory cards | microSD, microSDHC |
| Built-in memory | 8GB |
| Inputs | USB 2.0, HDMI, 3.5 mm audio/video, LAN (RJ-45) |
| Price | 7000 |
How to choose?
I'll briefly tell you what you should pay attention to:
- Supports two connection types: Internet cable and Wi-Fi. There are models with only one type of connection, so you need to look at it based on the situation.
- For high-quality images and fast work without brakes, it is better to choose a Quad Core or Dual-core microprocessor. There must be at least 2 cores.
- Supported ports. It's better to use HDMI. For older TVs, you should choose ones with VGA and AV support.
- Availability of additional ports USB, VGA, Optical, Ethernet.
WiFi adapter for Samsung TV
The Wi-Fi adapter for Samsung TV is present as built-in equipment in models from 2014. Until 2010, TVs did not support Internet connectivity, so for them it is worth considering purchasing a Smart TV set-top box. It also happens that a budget TV released after 2014 does not contain built-in Wi-Fi. You can find out about this by looking at the device’s configuration on the manufacturer’s website.
If you choose a Wi-Fi adapter for a Samsung TV, the price will range from 1,500 to 4,000 rubles. A popular model is the Samsung WIS12ABGNX/NWT USB module, which is compatible with TVs from 2011. This gadget, like other models, allows you to access the Internet instantly (after the initial connection to the network) and watch videos in Full HD quality. It also provides all the usual features such as support for PC file transfer (DLNA).
The answer to the question of which WiFi adapter is suitable for a Samsung TV is not so simple. The ideal solution is an original device from the manufacturer itself. However, such a device is expensive and can be difficult to find. On the other hand, equipment from other manufacturers does not guarantee connection quality and service life. The device may simply not see them. Therefore, the choice here is yours.
