How to Choose the Right Dongle for Your Needs

Your Guide to buying the best Dongles

Overview

A dongle is a small device that plugs into a computer's USB port to provide internet access or to enable a peripheral device, such as a printer or scanner, to work. Purchasing a dongle can be a great way to get the most out of your computer setup, but it can also be a confusing and overwhelming process. This buying guide is designed to help you make the right decision. It will provide an overview of the different types of dongles, as well as advice on features to look for when shopping. It will also discuss the different price points associated with dongles, so that you can choose one that is within your budget. Finally, it will offer helpful tips on setup and troubleshooting. With this guide, you’ll have all the information you need to choose the perfect dongle for your needs.

Key features

  • Compatibility: Is the Dongle compatible with the device you want to use it with? Make sure to check your device’s compatibility with the Dongle.
  • Functionality: What type of functionality does the Dongle offer? Consider what type of tasks you want to use it for and if the Dongle offers the features you need.
  • Speed and Performance: How fast is the Dongle? Consider the speed of the Dongle and if it is able to handle the type of data transfer you need.
  • Price: What is your budget? Dongles come in a variety of prices, so make sure to check the price before purchasing.
  • Size: How small is the Dongle? Consider if the size is suitable for your needs and if the Dongle will fit in the space you have.
  • Security: How secure is the Dongle? Make sure to check the security features of the Dongle to ensure your data is safe and protected.

See the most popular Dongles on Amazon

Important considerations

Pros

  • Portability: Dongles are typically small and lightweight, making them easy to carry and transport between different locations.
  • Internet Access: Dongles allow users to access the internet anywhere, without the need for cumbersome cables or a separate device.
  • Cost-effective: Dongles are typically more affordable than other internet connection options, making them a great choice for budget-conscious buyers.
  • High-speed: Dongles can provide users with high-speed connections, allowing them to access and download large files quickly and efficiently.
  • Flexibility: Dongles are compatible with a wide range of devices, giving users the flexibility to use them with different devices and operating systems.

Cons

  • Security Issues - Dongles are small pieces of hardware, and therefore can be easily misplaced or stolen, which can result in a security risk.
  • Compatibility/Compatibility Issues - Dongles may not be compatible with certain operating systems or certain types of devices.
  • Cost - Dongles can be expensive, depending on the features they offer, and may require additional fees for service and support.
  • Installation - Installing a dongle can be a complicated process, and may require technical knowledge or assistance from a qualified technician.
  • Portability - Dongles are not designed to be easily portable, so they may be difficult to carry around with you.

Best alternatives

  1. Wireless Routers - Devices that allow you to create a wireless network in your home or office to share an Internet connection.
  2. Powerline Adapters - Devices that use your home’s wiring to create a network, allowing you to connect devices without using a wireless network.
  3. Ethernet Switches - Networking devices that allow you to connect multiple wired devices together and share data.
  4. Network Access Points - Hardware devices that allow you to connect to a wireless network and access the Internet.
  5. Bluetooth Adapters - Devices that allow you to connect Bluetooth-enabled devices, such as headsets or speakers, to your computer.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Ethernet Dongle - Small device that physically and electronically connects a device to a network.
  • WiFi Dongle - Device that connects to a wireless network.
  • USB Dongle - Type of adapter that allows one port to connect to multiple devices.
  • Bluetooth Dongle - A device that allows two or more electronic devices to communicate wirelessly.
  • Mifi Dongle - A portable device that connects to a cellular network and acts as a wifi hotspot.

Common questions

  1. What is a Dongle? A dongle is a device that provides a physical connection between a computer and another device, usually for the purpose of providing additional functionality or access to a network.
  2. What can a Dongle be used for? Dongles can be used for various purposes, including connecting to the internet, connecting to a printer or scanner, connecting to a wireless network, using a keyboard and mouse, transferring data, and more.
  3. What types of Dongles are available? There are various types of dongles available, including USB, VGA, HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet, and audio dongles.
  4. What should I consider when buying a Dongle? When buying a dongle, you should consider what type of device you need it for, what type of connection it needs to have (e.g., USB, VGA, etc.), and how much data it needs to transfer.
  5. Are there any compatibility issues I should be aware of? Yes, some dongles may not be compatible with certain devices, so you should check the compatibility of the dongle and the device before buying.
  6. What is the best way to set up a Dongle? The best way to set up a dongle is to follow the instructions that come with the product, as this will ensure that the dongle is installed correctly and that it is compatible with the device it is connecting to.

Trivia

In the early 2000s, dongles had a rather humorous reputation as a meme. The now defunct website "The Dongle Joke of the Day" had a cult following and featured tongue-in-cheek dongle jokes and puns, such as "What do you call a dongle in a bun? A dongleburger". This website was so popular that it even inspired a feature film called "The Dongle", which was released in 2004. Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.