Motherboard compatibility help!

[GlenicoNico]

So I was thinking about adding a WI-fi adapter to my PC (don't ask why). My motherboard is the Asus Z97M-PLUS. The Wi-fi adapter that I've been looking at is the TP-Link TL-WDN4800. The Wi-fi adapter that I chose uses PCI-E x1, but I don't see that slot in my motherboard, so I was wondering if I could could just plug it in into the last PCI-E slot since the notch corresponds, so yeah...will it work? if so, will i loose any performance? If it's not going to work then... I also found the TRENDnet TEW-805UB, but this one uses the USB 3.0. Between the 2 which one is actually better? I want to get the best from what I purchase. Any answer is appreciated.

 

[Fireman Dave]

Just get a usb version. At least you can switch it easily to other PCs =P
Is your PC miles away from the access point? If not a USB version would be fine.

 

[kapitalistas]

i have to ask why. you need one cause, its on the way to answer your question.i understand not all places on the earth cover with cable internet and low income people (no offense im just saying),but getting wireless connectivity over cable is absurd.then my answer is doesn matter what you choose usb wireless adapter or pci-e slot card

 

[GlenicoNico]

Just get a usb version. At least you can switch it easily to other PCs =P
Is your PC miles away from the access point? If not a USB version would be fine.

"miles away from the access point" what do you mean exactly? So just get the USB? why? Is it better? I know is it's more convenient and all, but the TP-Link TL-WDN4800 will look more neat when installed. I don't want to buy something just because it's "user friendly" or "convenient", that's why I build my own PC instead of buying one.

 

[GlenicoNico]

i have to ask why. you need one cause, its on the way to answer your question.i understand not all places on the earth cover with cable internet and low income people (no offense im just saying),but getting wireless connectivity over cable is absurd.then my answer is doesn matter what you choose usb wireless adapter or pci-e slot card

I use ethernet when I'm at home, but I'm going to college soon and I'm taking my PC with me. I don't know if they provide ethernet in the dorm rooms, so just in case they only provide Wi-fi I'll have no problem.

 

[Fireman Dave]

Well, if you're in the same room as your access point, then you don't need a multitude of antennae sticking out of your PC.
Yes, a USB adaptor would be more user friendly. I've had PCI WiFi adaptors before, and hated them because of this. (The said, my PC is right next to my router now, so it's neither here nor there).
If you want a nice flush solution however, then yes, the TP-Link TL-WDN4800 should be compatible. The PCIe 2.0 slot (bottom-most I'm guessing) is compatible with PCI x1 and x4 devices (check your manual to be sure however).

 

[GlenicoNico]

So they're both the same? they just got a different way to use it? no performance decrease whatsoever?

 

[Fireman Dave]

As you mention you're off to college, I'd grab the PCIe model. You'll get better range, stability and speed, and you just don't know how strong the signal will be from your room!

 

[GlenicoNico]

As you mention you're off to college, I'd grab the PCIe model. You'll get better range, stability and speed, and you just don't know how strong the signal will be from your room!

Alright then, thanks man!