TP-Link TL-WN881ND 300Mbps Wireless N PCI Express Adapter

Description

The TP-Link TL-WN881ND 300Mbps Wireless N PCI Express Adapter is a single-band Wi-Fi adapter designed to provide reliable wireless connectivity for desktop PCs via a PCI Express x1 interface, compatible with x1, x2, x8, or x16 slots. It supports Wi-Fi N (802.11n) on the 2.4GHz band, delivering up to 300Mbps for video streaming, online gaming, and file sharing in moderate network environments. The 2×2 MIMO technology enhances throughput and signal stability, while the dual 2dBi detachable omni-directional antennas (RP-SMA connectors) improve coverage compared to single-antenna models like the TL-WN781ND, with the option to upgrade to higher-gain antennas for extended range.

The plug-and-play functionality ensures driver-free setup for Windows 11/10/8.1, while Windows 8/7/XP (32/64-bit) require drivers from TP-Link’s website (https://www.tp-link.com/support/download/tl-wn881nd/). It supports WEP, WPA/WPA2, WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK encryption for secure connections. The Realtek RTL8192CE chipset (inferred from similar models) ensures stable performance. Measuring 120.8 × 78.5 × 21.5 mm and weighing ~50g, it’s designed for desktop use. Reviews praise its easy installation, reliable speeds, and value for budget builds, though some users report weaker signals in crowded 2.4GHz environments and occasional driver issues on older systems. The adapter is marked as End of Life on TP-Link’s website, indicating limited future support.

Compared to the TL-WN781ND (150Mbps, single antenna), the TL-WN881ND offers higher speeds and better range due to dual antennas and 2×2 MIMO. Unlike the Archer T5E (AC1200, Wi-Fi 5 + Bluetooth), it’s limited to 2.4GHz and lacks Bluetooth. Compared to the Archer TX20U Plus (AX1800, dual-band), it lacks 5GHz and Wi-Fi 6 support. Unlike the UH7020C (7-in-1 hub), it focuses solely on Wi-Fi connectivity. It’s ideal for budget-conscious users needing reliable wireless connectivity for desktops.

Specifications

• Host Interface: PCI Express x1 (compatible with x1/x2/x8/x16 slots)

• Wireless Standards: IEEE 802.11b/g/n

• Frequency: 2.4GHz (2.400–2.4835 GHz)

• Data Transfer Speed: Up to 300Mbps (2.4GHz)

• Chipset: Realtek RTL8192CE (inferred)

• Wireless Security: WEP (64/128-bit), WPA/WPA2, WPA-PSK/WPA2-PSK (TKIP/AES)

• Features: 2×2 MIMO, Ad-Hoc/Infrastructure Modes

• Modulation Technology: OFDM, CCK, 16-QAM, 64-QAM

• Reception Sensitivity: 270M: -68dBm@10% PER; 54M: -68dBm@10% PER; 11M: -85dBm@8% PER

• Transmission Power: 20dBm (MAX EIRP)

• Compatibility: Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/XP (32/64-bit)

• Plug-and-Play: Yes, driver-free for Windows 11/10/8.1; drivers required for Windows 8/7/XP

• Power Supply: PCI Express slot-powered (no external adapter)

• Dimensions: 120.8 × 78.5 × 21.5 mm (4.76 × 3.09 × 0.85 in)

• Weight: 1.76 oz (50g, estimated)

• Antenna: 2× 2dBi Detachable Omni-Directional Antennas (RP-SMA connector)

• Certifications: CE, FCC, RoHS

• Operating Temperature: 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F)

• Storage Temperature: -40°C to 70°C (-40°F to 158°F)

• Operating Humidity: 10%–90% (Non-Condensing)

• Storage Humidity: 5%–90% (Non-Condensing)

• Package Contents: TL-WN881ND 300Mbps Wireless N PCI Express Adapter, 2× Detachable Omni-Directional Antennas, Low-Profile Bracket, Resource CD, Quick Installation Guide