Rivet Networks Killer Wireless-AC 1550 Gaming WiFi Network Adapter Review

1. Introduction2. Killer Wireless-AC 1550 Hardware and Software3. Testing Configurations4. Killer Wireless-AC 1550 Analysis5. Closing Thoughts6. View All Pages

The Rivet Networks Killer Wireless-AC 1550 may not have lived up to its performance expectations, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't bother specifying it on your gaming notebook if you have the option. It's clearly a very good chipset for general performance, even without the 160MHz channel width.

The software features and prioritisation are also in a different league to other WiFi chipsets. Although you can get WiFi analysers elsewhere, the one included with the Killer software is very nicely designed and can help you configure your router to avoid as much contention as possible.

Overall, then, if you're looking for a new gaming laptop, having the Killer 1550 WiFi chipset as an option should be one of your criteria, and a box you tick in the specification. With just £12.50 plus VAT extra to pay, it's a no-brainer.

You can buy the PC Specialist Octane V gaming notebook specification we used for testing for £1,789 HERE.

Pros:

• Excellent 802.11ac performance.
• Feature-rich driver software.
• WiFi analyser built into software.
• Application prioritization options.
• Direct control over routers with Killer Prioritization Engine built in.
• Small upgrade price over standard Intel chipset.

Cons:

• A WiFi interference-free location may be required for 160MHz operation.

KitGuru says: The Rivet Networks Killer Wireless-AC 1550 is packed with features and provides great performance, but the much-vaunted 160MHz channels will prove elusive if other WiFi signals are interfering.

Become a Patron!