Wi-Fi Slow on Laptop but Fast on Phone? Compare Fairly

A controlled check for this problem

1. Put the devices in the same position near the router and confirm the phone is using Wi-Fi rather than mobile data. Do not change the phone’s cellular settings unless needed to ensure that comparison.
2. Use the same test and depth, one device at a time, with transfers paused. Note VPNs and browser differences; they make this a clue rather than a perfectly matched experiment.
3. Repeat, then compare the laptop on Ethernet if a suitable port or adapter is already available. Use the laptop’s own Wi-Fi result as the wired comparison.

A Standard test can use up to about 100 MB. Two tests can use up to about 200 MB; three up to about 300 MB. Check your data allowance and run between important calls.

What the comparison suggests

Laptop is slow on Wi-Fi, faster on Ethernet

Check its wireless connection details and manufacturer-supported adapter updates.

Both devices improve near the router

Investigate coverage and placement in the original room.

Laptop is slow on both Wi-Fi and Ethernet

Compare another browser or service and local resource use; the cause may not be Wi-Fi.

Check what each device is actually using

Your router’s app or device connection settings may show a band, access point or link rate. Record these if available. A link rate is not an internet-speed result, and this website cannot read the Wi-Fi band or signal strength for you.

Google lists distance, frequency, obstacles and device capability among Wi-Fi speed factors. Do not assume a phone is always faster, or that every laptop should reach the same number.

Before changing drivers or buying an adapter

Find the laptop and adapter model and use the manufacturer’s supported update instructions. Keep a note of the version. Avoid third-party driver cleaners or disabling security software as a first step. Compare after one change; a new Wi-Fi adapter is not guaranteed to fix a problem outside that adapter.