I need a long range USB wifi adapter for my laptop. I want to be able to reach my router all the way from my garage. I don't feel like running a direct line I just want to be able to hook it up and go.
I don't mind spending the money if it's worth it.
before doing anything i recommend you to do the heatmap the signal and then you can install repeater in places where your signal is weak. (you can use free tools like ekahau heatmapper)
A repeater sound like a better option. You could also get a more powerful router.
Also if you have old routers siting around you could load ddwrt on it and convert it into a repeater.
+1 repeater