ASUS is the most permissive laptop manufacturer for Wi-Fi upgrades. Whitelists are rare, and the BIOS is generally flexible with third-party cards. However, ultra-thin ZenBook models often have soldered components, and antenna availability can be limited in compact designs. This guide covers ASUS’s approach by series, recommended cards, and design considerations for upgrades.
ASUS’s Upgrade-Friendly Philosophy
ASUS treats Wi-Fi upgrades as standard user maintenance. Consumer laptops (VivoBook, ROG) are designed for customization. Whitelists are virtually absent. Third-party cards work freely. ASUS prioritizes user flexibility over strict control.
Why ASUS Is Best for Upgrades
- ✓ Almost no BIOS whitelists (unlike Dell or HP)
- ✓ Any compatible M.2 Wi-Fi card works freely
- ✓ Service manuals are available for most models
- ✓ Gaming-focused ROG line is highly customizable
- ✗ Ultra-thin ZenBooks often have soldered Wi-Fi
- ✗ Some compact models have limited antenna availability
For detailed steps on installing your new card, see our Wi-Fi card installation guide.
ASUS VivoBook Series (Everyday Consumer)
VivoBook 14 / 15 (2019–2025)
Upgradeable? Yes, almost all models.
BIOS Whitelist: Effectively none. Any compatible card works.
M.2 Key: E key (modern).
Antenna: Typically dual antenna (2×2 MIMO support).
Recommended Upgrade: Intel AX210 (Wi-Fi 6, £15–20) or AX211 (Wi-Fi 6E, £20–25). Any compatible card works—no BIOS restrictions.
Verdict: VivoBook is excellent for upgrades. Thin design doesn’t sacrifice upgradeability. Dual antenna support means full 2×2 performance. No whitelist worries. Ideal for value-conscious users who want flexibility.
Installation on VivoBook
Bottom panel removal is straightforward (usually 4–6 Phillips screws). Antenna cables are clearly labelled. Service manuals are available on ASUS support. Installation is a 15-minute job.
ASUS ZenBook Series (Premium Consumer)ZenBook 13 / 14 / 15 (2019–2025)
Upgradeable? Depends on year and specific model.
BIOS Whitelist: None (when upgradeable).
Design Challenge: Ultra-thin design (< 14mm on some models) means soldering components to save space.
Key Issue: ZenBook OLED models (2022+) increasingly have soldered Wi-Fi. Pre-OLED ZenBooks (2019–2022) usually have M.2 slots.
Recommendation: Before buying a ZenBook for upgrade, check the service manual. If it has removal instructions, it’s upgradeable. If not, it’s soldered.
ZenBook Model Guide
ZenBook 14 (pre-2022): Upgradeable. M.2 slot present.
ZenBook 14 OLED (2022+): Often soldered. Check manual before assuming.
ZenBook 13 OLED (2022+): Mostly soldered due to compact size.
ZenBook Duo / Flex (convertibles): Some upgradeable, some not. Check manual.
ZenBook Antenna Consideration
Some ultra-thin ZenBooks have only a single antenna cable (1×1 instead of 2×2). If you install a 2×2 card, you’ll get 1×1 performance. Not a deal-breaker, but less ideal than dual antenna.
Check your service manual for antenna routing before buying a replacement card.
ASUS ROG Series (Gaming)
ROG Zephyrus / ROG Strix / ROG Flow (2019–2025)
Upgradeable? Yes, all models.
BIOS Whitelist: None. Highly permissive for upgrades.
M.2 Key: E key.
Antenna: Dual antenna standard (2×2 MIMO).
Recommended Upgrade: Intel AX210, AX211, or Qualcomm FastConnect. Any compatible card works freely. No whitelist concerns.
Verdict: ROG is ASUS’s most upgrade-friendly line. Gaming laptops prioritize performance and customization. Upgrading is actively encouraged. Excellent cooling means components aren’t soldered to save space. ROG is ideal if upgrades are your priority.
ROG Specific Advantages
- Large, easy-to-access service hatches for upgrades
- Excellent community support and upgrade guides
- Dual antenna standard (best 2×2 performance)
- No BIOS restrictions on third-party hardware
- Frequent BIOS updates (though whitelists aren’t an issue)
ASUS ProArt / Chromebook / Other LinesASUS ProArt (Creator)
Upgradeable? Usually yes.
BIOS Whitelist: None.
Verdict: Creative professionals need flexibility. ProArt maintains upgrade support. Similar to ZenBook in upgradeability but with better documentation.
ASUS Chromebook
Upgradeable? Technically yes (on some models), but limited benefit.
Issue: ChromeOS doesn’t let you fully control Wi-Fi hardware. Upgrading the card won’t provide speed benefits you’d see in Windows/Mac.
Recommendation: Don’t upgrade Chromebook Wi-Fi. Use a USB adapter if needed.
ASUS Antenna Availability by Design
Antenna availability varies by laptop thickness and design:
| ASUS Series | Typical Thickness | Antenna Availability | Upgrade Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| ROG | 17–20mm | Dual (2×2) | Excellent |
| VivoBook | 15–17mm | Dual (2×2) | Excellent |
| ZenBook | 13–14mm | Varies (Dual or Single) | Good (if upgradeable) |
| ZenBook OLED Ultra Thin | < 13mm | Single (1×1) or Soldered | Poor |
| ProArt | 15–16mm | Dual (2×2) | Good |
Recommended Wi-Fi Cards for ASUS Laptops
| ASUS Series | Best Card | Cost (Amazon UK) | Whitelist Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| VivoBook | Intel AX210 or AX211 | £15–25 | None (no whitelist) |
| ZenBook (if upgradeable) | Intel AX210 or AX211 | £15–25 | None |
| ROG | Intel AX210 / AX211 / Qualcomm | £15–30 | None (very permissive) |
| ProArt | Intel AX210 or AX211 | £15–25 | None |
Buy recommended Wi-Fi cards on Amazon UK:
Before Upgrading an ASUS Laptop: Checklist
- ✓ Confirm exact ASUS model (VivoBook 15, ROG Strix G15, ZenBook 14, etc.)
- ✓ Search for service manual on ASUS support page
- ✓ Check if Wi-Fi card is soldered (manual should state “non-upgradeable” or show no removal section)
- ✓ Verify antenna availability (single or dual—look at service manual photos)
- ✓ Note M.2 key type (typically E key on modern ASUS)
- ✓ No need to check BIOS whitelist (ASUS has none)
- ✓ Buy Intel AX210 as safe default card; any compatible M.2 card works
Common ASUS Upgrade Issues and Solutions
Issue: Bottom Panel Has No Screws (Glued On)
Cause: Some ultra-thin ASUS models glue the bottom panel for structural rigidity.
Solution: Carefully heat the edges with a heat gun (gentle, not aggressive). Slowly separate the panel using a plastic spudger. Be patient—glue takes a few minutes to soften. After opening, you can re-glue with contact cement or tape when reassembling.
Issue: Only One Antenna Cable, But Card is 2×2
Cause: Ultra-thin designs sacrifice second antenna to save space.
Solution: Install the 2×2 card anyway. It will work but run in 1×1 mode (half performance). Not ideal, but functional. For 2×2 performance, you’d need a 1×1-only card, which defeats the purpose of upgrading.
Issue: ZenBook Won’t Open Without Breaking the Panel
Cause: Ultra-thin design with glue and clips.
Solution: If you’re uncomfortable, visit an ASUS service center. They can open and upgrade for £30–50 (parts cost extra).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my ASUS VivoBook upgradeable?
Almost certainly yes. VivoBook is design for upgrades. Check service manual to confirm, but >95% of VivoBooks have removable Wi-Fi cards.
Is my ASUS ZenBook OLED upgradeable?
Often not. Ultra-thin OLED models frequently have soldered Wi-Fi. Check service manual. If it shows removal instructions, yes. If not, it’s soldered.
Will any M.2 Wi-Fi card work in an ASUS laptop?
Yes (assuming correct key type and antenna compatibility). ASUS has no BIOS whitelists. Any E-key Wi-Fi card works in E-key slots. No approval needed.
Should I buy an ASUS-branded Wi-Fi card?
No. ASUS sells branded Intel and Qualcomm cards at a markup. Buy the consumer version directly—same hardware, cheaper. ASUS has no whitelists, so brand doesn’t matter.
Can I use a Broadcom or other brand card in my ASUS?
Yes, if compatible with your processor. ASUS has no brand preferences. Any M.2 E-key card works.
Is it safe to heat-gun open a glued ZenBook?
Safe, but requires care. Use low heat (not a heat gun on max—use a hair dryer on warm setting first). Gentle separation. If you’re nervous, take it to ASUS service. Cost is worth peace of mind.
Does ASUS BIOS ever block third-party Wi-Fi cards?
No. ASUS BIOS is designed to accept any compatible hardware. Whitelists are virtually absent. This is a major strength of ASUS laptops for upgrades.
Can I upgrade the Wi-Fi in an ASUS ROG under warranty?
Yes. ASUS officially supports component upgrades. Opening the case for ROG doesn’t void warranty. ROG is designed for upgrades and customization.
Recommended Products
These are the products we recommend based on this guide. All links go to Amazon UK where you can check current prices and availability.
| Product | Why We Recommend It | Amazon UK |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung 990 Pro 2TB NVMe M.2 2280 | Fastest consumer NVMe — ideal for gaming & editing | View on Amazon UK |
| WD Black SN850X 2TB NVMe | Excellent Gen4 speed with heatsink option | View on Amazon UK |
| Crucial P5 Plus 1TB NVMe | Great value Gen4 SSD | View on Amazon UK |
| Kingston NV2 1TB NVMe | Budget-friendly with solid reliability | View on Amazon UK |
| Thermal Grizzly Kryonaut | Best thermal paste for laptop repasting | View on Amazon UK |
| Noctua NT-H1 | Easy-to-apply, excellent for beginners | View on Amazon UK |
| Arctic MX-6 | Budget thermal paste with good performance | View on Amazon UK |
| IETS GT500 Laptop Cooling Pad | Powerful external cooling for gaming laptops | View on Amazon UK |
Prices and availability may vary. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
