The hardware is actually solid for a $15 adapter. The problem is 100% software. Once you strip away the bad drivers and apply the tweaks above (especially the USB 2.0 port + extension cable + legacy wireless mode), the Maxicom performs identically to a $40 ASUS or TP-Link adapter.
Do not use the mini-CD. Do not use "Driver Booster" (which often installs malware). Follow this manual method. maxicom wifi adapter driver windows 10 updated
Users often appreciate the plug-and-play potential but note that "no-name" adapters can sometimes have weaker range than internal cards. The hardware is actually solid for a $15 adapter