What is the smallest PCIe slot commonly used for laptops, specifically for wireless networking?

The smallest PCIe slot commonly used for laptops, particularly for wireless networking, is Mini PCIe. This form factor is specifically designed to fit the compact dimensions of laptops and provide a pathway for the connection of various components like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth adapters.

Mini PCIe cards are smaller and are made to accommodate the limited physical space inside laptops, as they have a smaller footprint compared to standard PCIe slots like x1, x4, or x16. These larger PCIe slots are more suitable for desktops where size is not as much of a concern. Additionally, Mini PCIe slots also support a variety of protocols beyond PCIe, which makes them versatile for various wireless communication technologies, thus making them a popular choice for laptop manufacturers.

This design allows for the integration of wireless networking capabilities without taking up excessive space or requiring more complex hardware solutions, making it the go-to solution for many portable devices. The specificity to laptops and the wireless communication niche leads to the understanding that Mini PCIe is the ideal answer.