For the chips you stand a better chance with the Linux community. And some
times with the comments in large stores like Amazon. True, most makers don't
say a thing about the contents. And they are right to do so. This way they
can write on the box their card catches signal 1-2 meters away than another
identical card, only in a different plastic enclosure.
Check out as much data as you can get. And the most important is to recall
brick and mortar stores are your friends. No matter how socially inept you
can be, amazon can help you only if you are 100km or more from the phisical
store. There you can ask for the box. If you are nice enough you can even try
the device in the store. Even if it does not work, lspci or lsusb can show
some important clue.
And don't forget to slowly read the return policy. That's all!
