Best Network Cards for PCI Express of 2025

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2025

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Network cards for PCI Express are high-performance networking solutions that allow for faster and more reliable data transfer between devices on a network. They are designed to be used with computers that have a PCI Express slot and are ideal for businesses that require high-speed internet connectivity for their operations. These network cards are available in various speeds and configurations, from 1 Gigabit Ethernet to 10 Gigabit Ethernet, and can be used in a wide range of applications, including data centers, servers, and workstations. With their advanced features and reliable performance, network cards for PCI Express are an essential component of any modern network infrastructure.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

TP-Link Gigabit Ethernet PCI Express Network Card (TG-3468) Cover #TOP 1
TP-Link Gigabit Ethernet PCI Express Network Card (TG-3468)
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Tenext Realtek Gigabit PCI Express Ethernet NIC Cover #TOP 2
Tenext Realtek Gigabit PCI Express Ethernet NIC
ftb score rating icon 9.8
EDUP Gigabit Ethernet PCI Express Network Card Cover #TOP 3
EDUP Gigabit Ethernet PCI Express Network Card
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Network Cards for PCI Express

TP-Link Gigabit Ethernet PCI Express Network Card (TG-3468)

TG-3468
Green
PCI-e
TP-Link Gigabit Ethernet PCI Express Network Card (TG-3468) Cover
TP-Link 10/100/1000Mbps Gigabit Ethernet PCI Express Network Card (TG-3468), PCIE Network Adapter, Network Card, Ethernet Card for PC, Win10/11 supported

The TP-Link Gigabit Ethernet PCI Express Network Card (TG-3468) is a highly integrated and cost-effective Gigabit Ethernet Adapter that allows you to connect your desktop computer to a high-speed wired network. With its 10/100/1000Mbps throughput, Wake-on-LAN supporting Auto-Negotiation and Auto MDI/MDIX, IEEE802.3x Flow Control for Full-duplex Mode and backpressure for Half-duplex Mode, and support for Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Vista, XP, this network card is a good choice to upgrade your network. It also comes with a low-profile and standard profile bracket inside that works with both mini and standard size PCs.

What We Like
Ultra-fast 10/100/1000Mbps PCIe Adapter upgrade your Ethernet speed to Gigabit
Supports Wake-on-LAN supporting Auto-Negotiation and Auto MDI/MDIX, IEEE802.3x Flow Control for Full-duplex Mode and backpressure for Half-duplex Mode, IEEE 802.1p Layer 2 Priority Encoding and IEEE802.1q VLAN tagging, and power down/link down power saving
Compatible with Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Vista, XP, and works with both mini and standard size PCs
#TOP 2

Tenext Realtek Gigabit PCI Express Ethernet NIC

RT8111C-PCIE-NIC
multicolor
Tenext Realtek Gigabit PCI Express Ethernet NIC Cover
Realtek Chipset Gigabit PCI Express Ethernet Network Interface Card with Low Profile Bracket (No Software))

Tenext Ethernet Network Card is a hassle-free solution for your networking needs. You won't need to install any drivers for Windows 7/10/11, Mac OSX, and Linux, making setup a breeze. It includes both standard and low profile brackets, offering versatility for different system configurations. This wired network card ensures stable and reliable internet connectivity without the hassle of dealing with wireless setups. With Tenext Ethernet Network Card, you can enjoy seamless networking without the need for additional software installations.

What We Like
No driver installation needed
Includes standard & low profile brackets
Stable wired connection

EDUP Gigabit Ethernet PCI Express Network Card

EP-9602GS
Black
1000M
EDUP Gigabit Ethernet PCI Express Network Card Cover
EDUP Gigabit Ethernet PCI Express PCI-E Network Card 10/100/1000Mbps RJ45 LAN Adapter Converter for Desktop PC

The EDUP Gigabit Ethernet PCI Express Network Card is a high-quality network adapter that provides a simple connection to a Gigabit Ethernet network. With its Gigabit Ethernet card, users can add a 10/100/1000Mbps Ethernet port to any PC through a PCI-E slot. It is fully compatible with 802.1Q virtual LAN (VLAN) tag and compliant with IEEE802.3, IEEE802.3U & IEEE802.3ab. This Gigabit network card supports high-performance dual-channel networking and maximum data transfer speeds of 1000Mbps in each direction, making it up to ten times faster than 10/100 Ethernet. It is suitable for any PCI-enabled client, server or workstation, and comes with a 2-year warranty and free 24/7 technical support.

What We Like
Easy to install
Improves network performance
Reduces CPU usage
#TOP 4

BrosTrend 5Gb PCIe Network Card

5 Gbps PCIe Network Card P2
Black
4.7 x 2.9 x 0.7 in
BrosTrend 5Gb PCIe Network Card Cover
BrosTrend 5Gb PCIe Network Card, PCIe Ethernet Card with Extra Low-Profile, PCI Express Network Adapter for PC Windows 11/10 & Windows Server 2022 ONLY, PCIe to 5 Gigabit NIC Card Lifetime Protection

The BrosTrend 5Gb Network Card significantly enhances your desktop PC's wired connection with lightning-fast speeds up to 5 Gbps, making it ideal for gaming and streaming. You’ll enjoy reduced latency and improved responsiveness, allowing you to fully utilize your internet service provider's speeds. Additionally, this card facilitates quick local network transfers, boosting data efficiency between devices in your network. Built with durable aluminum and designed for optimal heat dissipation, it ensures reliable performance during intense usage, keeping your system running smoothly.

What We Like
5 Gbps speed
Reduced latency
Efficient local transfers
Reliable heat dissipation
#TOP 5

Dual-Port PCIe Gigabit Network Card

TXA094
multicolor
Dual-Port PCIe Gigabit Network Card Cover
Dual-Port PCIe Gigabit Network Card 1000M PCI Express Ethernet Adapter with Intel 82575/82576 Two Ports LAN NIC Card for Support PXE for Windows/Windows Server/Linux/Freebsd/DOS with Low Profile

The Dual-Port PCIe Gigabit Network Card by ULANSeN is a versatile and efficient network card that supports a wide range of operating systems and devices. Its PCI Express 2.1 interface is compatible with standard and low-profile slots, and it features IPMI pass-through, iSCSI boot, WoL, and VLAN filtering. With Network Management Protocol and Remote Network Monitoring, you can easily manage and monitor your network. The card also features an imported alloy heat sink to effectively remove excess heat and maintain normal operating temperature for stable operation.

What We Like
Wide compatibility with various operating systems and devices.
Flexible PCI Express interface that fits standard and low-profile slots.
Advanced network management and monitoring features for easy maintenance.
Efficient data transfer rate of 1000 Megabytes Per Second.
Imported alloy heat sink for effective heat dissipation and stable operation.
#TOP 6

ULANSeN 2.5GBase-T PCIe Network Adapter

multicolor
ULANSeN 2.5GBase-T PCIe Network Adapter Cover
2.5GBase-T PCIe Network Adapter RTL8125B 2500/1000/100Mbps PCI Express Gigabit Ethernet Card RJ45 LAN Controller Support PXE for Windows/Linux/MAC with Low Profile

The ULANSeN 2.5GBase-T PCIe Network Adapter is a high-performance Ethernet card that is compatible with X1,X4,X8,X16 and comes with a low profile bracket. It supports multiple operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and MAC OS, and can be freely compatible. With data transfer rates of up to 2500Mbps, this network card supports IEEE 802.1Q and IEEE 802.1p data link protocols. It also supports PXE function and Wake on LAN, making it an excellent choice for desktop users who need high-speed internet connectivity.

What We Like
Fast and reliable network connectivity
Compatible with multiple operating systems
Easy installation and driver setup
PXE support for network booting
Low profile design for versatile installation
#TOP 7

BrosTrend 2.5GB Network Card

2.5 Gb PCIe Network Card
Black
BrosTrend 2.5GB Network Card Cover
BrosTrend 2.5Gb Network Card, PCIe Network Adapter RJ45 NIC with Extra Low-profile Bracket PCI Express Gigabit Ethernet Card for Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/XP, Windows Server... Limited Lifetime Protection

BrosTrend PCIe NIC boosts your desktop PC connectivity with 2.5Gbps speeds, making gaming battles smoother and streaming flawless. It enhances local network transfers and comes with durable metal shielding for stability. The latest Realtek chip ensures compatibility with various systems. Setting up is a breeze with plug-and-play on Windows 10 and easy driver installation for other systems. Enjoy the convenience of Wake on LAN support and Limited Lifetime Protection for peace of mind.

What We Like
2.5Gbps Next-gen Connection
Ultra-fast Internet Access
Instant Local Network Transfer
#TOP 8

GWFIBER PCIe Ethernet Card

GWFIBER
1PCS
GWFIBER PCIe Ethernet Card Cover
[Upgrade] PCIe Ethernet Card Nic 10/100/1000Mbps Gigabit PCI-Express Network Card (WIN10/11 Driver-Free) RJ45 Network LAN Card Wake On LAN Adapter Internal Computer Desktop PC for Win/Linux/Mac 1 PCS

GWFIBER Ethernet Card is a versatile PCI-Express network card compatible with various systems. It supports Wake on LAN and PXE function, enhancing remote control capabilities. Ideal for upgrading old equipment, it recommends PCI3.0 or pcie16x slots for optimal performance. The package includes necessary accessories like chassis bezels and a screwdriver for easy installation. Additionally, it comes with a complimentary cat6 ethernet cable for fast speeds up to 1000Mbps, ensuring efficient data transmission.

What We Like
Remote control capabilities
Easy installation
Complimentary cat6 cable
#TOP 9

XikeStor 2.5Gb PCIe Network Card

XikeStor
SKS-I226-2.5ET
XikeStor 2.5Gb PCIe Network Card Cover
2.5Gb PCIe Network Card with Intel I226-V Chip, 2.5GBase-T Network Adapter NIC, PCIe 3.1 X1, PCI Express Gigabit Ethernet Card for Windows 10/11, Linux Kernel 5.16.18/RHEL8.6, VMware ESXi8.0

The XikeStor 2.5Gb Network Card offers exceptional connectivity for your desktop PC, ensuring fast and stable internet access. With its compatibility across various operating systems like Windows 10/11 and Linux, you can enjoy seamless performance no matter your setup. Installation is straightforward, requiring driver downloads from the official site to maximize the card's capabilities. Additionally, the versatile design features both standard and low-profile brackets, making it easy to fit in different computer cases, from standard towers to compact systems.

What We Like
High-speed connectivity
Multi-system compatibility
Easy installation
Versatile design
#TOP 10

VIMIN 10G PCI-E Network Card

X540-T2
X540-2T
VIMIN 10G PCI-E Network Card Cover
10G PCI-E Network Card with 10Gbps Dual RJ45 Ports, Intel X540-T2 Conrtoller, VIMIN 10Gb Ethernet Adapter Card Compatible with PCI Express X8, X16, Support Windows/Windows Server/Linux/VMware

The VIMIN 10G Ethernet Card enhances your network with its dual 10Gbps RJ45 ports, powered by the Intel X540-T2 chipset. This allows you to achieve lightning-fast data transfers, making it perfect for servers and high-performance devices. Its compatibility with various operating systems, including Windows and Linux, ensures that you can easily integrate it into different environments. You can also install it in PCIe x8 or x16 slots, offering flexible options for your system. Additionally, the card comes with standard and slim brackets, suited for different device heights, making installation hassle-free.

What We Like
High-speed data transfer
Wide operating system compatibility
Flexible PCIe installation
Customizable bracket options
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the benefits of a PCIe network card?

PCIe network cards offer several benefits, including higher bandwidth, faster speed, lower latency, and increased utility. These cards can be used to add GPUs, RAID cards, WiFi cards, or SSD add-on cards to high-performance computer motherboards.

2. Is PCI Express faster than Ethernet?

PCIe is currently faster than Ethernet, with higher speeds expected in the future. While PCIe offers higher bandwidth and faster speed, both PCIe and Ethernet have similar roadmaps for future speed improvements.

3. What is the difference between ISA card and PCI card?

ISA cards are longer and bulkier compared to PCI cards. PCI is a faster bus with double or quadruple the bit-width, resulting in faster data transfer. This makes PCI cards more efficient and capable of higher performance compared to ISA cards.

4. How do I setup a network interface card on my computer?

To set up a network interface card (NIC) on your computer, right-click on the NIC and go to Properties. Then, click on Configure and adjust the power management settings to ensure the NIC stays powered. Click OK and repeat these steps for each NIC on your computer.

5. Do PCIe cards need drivers?

Yes, some PCIe cards require drivers to enable their full functionality in macOS. Make sure to download and install the appropriate driver for your PCIe card to ensure it works properly.

6. Why would you need a network card?

A network card (NIC) provides your computer with a dedicated and full-time connection to a network. It allows your computer to communicate with a data link layer standard, such as Ethernet or Wi-Fi. NICs enable the preparation, transmission, and control of data flow on the network.

7. Is PCI Express 2.0 or 3.0 slower?

PCIe 3.0 is faster than PCIe 2.0. PCIe 3.0 has nearly double the bandwidth compared to PCIe 2.0. While PCIe 2.0 has a bandwidth of 0.5 GB/sec, PCIe 3.0 offers a bandwidth of 0.985 GB/sec.

8. What is the difference between PCI and PCI Express cards?

The main difference between PCI and PCIe cards is the interface type. PCI is a parallel interface, while PCIe is a serial interface. PCI uses individual buses for each connected device, while PCIe uses a shared bus. PCIe has a significant speed advantage over standard PCI interfaces, especially when using a 16 slot.

Editor's Notes

During our network card for pci express research, we found 24 network card for pci express products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 80,389 customer reviews through our big data system to write the network cards for pci express list. We found that most customers choose network cards for pci express with an average price of $21.94.

The network cards for pci express are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of network cards for pci express, including TP-Link, Tenext, EDUP, BrosTrend, ULANSeN. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.