Best Parallel Adapters of 2026
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Parallel adapters are a type of computer hardware that allow users to connect multiple devices to a computer through a parallel port. These adapters are typically used to connect printers, scanners, and other peripherals to a computer. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be used with both desktop and laptop computers. Parallel adapters are easy to install and use, and can greatly expand the functionality of a computer. Whether you're a home user or a professional, parallel adapters are a great way to increase the versatility of your computer system.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Parallel Adapters
StarTech.com USB to Parallel Printer Adapter
The StarTech.com USB to Parallel Port Adapter enables you to connect a Centronics-equipped parallel printer to your computer via a USB-A 2.0 port. It is USB bus-powered, so there is no requirement for an external power adapter. The adapter is USB-A male to 36-pin Centronics parallel male cable and is 1.8m (6 ft) long. It is black in color and made of plastic, with a Prolific PL2305 chipset.
Starnill Centronics to Mini-Centronics Adapter
The Starnill Parallel Printer Adapter is designed to connect your standard 36-pin Centronics cable to a smaller 36-pin Mini-Centronics port. This adapter allows you to easily adapt your existing cables, ensuring compatibility with various devices. The female connector on one end fits securely into your Centronics cable, while the male connector on the other end plugs into a Mini-Centronics port. This is especially useful if you need to connect older printers or devices that utilize the Mini-Centronics interface, making it a convenient solution for your printing needs.
Create idea DB25 to IDC 26 Parallel Port Adapter
The Create idea Parallel Adapter lets you add a parallel printer port to your computer, making it easier to connect older printers that use this type of interface. It connects directly to your motherboard through an IDC connector, giving you a quick and flexible way to manage your printer connections. Made from durable metal and plastic, this adapter is built to last and resist damage, so you don’t have to worry about frequent replacements. Installation is straightforward and hassle-free, as it fits perfectly without needing any adjustments. This product comes with two header slot plates, ensuring you have a spare or can meet multiple connection needs.
Monoprice DB25 Female-to-Female Null Modem Adapter
The Monoprice Null Modem Adapter is designed with a DB25 parallel connector that allows you to connect two devices directly. By crossing the transmission and receiving lines, it acts like a crossover cable, enabling straightforward communication between devices without needing a network. This means you can easily link two computers' parallel ports to transfer data directly, which is handy for quick file sharing or device communication without extra hardware. Keep in mind that you might need additional software to get everything working smoothly, but the adapter itself simplifies the connection process and saves you from complicated setups.
BOGEEL F-Panel to 2Pin Power Reset Adapter Cable
The BOGEEL 2Pin Converter Cable is perfect if you're upgrading an older computer case or working with setups that need separate power and reset switch cables. It helps you connect a modern motherboard with a compact F PANEL header to older cases that use individual 2-pin connectors, making your computer assembly smoother. This adapter clears up compatibility problems by converting the motherboard’s header into separate connectors for power and reset switches. You don’t have to modify your case, which saves time and effort. Plus, it ensures easy installation and reliable connections, so your PC starts up and resets without issues.
LINSYRC T-Plug 1F to 2M Parallel Adapter
The LINSYRC T-Plug Splitter is a handy cable that lets you connect one female T-plug to two male plugs, making it easier to link two batteries at the same time. With its 3.93-inch length and sturdy 14AWG wire, it offers a compact and reliable connection. This adapter is especially useful if you use Deans Ultra-type connectors, helping you wire two batteries in parallel effortlessly. It's designed for RC multicopters and quadcopters, so if you're into those, this splitter lets you extend your flying time by combining battery power efficiently.
BOXUWFO USB to DB25 Female Parallel Printer Adapter
The BOXUWFO USB Parallel Adapter is a durable and reliable solution for connecting your computer to older parallel printers. Made with high-quality materials, it ensures long-lasting use without losing performance. You’ll appreciate its broad compatibility, working with about 85% of printers that use the IEEE1284 standard, making it perfect for both home and office setups. Thanks to its built-in chip, data transfers are stable and fast, supporting speeds up to 12Mbps, which means smoother printing without interruptions. Installation is easy with plug-and-play support, so you can just plug it in and start using it immediately without complex setup. Plus, the hot-swap feature lets you connect or disconnect safely anytime without risking hardware damage.
Monoprice DB25 Null Modem Adapter
The Monoprice Null Modem Adapter is designed to connect two parallel ports directly, making it easier for you to transfer data between two computers without needing a network. Its special wiring crosses the transmission and receiving lines, allowing direct communication between devices just like a crossover cable would. This means you can link two computers for data sharing without extra hardware. Keep in mind that you might need additional software to complete the setup, but this simple adapter provides a straightforward way to establish a data link using standard parallel ports.
OVAQUIXI 6S Battery Parallel Charging Board
The OVAQUIXI Parallel Charging Board offers a range of useful features for anyone needing efficient battery charging. Its multiple connectors, including EC3, EC5, and T types, make it easy for you to connect and charge different batteries without hassle. Designed to work with popular chargers like the iMAX B8 and UN A6, it balances the charge across six batteries simultaneously, saving you valuable time. The board is lightweight and compact, so you can quickly set it up and start charging without complicated steps. Plus, it supports faster charging by balancing a single battery, helping you charge safely and more efficiently.
Haofy PATA to SATA Adapter Converter
The Haofy PATA SATA Adapter helps you easily connect older Parallel ATA (PATA) devices to modern computers with Serial ATA (SATA) ports. It supports ATA 100/133 speeds, which means you can enjoy faster data transfers and improved device performance. This adapter is simple to use, allowing you to upgrade your old hard drives without hassle. With one SATA port, a 40-pin IDE port, and a 4-pin power connector, it offers flexible connections for different devices. Plus, it meets Serial ATA standards, ensuring a reliable and stable link between your PATA and SATA devices for smooth operation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why are parallel ports no longer used?
Parallel ports are no longer used in new computers because the rise of USB devices and network printing using Ethernet and Wi-Fi connected printers. USB provides a more versatile and widely supported interface for connecting peripheral devices.
2. What is an example of a parallel connector?
An example of a parallel connector is the Centronics port, commonly used for connecting printers to a computer. Other devices that may use parallel connectors include monitors, projectors, and other peripherals that require high bandwidth for data transfer.
3. What does a parallel connector do?
A parallel connector, such as the Centronics port, allows a computer to transmit or receive data through multiple bundled cables to a peripheral device, like a printer. It provides a parallel communication interface for sending large amounts of data at once.
4. Is parallel faster than USB?
No, USB is faster than parallel ports. USB allows data to travel at a much higher speed compared to parallel ports. On average, USB is about ten times faster than a parallel port.
5. What is the difference between USB and parallel?
The main difference between USB and parallel ports is that USB supports connecting multiple devices through an external USB hub, while parallel ports typically only support one device at a time. USB ports are more versatile and can accommodate multiple devices with the use of hubs.
6. What still uses parallel port?
While parallel ports are no longer commonly used, some business printers may still offer parallel ports. However, consumer-based printers and new computers primarily use USB for connectivity.
7. What are the disadvantages of parallel ports?
Parallel ports have some drawbacks, such as supporting short-distance communication due to crosstalk between the parallel lines. They also require more wires compared to serial interfaces, making them more complex and costly to implement.
During our parallel adapter research, we found 24 parallel adapter products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 5,697 customer reviews through our big data system to write the parallel adapters list. We found that most customers choose parallel adapters with an average price of $10.47.
The parallel adapters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of parallel adapters, including StarTech.com, starnill, Create idea, Monoprice, BOGEEL. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
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.