Best Serial Adapters of 2025

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 13, 2025

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Serial adapters are devices that allow communication between different types of serial ports. They come in various shapes and sizes, but all serve the same purpose. These adapters are commonly used in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and telecommunications, where equipment with different serial interfaces need to communicate with each other. Serial adapters can also be used to connect legacy devices to modern computers, making them a valuable tool in the tech industry. With the right adapter, users can transfer data, update firmware, and perform other critical tasks without having to replace hardware.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Gearmo USB to Serial Adapter with LED Indicators Cover #TOP 1
Gearmo USB to Serial Adapter with LED Indicators
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Arnorin DB9 Null Modem Adapter 10 Pack Cover #TOP 2
Arnorin DB9 Null Modem Adapter 10 Pack
ftb score rating icon 9.7
BENFEI USB to RS232 Male Serial Adapter Cover #TOP 3
BENFEI USB to RS232 Male Serial Adapter
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Serial Adapters

Gearmo USB to Serial Adapter with LED Indicators

FTDI-LED
Black
Gearmo USB to Serial Adapter with LED Indicators Cover
USB to Serial RS-232 Adapter with LED Indicators, FTDI Chipset, Supports Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/, Mac OS X 10.6 and Above

The Gearmo USB to Serial Adapter with LED Indicators is a 5ft long serial adapter that connects old DB-9 serial communication devices to modern computers with USB. It features a full LED dual-color display for testing RS-232 host to device link easily. This adapter supports multiple OS platforms including Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11, as well as Linux and MacOS 10.X. Gearmo is a reliable and superior-built product and offers CAD, Mechanical Drawings, and Data Sheets.

What We Like
Easy installation
Works on multiple operating systems
LED indicators for status
Reliable performance
Good for RS-232 connections
What We Don't Like
Driver on mini CD
Plastic feels a bit cheap
#TOP 2

Arnorin DB9 Null Modem Adapter 10 Pack

KAD9D90001-S-10
10 Pack
10 Pack
Arnorin DB9 Null Modem Adapter 10 Pack Cover
Arnorin DB9 Null Modem Adapter Male to Female Slimline Data Transfer Serial Port Adapter 10 Pack

The Arnorin DB9 Adapter is designed to convert standard cables to null modem wiring, making it easier for you to connect devices that require this specific configuration. With gold contact plating, you can expect reliable connections even after multiple uses, ensuring your data transfers are smooth and uninterrupted. Its slimline design minimizes strain on your computer ports, which helps to prolong their lifespan. Additionally, the UL grade 94V-0 connector insulator meets flammability safety standards, providing peace of mind during use. These features combine to offer a practical and durable solution for your serial connection needs.

What We Like
Simple and classic design
High quality and reliable
Durable in harsh environments
Narrow design saves space
Does not fall apart easily
What We Don't Like
Some reports of issues
#TOP 3

BENFEI USB to RS232 Male Serial Adapter

000151
Black
5 feet
BENFEI USB to RS232 Male Serial Adapter Cover
BENFEI USB to Serial Adapter, USB to RS-232 Male (9-pin) DB9 Serial Cable, Prolific Chipset, Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, Mac OS X 10.6 and Above, 1.8M(Not VGA)

The BENFEI USB to RS232 Male Serial Adapter allows you to connect serial devices such as modems, barcode scanners, and PDAs to your computer through a USB port. It features a standard USB Type A Male to Male 9-pin DB9 RS-232 serial connector and has a data transfer rate of 1Mbps. The adapter is compatible with a wide range of platforms, including Windows, MacOS, and Linux, and it comes with a Prolific PL-2303 chipset. The triple shielding and tinned copper conductor ensure the best data transfer rate, and it's powered by the USB port so there's no need for an external power adapter.

What We Like
High-quality cable
Plug and play functionality
Compatible with various systems
Exceptional value for the price
What We Don't Like
Driver installation may be required
Incompatible with some devices
#TOP 4

OIKWAN USB to RS232 Adapter

AQ-17
OIKWAN USB to RS232 Adapter Cover
OIKWAN USB to RS232, USB Serial Adapter with FTDI Chipset,USB 2.0 to Male DB9 Serial Cable for Windows 11,10, 8, 7, Vista, XP, 2000, Linux and Mac OS(6ft)…

The OIKWAN USB to RS232 Adapter with FTDI Chipset is a high-quality, reliable and convenient solution for connecting serial devices to your Windows, MAC or Linux system. The latest FTDI chipset ensures fast and stable operation, while the gold-plated USB RS232 connector and PVC cable provide excellent performance and durability. With plug-and-play installation, this USB-powered adapter cable supports a transfer rate of up to 1Mbps and can be used with a wide range of devices, including modems, scanners, printers and more.

What We Like
Easy installation
Well-made quality
Compatible with Windows 10/11
Good for data transfer
Fast shipping
What We Don't Like
Driver download required
May not work with older systems
#TOP 5

HiLetgo FT232RL FTDI Mini USB to TTL Serial Converter

3-01-0661-1
Small
HiLetgo FT232RL FTDI Mini USB to TTL Serial Converter Cover
HiLetgo FT232RL Mini USB to TTL Serial Converter Adapter Module 3.3V/5.5V

The HiLetgo FT232RL FTDI Mini USB to TTL Serial Converter is a breakout module that supports RXD/TXD transceiver communication, with a 500MA self-restore Fuse. The module is powered by a chipset of FT232RL, and has a working voltage of 3.3V/5.5V. Its pin definition comprises of DTR,RXD,TX,VCC,CTS,GND. The module supports Win95/98/98se/ME/2000/XP/win7 32bit 64bit /Vsita/, but not Win8.

What We Like
Great for hardware hacking
Easy integration into projects
Inexpensive alternative for basic communication
Supports various devices
Flexible for programming needs
What We Don't Like
Limited FT232RL functionality
Possible driver issues on Windows
#TOP 6

Sabrent USB to RS-232 DB9 Serial Adapter

SBT-USC6K
Black
6 Ft
Sabrent USB to RS-232 DB9 Serial Adapter Cover
SABRENT 6-FT USB to RS-232 DB9 Serial 9 pin Adapter (Prolific PL2303) (SBT-USC6K)

The Sabrent USB to RS-232 DB9 Serial Adapter enables you to connect serial devices and programs through COM ports on any PC. The 6 FT cable features standard USB Type A Male connector and 9-pin DB9 RS-232 serial connector, powered by USB without any external power. The PL-2303 Chipset ensures maximum compatibility with Windows, Mac, Linux, and other platforms. It also allows you to program baud rate from 75bps to 12Mbps, with typical speeds up to 230Kbps, and to create a COM port with plug and play.

What We Like
Reliable connectivity solution
Plug-and-play functionality
Stable data transfer
Versatile with multiple devices
Compact and portable design
What We Don't Like
Minor driver configuration issues
#TOP 7

DB9 Null Modem Male to Female Slimline Adapter 2 Pack

KAD9D90001-S-2
2 Pack
2 Pack
DB9 Null Modem Male to Female Slimline Adapter 2 Pack Cover
DB9 null modem male to female slimline data transfer serial port adapter 2 Pack

The DB9 Null Modem Male to Female Slimline Adapter 2 Pack converts standard straight wired cables to null modem wiring with pin 9 open. Its slimline design reduces leverage strain on computer ports, while the UL grade 94V-0 connector insulator satisfies flammability requirements. Additionally, the screws are removable and reversible for easy installation and flexibility.

What We Like
Easy screw removal
Well-made construction
Fixes null modem issues
Fast shipping
Useful for various setups
What We Don't Like
Same gender in pack
Terminology confusion
#TOP 8

YIOVVOM DB9 Serial Adapter with Terminal Wire Range and Screw Type Design

DB9F019P
Female Adapter
YIOVVOM DB9 Serial Adapter with Terminal Wire Range and Screw Type Design Cover
YIOVVOM DB9 Breakout Connector to Wiring Terminal RS232 D-SUB Male Serial Adapters Port Breakout Board Solder-Free Module with case(Female Serial Adapter)

This DB9 Serial Adapter by YIOVVOM features a screw type design and a terminal wire range of 12-24AWG. The adapter is made of metal and electric parts and comes in black and green. It has a total size of 58 x 35 x 21mm and a weight of 30g. The package includes 1 DB9 Adapter with a case and 3 protective covers. The cable hole diameter ranges from 5mm to 10mm, making it versatile for different cable sizes.

What We Like
Easy customization
Fast shipping
Good quality
Clear instructions
Secure wire terminals
What We Don't Like
Screws not captive
#TOP 9

DSD TECH USB to TTL Serial Adapter

SH-U09C
DSD TECH USB to TTL Serial Adapter Cover
DSD TECH SH-U09C USB to TTL Serial Adapter with FTDI FT232RL Chip Compatible with Windows 11, 10, 7 and Mac OS

The DSD Tech USB to TTL Serial Adapter with FTDI FT232RL Chip allows you to communicate with your board/MCU through your computer. It has a maximum transmission speed of up to 3Mbps and an LED indicator for TX, RX, and power. With pin definitions for CTS, RTS, RXD, TXD, GND, and VCC, this adapter also supports VCC output of 3.3V and 5V, switchable by jumper. It is compatible with Windows 10, 8, 7 and Mac OS X, making it a versatile option for various systems.

What We Like
Well-designed unit
Top-quality materials
Switchable voltage levels
Easy installation
Plug and play on Windows 11
What We Don't Like
Compatibility issues with Reyax LoRa boards
Minor signal inversion concerns
#TOP 10

StarTech.com Serial Cable Adapter

AT925FM
Beige
StarTech.com Serial Cable Adapter Cover
StarTech.com DB9 to DB25 Serial Cable Adapter - F/M - Serial adapter - DB-9 (F) to DB-25 (M) - AT925FM,Beige

The StarTech.com Serial Cable Adapter is an F/M adapter designed for connecting devices with DB-9 (F) and DB-25 (M) serial ports. It is a reliable solution that provides a secure connection and supports a transfer rate of up to 16 Mbps.

What We Like
Reliable performance
Sturdy build quality
Effective for vintage connections
Solves compatibility issues
What We Don't Like
Not suitable for all devices
Buying Guide Image

Factors You Should Consider before Buying Serial Adapters

Your computer does not necessarily need to have all ports before connecting to a serial device; a serial adapter makes this a possibility. It attaches to your computer via the USB port, and the other side has a serial port depending on the type of device you are connecting with. Finding the best adapter can prove tough, hence, the need for stating out the factors to consider before buying a serial adapter in this guide.

Factors to consider before buying serial adapters

Processor chip: This is the most important feature of a serial adapter. It functions as the mini central processing unit, i.e., the part that handles the internal functions in the adapter.

FTDI or Silbas is highly recommended because they are compatible with a wide range of operating systems and very stable.

Power Output: The power output at the adapter's connector determines the strength of the communication signal and the amount of power that gets into your computer.

The best data transfer serial adapter should have at least 5VDC output power at the connector of the adapter.

Adapters with low output power make stable communication nearly impossible between the two devices.

Compatibility: This depends on the operating system of your computer. Not all adapters work with windows, and sometimes it depends on the version of the window used on the computer.

Consider the version of your operating system to decide the best serial adapter. However, FTDI processors work with virtually all operating systems.

Serial driver chip: This chip essentially responsible for transferring data and providing a power signal for the device connected to your computer via the USB to serial adapter.

It is important to note the compatibility of the serial driver chip and the processor chip to ensure smooth communication.

Electrostatic Discharge Protector: This is necessary because it protects the adapter against the build-up of electrostatic discharges when connected to a device.

The best serial port serial adapter is recommended to have at least 600 Watt as the built-in static protector.

Benefits of serial adapter

  • The serial adapter is beneficial in connecting devices. There are thousands of devices with serial ports, while most computers are now designed with USB ports. This necessitates the use of an interface to connect computers and devices.
  • The serial adapter then ensures fast transmission of data and power between the two devices.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Do USB to serial adapter need drivers?

Generally, USB to serial adapters requires the installation of a driver before it works. The cable usually has unsigned device drivers that need to be manually installed.

What is a serial port adapter?

It is a communication interface between two devices. A USB to serial adapter helps add a serial port to a computer that doesn't have originally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does a serial adapter do?

A serial adapter allows for the connection between a computer bus and a serial device. It enables communication and data transfer between the two. Some serial adapters may have multiple connectors, allowing for connections to multiple serial ports.

2. What is a serial adapter card?

A serial adapter card, such as a dual port PCIe serial card, provides the ability to interact with serial devices like card readers, printers, PIN pads, and modems. It allows for high-speed communication with these devices, reaching speeds of up to 921.6Kbps.

3. What does a USB to serial adapter do?

A USB to serial adapter, also known as a USB adapter, is a converter that allows for the conversion of USB data signals to and from serial communications standards. It enables devices with USB ports to communicate with devices using serial ports, such as RS-232, RS-485, RS-422, or TTL-level UART serial data.

4. Do USB to serial adapters need drivers?

Yes, USB to serial adapters usually require the installation of drivers. These drivers are often provided on a CD accompanying the adapter or can be downloaded from the manufacturer's website. Some lower-cost adapters may use generic drivers that may not be fully compatible with newer versions of Windows.

5. Are all USB to serial adapters the same?

Not all USB to serial adapters are the same. There are different protocols, such as RS232, RS422, and RS485, and the choice of adapter depends on the specific application and communication requirements. It's important to consider the compatibility and functionality of the adapter for your particular needs.

6. Can you use USB as a serial port?

In theory, any port that uses serial communication can be considered a serial port, including USB (Universal Serial Bus). However, when people refer to "the serial port," they usually mean a port that complies with the RS-232 standard.

7. What are the 5 types of adapter cards?

There are several types of adapter cards, including video cards (PCI, PCIe, and AGP), multimedia cards (sound cards, TV tuner cards, and capture cards), I/O cards (SCSI, serial, USB, and parallel), and communications cards (NICs and modems).

8. Can I use a USB port as a serial port?

Yes, if your system has a free USB port, you can use it to convert between USB and serial signals. A USB to serial adapter is a small device that has a USB connector on one end and one or more serial connectors on the other end, allowing you to connect serial devices to your USB port.

Editor's Notes

During our serial adapter research, we found 24 serial adapter products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 70,884 customer reviews through our big data system to write the serial adapters list. We found that most customers choose serial adapters with an average price of $12.60.

The serial adapters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of serial adapters, including Gearmo, Arnorin, BENFEI, OIKWAN, HiLetgo. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 96 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

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.

Serial Adapters Comparison Table

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#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Gearmo Arnorin BENFEI OIKWAN HiLetgo SABRENT Arnorin YIOVVOM DSD TECH StarTech.com
Compatible Devices Devices with DB9 female serial port Modem Modem routers, GPS, barcode scanners, label writers, serial modems, digital cameras, card readers, palm PCs, Cellular Phones, PDAs, Laptop, Desktop Most USB Compatible Devices Modem Laptop Laptop Computers, Printers, Other serial devices
Connector Type DB9 Serial Adapter DB9 USB Type A Mini USB 9-pin Serial DB9 db9 USB DB9, DB25
Color Black 10 Pack Black usb to db9 6ft black Red - 2 Pack Female Adapter - Beige
Item dimensions L x W x H 5.5 x 3.5 x 0.6 inches 0.51 x 0.71 x 1.3 inches 0.39 x 0.39 x 0.39 inches - 6 x 0.5 x 4 inches - 1.3 x 0.5 x 0.07 inches 1.81 x 1.34 x 0.79 inches 2.2 x 0.8 x 0.1 inches 3.23 x 0.75 x 5.94 inches
Item Weight - 0.634 ounces 1 ounces 0.09 Kilograms 0.176 ounces - 0.804 ounces 0.634 ounces 1.13 ounces 1.44 ounces
Specific Uses For Product PC Serial Port Compatible Devices - - personal - PC, Laptop PC Laptop personal
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.6
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