Best USB Network Adapters of 2025

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USB network adapters are small devices that allow users to connect to a network or the internet using a USB port. They are particularly useful for laptops or desktops without built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, or for those who need to connect to a wired network using a USB port. These adapters are easy to install and use, and come in a variety of speeds and features, from basic models to high-speed, dual-band options. They are a convenient and affordable solution for anyone looking to expand their network connectivity options.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 USB Network Adapters
BENFEI USB to Ethernet Adapter
The BENFEI USB to Ethernet Adapter allows you to connect your computer or tablet to a network switch, router or modem for reliable network connection. With a compact design, it adds a RJ45 port to your MacBook Air, Ultrabook or notebook for video conferencing, file transferring, gaming, and HD video streaming. The adapter supports full 10/100/1000Mbps gigabit ethernet performance with advanced IC chip for superior stability. It is driver-free and backward compatible with USB 2.0/1.1, compatible with Windows, Mac, Chrome OS and Linux kernel.
ABLEWE USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter with 3-Port USB 3.0 Hub
Ablewe 4 in 1 USB 3.0 to Ethernet adapter expands a single USB 3.0 port to connect multiple devices, including a 1000Mbps RJ45 gigabit port and 3 USB 3.0 ports. It offers 5Gbps data transfer for fast file-transfer and the inner chip model is AX88179A, making it compatible with various devices and operating systems. It is easy to use with plug and play feature and does not require any driver installation.
TP-Link Archer T3U AC1300 USB WiFi Adapter
The TP-Link Archer T3U AC1300 USB WiFi Adapter is an excellent device for those who need high-speed internet connectivity. The device provides a strong, high-speed connection of 2.4G/5G dual-band Wi-Fi throughout your home, making it ideal for PC, desktop, and laptop users. With MU-MIMO technology, the Archer T3U delivers lag-free Wi-Fi experience. The USB 3.0 interface provides 10x faster speed than USB 2.0, and its mini and portable size allows you to carry the device everywhere. The Archer T3U is compatible with Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7, XP, and Mac OS X 10.9-10.14.
uni USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter
The uni USB to Ethernet Adapter provides 10/100/1000 Mbps fast transmission, plug-and-play convenience and secure wired connection for USB 3.0 devices without requiring any driver or software installation. Its unique design includes a built-in intelligent chip, stable signal transport, durable nylon braided cable, LED indicator, and premium aluminum case for better heat dissipation. Compatible with various systems and features Wake-on-Lan, Crossover Detection, timing recovery, and IEEE 802. 3az Energy Efficient Ethernet. However, it is not recommended for TV. Comes with an 18-month warranty and 24-hour customer service.
UGREEN Gigabit USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter
The UGREEN Gigabit USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter offers a fast and stable 1000Mbps data transfer speed, making it ideal for online gaming, HD video streaming, and more. It is driver-free for Windows, macOS, and Chrome OS, as well as Nintendo Switch and Switch Oled, making it easy to use. The adapter is compatible with most desktop PCs, laptops, TV boxes, and Nintendo Switch and Switch Oled. Its compact and portable design makes it easy to carry around in a briefcase or pocket.
Amazon Basics USB 3.0 Ethernet Adapter
The Amazon Basics USB 3.0 Ethernet Adapter connects a computer or laptop to a router, modem, or network switch to deliver Gigabit Ethernet. It supports Wake-on-LAN function, Green Ethernet & IEEE 802.3az-2010 (Energy Efficient Ethernet), and IPv4/IPv6 pack Checksum Offload Engine (COE) to reduce CPU loading. This USB network adapter is compatible with Windows 10/8/7 but not with MacOS, Chrome OS, Windows RT, Linux or Android.
Anker USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter
The Anker USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter allows you to connect to the internet instantly, with stable speeds of up to 1 Gbps. Its lightweight, portable design is half an inch thick and weighs about the same as a AA battery, making it easy to take with you on-the-go. The premium build features a sleek aluminum exterior and braided-nylon cable, adding a touch of style to your high-end devices.
TP-Link USB Ethernet Adapter, Foldable Gigabit LAN Network Adapter
The TP-Link UE300 Gigabit Ethernet Adapter allows you to convert your USB port into an RJ45 Ethernet port, providing a stable high-speed Ethernet connection for your laptop. It supports full 10/100/1000Mbps Gigabit Ethernet performance, IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3U, and IEEE 802.3ab. The ultra-compact and foldable design makes it convenient to carry with you anywhere, and it is compatible with Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, and Linux OS. The UE300 is plug-and-play, meaning it does not require a driver for most operating systems.
TP-Link Nano USB WiFi Adapter for PC
The TP-Link Nano USB WiFi Adapter for PC is a powerful wireless network adapter that provides high-speed Wi-Fi connection with its dual-band connection (2.4G/5G). Its nano design allows the user to plug in the wireless adapter and leave it in place. The adapter is equipped with MU-MIMO technology, which improves the throughput and efficiency of the network. The device is fully compatible with Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7 and MacOS 10.15 or earlier, and it supports WPA3 for more secure cybersecurity. Additionally, the adapter features 256-QAM modulation technology for faster data transfer rates.
Amazon Basics USB-C to RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet Adapter
The Amazon Basics USB-C Ethernet Adapter is a compact and lightweight solution for converting a USB-C port to a Gigabit Ethernet port. With its integrated Ethernet port, it supports various bandwidths, including 10M, 100M, and 1000M, allowing for a fast and stable internet connection. The USB-C input offers reversible plugging, providing convenience and compatibility with current computers and devices, including the Nintendo Switch. This adapter is ready to use right out of the box, without the need for an external power adapter. Its slim and portable design makes it easy to carry around, ensuring that you can stay connected wherever you go.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are USB Ethernet adapters better than Wi-Fi?
USB Ethernet adapters can provide faster speeds compared to a standard wireless connection or an older network card. Additionally, a wired connection offers more security, stability, and reliability compared to a wireless connection.
2. Does it matter what USB Wi-Fi adapter I get?
Yes, when choosing a USB Wi-Fi adapter, compatibility is crucial. Ensure that the adapter is compatible with your computer's operating system, whether it's Windows or Mac. This ensures that the USB Wi-Fi adapter will work effectively with your computer and provide the desired wireless connection.
3. Can you convert a USB port to Ethernet?
Yes, it is possible to connect an Ethernet cable to a USB port using a USB to Ethernet adapter. This allows you to connect to a wired LAN, router, or modem even if your computer doesn't have an Ethernet port. Simply plug the Ethernet cable into the USB to Ethernet adapter, providing you with Ethernet capability.
4. How do I choose a network adapter?
To choose a network adapter in Windows 10, go to Start > Settings > Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings. From the list of network connections, select the connection you are using to connect to your ISP, whether it's Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
5. Is USB to Ethernet as fast as Ethernet?
USB to Ethernet adapters can support high data transfer speeds similar to Ethernet. Depending on the cable specification, both USB and Ethernet cables can offer fast transfer speeds. In general, USB is capable of surpassing Ethernet in terms of speed.
6. What is the difference between USB 2.0 and 3.0 Ethernet adapter?
USB 3.0 Ethernet adapters offer better data transfer speeds and power management compared to USB 2.0. USB 2.0 has a transfer rate of 480 Mbps, while USB 3.0 can transfer at 4.8 Gbps, which is ten times faster than the previous standard.
During our usb network adapter research, we found 24 usb network adapter products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 469,873 customer reviews through our big data system to write the usb network adapters list. We found that most customers choose usb network adapters with an average price of $18.25.
The usb network adapters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of usb network adapters, including BENFEI, ABLEWE, TP-Link, uni, UGREEN. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 5,323 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

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.
USB Network Adapters Comparison Table
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Brand | BENFEI | ABLEWE | TP-Link | uni | UGREEN | Amazon Basics | Anker | TP-Link | TP-Link | Amazon Basics |
Color | Gray | Grey | Black | Grey | Black | Black | Black | White | Black,gold | Grey |
Compatible Devices | Desktop | Compatible with Desktop; Laptop; Apple MacBook; Linux and More | Computers (desktops, laptops), running Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8, 7, XP, and Mac OS X 10.9 to 10.14 | Desktop; Laptop; Apple MacBook; Linux and more device with USB-A ports | Laptop, Nintendo Switch, Desktop | Computers, laptops | Laptop | MacBook, iMac, Chromebook, Surface, Windows PC, Linux PC, Dell inspiron, etc | compatible with Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, Mac OS 10.15 or earlier | Desktop |
Hardware Interface | USB, Ethernet | USB 3.0 Type B, USB, Ethernet, USB 3.0 | Micro USB 3.0 Type B | Ethernet | Ethernet | USB, Ethernet | - | USB 3.0 | Micro USB 3.0 Type B | - |
Item Weight | 25 Grams | - | 0.004 ounces | 0.917 ounces | 0.04 Kilograms | 33 Grams | - | 1.76 ounces | 0.01 Pounds | 0.798 ounces |
Data Link Protocol | IEEE 802.3, USB, Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet | - | USB | USB, Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet | IEEE 802.3, USB, Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet | USB, Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet | - | USB | USB | - |
Data Transfer Rate | 1000 Megabytes Per Second | - | 1.3E+3 Megabits Per Second | 1 Gigabits Per Second | 1000 Megabits Per Second | 1000 Megabits Per Second | - | 1E+3 Megabits Per Second | 867 Megabits Per Second | - |
Compatible Operating System Family | ChromeOS, Linux, MacOS, Windows | - | MacOS, Windows | Linux, MacOS, Windows | ChromeOS, Linux, MacOS, Windows | ChromeOS, Linux, MacOS, Windows | - | ChromeOS, Linux, MacOS, Windows | - | - |
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