Best 3.0 USB Network Adapters of 2025

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 5, 2025

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

3.0 USB network adapters are a convenient way to add wireless connectivity to a computer that doesn't have built-in Wi-Fi. These adapters plug into a USB port and allow the user to connect to Wi-Fi networks, as well as Bluetooth devices. They are compatible with a wide range of operating systems and offer high-speed data transfer rates. Some models even come equipped with antennas for improved signal strength and range. Whether for work or play, a 3.0 USB network adapter is a cost-effective solution for anyone looking to upgrade their computer's connectivity.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

ABLEWE USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter with 3-Port USB 3.0 Hub Cover #TOP 1
ABLEWE USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter with 3-Port USB 3.0 Hub
ftb score rating icon 9.9
TP-Link USB Ethernet Adapter, Foldable Gigabit LAN Network Adapter Cover #TOP 2
TP-Link USB Ethernet Adapter, Foldable Gigabit LAN Network Adapter
ftb score rating icon 9.8
uni USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter Cover #TOP 3
uni USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 3.0 USB Network Adapters

ABLEWE USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter with 3-Port USB 3.0 Hub

USB3.0-ET-03
Grey
ABLEWE USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter with 3-Port USB 3.0 Hub Cover
USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter,ABLEWE 3-Port USB 3.0 Hub with RJ45 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet Adapter Support Windows 10,8.1,Mac OS, Surface Pro,Linux,Chromebook and More

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.

What We Like
Fast 5Gbps data transfer rate
Easy to use with plug and play feature
Compatible with various devices and operating systems
#TOP 2

TP-Link USB Ethernet Adapter, Foldable Gigabit LAN Network Adapter

UE300
White
USB 3.0
TP-Link USB Ethernet Adapter, Foldable Gigabit LAN Network Adapter Cover
TP-Link USB to Ethernet Adapter, Foldable USB 3.0 to 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet LAN Network Adapter, Support Windows 10/8.1/8/7/Vista/XP for Desktop Laptop Apple MacBook Linux (UE300)

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.

What We Like
Stable high-speed Ethernet connection
Full 10/100/1000Mbps Gigabit Ethernet performance
Compact and foldable design for portability

uni USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter

uni
AE01
Grey
USB 3.0
uni USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter Cover
uni USB to Ethernet Adapter, Driver Free USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet LAN Network Adapter, 100/1000 Mbps RJ45 Internet Adapter Compatible with Laptop, MacBook, Surface, PC with Windows, XP, Mac/Linux

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.

What We Like
Easy plug-and-play installation
Fast and stable wired connection
Unique design for durable use
#TOP 4

Amazon Basics USB 3.0 Ethernet Adapter

Amazon Basics
U3-GE-1P
Black
1-Pack
Amazon Basics USB 3.0 Ethernet Adapter Cover
Amazon Basics USB 3.0 to 10/100/1000 Gigabit Ethernet Internet Adapter, Black

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.

What We Like
Easy to use and set up.
Provides a stable and fast Gigabit Ethernet connection.
Supports Wake-on-LAN function, Green Ethernet & IEEE 802.3az-2010 (Energy Efficient Ethernet), and IPv4/IPv6 pack Checksum Offload Engine (COE), which make it an energy-efficient and cost-effective solution.

UGREEN Gigabit USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter

FBA_20256
Black
2.4 *0.9*0.6 inch
UGREEN Gigabit USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter Cover
UGREEN USB to Ethernet Adapter, 1000Mbps Ethernet Adapter with USB 3.0, Driver Free, RJ45 LAN Network Adapter Compatible with Nintendo Switch, Laptop, PC, MacBook, Windows, macOS, Linux

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.

What We Like
1000Mbps data transfer speed
Plug and play, driver-free for various devices
Compatible with Nintendo Switch and Switch Oled
Wide compatibility with most desktop PCs, laptops, and TV boxes
Compact and portable design
#TOP 6

UGREEN 2.5Gb USB to Ethernet Adapter

25051
Grey
UGREEN 2.5Gb USB to Ethernet Adapter Cover
UGREEN USB to Ethernet Adapter 2.5Gb, Ethernet to USB Adapter, Aluminum, USB 3.0 to RJ45 Computer Network Internet LAN Ethernet Dongle for Laptop, Compatible for MacBook Air/Pro, XPS, Windows, macOS

The UGREEN USB Ethernet Adapter allows you to experience lightning-fast internet speeds of up to 2.5Gb, enhancing your online activities like streaming and gaming. With its advanced Realtek chip, this adapter ensures low power consumption and reduced heat while maintaining peak performance. You can easily upgrade your existing 1Gb network by connecting it to 2.5Gb-capable devices, giving older devices a new lease on life. Its sleek aluminum design not only looks great but also offers durability, making it an excellent choice for everyday use.

What We Like
High-speed internet connectivity
Low power consumption
Durable aluminum design
Easy network upgrade
#TOP 7

BENFEI USB to Ethernet Adapter

000317grey
Gray
BENFEI USB to Ethernet Adapter Cover
BENFEI USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter Compatible for MacBook, Surface Pro, PC with Windows11/10/8/7, XP, Vista, Mac[Aluminium Shell&Nylon Cable]

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.

What We Like
Superior stability with advanced IC chip
Full 10/100/1000Mbps gigabit ethernet performance
Compact design with RJ45 port for MacBook Air, Ultrabook or notebook
#TOP 8

UGREEN USB 3.0 Ethernet Hub

60554
Space Grey
L100.9xW27xH18 (mm)
UGREEN USB 3.0 Ethernet Hub Cover
UGREEN USB to Ethernet Adapter, 5 in 1 USB Hub with Ethernet, Plug and Play, Multiport Network Adapter with 3 USB 3.0 Port, Gigabit RJ45, USB-C Power Port Compatible for Laptop MacBook XPS Windows 11

UGREEN Ethernet Hub is a 5 in 1 USB 3.0 hub that connects your device to a stable wired network and expands your accessories. With the gigabit ethernet port, it provides up to 1000Mbps data transfer speed, ensuring stable network speed for online gaming, Internet surfing, HD video streaming, and more. The 3 x USB 3.0 ports allow you to connect more accessories such as a mouse, keyboard, external drive, thumb drive, and more. The data sync of USB 3.0 can up to 5Gbps, which is 10x faster than USB 2.0. It's compatible with most USB A devices, and driver-free on Windows 11/10/8.1/8, Mac OS, and Chrome OS. The extra Type-C 5V 2A power supply port can supply power to high-power devices like hard disk enclosures or multiple devices, ensuring stable performance.

What We Like
5 in 1 hub
Gigabit ethernet port
3 x USB 3.0 ports
#TOP 9

Anker USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter

A76130A1
Black
Anker USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter Cover
Anker USB 3.0 to Ethernet Adapter, PowerExpand USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, Aluminum Portable USB-A Adapter Compatible for MacBook Pro 2015, MacBook Air 2017, and More

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.

What We Like
Provides instant internet connection
Stable connection speeds of up to 1 Gbps
Lightweight and portable design
Premium build with sleek aluminum exterior and braided-nylon cable
#TOP 10

Amazon Basics USB 3.0 Ethernet Adapter

Amazon Basics
U3-GE04
Gray
Amazon Basics USB 3.0 Ethernet Adapter Cover
Amazon Basics Aluminum USB 3.0 Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, Gray, 1.97 x 0.83 x 0.59 inches

The Amazon Basics Ethernet Adapter allows you to connect your USB 3.0 devices, like computers and tablets, directly to your network. This means you can enjoy high-speed internet access through a router, modem, or switch. With its plug-and-play design, you can set it up quickly without needing extra power sources. The compact and lightweight aluminum casing makes it easy to carry around, perfect for on-the-go users. Experience seamless connectivity and convenience with this reliable adapter that fits right in your pocket.

What We Like
High-speed internet access
Easy plug-and-play setup
Compact and portable design
Lightweight aluminum housing
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can USB 3.0 be used for Ethernet?

USB 3.0 systems support theoretical maximum transfer speeds up to 5Gbps and USB 2.0 supports up to 480Mbps. In practice, most machines will see up to a doubling of network speeds by moving from a 100Mbps Fast Ethernet to a 1000Mbps gigabit Ethernet via USB 2.0, and could see even more substantial gains on USB 3.0.

2. What is a USB 3.0 Ethernet adapter?

The USB 3.0 Ethernet Adapter adds a single RJ45 Ethernet port to a USB-enabled computer system, with support for Gigabit network connections at full bandwidth, unlike USB 2.0 adapters. This compact USB 3.0 network adapter is backward compatible with older USB 2.0/1.

3. Is usb3 faster than Ethernet?

USB 3.0 is faster than Gigabit Ethernet. Desktop grade Hard Drives are now slightly bottlenecked by Gigabit Ethernet. SSD Hard drives are severely bottlenecked by Gigabit Ethernet. USB 3.0 is fine for SSDs.

4. What is the fastest USB to Ethernet adapter?

ZDNet Recommends A wired connection is the way to go, and this USB-C to Ethernet is one of the fastest available. The TRENDnet TUC-ET5G USB-C 3.1 to 5GBASE-T Ethernet adapter is capable of some serious data throughput -- up to 5Gbps over existing Cat5e or better cabling.

Editor's Notes

During our 3.0 usb network adapter research, we found 24 3.0 usb network adapter products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 404,380 customer reviews through our big data system to write the 3.0 usb network adapters list. We found that most customers choose 3.0 usb network adapters with an average price of $19.25.

The 3.0 usb network adapters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of 3.0 usb network adapters, including ABLEWE, TP-Link, uni, UGREEN, BENFEI. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 515 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

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.