Intel Gigabit CT PCI-E Network Adapter EXPI9301CTBLK
Bottom line: The Intel Gigabit CT PCI-E Network Adapter EXPI9301CTBLK ($43.99 on Amazon as of 2026-10-06): Intel Gigabit Ethernet Controller with broad OS driver support; main trade-off: single port only, no dual-NIC option on this card.
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-06. Price and availability subject to change.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Intel Gigabit Ethernet Controller with broad OS driver support
- ✓ Auto-negotiates 10/100/1000 Mbps to your network's top speed
- ✓ Dedicated PCIe bus bandwidth, no sharing with other devices
- ✓ Low-power controller keeps heat and draw down in older builds
Cons
- ✗ Single port only, no dual-NIC option on this card
- ✗ Bulk packaging, so no retail box, manual, or extras
- ✗ PCIe slot required, will not fit legacy PCI-only boards
- ✗ Caps at 1 Gbps, no 2.5G or 10G headroom
Manufacturer description
The Intel Gigabit CT PCI-E Network Adapter (EXPI9301CTBLK) is the network card retro PC builders and homelab tinkerers keep reaching for when onboard Ethernet isn't enough. Built on Intel's low-power Gigabit Ethernet Controller, this single-port PCI Express card uses auto-negotiation to lock onto the fastest link your network supports at 10, 100, or 1000 Mbps, and the dedicated bandwidth of the PCIe I/O bus means it holds full throughput instead of fighting other devices for a shared bus. If you are rescuing an older desktop with a flaky onboard NIC, adding a second interface to a router or…
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored Intel Gigabit CT PCI-E Network Adapter EXPI9301CTBLK using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the retro networking cards category. Compare with similarly-priced alternatives in the retro networking cards category before committing. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.
Common buyer scenarios for retro networking cards of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this work in an older PC with only PCI slots?
No. The EXPI9301CTBLK is a PCI Express card and needs a PCIe slot. Intel makes separate PCI-based adapters for legacy boards.
What link speeds does the Intel Gigabit CT support?
It auto-negotiates 10, 100, or 1000 Mbps and runs at the highest speed your switch or router supports on that connection.
Is this a retail box or a bare card?
The BLK part number is bulk packaging, so expect the adapter itself without retail box contents. Check the listing for exactly what the seller includes.
Does it come with drivers for my operating system?
It uses Intel's Gigabit Ethernet Controller, which is widely supported. Confirm current driver availability for your OS version on Intel's support site.
Key Features
- Intel Gigabit CT PCI-E Network Adapter EXPI9301CTBLK (bulk)
Full Specifications
| Brand | Intel |
|---|---|
| Color | multicolor |
| Unit Count | 1 Count |
| Model Number | EXPI9301CTBLK |
| Built-In Media | Low-profile bracket, Network adapter |
| Item Type Name | Intel EXPI9301CTBLK CT Desktop Adapter Network PCI Express x1 Gigabit Ethernet |
| Mfr Part Number | EXPI9301CTBLK |
| Item Part Number | EXPI9301CTBLK |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop |
| Data Link Protocol | Gigabit Ethernet |
| Data Transfer Rate | 1024 megabits_per_second |
| Hardware Interface | Ethernet |
| Warranty Description | Limited warranty; limited lifetime warranty |
| Item Dimensions L x W x H | 0.5"L x 0.5"W x 0.5"H |
| External Testing Certification | FCC B, UL, CE |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 05032037041546 |
Ready to buy?
Intel Gigabit CT PCI-E Network Adapter EXPI9301CTBLK is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.
*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-06. Price and availability subject to change.
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