Plugable
Plugable USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, Driverless
Bottom line: The Plugable USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter ($15.96 on Amazon as of 2026-10-06): ASIX AX88179B chipset drives a full gigabit link over one USB 3.0 port; main trade-off: not compatible with Smart TVs, per Plugable's own spec sheet.
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-06. Price and availability subject to change.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ ASIX AX88179B chipset drives a full gigabit link over one USB 3.0 port
- ✓ Driverless: Windows Update auto-installs; macOS 11+ has built-in support
- ✓ VLAN tagging and jumbo frame support, rare at this price tier
- ✓ Checksum offload cuts CPU load during sustained large transfers
Cons
- ✗ Not compatible with Smart TVs, per Plugable's own spec sheet
- ✗ Gigabit ceiling only; no 2.5GbE option for newer routers
- ✗ Nintendo Switch works in docked mode only, not handheld
- ✗ Energy Efficient Ethernet can complicate some managed-switch setups
Manufacturer description
The Plugable USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter solves the problem every thin laptop, Chromebook, and docked Nintendo Switch eventually hits: no wired port. Built around the ASIX AX88179B chipset, it delivers a full gigabit wired link over a single USB 3.0 connection, so video calls, online matches, and 4K streams stop depending on contested Wi-Fi airtime. Setup is genuinely driverless on modern systems. Windows 11, 10, 8.x, 7, and XP pull the driver automatically through Windows Update, and macOS 11 and newer include built-in support, as do iPadOS and Chrome OS. There is no CD, no vendor…
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored Plugable USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the retro networking cards category. Plugable's retro networking cards lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. 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
Do I need to install a driver for this adapter?
No. Windows 11, 10, 8.x, 7, and XP install the driver automatically through Windows Update, and macOS 11 and newer include built-in support. iPadOS and Chrome OS are also supported.
Will this work with my Nintendo Switch?
Yes, in docked mode. Plugable lists Nintendo Switch docked-mode support explicitly. It will not provide a wired connection in handheld mode.
What chipset does it use?
The ASIX AX88179B. That chipset is what enables the driverless behavior on modern operating systems plus the advanced feature set including VLAN tagging and jumbo frames.
Can I plug this into my Smart TV to get wired internet?
No. Plugable states the adapter is not compatible with Smart TVs. Stick to Windows, macOS 11+, iPadOS, Chrome OS, or a docked Nintendo Switch.
Does it support VLANs and jumbo frames for a home lab?
Yes. The adapter supports VLAN tagging, jumbo frames, checksum offload, and Energy Efficient Ethernet, which makes it usable for tagged-network and NAS transfer work.
Key Features
- Lag-Free Connection—Ensure smooth video calls, online gaming, and streaming high resolution videos with the widely compatible ASIX AX88179B-powered USB Ethernet adapter.
- Effortless Installation—Automatic driver installation via Windows Update for Windows 11, 10, 8.x, 7, and XP. Built-in driver support for macOS 11 and newer. Not compatible with Smart TVs.
- Advanced Features—Experience high-speed data transfer on USB3 network adapter, including Energy Efficient Ethernet, jumbo frame, VLAN tagging, and checksum offload.
- Multi-Platform Support—Supports Nintendo Switch in docked mode. Compatible with macOS 11 and newer. iPadOS, Windows 11, 10, 8.x, and Chrome OS.
- Lifetime Support: This device has been designed with reliability at its core and was built to meet the deployment demands of IT departments and the ease of use necessary for home offices. Includes lifetime support from our North American team of connectivity experts.
Full Specifications
| Brand | Plugable |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Unit Count | 1 Count |
| Connectivity | USB |
| Model Number | USB3-E1000 |
| Compatibility | Switch, Mac |
| Built-In Media | Network adapter |
| Item Type Name | Plugable Network Adapter, Black (USB3-E1000) |
| Mfr Part Number | USB3-E1000 |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Data Link Protocol | Gigabit Ethernet |
| Data Transfer Rate | 1 gigabits_per_second |
| Hardware Interface | USB 3.0 Type A |
| Warranty Description | 2 Year Limited Parts and Labor |
| Item Dimensions L x W x H | 7.28"L x 4.53"W x 0.98"H |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00649241924524 |
Ready to buy?
Plugable USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, Driverless 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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