StarTech.com
StarTech.com USB 3.0 Ethernet Adapter
Bottom line: The StarTech.com USB 3.0 Ethernet Adapter ($36.26 on Amazon as of 2026-10-06): USB 3.0 passthrough port keeps your USB-A port usable for other peripherals; main trade-off: USB-A only, so USB-C laptops need a separate adapter.
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-06. Price and availability subject to change.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ USB 3.0 passthrough port keeps your USB-A port usable for other peripherals
- ✓ ASIX AX88179A chipset means plug-and-play with no driver install on Windows 7+ or macOS 10.14+
- ✓ Full 10/100/1000 Mbps gigabit RJ45, IEEE 802.3i/u/ab compliant
- ✓ Auto MDIX crossover detection works with straight-through or crossover cables
Cons
- ✗ USB-A only, so USB-C laptops need a separate adapter
- ✗ Bus-powered design draws host power, a drain on laptop battery
- ✗ Bundled MAC changer and Wi-Fi auto-switch utilities are Windows-oriented
- ✗ Linux support limited to LTS kernels 2.6.25 and up, not every distro build
Manufacturer description
The USB31000SPTB USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter lets you add a Gigabit network port to your laptop or Ultrabook™ computer through a USB 3.0 port, and features an integrated USB 3.0 pass-through port that keeps your USB port available for use with other peripherals. The RJ45 port supports 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet and is fully compatible with IEEE 802.3i/u/ab standards. The network adapter is the ideal laptop accessory for your Microsoft Surface™ Pro 4, SurfacePro 3, Surface 3, Surface Pro 2 or Surface Book.An ideal replacement LAN adapter or laptop accessory, this compact USB 3.0 NIC…
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored StarTech.com USB 3.0 Ethernet Adapter using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the retro networking cards category. StarTech.com'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.
Key Features
- USB NETWORK ADAPTER: Use the USB-A port on your laptop to add LAN access through a Gigabit Ethernet port; Features an integrated USB 3.0 passthrough port to connect additional peripherals; Crossover Detection & Auto-Correction (Auto MDIX)
- FULL FEATURED: USB-A to Ethernet dongle; Uses ASIX AX88179A Chipset for native compatibility with laptop, desktops, and 2-in-1 computers; Wake-On-LAN and VLAN Tagging support
- OS COMPATIBILITY: USB NIC adapter for laptop offers plug and play connectivity (no driver install required); Works with Windows versions 7 and up, Windows Server, macOS 10.14 and up, Linux Kernel 2.6.25 and up (LTS Versions only), and Chrome OS
- VERSATILE DESIGN: With its compact and lightweight design for maximum portability, this USB Type-A NIC/Gigabit network adapter enables you to securely connect your laptop to a Gigabit Ethernet network wherever you go; USB bus-powered
- CONNECTIVITY TOOLS: Provided with this device, the application improves performance and security, featuring MAC Address Changer & Wi-Fi Auto Switch utilities
Full Specifications
| Brand | StarTech.com |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| Connectivity | USB, WiFi |
| Model Number | USB31000SPTB |
| Compatibility | Switch, Mac, Linux |
| Built-In Media | USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter NIC w/ USB Port - Black, 1 x Driver CD, 1 x Instruction Manual |
| Item Type Name | Gigabit Ethernet Card |
| Mfr Part Number | USB31000SPTB |
| Number of Packs | 1 |
| CONNECTIVITY TOOLS | Provided with this device, the application improves performance and security, featuring MAC Address Changer & Wi-Fi Auto Switch utilities |
| Compatible Devices | Desktop, Laptop |
| Data Link Protocol | Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, IEEE 802.3, USB |
| Data Transfer Rate | 5 Megabits Per Second |
| Hardware Interface | USB 3.0 |
| Warranty Description | 2 Years |
| External Testing Certification | CE, FCC |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00065030851893 |
| Full listing title | StarTech.com USB 3.0 Ethernet Adapter - USB 3.0 Network Adapter NIC with USB Port - USB to RJ45 - USB Passthrough (USB31000SPTB), Black, 0.7" x 1.4" x 5" x 5" | USB 3.0 Network Adapter with USB Port, USB Passthrough |
Ready to buy?
StarTech.com USB 3.0 Ethernet Adapter - USB 3.0 Network Adapter NIC with USB Port - USB to RJ45 - USB Passthrough (USB31000SPTB), Black, 0.7" x 1.4" x 5" x 5" | USB 3.0 Network Adapter with USB Port, USB Passthrough 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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