Skip to main content
StarTech USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, 10/100/1000Mbps, Driverless | 10/100/1000Mbps, USB to RJ45, USB 3.0 to LAN Adapter, USB 3.0 Ethernet Adapter (GbE), 11in Attached Cable, Driverless
StarTech.com

StarTech USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, 10/100/1000Mbps, Driverless | 10/100/1000Mbps, USB to RJ45, USB 3.0 to LAN Adapter, USB 3.0 Ethernet Adapter (GbE), 11in Attached Cable, Driverless

Mike Perry has researched PC hardware since 2014, tracking 80+ GPU generations, 50+ retro handheld platforms, and 30+ vintage PC configurations. He synthesises community benchmarks, manufacturer specs, and public forum data into actionable buying guides.

$26.99

As an Amazon Associate, SpecPicks earns from qualifying purchases.

*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-09-15. Price and availability subject to change.

Bottom line: The StarTech USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, 10/100/1000Mbps, Driverless | 10/100/1000Mbps, USB to RJ45, USB 3.0 to LAN Adapter, USB 3.0 Ethernet Adapter (GbE), 11in Attached Cable, Driverless is a specs-and-price decision rather than a crowd-consensus one in the networking cards category, priced around $26.99. Check the specification table above against one or two close alternatives — on price and spec fit, not on star ratings.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • ✓ Backed by StarTech.com's warranty and support channels
  • ✓ Ships via Amazon with Prime eligibility and the standard returns policy

Cons

  • ✗ Confirm socket / form-factor / power-rating compatibility against your build before ordering
  • ✗ Price, stock, and Prime eligibility update from Amazon and may have changed since this page was last verified

The StarTech.com USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter gives any laptop, desktop, or 2-in-1 a wired RJ45 port without hunting for drivers. It runs on the Realtek RTL8153 chipset, which Windows 7/8/10/11 and Server, macOS 10.14 through 12.0, Linux kernels 4.11 to 5.9.16 LTS, and Chrome OS recognize natively, so plug-and-play means exactly that. Auto-sensing handles 10, 100, and 1000 Mbps BASE-T networks, making this USB to RJ45 adapter equally at home on a modern gigabit switch or an older 10/100 hub in a retro build. The attached 11.8in/30cm cable is the detail that separates it from stubby…

SpecPicks Verdict

SpecPicks scored StarTech USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, 10/100/1000Mbps… using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to our editorial and benchmark analysis across the networking cards category. StarTech.com's 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 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 Amazon listing before purchase. Prices, stock, and Prime eligibility update directly from Amazon's catalog and may have moved since this page was last verified.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to install drivers for this StarTech USB to Ethernet adapter?

No. It uses the Realtek RTL8153 chipset, which is natively supported by Windows 7/8/10/11 and Server, macOS 10.14/10.15/11.0/12.0, Linux with kernel 4.11 to 5.9.16 LTS, and Chrome OS. Plug it in and the port appears.

Will it actually hit gigabit speeds?

It supports auto-sensing 10/100/1000 Mbps BASE-T networks over USB 3.0, so gigabit link speed is supported. Real throughput depends on your switch, cabling, and host USB controller.

Does it work with a USB 2.0 port?

Yes. The USB-A interface is backward compatible with previous USB generations, though a USB 2.0 port will limit throughput well below the gigabit ceiling.

How long is the cable?

The adapter has an attached 11.8in/30cm cable. That extra reach reduces connector strain on the USB port compared with a rigid dongle that plugs directly into the chassis.

Does it need external power?

No. The adapter is USB bus powered, so it draws everything it needs from the host port. There is no separate power brick to pack.

Key Features

  • ADDED CONNECTIVITY: The USB to RJ45 adapter adds an RJ45 port to your computer allowing connections up to Gigabit Ethernet speeds. The USB-A interface is backward compatible with previous USB generations, and a wide range of devices
  • USB NETWORK ADAPTER: This adapter offers compatibility with 10/100/1000 Mbps networks, major OS support for Windows, macOS, and Linux, clear diagnostic LEDs, and durable construction, all in a small and lightweight package
  • USB NETWORK ADAPTER: USB to RJ45 adapter adds an Ethernet port to your computer supporting up to Gigabit speeds with auto-sensing on 10/100/1000 Mbps BASE-T Networks; ideal for reliable wired gigabit network connections, or as an alternative to WiFi
  • FULL FEATURED: USB to Ethernet dongle w/ attached 11.8in/30cm cable for longer reach reduces port connector strain; USB bus powered; Status & Activity LED's; Uses Realtek RT8153 Chipset for native compatibility w/ laptop and desktop computers, 2-in-1's
  • OS COMPATIBILITY: This Ethernet adapter for laptop offers plug and play connectivity and is widely supported by Windows versions 7/8/10/11/Server, macOS 10.14/10.15/11.0/12.0, Linux distributions with kernel 4.11 to 5.9.16 LTS, and Chrome OS

Full Specifications

BrandStarTech.com
ColorSpace Gray
Unit Count1 count
ConnectivityUSB, WiFi
Model NumberUSB31000S2
CompatibilityMac, Linux
Built-In Media1 USB Network Adapter
Item Type NameGigabit Ethernet Adapter
Connection TypeWired
Mfr Part NumberUSB31000S2
Number of Items1
Compatible DevicesComputer/Notebook
Data Link ProtocolGigabit Ethernet ANT
Data Transfer Rate1000 megabits_per_second
Hardware InterfaceUSB
Warranty Description2-Year
Item Dimensions L x W x H0.9"L x 0.6"W x 7.7"H

Ready to buy?

StarTech USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, 10/100/1000Mbps, Driverless | 10/100/1000Mbps, USB to RJ45, USB 3.0 to LAN Adapter, USB 3.0 Ethernet Adapter (GbE), 11in Attached Cable, Driverless is sold on the used and vintage market, where eBay carries the live inventory — Amazon does not stock this part. Prices and condition vary by seller and move in real time, so we link the live listing rather than quote a cached price. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.

See live eBay listings →

*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-09-15. Price and availability subject to change.

Related Networking Cards

More guides & deep dives from the SpecPicks archive

Browse all articles & guides →

More reviews from the SpecPicks archive

Browse all reviews →

Earliest SpecPicks reviews

Browse full archive →