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TP-Link 2.5GB PCIe Network Card (TX201) – PCIe to 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet Network Adapter, Supports Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, Win Server 2022/2019/2016, Linux
TP-Link

TP-Link 2.5GB PCIe Network Card (TX201)

Bottom line: The TP-Link 2.5GB PCIe Network Card ($22.46 on Amazon as of 2026-10-06): 2.5 Gbps throughput, 2.5x a standard Gigabit NIC; main trade-off: needs a free PCIe slot, so no use in laptops or mini PCs.

$22.46

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Buy on Amazon — $22.46 Compare to similar retro networking cards

By , Founder & Editor-in-Chief · Listing data updated

Mike Perry — Hardware researcher since 2014. For retro PC hardware and period-correct parts, synthesises manufacturer documentation, community compatibility lists and marketplace listings rather than first-hand lab testing. Core beat: GPU performance across gaming, rendering, and local-LLM inference.

*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-06. Price and availability subject to change.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • ✓ 2.5 Gbps throughput, 2.5x a standard Gigabit NIC
  • ✓ Auto-negotiates 2.5G/1G/100Mbps on existing switches
  • ✓ Full-height and low-profile brackets both included
  • ✓ Windows 7 through 11, Server 2022/2019/2016, and Linux drivers

Cons

  • ✗ Needs a free PCIe slot, so no use in laptops or mini PCs
  • ✗ Single port only, no dual-NIC teaming or failover
  • ✗ 2.5G ceiling, not 5G or 10G for future upgrades
  • ✗ No SFP+ or fiber option, copper RJ45 only

Manufacturer description

The TP-Link TX201 2.5GB PCIe Network Card upgrades any desktop with a spare PCIe slot to 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, hitting data rates up to 2.5 Gbps - 2.5x the ceiling of a standard Gigabit adapter. That headroom matters once you move large files across a NAS, run a multi-gig internet plan your onboard NIC cannot saturate, or push uncompressed captures between machines. The 2.5G Base-T port auto-negotiates across 2.5 Gbps, 1 Gbps, and 100 Mbps, so it drops into an existing switch or router without reconfiguration and steps down cleanly on older runs of cable. Built-in QoS prioritizes traffic to…

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SpecPicks Verdict

SpecPicks scored TP-Link 2.5GB PCIe Network Card using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the retro networking cards category. TP-Link'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

Will the TX201 work if my router or switch is only Gigabit?

Yes. The 2.5G Base-T port auto-negotiates down to 1 Gbps or 100 Mbps, so it functions as a normal Gigabit card until you upgrade the switch.

Does it fit a small form factor case?

TP-Link includes a low-profile bracket alongside the standard full-height bracket, so it fits mini tower and SFF cases. You still need an open PCIe slot.

Is the TX201 supported on Linux?

Yes. TP-Link lists Linux support along with Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7 and Windows Server 2022/2019/2016. Check the product listing for the current kernel and distro details.

Will I actually get 2.5 Gbps speeds?

TP-Link rates it up to 2.5 Gbps, but notes performance varies by conditions, distance to devices, and obstacles such as walls. Your cabling and switch set the real ceiling.

What warranty and support does TP-Link provide?

This card ships with a 2-year warranty and free 24/7 technical support. Confirm current terms on the product listing before you buy.

Key Features

  • 2.5 Gbps PCIe Network Card: With the 2.5G Base-T Technology, TX201 delivers high-speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps, which is 2.5x faster than typical Gigabit adapters. Performance varies by conditions, distance to devices, and obstacles such as walls
  • Versatile Compatibility – The Ethernet Network Adapter is backwards compatible with multiple data rates(2.5 Gbps, 1 Gbps, 100 Mbps Base-T connectivity). The 2.5G Ethernet port automatically negotiates between higher and lower speed connection.
  • QoS: Quality of Service technology delivers prioritized performance for gamers and ensures to avoid network congestion for PC gaming
  • Wake on LAN – Remotely power on or off your computer with WOL, helps to manage your devices more easily
  • Low-Profile and Full-Height Brackets: In addition to the standard bracket, a low-profile bracket is provided for mini tower computer cases
  • Comprehensive System Support - The PCIe ethernet card is fully compatible with Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, Windows Servers 2022/2019/2016, and Linux to meet your diverse operating system needs

Full Specifications

QoSQuality of Service technology delivers prioritized performance for gamers and ensures to avoid network congestion for PC gaming
BrandTP-Link
ColorBlack
Weight2.5g
Model NumberTX201
CompatibilityPC, Linux
Built-In Media2.5 Gigabit PCIe Network Adapter (TX201), Resource CD, Standard/Low-Profile Brackets
Item Type NameNetwork card
Mfr Part NumberTX201
Compatible DevicesDesktop
Data Link ProtocolEthernet
Data Transfer Rate2500 Megabits Per Second
Hardware InterfaceEthernet
Warranty Description2 year manufacturer
Item Dimensions L x W x H4.76"L x 3.07"W x 0.85"H
External Testing CertificationNão aplicável
Low-Profile and Full-Height BracketsIn addition to the standard bracket, a low-profile bracket is provided for mini tower computer cases
Full listing titleTP-Link 2.5GB PCIe Network Card (TX201) – PCIe to 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet Network Adapter, Supports Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, Win Server 2022/2019/2016, Linux

Ready to buy?

TP-Link 2.5GB PCIe Network Card (TX201) – PCIe to 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet Network Adapter, Supports Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, Win Server 2022/2019/2016, Linux 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.

Buy on Amazon — $22.46

*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-06. Price and availability subject to change.

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TP-Link 2.5GB PCIe Network Card (TX201) – PCIe to 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet Network Adapter, Supports Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, Win Server 2022/2019/2016, Linux
$22.46
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