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Plugable USB-C to Ethernet Adapter, Windows/macOS/ChromeOS
Plugable

Plugable USB-C to Ethernet Adapter, Windows/macOS/ChromeOS

Bottom line: The Plugable USB-C to Ethernet Adapter ($29.95 on Amazon as of 2026-10-06): 5Gbps ceiling, 5x faster than gigabit adapters for large file transfers; main trade-off: needs a 5Gbps router or switch to hit rated speed; gigabit gear caps it.

$29.95

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Buy on Amazon — $29.95 Compare to similar networking

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

Mike Perry — Hardware researcher since 2014. For home networking and Wi-Fi gear, synthesises manufacturer specs and independent reviews 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

  • ✓ 5Gbps ceiling, 5x faster than gigabit adapters for large file transfers
  • ✓ Realtek RTL8157 chipset means plug-and-play, no driver install
  • ✓ Works with Windows 11/10, macOS 10.7+, and ChromeOS out of the box
  • ✓ Compact enough to live in a laptop bag for travel and hot-desking
  • ✓ Lifetime support from Plugable's North American connectivity team

Cons

  • ✗ Needs a 5Gbps router or switch to hit rated speed; gigabit gear caps it
  • ✗ Requires Cat 6a or better cabling, which many home runs don't use
  • ✗ Host port must be USB-C 10Gbps, Thunderbolt, or USB4 for full throughput

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SpecPicks Verdict

SpecPicks scored Plugable USB-C to Ethernet Adapter using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the networking category. Plugable's networking 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 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

  • At a Glance: USB C to Ethernet Adapter for speeds up to 5Gbps, or 5000Mbps (that’s a lot) with the Plugable USBC-E5000 for fast file transfers, vivid video, and sensational streaming. Plus, its compact design and compatibility make it great for office and travel
  • For 5Gbps Speeds: In addition to this USB Ethernet Adapter, ensure your network includes a 5Gbps-capable router or switch, Cat 6a (or better) Ethernet cabling, and a computer with USB-C 10Gbps interface (including Thunderbolt/USB4). Network speed may be limited by any slower components in the setup
  • Use Cases: Perfect for ultrabooks, tablets, desktops, and laptops equipped with USB-C ports. This USB C Ethernet Adapter integrates with 5Gbps-capable network switches and routers for optimal performance
  • Compatibility: This USB Network Adapter works with Windows 11, 10, macOS 10.7 and newer, heck even Chrome OS and other USB-C devices
  • Lifetime Support: This USB to Ethernet Adapter 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

BrandPlugable
Unit Count1 Count
ConnectivityUSB-C
Model NumberUSBC-E5000
CompatibilityThis USB Network Adapter works with Windows 11, 10, macOS 10.7 and newer, heck even Chrome OS and other USB-C devices
Built-In MediaEthernet Adapter
Mfr Part NumberUSBC-E5000
Number of Items1
Data Link ProtocolEthernet
Data Transfer Rate5 gigabits_per_second
Hardware InterfaceUSB Type C
Warranty Description2 Year Limited Parts and Labor
Item Dimensions L x W x H3.1"L x 1.1"W x 0.6"H
Global Trade Identification Number00819927013532

Ready to buy?

Plugable USB-C to Ethernet Adapter, Windows/macOS/ChromeOS 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 — $29.95

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

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Plugable USB-C to Ethernet Adapter, Windows/macOS/ChromeOS
$29.95
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