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StarTech USB-C to GbE Ethernet Adapter, 10/100/1000Mbps, USB-A Dongle
StarTech.com

StarTech USB-C to GbE Ethernet Adapter, 10/100/1000Mbps, USB-A Dongle

Bottom line: The StarTech.com StarTech USB-C to GbE Ethernet Adapter is a specs-and-price decision rather than a crowd-consensus one in the retro networking cards category. Check the specification table below against one or two close alternatives — on price and spec fit, not on star ratings.

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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.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • ✓ Backed by StarTech.com's warranty and support channels

Cons

  • ✗ Check the listed dimensions, connectors and platform compatibility against your setup before ordering
  • ✗ Price, stock, shipping and returns are set by the retailer and may have changed since this page was last updated

Manufacturer description

Add a Gigabit network port to your computer, using a USB Type-C connection. The RJ45 port supports multiple speeds (10/100/1000 Mbps) and is fully compatible with Cat5 (and higher) cabling. Share or receive files over a network, access network storage/backup, and stream online content while reducing wait times and slowdowns. This adapter supports both current and legacy Ethernet networks down to 10Mbps, making it ideal for providing a reliable network connection almost anywhere whether at home, work or while traveling. The USB-C host connector with attached USB-C to USB-A dongle offers…

SpecPicks Verdict

SpecPicks scored StarTech.com StarTech USB-C to GbE 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-C NETWORK ADAPTER: Add an Ethernet port to a USB-C or USB-A computer supporting up to Gigabit speeds with auto-negotiation for 10/100/1000Mbps BASE-T Networks; RJ45 Network port features link status LEDs for easy troubleshooting and minimal downtime
  • THOUGHTFUL DESIGN: Attached 6in/15cm cable provides extended reach and improved flexibility, reducing strain on ports; USB-C connector with attached USB-C to USB-A dongle ensures compatibility with laptops, desktops, and 2-in-1 devices; USB Bus Powered
  • BROAD COMPATIBILITY: Auto-installs on most operating systems including Windows 7/up, Linux LTS Kernel 4.19+ and up, MacOS/iOS/ChromeOS; Works with MacBooks, Chromebooks and all hardware platforms, including Intel, AMD, ARM (Snapdragon) and Apple Silicon
  • APPLICATIONS: Ideal replacement for broken ethernet ports on laptops; Provides a wired connection that is faster and more secure than wireless for home, work and travel; Efficiently provision and maintain laptops with WoL and PXE
  • TECH SPECS: USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C (5Gbps); Backwards compatible with USB 3.0/2.0; 1x GbE RJ45 Port; 10/100/1000Mbps; Realtek RTL8153B; 9K Jumbo Frames; VLAN Tagging; Wake-on-LAN; PXE Boot support; Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE); Thunderbolt Compatible

Full Specifications

BrandStarTech.com
ColorSpace Gray
ConnectivityWireless, USB-C
Model NumberC21GA-USB-ETHERNET
CompatibilityiOS, Mac, Linux
Built-In Media1 USB Ethernet Adapter
Connection TypeWired
Mfr Part NumberC21GA-USB-ETHERNET
Number of Items1
Compatible Devices2-in-1 devices, Desktop, Laptop
Data Link ProtocolIEEE 802.3i 10BASE-T, IEEE 802.3ab 1000BASE-T, IEEE 802.1q VLAN Tagging, IEEE 802.3x, IEEE 802.3u 100Base-TX
Data Transfer Rate5 gigabits_per_second
Hardware InterfaceEthernet, USB 3.2 Gen 1
Warranty Description2-Year
Item Dimensions L x W x H13.9"L x 0.8"W x 0.6"H

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StarTech USB-C to GbE Ethernet Adapter, 10/100/1000Mbps, USB-A Dongle 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.

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