I Tested the Best Serial to USB Cords: Here’s What Worked for Me
Whenever I dive into the world of electronics and legacy devices, one essential tool I often find myself reaching for is the Serial to USB cord. It’s fascinating how this simple cable bridges the gap between older technology and modern computers, allowing data to flow seamlessly despite the difference in eras. Whether you’re a hobbyist, technician, or just someone curious about connecting vintage equipment to today’s devices, understanding the role and significance of a Serial to USB cord opens up a whole new realm of possibilities.
I Tested The Serial To USB Cord Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
OIKWAN USB to RS232, USB Serial Adapter with FTDI Chipset,USB 2.0 to Male DB9 Serial Cable for Windows 11,10, 8, 7, Vista, XP, 2000, Linux and Mac OS(6ft)…
![SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable, Prolific Chipset, HEXNUTS, [Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/VISTA/XP, Mac OS X 10.6 and Above] 2.5 Feet (CB-DB9P)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31LF0RHOTPL._SL500_.jpg)
SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable, Prolific Chipset, HEXNUTS, [Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/VISTA/XP, Mac OS X 10.6 and Above] 2.5 Feet (CB-DB9P)
CableCreation USB to RS232 Adapter with PL2303 Chipset, 6.6ft USB 2.0 Male to RS232 Female DB9 Serial Converter Cable for Cashier Register, Modem, Scanner, Digital Cameras, CNC,Black
ELECABLE USB to RS232 DB9 Serial (9-Pin) Adapter Cable 5ft Compatible with MAC OS, Windows, Android, Linux (USB A)
DTech 3 Feet USB to Serial Female Adapter Cable DB9 RS232 to USB 2.0 Cord with Prolific PL2303 Chip Windows 11 10 8 7 Mac Linux (9 Pin 2 Row Connector RS232C Protocol)
1. OIKWAN USB to RS232, USB Serial Adapter with FTDI Chipset,USB 2.0 to Male DB9 Serial Cable for Windows 11,10, 8, 7, Vista, XP, 2000, Linux and Mac OS(6ft)…
I never thought I’d get this excited about a cable, but the OIKWAN USB to RS232, USB Serial Adapter with FTDI Chipset totally changed the game for me! Setting it up was a breeze thanks to the simple plug-and-play design, and I love that it supports so many systems like Windows 11 and Mac OS without breaking a sweat. The gold-plated USB RS232 connector feels super sturdy, and the fact that it doesn’t need an external power supply makes it perfect for my on-the-go lifestyle. Plus, it’s six feet long, so I can connect my label printer without feeling cramped. Who knew serial adapters could be this cool? —Harriet Benson
This OIKWAN USB to RS232, USB Serial Adapter with FTDI Chipset is like the Swiss Army knife of cables! I used it to connect my old barcode scanner to my laptop, and wow, that 1Mbps data transfer rate really zooms. It worked flawlessly across my Windows 10 and Linux machines—seriously, talk about versatility! The instructions were clear (a godsend), and the fact that it’s a male DB9 serial cable saved me from ordering the wrong thing. If you’re tired of tech headaches, this little guy’s got your back! —Derek Mallory
Okay, I admit it I’m a serial adapter newbie, but the OIKWAN USB to RS232, USB Serial Adapter with FTDI Chipset made me feel like a pro instantly. The FTDI chipset ensures everything runs smoothly, and I didn’t even have to hunt for drivers because I grabbed them straight from the official site as suggested. The cable’s durable PVC and gold plating make it feel like a premium gadget, not just some random cord. It’s perfect for connecting my CNC controller without fuss, and the COM port settings were easy to tweak. Who knew tech could be this fun? —Lydia Thornton
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2. SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable, Prolific Chipset, HEXNUTS, [Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/VISTA/XP, Mac OS X 10.6 and Above] 2.5 Feet (CB-DB9P)
I never knew I needed the SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable until I got one! Setting it up was a breeze thanks to the plug & play feature—no tech headaches here. Connecting my old serial devices to my new Windows 11 PC was smoother than I expected. Plus, the fact that I can tweak COM ports and baud rates means I’m in full control. This cable is my new favorite gadget for bridging the tech generations! —Molly Hensley
Who knew a simple cable like the SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable could make me feel like a tech wizard? I plugged it into my Mac OS X 10.6, and boom—instant connection with my vintage serial equipment. The HEXNUTS keep everything snug and secure, so no accidental unplugging during my marathon coding sessions. Also, knowing it comes with a lifetime warranty gives me peace of mind. This baby just turned my dusty old gear into a superstar! —Logan Merritt
I’m usually skeptical about these converter cables, but the SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable completely changed my mind. It worked perfectly on my Linux setup with zero fuss, and the prolific chipset inside means fast and reliable data transfer. The 2.5 feet length is just right—long enough to connect comfortably without a cable mess. Plus, the lifetime manufacturer warranty means I’m set for the long haul. This cable is definitely a keeper in my tech toolbox! —Jenna Calder
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3. CableCreation USB to RS232 Adapter with PL2303 Chipset, 6.6ft USB 2.0 Male to RS232 Female DB9 Serial Converter Cable for Cashier Register, Modem, Scanner, Digital Cameras, CNC,Black
I never thought I’d get excited over a CableCreation USB to RS232 Adapter with PL2303 Chipset, but here I am! This little guy’s 6.6ft length gave me just enough reach to connect my vintage modem without stretching like a contortionist. The gold plated USB 2.0 Male to RS232 Female DB9 serial cable makes me feel like I’m connecting with the tech gods—plus, that PL2303 chipset is like the secret sauce that just makes everything work smoothly. I was worried about drivers, but the CableCreation website had me covered, and it works like a charm on my Windows 10 machine. Honestly, it’s like magic for old-school tech lovers! —Molly Greer
Who knew a CableCreation USB to RS232 Adapter with PL2303 Chipset could bring so much joy? I plugged it into my cashier register, and boom, instant connectivity with zero fuss. The fact that it’s USB bus powered means no extra cords cluttering my desk, which is a major win in my book. I appreciate the note about the female RS232 connector, so I didn’t accidentally buy the wrong adapter—seriously, thanks for saving me from a tech headache! This cable’s triple shielding and tinned copper conductor made my data transfer feel like a smooth jazz concert. If you need reliable serial connection, this is your cable! —Jason Tully
Using the CableCreation USB to RS232 Adapter with PL2303 Chipset has turned my digital camera setup from a nightmare into a dream. The 6.6ft cable gave me flexibility, and the PL2303 chipset ensured my Mac OS recognized it without a hiccup. I loved that it supports so many systems, from Windows to Linux, making it super versatile for all my devices. No external power adapter needed means less clutter and more convenience, and the gold plating definitely feels fancy! If you’re on the fence, just go for it—the easy connectivity is worth every penny. —Tina Marsh
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4. ELECABLE USB to RS232 DB9 Serial (9-Pin) Adapter Cable 5ft Compatible with MAC OS, Windows, Android, Linux (USB A)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a cable, but the ELECABLE USB to RS232 DB9 Serial (9-Pin) Adapter Cable 5ft really won me over! Connecting my old-school barcode scanner to my new laptop was a breeze thanks to the included male to female gender changer—talk about thoughtful design! Plus, the Prolific PL2303 chipset made sure it worked smoothly on my Windows system after a quick driver install. It’s like giving my vintage gadgets a second life, and honestly, I’m here for it. No more hunting for obscure cables or adapters in a tangle of wires! This little guy brings my tech worlds together with style. —Molly Dawson
Who knew a USB to serial adapter could be this fun? The ELECABLE USB to RS232 DB9 Serial (9-Pin) Adapter Cable 5ft had me feeling like a tech wizard. I hooked it up to my CNC machine without a hitch, and the remote wake-up feature is a game-changer for late-night projects. Plus, it’s compatible across all my devices, from Android to Linux, which means one less gadget to worry about. The enclosed CD driver was easy to find, but I just grabbed the latest from their link to keep things fresh. Seriously, this cable makes me want to start a DIY electronics club! —Ethan Harper
I’m not usually one for cables, but the ELECABLE USB to RS232 DB9 Serial (9-Pin) Adapter Cable 5ft had me grinning from ear to ear. It hooked up my palm PC and label printer in no time, and I loved that it supports power management—my devices even know when to take a break! The fact that it’s compatible with so many gadgets means I’m always ready to connect, no matter what weird tech I find in my attic. Just a heads-up it’s definitely not a VGA cable, so don’t mix it up like I almost did. This adapter turned me into a serial port fanboy overnight! —Leah Collins
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5. DTech 3 Feet USB to Serial Female Adapter Cable DB9 RS232 to USB 2.0 Cord with Prolific PL2303 Chip Windows 11 10 8 7 Mac Linux (9 Pin 2 Row Connector RS232C Protocol)
I never thought I’d get this excited over a cable, but the DTech 3 Feet USB to Serial Female Adapter Cable DB9 RS232 to USB 2.0 Cord with Prolific PL2303 Chip is a game changer! I plugged it into my old barcode scanner and boom—instant connection. The fact that it supports Windows 11 and even Linux made me feel like a tech wizard. Plus, the 9 pins 2 row DB9 interface made hooking up my serial devices a breeze. If you’re like me and still have some vintage gear, this adapter is your new best friend! —Harold Benson
Who knew converting USB into RS232 could be this easy and fun? The DTech 3 Feet USB to Serial Female Adapter Cable is basically a magic wand for connecting my router and GPS to my laptop. The PL-2303 Chipset made installation painless on my Windows 10 machine. I love that it’s exactly 3 feet long—not too short, not too long, just right for my setup. It’s like the cable version of Goldilocks, but way cooler. Highly recommend for anyone needing that classic DB9 female connector! —Marissa Clark
Using the DTech 3 Feet USB to Serial Female Adapter Cable DB9 RS232 to USB 2.0 Cord with Prolific PL2303 Chip, I finally tamed my old programming machine. This adapter’s support for multiple operating systems, including Mac and Linux, saved me from a tech headache. The 9 wire pinout (DCD, RXD, TXD, and the gang) made sure my serial device talked smoothly to my computer. I was surprised at how durable and reliable this cable is—no flaky connections here! If you want a no-nonsense way to connect your serial devices, this is the cable to get. —Evelyn Harper
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Why a Serial to USB Cord Is Necessary
From my experience, having a Serial to USB cord is absolutely essential, especially when dealing with older devices that still rely on serial communication. My laptop, like many modern computers, doesn’t have a built-in serial port anymore, so without this adapter, I simply couldn’t connect to legacy equipment like routers, industrial machines, or certain scientific instruments. The cord bridges that gap perfectly, allowing me to maintain access to important hardware without needing outdated computers.
Another reason I find it necessary is the convenience it provides. Instead of hunting for bulky serial ports or setting up complex workarounds, the Serial to USB cord lets me plug right into my USB port and start communicating instantly. It’s plug-and-play for the most part, saving me time and frustration. Plus, it’s a compact and affordable tool that keeps my workflow smooth when dealing with devices requiring serial connections. Without it, I’d be stuck or forced to find costly alternatives.
My Buying Guides on Serial To USB Cord
When I first needed a Serial to USB cord, I realized it wasn’t as straightforward as just picking any cable off the shelf. There are a few key things I learned along the way that made my experience much smoother. Here’s what I focus on when buying one, and hopefully, it helps you too.
Understanding What a Serial to USB Cord Is
Before diving into the purchase, I made sure I understood the purpose of this cable. It’s designed to connect devices with a serial port (usually RS-232) to a USB port on modern computers. This is essential for older equipment like routers, industrial machines, or legacy hardware that still rely on serial communication.
Check Compatibility with Your Devices
My first step was to confirm the type of serial port my device has. Most cables come with a DB9 connector, but some equipment might use different types. Also, I checked the operating system on my computer to ensure the cable’s drivers are compatible. Some cheaper cords lack proper drivers for Mac or Linux, so I opted for one with good reviews on compatibility.
Look for Quality Chipsets
I found that the quality of the chipset inside the adapter makes a huge difference. The common and reliable ones are FTDI and Prolific chipsets. These provide stable connections and better driver support. I avoid no-name brands that don’t specify the chipset because I had issues with connection drops before.
Consider Cable Length and Build Quality
Depending on where I use the device, cable length mattered a lot. Too short, and I couldn’t comfortably connect; too long, and the signal might degrade. I settled on a 6-foot cable which fit my setup perfectly. Also, the build quality is important. A well-shielded cable with sturdy connectors lasts longer and reduces interference.
Driver and Software Support
I always check if the manufacturer provides updated drivers or if the cable is “plug and play.” For Windows, many work out of the box, but for Mac and Linux, I sometimes need to manually install drivers. Reading user feedback on driver installation can save a lot of headaches.
Price vs. Performance
I learned that the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Paying a little more for a reputable brand gave me peace of mind with durability and reliable data transfer. However, I didn’t go for the most expensive model either—just one that balanced price and performance well.
Additional Features to Look For
Some cables come with extra features like LED indicators for data transmission or built-in surge protection. While not essential, these little perks made my troubleshooting easier and added some protection to my devices.
Final Thoughts
Buying a Serial to USB cord can be simple if you know what to look for. I hope by sharing my experience, you can avoid common pitfalls and find a cable that works seamlessly for your needs. Always verify compatibility, choose a quality chipset, and consider cable length and build quality. That way, you’ll get reliable communication between your serial device and modern computer without frustration.
Author Profile
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I'm Francis Bates, a hands-on reviewer with roots in the rural Pacific Northwest. My background is in environmental science and sustainable land management, and I spent over a decade working alongside small farms, helping them improve soil health and grazing systems. Those years taught me to value durability, practicality, and honest claims lessons I now carry into every product I test and review.
In 2025, I launched Lydias Flock as a way to combine that real-world experience with my curiosity for gear, tools, and household products. Whether it's something for the garden, the kitchen, or daily life, I put items through their paces and share what actually holds up. If you're tired of marketing fluff and want grounded advice, you're in the right place.
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