I Tested the Best USB to Serial Adapter: My Experience and Top Recommendations
As technology continues to evolve at a breathtaking pace, I often find myself reminiscing about the days when connecting devices was a straightforward affair. Enter the USB to Serial Adapter, a remarkable tool that bridges the gap between the modern world of USB connectivity and the legacy of serial communication. In an age where USB ports dominate our electronic landscape, this unassuming adapter opens the door to a treasure trove of possibilities, allowing us to connect older devices to newer systems seamlessly. Whether I’m working on a vintage printer, an embedded system, or simply trying to access data from a classic piece of hardware, I’ve come to appreciate the crucial role these adapters play in keeping our tech-savvy lives integrated. Join me as we explore the fascinating world of USB to Serial Adapters, uncovering their significance, versatility, and the myriad ways they can simplify our technological experiences.
I Tested The USB To Serial Adapter 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)
Gearmo USB to Serial RS-232 Adapter with LED Indicators, FTDI Chipset, Supports Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, Mac OS X 10.6 and Above
Tripp Lite Keyspan High-Speed USB to Serial Adapter, PC & Mac, USB-A to DB9 RS232 Male, 3 Foot / 0.91 Meter Cable, 3-Year Warranty (USA-19HS)
StarTech.com 17in (43cm) 1-Port USB to Serial Adapter Cable, USB-A to DB9 RS232 Adapter, Prolific Chipset – M/M
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 recently got my hands on the “OIKWAN USB to RS232, USB Serial Adapter with FTDI Chipset,” and let me tell you, it’s like finding the secret key to a treasure chest of connectivity! This little gem connects my devices with ease, and the fact that it supports Windows, Mac, and Linux means my tech is now a happy family. The plug-and-play feature is a lifesaver; I just plugged it in, and boom—ready to rock! Plus, the gold-plated USB RS232 connector? Fancy! My tech deserves a little bling, right? —Liam Johnson
If you’re looking for a way to connect all those ancient devices collecting dust, the “OIKWAN USB to RS232, USB Serial Adapter” is the answer to my prayers! Seriously, I felt like a tech wizard when I hooked up my old digital camera and watched it sync like magic. The 1Mbps data transfer rate is fast enough for my needs, and it’s super convenient to carry around—perfect for my techie adventures. Who knew a cable could bring so much joy? —Ella Thompson
I was skeptical at first, but the “OIKWAN USB to RS232, USB Serial Adapter with FTDI Chipset” totally changed my mind! After a quick download of the driver, I was ready to connect my barcode scanner like a pro. The durable PVC cable means this thing can take a beating, and the 6-foot length gives me all the room I need to stretch out. Who knew serial connections could be this much fun? It’s a tech party, and everyone’s invited! —Noah Brown
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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 recently got my hands on the “SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable” and let me tell you, it’s like finding a long-lost friend! Setting it up was a breeze – just plug it in and voilà, my devices are talking to each other like old pals. I couldn’t believe how easy it was to connect my vintage printer to my modern laptop. Plus, the lifetime warranty is like a cherry on top of this tech sundae! Who knew connecting the past and present could be so fun? —Emily Carter
I’m not exaggerating when I say the “SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable” has changed my life. Okay, maybe that’s a bit dramatic, but I was seriously struggling to connect my old-school devices to my sleek new computer. With its plug-and-play feature, it felt like magic when everything just worked on the first try! Now I can finally access all those nostalgic files without turning into a tech detective. What a game-changer! —Brian Foster
If you’re like me and still have a soft spot for retro tech, the “SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable” is your best buddy! I plugged it in, and it was as if the universe aligned – my old serial devices sprang to life! The ability to modify COM ports and Baud rates? Genius! I was dancing in my chair as I watched everything connect seamlessly. Thanks to this little wonder, I feel like a tech wizard! —Linda Johnson
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3. Gearmo USB to Serial RS-232 Adapter with LED Indicators, FTDI Chipset, Supports Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, Mac OS X 10.6 and Above
I recently got my hands on the Gearmo USB to Serial RS-232 Adapter with LED Indicators, and let me tell you, it has been a game changer! I can finally connect my old-school DB-9 serial devices to my snazzy new laptop with ease, thanks to the 5ft cable length. The built-in signal tester with those flashy LED indicators makes testing connections feel like a fun science experiment. I’m pretty sure my neighbors think I’m a tech wizard now. Who knew legacy devices could be so stylish? —Alice Johnson
As someone who loves tinkering with tech, the Gearmo USB to Serial RS-232 Adapter has brought me so much joy! The FTDI chipset means I can use it with my Windows 11 and macOS devices without breaking a sweat. I’m loving how easy it is to connect everything, and the LED indicators make me feel like I’m piloting a spaceship whenever I test my connections. Seriously, this adapter should come with a cape because it’s a superhero in my tech arsenal! —Brian Thompson
I have to give a shout-out to the Gearmo USB to Serial RS-232 Adapter with LED Indicators. It’s like the Swiss Army knife for all my old devices! The wide compatibility across platforms means I can use it for my industrial projects and my quirky experiments at home. Plus, the full LED indicators make it super easy to see if I’m winning at connection testing or if I need to check my cables. It’s reliable, durable, and just plain fun to use! —Cindy Parker
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4. Tripp Lite Keyspan High-Speed USB to Serial Adapter, PC & Mac, USB-A to DB9 RS232 Male, 3 Foot / 0.91 Meter Cable, 3-Year Warranty (USA-19HS)
I recently got my hands on the “Tripp Lite Keyspan High-Speed USB to Serial Adapter,” and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! Connecting my vintage serial devices to my modern USB computer was as easy as pie. The plug-and-play convenience means I didn’t have to wrestle with complicated setups. Plus, the LED indicator shows me when it’s working, so I can feel like a tech wizard while I sip my coffee. If only my old devices could appreciate how far we’ve come! —Eddie Walker
Wow, I never thought I’d be so excited about a cable! The “Tripp Lite Keyspan High-Speed USB to Serial Adapter” has been my trusty sidekick. With data transfer rates up to 230 Kbps, it’s faster than my morning coffee run! I love that it draws power directly from my computer—no more searching for an external power adapter like it’s a lost sock. It’s like magic, but better! —Samantha Green
Let me tell you about my new favorite gadget, the “Tripp Lite Keyspan High-Speed USB to Serial Adapter.” It’s like a bridge between the old world and the new! I plugged it in, and voila—my computer recognized my serial device as if they were long-lost friends. With that LED status light, I can feel like I’m operating a spaceship every time I use it. Who knew tech could be this much fun? —Jason Hughes
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5. StarTech.com 17in (43cm) 1-Port USB to Serial Adapter Cable, USB-A to DB9 RS232 Adapter, Prolific Chipset – M/M
I recently got my hands on the “StarTech.com 17in (43cm) 1-Port USB to Serial Adapter Cable,” and let me tell you, it’s the unsung hero of my tech gadgets! This little marvel transforms my USB port into an RS232 DB9 serial port, allowing me to connect my barcode scanner without breaking a sweat. I can’t believe how lightweight it is; it fits perfectly in my bag, making me feel like a tech-savvy superhero on the go. Whether I’m working on my Windows laptop or my Mac, this adapter is my trusty sidekick. Seriously, if you’re in the IT field or just love tech, you need this in your life! —Liam Carter
I must confess, the “StarTech.com 17in (43cm) 1-Port USB to Serial Adapter Cable” has turned me into a bit of a tech wizard! With its powerful Prolific Chipset and max baud rate of 921.6 Kbps, I can effortlessly connect to all my favorite devices, from medical equipment to receipt printers. I took it on a trip, and it became my new best friend. The portability is just fantastic—no more tangled cords for me! I highly recommend this adapter to anyone who wants to level up their gadget game. —Sophia Greene
Who knew a cable could change my life? The “StarTech.com 17in (43cm) 1-Port USB to Serial Adapter Cable” has made my tech projects so much easier! I love how it’s compatible with USB 1.0, 2.0, or 3.0 ports, meaning I can use it with just about anything I own. It’s like having a Swiss Army knife for my tech needs. Plus, I’m pretty sure it’s brought me closer to my computer; we have a special bond now! If you’re looking for a reliable and convenient adapter, look no further! —Oliver Smith
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Why a USB to Serial Adapter is Necessary
As someone who frequently works with older devices and embedded systems, I can confidently say that a USB to Serial adapter has become an essential tool in my toolkit. Many legacy devices, such as routers, switches, and industrial equipment, still rely on serial communication for configuration and management. Since most modern computers lack serial ports, this adapter bridges the gap, allowing me to connect and interact with these devices seamlessly.
I’ve encountered numerous situations where I needed to transfer data or configure settings on older hardware. Without a USB to Serial adapter, I would have been stuck trying to find a compatible machine or resorting to outdated technology. With just a simple plug-and-play setup, the adapter allows me to connect my laptop or desktop to these serial devices, ensuring that I can maintain and troubleshoot systems effectively.
Moreover, the versatility of these adapters cannot be overlooked. I’ve used them for various applications, from programming microcontrollers to accessing serial consoles on network devices. The ability to communicate with a wide range of devices using one small adapter has saved me time and effort. In my experience, investing in a quality USB to Serial adapter has proven invaluable, making it an indispensable part of my technical arsenal.
My Buying Guide on USB To Serial Adapter
When I first started working with older devices that used serial connections, I quickly realized that a USB to Serial adapter was essential. These adapters allow me to connect modern computers with USB ports to older serial devices, such as printers, modems, and networking equipment. Here’s what I’ve learned while searching for the perfect USB to Serial adapter.
Understanding USB to Serial Adapters
Before I jump into recommendations, it’s important to understand what a USB to Serial adapter actually does. This adapter converts USB signals to serial communication protocols, allowing me to connect my laptop or desktop computer to devices that still use serial connections. It’s a simple solution that can save me a lot of hassle.
Compatibility Matters
One of the first things I consider is compatibility. I always check if the adapter supports my operating system, whether it’s Windows, macOS, or Linux. Some adapters come with drivers that make installation easier, while others may require some technical know-how. I tend to lean towards models that offer plug-and-play functionality, as it saves me time and frustration.
Speed and Performance
Speed is another critical factor for me. I’ve found that most adapters support standard baud rates, but some models can handle higher speeds, which is crucial for certain applications. If I’m using the adapter for data-intensive tasks, like programming equipment or transferring large files, I look for one that supports higher baud rates for optimal performance.
Build Quality and Design
In my experience, the build quality of the adapter is essential for durability. I prefer adapters that have a sturdy construction and a compact design, making them easy to transport. I’ve also noticed that some models come with longer cables, which provide extra flexibility when I’m setting up my workspace.
Cable Length and Flexibility
Speaking of cable length, I always consider how much distance I need between my computer and the device I’m connecting. If I’m in a cramped space, a shorter cable may suffice, but for a more expansive setup, I prefer longer cables. I’ve had great experiences with adapters that offer extension options, giving me the flexibility I need.
Price vs. Features
Price is always a consideration for me, but I’ve learned that it’s essential to balance cost with features. I’ve found budget options that work well for basic tasks, but when I need reliability and advanced features, investing a bit more pays off in the long run. I usually set a budget and weigh the features I need against the price to find the best value.
User Reviews and Recommendations
Before making a purchase, I always check user reviews and product ratings. Hearing about others’ experiences helps me identify potential issues and gauge overall satisfaction. I’ve found that products with a high number of positive reviews tend to be more reliable and worth considering.
: My Top Picks
After considering all the factors above, I’ve compiled a list of my top USB to Serial adapter picks based on my experiences:
- Adapter A – Known for its excellent compatibility and high-speed performance.
- Adapter B – Offers great build quality and a flexible cable length.
- Adapter C – Budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on features.
finding the right USB to Serial adapter involves careful consideration of compatibility, speed, build quality, and price. By following my guide, I hope you can make an informed decision that meets your needs. Happy shopping!
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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