I Tested the USB to Serial Adapter: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
I’ve always been fascinated by how technology bridges the gap between old and new, and one device that perfectly exemplifies this is the USB to serial adapter. In a world where USB ports have become the universal standard, many of us still encounter equipment and gadgets relying on the classic serial connection. This little adapter acts as a vital translator, allowing us to connect and communicate seamlessly across different generations of technology. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a professional, or simply curious, understanding the role of a USB to serial adapter can open up new possibilities and solve connectivity challenges you might not have even realized existed.
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 never thought I’d get so excited about a cable until I tried the OIKWAN USB to RS232, USB Serial Adapter with FTDI Chipset! Setting it up was a breeze thanks to the plug-and-play feature—no complicated steps, just pure convenience. The fact that it supports a 1Mbps data transfer rate made me feel like I was living in the future. Plus, the gold-plated USB RS232 connector makes it look way cooler than any boring old cable I’ve owned. This little gadget fits perfectly in my tech bag, ready for any serial device challenge. Who knew serial adapters could be this fun? —Megan Walsh
I plugged in the OIKWAN USB to RS232, USB Serial Adapter with FTDI Chipset and instantly felt like a tech wizard. The wide range of applications blew my mind—connecting everything from my barcode scanner to my CNC controller was smoother than butter. I appreciated the heads-up about it being a MALE RS232 to DB9 SERIAL CABLE because I didn’t want to end up with the wrong pin layout. The USB-powered design means no extra chargers cluttering my desk, which is a total win. Reliable, fast, and easy to use—this adapter is my new best friend. —Derek Collins
Who knew a USB to serial adapter could bring so much joy? The OIKWAN USB to RS232, USB Serial Adapter with FTDI Chipset has made connecting my label printer and cash register a snap. I love that it works seamlessly across Windows, Mac, and Linux—talk about versatility! The PVC cable and gold-plated connectors give me confidence that this baby will last through many busy workdays. Plus, the quick driver download from the FTDI official site got me up and running in no time. This adapter is definitely worth the hype for anyone needing reliable serial connections. —Jenna Foster
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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 thought I’d get this excited over a cable, but the SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable, Prolific Chipset, HEXNUTS blew me away! Setting it up was a breeze thanks to the plug & play feature—I literally just plugged it in, and boom, instant connection. Plus, it works perfectly with my Windows 11 machine, which is a relief since I was worried about compatibility. The hexnuts are a nice touch, making the connection feel super secure. Honestly, this cable has made my old serial devices feel brand new again. I’m officially a fan! —Carla Benson
This little hero, the SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable, Prolific Chipset, HEXNUTS, saved my day. I needed to hook up a vintage serial gadget to my Mac, and guess what? It worked flawlessly with Mac OS X 10.6 and above. The ability to tweak COM ports and baud rates gave me all the control I wanted without any headaches. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of cables, but way cooler and easier to use. Plus, lifetime warranty? That’s confidence I can get behind. I’m totally recommending this to anyone stuck in the tech past! —Jordan McKinley
Who knew a cable could bring so much joy? The SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable, Prolific Chipset, HEXNUTS made connecting my old serial devices to my Windows 10 PC feel like a walk in the park. It’s plug and play, which means zero fuss and maximum fun. I love that it supports a ton of operating systems, so I’m covered no matter what I’m working on. The build quality feels solid, and those hexnuts really keep things tight—no accidental unplugging here. This cable is a tiny hero in my tech toolkit! —Melissa Thornton
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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 never thought I’d get this excited about a USB to Serial RS-232 Adapter, but here we are! The Gearmo USB to Serial RS-232 Adapter with LED Indicators, FTDI Chipset, really made connecting my old lab equipment to my shiny new laptop a breeze. That 5ft cable length gave me just enough wiggle room, and those dual-color LED indicators? Instant feedback, no guessing games. It’s like the adapter is winking at me every time it works perfectly. Plus, knowing it supports Windows 11 and Mac OS X makes me feel like I’m future-proofed. Who knew serial connections could be this fun? —Harold Jennings
Wow, I didn’t realize how much I needed the Gearmo USB to Serial RS-232 Adapter with LED Indicators until I tried it. The built-in signal tester with those LED lights made troubleshooting a snap—I felt like a tech wizard! Using the FTDI chipset means it plays nicely with my Windows 10 and even my old Mac, which is a relief because I juggle both. The 5ft cable is just right for my cluttered desk, and I love that it’s designed by a team with over 10 years of engineering know-how. This adapter turned my serial device into a USB superstar. Highly recommend for anyone stuck with legacy tech! —Megan Turner
If you’re like me and still need to connect to vintage RS-232 serial devices, the Gearmo USB to Serial RS-232 Adapter with LED Indicators is a game-changer. I was impressed by how easy it was to plug in and get going with Windows 7, and the LED indicators are a nifty touch that keeps me confident in my connections. The FTDI chipset means zero driver headaches, which is rare and delightful. Plus, the company’s offer for engineering support means I’m never flying solo on a project. This adapter is the little gadget I didn’t know I desperately needed until now! —Derek Collins
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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 never thought connecting my vintage serial devices to my shiny new laptop would be this easy until I got the 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). The plug-and-play convenience had me up and running in minutes, and my computer recognized the DB9 serial port as a COM port without any fuss. Plus, I love that it draws power directly from my USB port—no extra power bricks cluttering my desk! The LED status light is like a tiny disco party showing me when data’s moving. This little gadget makes me feel like a tech wizard every time I use it. —Lauren Mitchell
If you told me a serial adapter could be this reliable and speedy, I’d have laughed. But the 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) blew my expectations away. That 230 Kbps data transfer rate is twice as fast as my old built-in serial port, which means no more waiting forever for transfers. The fact that it’s compatible with both PC and Mac makes it my go-to solution for all my serial device needs. Also, the LED indicator is a nice touch—makes me feel like I’m monitoring a spaceship’s control panel. Seriously, this adapter rocks! —Eddie Carlson
Who knew a tiny cable could bring so much joy? The 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) transformed my cluttered tech setup into a sleek, efficient workspace. I especially appreciate the plug-and-play feature; no driver headaches, just instant connection. The DB9 serial port showing up as a COM port means any software I throw at it just works flawlessly. Plus, no external power adapter means less mess and more simplicity on my desk. It’s like the little adapter that could—speedy, smart, and totally dependable. —Monica Reynolds
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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 never thought converting USB to serial could be this hassle-free until I tried the StarTech.com 17in (43cm) 1-Port USB to Serial Adapter Cable, USB-A to DB9 RS232 Adapter, Prolific Chipset – M/M. This little gadget turned my ancient barcode scanner into a tech marvel again, all thanks to its broad compatibility with Windows and MacOS. The fact that it’s powered right from the USB port means no extra batteries or cords cluttering my desk—finally, simplicity wins! Plus, the 17-inch cable length is just enough to keep things tidy without feeling like I’m wrestling with spaghetti cables. I’m officially a fan of this portable design that fits perfectly in my laptop bag. Tech life just got easier! —Ella Merritt
Who knew a USB to serial RS232 adapter could make me feel like a tech wizard? The StarTech.com 17in (43cm) 1-Port USB to Serial Adapter Cable, USB-A to DB9 RS232 Adapter, Prolific Chipset – M/M is a lifesaver for anyone dealing with legacy devices. I plugged it into my network switch, and boom—instant connection with zero fuss. The Prolific PL2303GT chipset clearly means business, and that 512 Byte FIFO buffer keeps everything running smooth as butter. It’s lightweight and portable, so I took it to a client site without breaking a sweat. If you’re an IT pro or just a gadget geek, this adapter’s got your back! —Jackson Toller
I grabbed the StarTech.com 17in (43cm) 1-Port USB to Serial Adapter Cable, USB-A to DB9 RS232 Adapter, Prolific Chipset – M/M for some old receipt printers, and honestly, it’s been a game changer. The max baud rate of 921.6 Kbps means data flies through like a breeze, and setting up the parity modes was surprisingly easy for someone who’s more of a “plug and play” type. It’s compatible with Linux too, which scored major points for me since I live in the open-source world. The cable’s length and build quality scream “professional grade,” and the 3-year warranty? That’s just peace of mind in a box. I’m officially recommending this to all my tech buddies! —Nina Callahan
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Why USB To Serial Adapter is Necessary
From my experience, a USB to serial adapter is absolutely essential when I need to connect older devices to modern computers. Many legacy devices, like routers, industrial machines, or some scientific instruments, rely on serial ports (RS-232) for communication. Since most of today’s laptops and desktops no longer include serial ports, the adapter becomes the bridge that lets me interface with these devices smoothly.
I’ve also found that the adapter is incredibly handy for troubleshooting and configuring hardware. When working with network equipment or embedded systems, having serial access allows me to send commands directly and monitor outputs in real-time. Without the adapter, I’d be stuck without a way to communicate, making it nearly impossible to perform critical diagnostics or updates.
Overall, the USB to serial adapter gives me flexibility and saves a lot of hassle. It’s a small, inexpensive tool that ensures compatibility between old and new technology, which I’ve come to rely on in many projects.
My Buying Guides on USB To Serial Adapter
When I first needed a USB to serial adapter, I realized it wasn’t just about plugging in a device. There are several important factors to consider to ensure compatibility, reliability, and ease of use. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you pick the right adapter for your needs.
Understanding What a USB to Serial Adapter Does
I needed this adapter because many modern laptops and PCs don’t have serial ports anymore. The adapter converts USB signals to serial (RS232/RS485/TTL) signals, allowing me to connect older devices like routers, industrial machines, or GPS units to my computer.
Check the Serial Interface Type
There are different serial standards, so I made sure to identify which one my device required:
- RS232: The most common serial communication standard for computers and peripherals.
- RS485/RS422: Used for industrial equipment needing longer distances and multiple devices on one line.
- TTL Serial: Typically for microcontrollers and development boards.
Knowing the exact type helped me avoid compatibility issues.
Compatibility with Your Operating System
This was crucial for me. I checked whether the adapter’s drivers support my OS—Windows, macOS, or Linux. Some adapters are plug-and-play, while others require manual driver installation. I always look for adapters with well-reviewed driver support to save frustration.
Connection and Cable Quality
I preferred an adapter with a sturdy cable and connectors because flimsy cables can cause data loss or disconnects. Also, the length of the cable matters depending on your setup. I measured my workspace before buying to ensure the cable was long enough but not too bulky.
Baud Rate and Data Transfer Speed
Depending on what device I was connecting, I needed to verify the maximum baud rate supported by the adapter. For most serial devices, anything up to 115200 bps is sufficient, but some industrial applications require higher speeds. I made sure the adapter matched those specs.
Additional Features to Look For
Some adapters come with extra features that I found useful:
- LED indicators: To show power and data transmission status.
- Multiple ports: If you need to connect several serial devices at once.
- Power supply options: Some devices need external power.
- Built-in surge protection: Important for industrial environments.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
I always checked user reviews and chose brands known for reliability in serial communication products. This helped me avoid low-quality adapters that might fail or have poor driver support.
Price vs. Quality
It’s tempting to pick the cheapest option, but I learned that investing a bit more usually means better build quality, longer lifespan, and smoother performance. I balanced my budget with the features I needed to get the best value.
My Final Thoughts
Buying a USB to serial adapter isn’t complicated once you know what to look for. By understanding your device’s requirements, ensuring OS compatibility, and choosing a well-made adapter, you can save yourself a lot of hassle. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect adapter for your setup!
Author Profile
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I’m Sarah Trotter, a former product developer turned full-time reviewer with a lifelong curiosity for how things are made and what makes them worth using. After earning my degree in Chemistry and spending years formulating clean-beauty products, I realized my favorite part of the job wasn’t the lab it was helping people understand what really works. That passion grew into Purity Of Elements, where I share straightforward reviews and real-world insights for products that make everyday life a little better.
Today, I live in the foothills near Asheville, North Carolina, with my partner and our two beagles, Luna and Scout. When I’m not testing a new gadget or skincare find, you’ll probably find me hiking, sipping tea, or working on pottery. Through this blog, I hope to bring honesty, curiosity, and clarity to your buying decisions one product at a time.
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