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Compact USB 3.0 to 2.5G Ethernet adapter with 1G dongle, matte black finish

CableCreation

CableCreation USB 3.0 to 2.5G Ethernet Adapter + 1G Dongle

SKU CH-2M6G-PTRK4

Adds 2.5 Gbps and 1 Gbps RJ45 ports via USB 3.0 for Windows, Mac and Linux

  • USB 3.0 link delivers 2.5 Gbps wired speed for fast file transfer
  • Realtek RTL8156 chip enables 2.5G Ethernet on compatible routers with Cat 6 cable
  • USB 3.0 port adds 1 Gbps RJ45 via RTL8153 for stable everyday networking
  • Plug-and-play support across Windows, macOS and Linux avoids driver hassle
  • Wake-on-LAN and auto-crossover keep the link reliable for gaming and streaming

2.5G USB 3.0 Ethernet Adapter

This adapter adds a 2.5 Gigabit RJ45 port to a computer through a USB 3.0 Type-A connection. It uses a Realtek RTL8156 controller and requires Cat 6 or higher cabling to reach the rated speed. Driver installation from the Realtek site is necessary for 2.5G operation. The device also includes a separate USB 3.0 dongle with a Realtek RTL8153 chip for 1 Gigabit Ethernet connectivity. Both units support plug-and-play on supported operating systems.

For Windows Mac and Linux laptops without 2.5G ports

The adapter suits users who need to upgrade an ultrabook, notebook, MacBook or Raspberry Pi 3 to wired 2.5G networking for file transfers, video calls, gaming or HD streaming. It also works for adding a second 1G port via the included dongle. Buyers whose router or switch lacks 2.5G support will not see the higher throughput. The package does not support Windows RT or Android devices, so those platforms should look elsewhere.

Dual RJ45 ports up to 2.5G and 1G

The main adapter delivers 2.5Gbps over USB 3.0 while the dongle provides 10/100/1000 Mbps over the same interface, both backward compatible with USB 2.0 and 1.1. Features include auto crossover detection, auto correction and Wake-on-LAN. Headroom ends at the 2.5G ceiling; multi-gigabit speeds above that are not possible. Real-world throughput also depends on the host USB controller, cable quality and network infrastructure.

How it compares

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Price $36.99
Pricier than about 82% of the 1,761 comparable items (median $18.99).

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Specifications

Product
Adapter typeOther

Questions about this item

What type of USB port must my computer have to use the 2.5Gbps Ethernet adapter?

The adapter requires a USB 3.0 Type-A port to reach 2.5Gbps speeds. It is backward compatible with USB 2.0 and 1.1 ports, but will run at lower speeds on those older interfaces.

Can I keep using my Cat 5e cables with the 1Gbps dongle?

Yes. The 1Gbps dongle supports 10/100/1000 Mbps and works with Cat 5e cables. The 2.5Gbps adapter needs Cat 6 or higher cables to achieve its rated speed.

How do I verify the 2.5Gbps link is active after installing the Realtek RTL8156 driver?

Check the network adapter properties in your operating system; the link speed should read 2.5 Gbps. The adapter also supports Wake-on-LAN and auto crossover detection for troubleshooting.

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