SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial
4.4Editor score
Fixed hex standoffs included
All nine signals supported
Bus powered operation
In this guide
Finding the right D Sub to USB Adapter is essential for connecting legacy serial devices to modern computers. These adapters bridge the gap between old hardware and new systems, ensuring continuity in industrial and professional settings.
We compared ten top-rated models based on chipset reliability, build quality, and compatibility across operating systems. Our analysis focuses on real-world performance, driver support, and durability to help you make an informed choice.
Each product pick highlights key strengths and specific use cases to match your needs. Please note that prices and availability change frequently, so verify current details before purchasing to ensure you get the best deal available.
Top 3 Picks for Best D Sub to USB Adapter
USB to RS232 with FTDI Chipset
4.6Editor score
FTDI Chipset for reliability
Six foot cable length
Universal OS compatibility
TRIPP LITE Keyspan High-Speed
4.6Editor score
Three year warranty
LED status indicator
High speed data transfer
Top 10 Best D Sub to USB Adapter in 2026 Compared
This side-by-side comparison outlines the core specifications of each adapter to help you identify the best fit for your specific serial device requirements and system environment.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Editor's Choice
USB to RS232 FTDI
FTDI Chipset
Six feet cable
Windows Linux Mac
One Mbps speed
4.6Editor score
Editor's Choice
IOGEAR GUC232A
USB 1.1 and 2.0
LED status light
Thirty centimeter cable
Three year warranty
4.7Editor score
Best Budget
SABRENT CB-DB9P
Prolific PL2303GS
Fixed nuts included
All nine signals
Two year warranty
4.4Editor score
BENFEI USB to RS232
Prolific Chipset
Six feet length
Triple shielding
Eighteen month warranty
4.2Editor score
StarTech ICUSB232PRO
COM Port Retention
One foot cable
Nonvolatile memory
Industrial grade
4.5Editor score
TRIPP LITE Keyspan
Three foot cable
230 Kbps max
LED indicator
Three year warranty
4.6Editor score
StarTech ICUSB232V2
Forty three cm cable
921 Kbps max
Five hundred twelve byte
Three year support
4.6Editor score
DTECH 10 Feet FTDI
Ten feet cable
FT232 Chipset
Gold plated connector
LED status light
4.6Editor score
UGREEN 6FT DB9
Six feet length
Gold plated interface
PVC jacket
PL2303 chipset
4.6Editor score
StarTech ICUSB232DB25
DB9 or DB25
Three feet cable
Screw-lock nuts
Two year support
4.5Editor score
1. USB to RS232 with FTDI Chipset – Best Overall D Sub to USB Adapter
USB to RS232 with FTDI Chipset
FTDI chipset included
Six feet length
One Mbps rate
Universal OS support
This adapter stands out for its use of the FTDI chipset, which is renowned for reliability in serial communication. It achieves a 4.6 rating from users who value stable data transfer over long periods without dropouts.
Pros
- Reliable chipset performance
- Durable gold plated connectors
- Wide OS compatibility
- No external power needed
- Plug and play ease
Cons
- Drivers needed for older OS
- Male connector only
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The six-foot cable provides ample reach for connecting devices on a desk or in a rack. The gold-plated connectors ensure a secure fit, reducing signal degradation issues common with lower-quality adapters.
While it requires driver installation on some systems, the setup process is straightforward with provided manuals. The trade-off is worth the stability it offers for critical industrial or office environments.
Buy this if you need a dependable connection for PLCs or legacy hardware. It is the top choice for users prioritizing signal integrity and long-term reliability over minor cost savings.
Reliable Chipset Performance
The FTDI chipset ensures consistent data rates and minimizes errors during transmission.
Durable Build Quality
Gold-plated connectors and PVC cabling protect against wear and tear over time.
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2. IOGEAR USB to PDA/Serial Adapter – Best for GPS Devices
IOGEAR USB to PDA/Serial Adapter
USB 1.1 and 2.0
LED status light
Thirty cm length
Three year warranty
The IOGEAR adapter is particularly noted for its compatibility with GPS units and PDA devices. It holds a high 4.7 rating due to its robust construction and clear status indication during use.
Pros
- Compact design
- Status indicator LED
- Works with GPS
- Long warranty period
- Low power consumption
Cons
- Short cable length
- USB 1.1 max
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Its short cable is perfect for portable setups where space is limited. The LED light offers immediate feedback on data transfer activity, which helps users confirm connections quickly without software checks.
However, the cable length restricts placement options significantly. Users needing more reach will need an extension, which might introduce signal issues if not high quality.
This is a strong choice for field technicians needing a portable serial solution. Its reliability with GPS hardware makes it a specialized tool for navigation and logistics professionals.
Portable Design
The compact form factor fits easily in pockets or bags for on-the-go use.
Clear Status Monitoring
The LED status light provides instant visual confirmation of data transmission.
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3. SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial – Best Budget D Sub to USB Adapter
SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial
Prolific PL2303GS
Fixed standoffs
All nine signals
Bus powered
For budget-conscious buyers, the SABRENT adapter offers solid performance with all nine RS232 signals wired correctly. It earns a 4.4 rating for balancing cost with functional reliability in standard applications.
Pros
- Affordable pricing
- Fixed hex nuts
- Full signal support
- Tested before packing
- Extendable warranty
Cons
- Lower rating than others
- Driver issues reported
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The fixed hex standoffs prevent accidental disconnects when connecting to female ports. This small detail adds significant value for environments where cables might be bumped frequently during operation.
Some users report driver friction on Windows 10 and 11. It requires checking the manufacturer's site for the latest updates to ensure smooth operation on newer systems.
Purchase this if you need a basic adapter for non-critical tasks. It is an excellent entry-level option that saves money without sacrificing core connectivity features.
Secure Connection Design
Fixed standoffs keep the plug firmly seated to prevent accidental disconnections.
Full Signal Support
All nine signal wires are active, allowing full communication capability.
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4. BENFEI USB to RS232 – Best Value Adapter
BENFEI USB to RS232
Prolific PL-2303
Six feet length
Triple shielding
18 month warranty
The BENFEI adapter balances price and performance well with a six-foot cable and triple shielding. It maintains a 4.2 rating by offering reliable connectivity for common serial tasks without high expense.
Pros
- Strong shielding quality
- Long cable reach
- Low cost option
- Wide OS support
- No extra power needed
Cons
- Moderate rating score
- Chassis shielding concerns
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Tinned copper conductors and shielding help reduce noise interference during data transfer. This makes it suitable for environments with high electrical noise like workshops or industrial floors.
Some users note that driver installation can be tricky on Mac OS. Ensuring you download the correct version from the vendor's site will resolve most compatibility hiccups quickly.
Choose this model if you need extended reach at a low cost. It is a practical solution for general office or home use where premium features are not strictly necessary.
Noise Reduction Shielding
Triple shielding and tinned copper help maintain clear data signals in noisy environments.
Extended Cable Length
A six-foot cable allows flexible device placement away from the computer tower.
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5. StarTech.com 1 ft. USB to RS232 – Best for IT Professionals
StarTech.com 1 ft. USB to RS232
COM Port Retention
One foot cable
Nonvolatile memory
Industrial grade build
This adapter is designed for professionals who need consistent COM port assignments across reconnections. Its 4.5 rating reflects high trust in industrial and IT environments where configuration stability is vital.
Pros
- Maintains COM port ID
- High data rate
- TAA compliant
- Professional durability
- Easy integration
Cons
- Short cable length
- Higher price point
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The retention feature saves time by avoiding manual port reconfiguration. This is especially useful when managing multiple serial devices that rely on specific port numbers for software settings.
The one-foot cable limits placement but ensures a neat desktop footprint. Users needing longer reach must plan accordingly or use high-quality extension cables to avoid signal loss.
Buy this for server rooms or labs where stability matters most. It is the preferred choice for administrators requiring reliable hardware identification without complex setup changes.
Persistent Identification
COM port retention ensures your device keeps its assigned number after unplugging.
Industrial Grade Quality
Built for heavy use in technical settings with robust internal components.
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6. TRIPP LITE Keyspan High-Speed – Best Premium D Sub to USB Adapter
TRIPP LITE Keyspan High-Speed
Three foot cable
230 Kbps speed
LED status light
Three year warranty
The Keyspan adapter is a top-tier choice known for speed and durability. It holds a 4.6 rating among professionals who need guaranteed performance for critical applications without frequent interruptions.
Pros
- High transfer speeds
- Robust build quality
- Comprehensive warranty
- Easy plug and play
- Low power draw
Cons
- Most expensive option
- No USB 3.0
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Its high data rate exceeds standard serial limits, enabling faster communication with legacy devices. This speed helps reduce wait times when uploading firmware or logging data from industrial units.
The three-year warranty provides peace of mind against hardware failure. Although the cost is higher, the reliability and support make it a cost-effective choice over time.
Opt for this if budget allows for top performance. It is ideal for enterprises that need long-term stability and official support channels for troubleshooting.
High Data Transfer
Transfer rates up to 230 Kbps outperform many standard serial ports significantly.
Warranty Support
A three-year limited warranty covers defects and ensures long-term usability.
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7. StarTech 17in 1-Port USB to Serial – Best Portable Adapter
StarTech 17in 1-Port USB to Serial
Forty three cm cable
921 Kbps max
Five hundred twelve byte
3 year support
Designed for portability, this model combines a short cable with high-speed capabilities. Its 4.6 rating comes from field technicians who value quick setup and reliable performance in varied locations.
Pros
- High baud rate
- Compact design
- 512 byte buffer
- Lightweight build
- Professional support
Cons
- Short for large setups
- Driver needs install
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The 921 Kbps baud rate ensures efficient data handling for time-sensitive tasks. A 512 byte FIFO buffer helps manage data flow smoothly without loss during peak operations.
Its lightweight build fits easily into toolkits for mobile use. While short, the cable is sufficient for direct connections without adding unnecessary bulk to a carry kit.
Select this for mobile diagnostics and field repairs. It is a strong candidate for IT pros who need a lightweight solution that still delivers professional-grade performance.
High Speed Processing
A 921 Kbps rate ensures rapid communication with compatible serial devices.
Field Ready Design
The compact size fits easily into maintenance kits for easy transport.
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8. DTECH 10 Feet FTDI – Best Long Cable Adapter
DTECH 10 Feet FTDI
Ten feet cable
FT232 Chipset
Gold plated connector
LED indicator
The DTECH adapter solves the reach problem with a ten-foot cable featuring FTDI quality. It earns a 4.6 rating by offering the longest reliable connection available in standard consumer adapters.
Pros
- Longest cable option
- Reliable chipset
- LED activity light
- Gold connectors
- Active pin design
Cons
- Cable management issues
- Bulkier than others
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The extended length allows placement of heavy machinery or printers away from the desk. This flexibility is critical in setups where the computer cannot be moved close to the device.
However, the extra length can create clutter without proper cable ties. Users should plan their workspace to manage the excess cable to avoid tripping hazards or signal interference.
Choose this for large workspaces where distance is a constraint. It is the practical choice when standard short adapters simply cannot reach the needed equipment.
Extended Reach
A ten-foot cable connects devices placed far from the computer without signal loss.
Reliable Chipset
The FT232 chipset ensures the long cable maintains stable data transmission.
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9. UGREEN 6FT DB9 – Best Easy Use Adapter
UGREEN 6FT DB9
Six feet length
Gold plated interface
PVC jacket
PL2303 chipset
UGREEN offers a user-friendly adapter known for simplicity and stability. It holds a 4.6 rating for being hassle-free in common scenarios where quick connectivity is the main goal.
Pros
- User friendly setup
- Durable jacket
- Stable signal
- Universal compatibility
- Gold connectors
Cons
- Driver need for Mac
- Not for high speed
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The flexible PVC jacket prevents tangling and resists wear. This attention to detail in construction ensures the cable remains functional even after repeated plugging and unplugging.
Mac users may need to install drivers manually, which adds a small step. Windows users above version 8 enjoy truly plug-and-play convenience without extra software installation steps.
This is a great option for general office setups. It balances quality and ease of use effectively for standard serial needs.
Flexible Cable Jacket
The PVC jacket manages length easily and prevents tangling during storage.
Universal Compatibility
Supports Windows and Linux with broad driver support for common systems.
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10. StarTech 3ft 1-Port USB to Serial – Best for DB25 Devices
StarTech 3ft 1-Port USB to Serial
DB9 or DB25
Three feet cable
Screw-lock nuts
Two year support
This adapter supports both DB9 and DB25 devices, offering flexibility in legacy support. Its 4.5 rating reflects reliability for industrial applications where specific connectors are required.
Pros
- Compatible with DB25
- Secure screw nuts
- Stable connection
- Professional grade
- Reliable performance
Cons
- Screw nuts may wear
- Limited cable length
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The screw-lock nuts ensure a tight connection that won't slip during use. This secure fit is essential for devices that may vibrate or move slightly during operation.
The three-foot length is standard but may not suit distant setups. It remains a solid middle-ground option for racks or desks where moderate reach is sufficient.
Pick this for mixed legacy environments. It is ideal when you need to support multiple connector types without buying separate adapters for each device.
Secure Connection
Screw-lock nuts lock the adapter firmly to the port for stability.
DB25 Compatibility
Supports DB25 devices to handle older industrial hardware configurations.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best D Sub to USB Adapter
Selecting the right adapter requires understanding your device requirements and system environment. These factors help narrow down choices for optimal performance and longevity.
Chipset Type
The chipset determines how stable your connection will be. FTDI chips are generally more reliable and compatible across various systems compared to generic alternatives. Look for models that specify their chipset clearly to ensure you get the best performance.
Choose FTDI for critical tasks to minimize errors.
Cable Length
Cable length dictates where you can place your peripheral relative to the computer. A short cable keeps desks tidy but limits reach for distant devices like printers. Consider your workspace layout before buying.
Pick a length that matches your desk or rack setup.
Connector Gender
Adapters come with specific genders such as male or female plugs on the serial end. Ensure the adapter matches your device port to avoid incompatibility issues. Most standard adapters are male for common connections.
Verify your device port gender before purchase.
Operating System Support
Compatibility varies by OS. While most support Windows, some may need manual drivers on macOS or Linux. Modern units often handle Windows 10 and 11 seamlessly, but older systems might require legacy support.
Check system requirements to avoid driver headaches.
Warranty Coverage
A longer warranty period indicates manufacturer confidence in durability. Units with three-year warranties offer better protection against defects than those with one-year coverage. It adds value for long-term investments in hardware.
Prioritize models with at least two-year warranty.
Build Quality
Materials like gold-plated connectors and PVC jackets extend lifespan. These features protect against corrosion and physical stress over time. Avoid cheap plastic shells if you plan to use the adapter daily.
Look for metal and reinforced connectors.
Signal Buffer Size
Larger buffer sizes help manage data flow without loss. High-end units often include FIFO buffers to smooth out transmission spikes. This is crucial for high-speed data logging applications.
Select higher buffer sizes for data-intensive tasks.
LED Indicators
LEDs provide visual feedback on data activity and connection status. They help troubleshoot issues without software tools. This feature is valuable for quick checks in busy technical environments.
Choose models with status LEDs if helpful.
How to Use and Care for Your D Sub to USB Adapter
Connect the USB end to your computer and the DB9 end to your serial device. Wait for the system to recognize the new hardware and install necessary drivers automatically.
Use secure screw nuts on the adapter to keep the cable from falling out accidentally. Ensure cables are not twisted or pulled tightly to maintain signal integrity over time.
Store the adapter in a dry place when not in use to prevent moisture damage. Periodically inspect connectors for dust and clean gently with compressed air for best results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a D Sub to USB Adapter work for video?
No, this adapter is strictly for serial data communication, not video output. It cannot connect to monitors or TVs. It is only for devices like PLCs or serial printers.
Do I need drivers for this adapter?
Most modern Windows systems install drivers automatically, but macOS and Linux often require manual installation. Check the product page for driver links before use to avoid delays.
Can I use a USB extension with this adapter?
Yes, you can use a quality USB extension cable to increase reach. Ensure the extension is shielded to prevent signal loss during longer transmission runs.
What is the difference between DB9 and DB25?
DB9 has 9 pins while DB25 has 25 pins for different pinouts. Some adapters support both types, so confirm your device connector before purchasing the correct adapter.
How do I know if my port is male or female?
Male ports have visible pins while female ports have holes. Check your device manual visually to confirm gender before ordering an adapter to ensure a match.
Are these adapters hot swappable?
Yes, you can plug and unplug them while the computer is running. However, ensure the software using the port is closed first to avoid data errors or system hangs.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best D Sub to USB Adapter
The top picks offer a range of solutions from budget to premium options. The FTDI based models lead in reliability for critical industrial or office applications requiring stable data.
Prioritize chipset quality and cable length based on your specific device needs. Ensure the warranty and support meet your long-term expectations for consistent performance over time.
Remember to verify current availability and compatibility before finalizing your purchase. Prices fluctuate often so checking the latest details ensures you get the right adapter.