SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial
4.4Editor score
Prolific Chipset support
Fixed hex standoffs
All nine signals wired
In this guide
Connecting legacy serial hardware to modern computers requires a reliable D Sub to USB Adapter. These devices bridge the gap between old RS232 ports and current USB interfaces ensuring your existing equipment remains functional without costly replacements.
We evaluated ten top rated adapters based on chipset reliability, cable length, compatibility across operating systems and overall build quality. Our testing criteria focused on data transfer stability, driver ease and physical durability for both home and professional environments.
Each pick highlights specific strengths like long cables for industrial use or compact designs for travel. Please note that product availability and pricing may vary over time so verify current details before making your final purchase decision today.
Top 3 Picks for Best D Sub to USB Adapter
USB to RS232 USB Serial Adapter
4.6Editor score
FTDI Chipset for reliability
Six feet cable length
Broad OS compatibility
TRIPP LITE Keyspan High-Speed
4.6Editor score
Three year warranty
High speed data rates
LED status indicator
Top 10 Best D Sub to USB Adapter in 2026 Compared
The following table provides a side-by-side overview of all ten selected D Sub to USB Adapter models. We highlight key specifications like chipset type, cable length and warranty coverage to help you compare features quickly and choose the right fit for your needs.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Editor's Choice
USB to RS232 Adapter
FTDI Chipset
6ft Cable
Windows Mac Linux
USB 2.0
4.6Editor score
Editor's Choice
IOGEAR USB to Serial
3 Year Warranty
12in Cable
LED Status Light
USB 1.1 2.0
4.7Editor score
Best Budget
SABRENT USB to Serial
Prolific Chipset
Fixed Nuts
460Kbps Rate
1 Year Warranty
4.4Editor score
BENFEI USB to Serial
Prolific Chipset
6ft Cable
Triple Shielding
18 Month Warranty
4.2Editor score
StarTech.com USB to RS232
COM Port Retention
1ft Cable
TAA Compliant
920Kbps Max
4.5Editor score
TRIPP LITE Keyspan
3 Foot Cable
230Kbps Rate
LED Status
3 Year Warranty
4.6Editor score
StarTech 17in USB
17in Cable
Prolific Chipset
512 Byte FIFO
3 Year Warranty
4.6Editor score
DTECH 10 Feet USB
10ft Cable
FTDI Chipset
Blue Enrich Injection
9 Pin Male
4.6Editor score
UGREEN 6FT DB9
6ft Cable
Prolific Chipset
Gold Plated
Flexible PVC
4.6Editor score
StarTech 3ft USB
3ft Cable
Prolific Chipset
Screw Lock Nuts
2 Year Warranty
4.5Editor score
1. USB to RS232 Adapter – Best Overall D Sub to USB Adapter
USB to RS232 Adapter
FTDI Chipset
1Mbps Transfer Rate
6ft Cable Length
Gold Plated Connector
This USB to RS232 adapter stands out as a top choice for users needing dependable serial connectivity. With a 4.6 star rating and FTDI chipset it ensures stable data transfer for critical industrial or legacy equipment applications.
Pros
- Highly reliable chipset
- Long cable reach
- Wide OS support
- Simple plug and play
- Durable cable build
Cons
- Driver download needed
- Male connector only
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The six foot cable provides ample reach for connecting devices located away from the computer. Gold plated connectors and PVC insulation maintain signal integrity even in environments with electromagnetic interference.
Users should note that drivers must be downloaded from the official site for initial setup. Additionally the male DB9 connector limits compatibility to female ports which is standard but worth verifying before purchase.
Ideal for engineers and hobbyists this adapter offers the best balance of performance and ease of use. Its robust design and broad compatibility make it the premier pick for most general serial connection needs.
Reliable Data Transmission
The FTDI chipset ensures consistent communication without dropouts even during long sessions.
Flexible Connectivity
Supporting Windows Mac and Linux it integrates seamlessly into diverse computing environments.
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2. IOGEAR USB to PDA/Serial – Trusted D Sub to USB Adapter
IOGEAR USB to PDA/Serial
USB 1.1 2.0
LED Status Light
96 Byte Buffer
3 Year Warranty
IOGEAR delivers a solid adapter with strong brand backing and a three year limited warranty. The LED status light offers visual confirmation of data activity which is helpful for monitoring transfers in real time.
Pros
- Excellent warranty
- LED data monitoring
- Remote wakeup support
- Compatible with GPS
- Low power usage
Cons
- Short cable length
- Older USB standard
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Its nine byte buffer helps manage data flow effectively preventing loss during high volume tasks. The device is particularly useful for GPS units and other serial peripherals needing reliable USB conversion.
The main limitation is the twelve inch cable which restricts placement options for connected devices. Also it supports USB 1.1 which may be slower than modern USB 2.0 standards found on newer machines.
Best for stationary setups where cable length is not critical this adapter offers peace of mind through its warranty and proven track record. It remains a strong option for users prioritizing support over portability.
Visual Monitoring
The LED indicator provides immediate feedback on connection status and data transmission activity.
Durable Support
A three year warranty ensures long term reliability and customer support availability for issues.
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3. SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial – Affordable D Sub to USB Adapter
SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial
Prolific Chipset
Fixed Hex Standoffs
All Nine Signals
460Kbps Max
SABRENT offers an affordable entry into reliable serial connectivity with a focus on essential features. The Prolific chipset supports baud rates up to 460,800 bps ensuring fast communication for data logging or control tasks.
Pros
- Great price point
- High baud rate
- Full signal support
- Rigid standoffs
- Driver support provided
Cons
- May need manual driver
- Short cable length
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Fixed hex standoffs on the DB9 male plug provide a secure connection that resists accidental disconnection during use. Every unit is electrically tested before packing to guarantee performance out of the box.
Windows systems often detect it automatically but other platforms may require manual driver installation. The lack of a long cable means you might need an extension if devices are far from the port.
For budget conscious buyers needing high speed serial access this adapter delivers excellent value. Its robust build and fast transfer rates make it a practical choice for frequent industrial or testing applications.
Secure Connection
Fixed standoffs ensure the adapter stays firmly locked into the device port during operation.
High Speed
Supporting up to 460Kbps allows for efficient data transfer with modern industrial devices.
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4. BENFEI USB to Serial – Durable D Sub to USB Adapter
BENFEI USB to Serial
Prolific Chipset
Triple Shielding
6ft Cable
18 Month Warranty
BENFEI focuses on signal integrity with triple shielding and tinned copper conductors to minimize interference. The six foot cable length offers significant flexibility for positioning devices in crowded server rooms or workshops.
Pros
- Triple shielded cable
- Long cable length
- Wide OS compatibility
- Tinned copper conductor
- Strong warranty
Cons
- Average rating score
- Driver installation needed
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Its broad compatibility covers Windows Mac and Linux systems ensuring it works across various environments. The 18 month warranty provides a solid safety net against manufacturing defects or early failures.
Users should download the correct driver before installation to avoid setup delays. The adapter rating of 4.2 suggests occasional compatibility issues but overall it remains a reliable choice for many users.
Best for users needing a longer cable and strong shielding this adapter offers good value. Its construction details make it suitable for environments with potential electromagnetic noise or rough handling.
Interference Protection
Triple shielding keeps data signals clean even in electrically noisy industrial environments.
Reach and Flexibility
The six foot length allows convenient placement of peripherals away from the computer.
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5. StarTech.com USB to RS232 – Stable D Sub to USB Adapter
StarTech.com USB to RS232
COM Port Retention
TAA Compliant
1ft Cable
920Kbps Rate
StarTech.com provides a professional grade solution with COM port retention in nonvolatile memory. This ensures the adapter keeps the same COM number even when disconnected and reconnected which simplifies software configuration.
Pros
- Maintains COM port
- TAA compliant
- Very fast baud rate
- Enterprise grade quality
- Linux Mac support
Cons
- Very short cable
- Higher price
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Supporting baud rates up to 920 kbps it is one of the fastest options available for serial data. TAA compliance makes it a valid choice for government or enterprise procurement requiring certified hardware.
The one foot cable restricts movement significantly so it is best for close proximity use. It also comes at a higher price point compared to standard consumer grade adapters in the market.
Ideal for IT professionals and enterprise environments this adapter offers stability and compliance features. Its COM port retention saves time on troubleshooting and is valuable for automated systems or scripts.
COM Port Stability
Retaining the COM port number prevents software errors when disconnecting and reconnecting devices.
High Performance
920 kbps speed exceeds standard serial limits for faster communication with modern controllers.
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6. TRIPP LITE Keyspan – Premium D Sub to USB Adapter
TRIPP LITE Keyspan
3 Foot Cable
High Speed Transfer
LED Status
3 Year Warranty
TRIPP LITE Keyspan adapters are known for reliability and robust construction ideal for professional use. The LED status light provides clear visual feedback on connection activity and data flow status during operation.
Pros
- Three year warranty
- Solid build quality
- LED activity indicator
- Fast data transfer
- Universal compatibility
Cons
- Higher price tag
- Limited availability
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With a three foot cable it offers better reach than many competitors while remaining compact enough for desk use. The high speed transfer rate supports demanding tasks that require consistent serial communication throughput.
The premium price reflects the extended warranty and superior build quality that lasts longer under heavy use. Some users may find it hard to source as it is often available through specialized business channels.
Best for critical applications where downtime is not an option this adapter justifies its cost. The combination of warranty support speed and solid physical design makes it a top premium choice.
Visual Confirmation
An LED indicator lights up during data transfer so you know communication is active.
Long Term Value
The three year warranty and durable build offer peace of mind for long term deployments.
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7. StarTech 17in USB – Portable D Sub to USB Adapter
StarTech 17in USB
17in Cable
512 Byte FIFO
Prolific Chipset
3 Year Warranty
This StarTech adapter emphasizes portability with a compact 17 inch cable that fits easily into carrying cases. It includes a 512 byte FIFO buffer to manage data flow efficiently during peak usage periods.
Pros
- Compact design
- 512 Byte FIFO
- Multiple parity modes
- 3 year warranty
- Field programmable
Cons
- Short cable length
- Needs driver install
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Supporting various parity modes and data bits it offers flexibility for configuring older equipment that needs specific settings. The Prolific chipset is known for broad compatibility across Windows Linux and Mac systems.
The short length may limit use to devices that are physically near the computer. Users should expect to download drivers for initial setup on most operating systems to enable full functionality.
Best for field technicians and mobile workers this adapter prioritizes convenience without sacrificing essential features. Its support for multiple configurations makes it versatile for diverse industrial and networking applications.
Configurable Settings
Supports different parity and data bit modes to match various legacy device requirements.
Buffer Efficiency
A 512 byte FIFO buffer helps prevent data loss during high volume serial communication tasks.
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8. DTECH 10 Feet USB – Long Reach D Sub to USB Adapter
DTECH 10 Feet USB
10ft Cable
FTDI Chipset
LED Indicator
9 Wire Pinout
DTECH offers a massive ten foot cable length that exceeds most competitors in this roundup. This is ideal for situations where the computer is in one room and the serial device is in another.
Pros
- Very long cable
- Reliable chipset
- Active pin support
- Durable connector
- LED status light
Cons
- Bulkier cable
- Requires driver
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Using the FTDI chipset ensures high quality signal conversion and reliable data transmission. The active pins cover standard requirements like TXD RXD and GND allowing for full communication capabilities.
The longer cable can be bulkier and harder to manage in tight spaces compared to shorter options. You will need to install drivers from the official website to ensure proper operation on your OS.
Best for remote setups or large rooms this adapter solves distance issues effectively. Its robust connection and reliable chipset make it a practical choice for industrial or home lab setups.
Extended Reach
A ten foot length allows connecting to devices far away from the computer without extensions.
Active Pins
Active pins support standard wiring requirements for full duplex communication tasks.
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9. UGREEN 6FT DB9 – Versatile D Sub to USB Adapter
UGREEN 6FT DB9
6ft Cable
PL2303 Chipset
Gold Plated
Flexible PVC
UGREEN provides a user friendly adapter with a flexible PVC jacket that prevents tangling and cable damage. Gold plated connectors ensure durable connections that resist corrosion over extended periods of use.
Pros
- Flexible cable jacket
- Gold plated connectors
- Multiple OS support
- Stable signal
- 256kbps speed
Cons
- Average speed
- Driver needed
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With a 4.6 star rating it has been well received for stable signal transmission. The 256kbps speed is sufficient for most standard industrial and retail applications like POS systems.
Windows 8 and above are driver free which simplifies setup significantly for modern users. Older systems like Windows 7 or Linux may require downloading drivers from the manufacturer or product guide.
Best for general office or retail use this adapter offers reliable performance with easy cable management. Its durable build and flexible design make it practical for daily commercial tasks.
Tangle Free
A flexible PVC jacket keeps the cable organized and prevents knots in crowded desk setups.
Driver Free Windows
Windows 8 and above systems detect the adapter automatically without manual driver steps.
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10. StarTech 3ft USB – Solid D Sub to USB Adapter
StarTech 3ft USB
3ft Cable
Prolific Chipset
Screw Lock Nuts
2 Year Warranty
StarTech offers a reliable three foot adapter that features screw lock nuts to secure the connection firmly. This is valuable for preventing accidental disconnection in environments where devices might be moved often.
Pros
- Screw lock nuts
- Secure connection
- 3 foot length
- 2 year warranty
- FIFO buffer
Cons
- Limited speed
- Requires drivers
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The Prolific chipset supports standard baud rates up to 230.4 Kbps which covers most industrial needs. A 512 byte FIFO buffer helps manage data streams smoothly during continuous operations.
While the speed is adequate it is not the fastest option on the market for high speed tasks. The two year warranty provides solid support and peace of mind for the initial purchase period.
Best for industrial or lab use this adapter ensures a stable physical connection with the lock nuts. Its balance of features and durability makes it a reliable choice for ongoing monitoring tasks.
Physical Security
Screw lock nuts on the connector prevent the cable from slipping out of the device port.
Data Buffering
A FIFO buffer ensures that data is stored temporarily during transfers to prevent loss.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best D Sub to USB Adapter
Choosing the right adapter depends on several technical factors including chipset reliability cable length and operating system support. Understanding these details ensures you buy a device that meets your specific serial communication needs.
Chipset Reliability
The internal chipset determines how well the adapter converts USB signals to serial data. FTDI and Prolific are the most trusted brands in the industry known for stability and broad driver support across operating systems.
Look for adapters explicitly mentioning FTDI or Prolific chipsets to avoid cheap clones that may disconnect frequently.
Cable Length
Cable length dictates how far you can place your serial device from the computer. Common lengths range from one foot for desk setups to ten feet for room separation. Choose a length that reaches without needing extra extension cables.
Longer cables are ideal for industrial use but may be bulkier to manage in tight spaces.
Connector Type
Ensure the DB9 connector gender matches your device. Most adapters come with a male DB9 connector which fits female serial ports on industrial machines. Verify the pin count is nine not fifteen which is VGA.
Confirming the correct gender prevents ordering a device that physically cannot connect to your equipment.
Operating System Support
Different adapters offer varying levels of driver support for Windows Mac and Linux. Some claim plug and play on newer Windows versions but may require manual driver installation for older systems.
Check the product specifications for compatibility with your specific OS version before purchasing.
Data Transfer Speed
Baud rate determines how quickly data moves between the computer and the device. Standard adapters support up to 230 Kbps but some professional models reach 920 Kbps for faster throughput in high demand scenarios.
Select a speed that matches your device requirements to avoid bottlenecks during data transfers.
Warranty and Support
A good warranty protects your investment against manufacturing defects. Brands like StarTech and TRIPP LITE offer multi year warranties which indicate confidence in product quality and customer service.
Prioritize brands with clear warranty terms and accessible technical support for any setup issues.
Shielding and Build
Quality shielding protects the data signal from interference from power lines or motors. Look for descriptions like triple shielding or braided cables which indicate stronger protection against noise.
Metal connectors and gold plating enhance durability and ensure a stable physical connection over time.
Special Features
Some models include LED status lights or COM port retention for easier monitoring and software configuration. These features add value for professional environments where quick diagnostics or consistent port assignment are crucial.
Decide if these extra features justify a higher price compared to standard models.
How to Use and Care for Your D Sub to USB Adapter
Start by downloading the latest drivers from the manufacturer's website before connecting the adapter to your computer. This ensures your operating system recognizes the device immediately without errors.
Connect the USB end to an available port on your computer and attach the DB9 connector firmly to your device. If the adapter has screw nuts tighten them to secure the physical connection against movement.
Avoid bending the cable sharply near the connectors to prevent internal wire damage. Store the adapter in a protective case when not in use to keep the pins clean and free of dust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a D Sub to USB Adapter the same as VGA?
No it is not. A D Sub to USB Adapter for serial data (DB9) is different from a VGA video adapter (DB15). Do not confuse them as they serve completely different functions in computers and devices.
Do I need to install drivers?
Most adapters require drivers for full functionality. Newer Windows versions often install them automatically but Mac Linux and older Windows systems usually need you to download specific drivers from the product page.
Why is my adapter not detected?
Check that the drivers are installed and the USB port is functional. Ensure you have the correct adapter gender for your device. Try a different USB port or restart the computer to refresh the connection.
Can this adapter send video signals?
No it cannot. It is designed only for serial communication data. If you need to connect a monitor you must use a dedicated video adapter like HDMI or VGA not a serial adapter.
What is the maximum length for a USB serial cable?
Most reliable adapters have a maximum length around ten feet. Longer lengths may suffer from signal loss unless they have built-in repeaters or high quality shielding to maintain stable data transmission.
Does this work with Linux systems?
Yes many models support Linux but you may need to install specific kernel modules or drivers. Check the product description to confirm Linux compatibility before purchasing if you plan to use it with Linux.
What is the difference between male and female DB9?
A male DB9 has pins sticking out while a female has sockets. Most adapters have a male end to connect to a female port on industrial devices. Confirm your port type before buying to ensure a fit.
How do I test the connection?
Use a terminal program like PuTTY or HyperTerminal to send test data. This confirms if the COM port is active and data is being transmitted between your computer and the connected serial device.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best D Sub to USB Adapter
Our top picks include the USB to RS232 Adapter for overall reliability and the SABRENT model for budget conscious buyers. Each offers solid performance to keep your legacy hardware running smoothly on modern systems.
When choosing prioritize chipset quality and cable length based on your physical setup needs. Avoid adapters with unknown chipsets as they often lead to connection drops and driver headaches over time.
Remember that product details and availability can change quickly so always verify the latest specifications before buying. A reliable adapter ensures your critical equipment remains accessible and efficient for years to come.