SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial DB9 RS232 Male Adapter Cable (CB-DB9P)
4.4Editor score
Prolific PL2303GS Chipset
1-year warranty extendable
Fixed hex standoffs
In this guide
Finding the right D Sub to USB Adapter can be challenging with many options available on the market today. These adapters allow you to connect legacy serial devices to modern computers without dedicated ports. A good adapter ensures stable data transfer and broad system compatibility for your specific needs.
We have carefully evaluated ten top-rated models based on chipset quality and construction durability and customer feedback. Each product offers unique features such as varying cable lengths and driver support across different operating systems. Our analysis focuses on performance and value to help you make an informed decision quickly.
Each pick in this list highlights key strengths and potential limitations to match your specific use case. You will find details on compatibility with Windows or Mac and Linux systems alongside warranty information. Please note that pricing and availability can change so verify details before purchasing your adapter.
Top 3 Picks for Best D Sub to USB Adapter
IOGEAR USB to PDA/Serial (DB9) Adapter w/ PC & Mac Drivers – GUC232A
4.7Editor score
LED status light
3 Years Limited Warranty
Remote wakeup support
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)
4.6Editor score
High-Speed data transfer
3-Year Warranty
LED activity indicator
Top 10 Best D Sub to USB Adapter in 2026 Compared
This side-by-side comparison highlights the core specifications and key features of each adapter to help you decide which model fits your requirements best.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Editor's Choice
USB to RS232 FTDI Chipset
FTDI Chipset
1Mbps transfer rate
6ft cable length
Windows and Mac Linux
4.6Editor score
Editor's Choice
IOGEAR USB to PDA/Serial Adapter
USB 1.1 and 2.0
LED status light
3 Years Warranty
96 byte buffer
4.7Editor score
Best Budget
SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial
Prolific PL2303GS
All 9 signals
1-year warranty
Male DB9 connector
4.4Editor score
BENFEI USB to Serial Adapter
Prolific Chipset
Triple shielding
18 Month Warranty
6ft cable length
4.2Editor score
StarTech.com 1 ft USB to RS232
COM Port Retention
Up to 920 kpbs
TAA Certified
Windows Linux Mac
4.5Editor score
TRIPP LITE Keyspan Adapter
Up to 230 Kbps
LED status indicator
3-Year Warranty
No external power
4.6Editor score
StarTech 17in USB to Serial
43cm cable length
921.6 Kbps max
Prolific PL2303GT
3 Years Support
4.6Editor score
DTECH 10 Feet USB to RS232
FTDI Chipset
10ft cable length
LED light status
Gold plated connector
4.6Editor score
UGREEN 6FT DB9 Male Adapter
PL2303 chip
Gold-plated connectors
Flexible PVC jacket
256kbps transmission
4.6Editor score
StarTech 3ft USB to Serial Cable
Prolific PL2303GC
230.4 Kbps max
512 Byte FIFO
2 Years Warranty
4.5Editor score
1. USB to RS232 FTDI Chipset – Best Overall Reliability
USB to RS232 FTDI Chipset
FTDI Chipset
1Mbps Transfer Rate
6ft Cable Length
Universal OS Support
This USB to RS232 adapter stands out as a top choice for connecting legacy serial devices to modern computers. It holds a strong rating and features a trusted FTDI chipset known for stable performance and broad compatibility.
Pros
- Reliable FTDI chipset
- Works with many systems
- Gold plated connectors
- Plug and play setup
- Durable PVC cable
Cons
- Requires driver download
- Male connector only
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The adapter supports a wide range of applications including barcode scanners and cash registers and industrial controllers. Its USB 2.0 interface ensures fast data transfer rates up to 1Mbps while the gold plated connectors maintain a secure connection.
Users should note that it requires downloading drivers from official websites for some operating systems like older versions of Windows or Linux. The male DB9 configuration also means it is not suitable for devices with male ports directly.
If you need a dependable adapter for serial communication tasks this model offers excellent value and performance. It is ideal for IT professionals and hobbyists who require consistent connectivity without external power sources.
Universal System Compatibility
This adapter works seamlessly with Windows and Mac and Linux systems ensuring you can connect your serial devices regardless of your operating environment.
Robust Construction
The gold plated USB and RS232 connectors combined with a durable PVC cable ensure this adapter withstands frequent use and maintains signal integrity over time.
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2. IOGEAR USB to PDA/Serial Adapter – Best Premium Choice
IOGEAR USB to PDA/Serial Adapter
USB 1.1 and 2.0
LED Status Light
3 Years Warranty
96 Byte Buffer
The IOGEAR adapter is a premium option designed for users who demand reliability and clear status feedback. It boasts a high customer rating and includes comprehensive driver support for both PC and Mac systems.
Pros
- LED status indicator
- Excellent 3 year warranty
- Supports remote wakeup
- Compatible with GPS devices
- Includes drivers
Cons
- Shorter cable length
- Higher price point
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Key features include an LED status light that helps monitor data transfer activity at a glance. The 96 byte buffer ensures smooth data flow and the product supports remote wakeup for better power management.
While the cable length is shorter at 12 inches this adapter is perfect for desktop setups where proximity is not an issue. The three year limited warranty provides peace of mind for long term usage.
This adapter is best suited for professionals who need a trusted solution with strong warranty backing. It is particularly useful for connecting GPS units and other serial peripherals that benefit from clear status indicators.
Visual Status Monitoring
The LED status light allows you to easily see when data is being transferred so you can confirm connectivity without software checks.
Long Term Warranty
With a three year limited warranty you gain assurance that the product will perform reliably and support is available if issues arise later.
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3. SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial – Best Budget Option
SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial
Prolific PL2303GS
All 9 Signals
1-Year Warranty
Male DB9 Connector
This SABRENT adapter offers an excellent entry point for those needing basic serial connectivity without breaking the bank. It holds a solid rating and features a proven Prolific chipset that supports high baud rates.
Pros
- Affordable price
- PL2303GS chipset
- Bus powered design
- Supports many legacy devices
- Fixed hex standoffs
Cons
- Requires driver install for some OS
- Male pins only
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It connects all nine signals required for full serial functionality making it suitable for routers and switches and POS terminals. The fixed hex standoffs help secure the connection to female DB9 ports effectively.
Windows 11 and 10 usually detect it automatically but other systems may require manual driver installation. The bus powered design means no external power supply is needed for operation.
For users on a budget who need reliable performance this adapter delivers strong value. It is a practical choice for IT departments or hobbyists who need multiple adapters for different projects.
High Baud Rate Support
The PL2303GS chipset allows baud rates up to 460,800 bps which ensures fast and efficient data transfer for your serial applications.
Fixed Connection Stability
Fixed hex standoffs on the male DB9 plug help the adapter mate securely with female ports reducing the risk of loose connections.
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4. BENFEI USB to Serial Adapter – Best Cable Length
BENFEI USB to Serial Adapter
Prolific Chipset
Triple Shielding
18 Month Warranty
6ft Cable Length
The BENFEI adapter provides a useful longer cable option for connecting devices that are farther away from the computer. It maintains a good rating and uses a Prolific chipset for compatibility with various operating systems.
Pros
- Six feet cable length
- Triple shielding for interference
- 18 month warranty
- Supports many devices
- USB powered
Cons
- Lower rating than others
- Driver required for some
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Triple shielding helps protect data transfer from interference which is beneficial in environments with many electronic devices. The 6-foot length gives you flexibility in where you place your serial devices.
While the rating is slightly lower than some competitors the warranty period of 18 months offers good support. Users should ensure they install drivers for systems older than Windows 8.
This adapter is ideal if you need extra reach without sacrificing reliability. It works well for digital cameras and label writers and other peripherals that may not sit directly next to your PC.
Extended Reach
With a 6-foot cable you can position your serial devices at a comfortable distance which helps avoid clutter and cable strain.
Interference Protection
Triple shielding on the conductors ensures stable signal transmission even in areas with potential electromagnetic interference.
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5. StarTech.com 1 ft USB to RS232 – Best for Enterprise
StarTech.com 1 ft USB to RS232
COM Port Retention
Up to 920 kpbs
TAA Certified
Windows Linux Mac
StarTech is known for professional grade solutions and this adapter delivers with COM port retention for consistent device mapping. It holds a strong rating and is designed for reliable industrial and enterprise use.
Pros
- COM port retention
- TAA Certified
- High baud rate
- Professional grade quality
- Broad OS support
Cons
- Short cable length
- Higher cost
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The COM port retention feature keeps serial port values in memory so the device reassigns correctly when reconnected. This is crucial for automated systems that depend on specific port names.
Its TAA certification makes it suitable for government and public sector projects that require compliance. The high baud rate supports fast data transfer for demanding applications.
If you need a reliable adapter for critical infrastructure or automated monitoring this is a top choice. It is built to handle heavy use and maintain performance in professional environments.
Port Retention Technology
COM port retention ensures that your system remembers the specific port assignment so software configurations do not break when unplugging.
Enterprise Compliance
TAA certification means this adapter meets federal requirements for government procurement making it ideal for public sector installations.
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6. TRIPP LITE Keyspan Adapter – Best High Speed
TRIPP LITE Keyspan Adapter
Up to 230 Kbps
LED Status Indicator
3-Year Warranty
No External Power
The TRIPP LITE Keyspan adapter offers high speed performance that exceeds standard serial port capabilities. It enjoys a high rating and includes features like an LED indicator for easy activity monitoring.
Pros
- High speed transfer
- LED activity status
- 3 year warranty
- Trusted Keyspan brand
- No external power
Cons
- Short cable length
- Premium pricing
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With data rates up to 230 Kbps this adapter provides twice the speed of traditional built-in serial ports. This makes it suitable for applications where timely data transmission is critical.
The 3-foot cable length is short but manageable for most setups. The 3-year warranty reflects the confidence in its build quality and reliability over time.
Choose this adapter if you need reliable high speed communication with a trusted brand backing. It is excellent for connecting peripherals that require more bandwidth than standard serial ports provide.
Enhanced Data Speed
Achieving up to 230 Kbps allows faster communication with devices that can benefit from increased throughput compared to legacy standards.
Visual Activity Confirmation
An LED indicator lets you instantly see when data is moving which helps troubleshoot connection issues quickly.
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7. StarTech 17in USB to Serial – Best Portable
StarTech 17in USB to Serial
43cm Cable Length
921.6 Kbps Max
Prolific PL2303GT
3 Years Support
This StarTech adapter is designed for professionals on the go who need a portable serial solution. It maintains a strong rating and features a chipset that supports high baud rates for efficient data transfer.
Pros
- Compact and portable
- High max baud rate
- PL2303GT Chipset
- Broad OS support
- Technical assistance
Cons
- Short cable
- Requires driver on some systems
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At only 17 inches this adapter fits easily into carrying cases and kits for mobile IT work. It supports parity modes and data bits to match various device configurations.
While it requires driver installation on some systems the performance and support make it a reliable tool. The high baud rate ensures compatibility with modern serial devices that need speed.
Ideal for field technicians and mobile engineers this adapter combines portability with power. It ensures you can connect and configure devices anywhere without carrying bulky equipment.
Field Ready Portability
The lightweight design and short cable make it perfect for travel ensuring you have serial connectivity wherever your job takes you.
Flexible Configuration
Support for multiple parity modes and data bits allows you to match the settings of various legacy and industrial devices accurately.
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8. DTECH 10 Feet USB to RS232 – Longest Cable
DTECH 10 Feet USB to RS232
FTDI Chipset
10ft Cable Length
LED Light Status
Gold Plated Connector
The DTECH adapter solves the reach problem with an impressive 10-foot cable length. It holds a high rating and uses a trusted FTDI chipset for consistent performance across systems.
Pros
- 10 feet cable length
- FTDI chipset reliability
- LED activity status
- Gold plated connectors
- Wide OS support
Cons
- Heavier due to length
- Coiling can be tricky
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This length is perfect for connecting devices located across a room or in hard to reach spots. The LED light helps verify data activity without needing software tools.
Gold plated connectors ensure durability and secure mating with female DB9 ports. However managing a longer cable requires careful coiling to avoid damage over time.
If you need maximum reach without extending cables this adapter is the solution. It is excellent for setups where the computer and serial device are far apart.
Extended Reach Capability
A 10-foot cable provides exceptional flexibility for placing devices where they are needed without moving your computer.
Visual Status Check
An LED light on the cable shows data activity at a glance which simplifies troubleshooting connection issues.
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9. UGREEN 6FT DB9 Male Adapter – Best Design
UGREEN 6FT DB9 Male Adapter
PL2303 Chip
Gold-Plated Connectors
Flexible PVC Jacket
256kbps Transmission
UGREEN offers a sleek and durable adapter with a flexible PVC jacket that resists tangling. It maintains a high rating and uses a professional chip to ensure stable signal transmission.
Pros
- Flexible PVC jacket
- Gold plated connectors
- Stable signal transfer
- Good cable length
- Wide OS compatibility
Cons
- Driver needed for older OS
- Medium speed
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Gold plated connectors improve durability and ensure a solid electrical connection over time. The cable length is convenient for most setups without being too cumbersome.
Drivers are needed for Windows 7 and XP and Linux systems but it is free for Windows 8 and above. This makes it simple to use with modern computers.
This adapter is a great balance of quality and usability for general serial tasks. It is perfect for connecting printers and scanners and other peripherals in a home office.
Tangle Free Design
The flexible PVC jacket keeps the cable organized and prevents it from tangling in your workspace or travel bag.
Durable Connectors
Gold plated connectors resist corrosion and wear which extends the life of the adapter and ensures consistent performance.
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10. StarTech 3ft USB to Serial Cable – Best IT Pro
StarTech 3ft USB to Serial Cable
Prolific PL2303GC
230.4 Kbps Max
512 Byte FIFO
2 Years Warranty
This StarTech cable is built for IT professionals and industrial use with secure screw lock nuts. It holds a solid rating and supports a wide range of data bits and parity modes.
Pros
- Secure screw lock nuts
- High FIFO buffer
- Technical assistance
- Industrial applications
- Windows Linux Mac
Cons
- Shorter cable length
- Limited warranty
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The 512 Byte FIFO buffer ensures smooth data handling which is important for automated processes. The 3-foot length is sufficient for most rack mounted devices.
Technical assistance is available for setup and troubleshooting which adds value for professional users. It works with barcode scanners and network switches and many other peripherals.
If you need a secure and reliable connection for industrial or server environments this is a strong choice. It balances performance with features that support professional workflows.
Secure Connection Mechanism
Screw lock nuts on the connector secure the adapter to the device preventing accidental disconnections during operation.
Industrial Grade Support
Designed for IT pros this cable includes technical assistance and supports complex parity settings for industrial devices.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best D Sub to USB Adapter
Choosing the right adapter involves evaluating several technical factors to ensure compatibility and performance for your specific devices.
Chipset Quality
The chipset inside the adapter determines stability and driver support. Trusted chipsets like FTDI and Prolific offer reliable connections and broad OS compatibility.
Look for chipsets that match your operating system needs for long term reliability.
Connector Gender
Ensure the adapter connector matches your device port gender. Most adapters feature a male DB9 connector to fit female serial ports on devices.
Confirm the device port gender before purchasing to avoid compatibility issues.
Cable Length
Cable length affects placement flexibility and signal integrity. Longer cables offer more reach but may require careful management to avoid tangling or damage.
Choose a length that fits your workspace without excess slack or strain on connections.
Operating System Support
Check driver availability for your operating system. Newer systems like Windows 11 often have built-in support while older versions may require manual installation.
Verify OS support to ensure seamless setup and use.
Data Transfer Speed
Higher baud rates allow faster communication which is important for data intensive applications. Ensure the adapter supports rates compatible with your device capabilities.
Select an adapter with sufficient speed for your specific data requirements.
Build Quality
Durable construction including gold plated connectors and shielding prevents wear and interference. This extends the life of the adapter in demanding environments.
Prioritize build quality for frequent use or industrial settings.
Warranty Coverage
A good warranty reflects manufacturer confidence and provides protection against defects. Look for at least one year of coverage or longer for better value.
Check warranty terms to ensure you have support if issues arise.
Price and Value
Price varies based on features and brand reputation. Evaluate what you need versus what is offered to find the best balance of cost and performance.
Choose a model that meets your needs without unnecessary cost.
How to Use and Care for Your D Sub to USB Adapter
Begin by installing necessary drivers from the manufacturer website if your operating system does not detect the adapter automatically. Ensure your device is connected and powered on before proceeding to the next steps.
Plug the USB end into an available USB port on your computer and connect the DB9 connector to your serial device. Check that the connectors are tight and secure to prevent connection drops during use.
Protect your adapter by avoiding excessive bending of the cable and keeping it away from heat or moisture. Store it in a safe place when not in use to prolong its lifespan and maintain performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a D Sub to USB adapter used for?
A D Sub to USB adapter connects legacy serial devices to modern computers that lack serial ports. It enables communication with hardware like barcode scanners and industrial controllers and POS systems using USB ports.
Do I need to install drivers for these adapters?
Modern operating systems like Windows 10 and 11 often recognize these adapters automatically. However older systems like Windows 7 or some Linux versions may require manual driver installation from the manufacturer.
Can I use this adapter for video output like VGA?
No these adapters are strictly for serial data communication and not video signals. Using them for video output will not work and could damage hardware not designed for that purpose.
What does DB9 mean in the adapter name?
DB9 refers to the 9 pin D Subminiature connector shape used for serial ports. The number indicates the pin count and the D shape distinguishes it from other connector types.
Are these adapters compatible with Mac computers?
Most models support macOS but driver installation may be required depending on the version. Check the product specifications to confirm macOS support and required drivers before purchase.
How do I know if my device needs a male or female adapter?
Inspect your device port to see if it has pins or holes. If the device has pins it needs a female adapter but if it has holes it needs a male adapter to connect properly.
What affects the data transfer speed of these adapters?
Data speed depends on the chipset quality and baud rate settings. Higher baud rates allow faster transmission but both the adapter and device must support the chosen speed.
Can these adapters be used for industrial automation?
Yes many models are suitable for industrial applications like PLC control and sensor monitoring. Look for adapters with COM port retention and robust construction for reliable industrial use.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best D Sub to USB Adapter
We have reviewed ten top options ranging from budget friendly choices to premium enterprise grade adapters. Each model offers distinct strengths in chipset reliability and cable length and system support.
Prioritize chipset quality and connector compatibility to ensure stable and long lasting connections. Consider your specific application needs such as port retention or speed when making a final decision.
Always check current pricing and availability before purchasing as details can change over time. This guide provides a strong starting point to find the right adapter for your needs.