Best Network Cards for PCI of 2025

Tom Law Avatar
Tom Law
Last Updated: 31 Jan 2025

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PCI network cards are essential components for desktop computers that lack built-in network connectivity or require an upgrade to a faster or more reliable network interface. These cards offer a simple solution to connect to local area networks (LANs) and the internet, allowing users to stream media, browse the web, and share files. They come in different specifications to suit different network requirements, such as speed, bandwidth, and security, and are easy to install and configure. If you are in need of a reliable and efficient network card for your desktop computer, consider exploring the range of PCI network cards available in the market.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

TP-Link TX201 2.5 Gigabit Network Adapter Cover #TOP 1
TP-Link TX201 2.5 Gigabit Network Adapter
ftb score rating icon 9.9
TP-Link TG-3468 Gigabit PCI Express Adapter Cover #TOP 2
TP-Link TG-3468 Gigabit PCI Express Adapter
ftb score rating icon 9.8
StarTech.com 1 Port PCI Gigabit Ethernet Card Cover #TOP 3
StarTech.com 1 Port PCI Gigabit Ethernet Card
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Network Cards for PCI

TP-Link TX201 2.5 Gigabit Network Adapter

TX201
Black
TP-Link TX201 2.5 Gigabit Network Adapter Cover
TP-Link 2.5 Gigabit PCI Express Network Adapter, Low-Profile and Full-Height Brackets, Supports Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, Windows Servers RS 2022/2019/2016/2012 R2/2012/2008 R2, Linux (TX201)

The TP-Link TX201 Adapter delivers impressive 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet speeds, allowing you to maximise your multi-Gig bandwidth for both local data transfers and internet access. Its versatile compatibility ensures seamless integration with Fast and Gigabit Ethernet connections, making it a reliable choice for various setups. With included low-profile and full-height brackets, you can easily adapt it to fit your computer case perfectly. The TX201 also offers comprehensive support for a range of operating systems, ensuring a hassle-free experience for all users.

What We Like
Blazing speed performance
Versatile compatibility
Flexible bracket options
Comprehensive system support

TP-Link TG-3468 Gigabit PCI Express Adapter

TG-3468
Black
Gigabit Wired
TP-Link TG-3468 Gigabit PCI Express Adapter Cover
TP-Link Gigabit PCI Express Network Adapter, 32-bit PCIe interface, Supports operating systems Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/Vista/XP, Low-Profile Bracket(TG-3468)

The TP-Link TG-3468 Adapter is a highly efficient network solution designed for fast connectivity. It features a 32-bit PCI Express interface, allowing for seamless integration into your system. With data rates of up to 1000 Mbps, you can enjoy high-speed internet for gaming or streaming. The adapter also supports full-duplex flow control, ensuring stable and reliable performance. This makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their network capabilities.

What We Like
High-speed connectivity
Easy installation
Compatible with multiple operating systems
Cost-effective solution

StarTech.com 1 Port PCI Gigabit Ethernet Card

ST1000BT32
Multicolor
1 Port
StarTech.com 1 Port PCI Gigabit Ethernet Card Cover
StarTech.com 1 Port PCI 10/100/1000 32 Bit Gigabit Ethernet Network Adapter Card (ST1000BT32)

The StarTech.com Gigabit Ethernet Card is a cost-effective solution for upgrading your system with a 1 gigabit ethernet port. Its versatile functionality includes both standard and low-profile brackets, allowing for easy installation in various PCI-enabled devices. You will benefit from impressive 1G speed, supporting data transfer rates of up to 1000 Mbps in each direction, ensuring smooth and efficient network performance. Additionally, it is widely compatible with many operating systems, including Mac, Windows, and Linux, making it a great addition to your existing setup.

What We Like
Cost-effective upgrade solution
Easy installation options
High-speed data transfer
Compatible with multiple operating systems
#TOP 4

Multibao Gigabit Ethernet LAN Network Card

Gold
Multibao Gigabit Ethernet LAN Network Card Cover
Multibao Gigabit Ethernet LAN PCI-E Express Network Card Desktop Controller 10/100/1000M

The Multibao Ethernet Network Card is designed for easy installation and compatibility, supporting the PCI-Express 1.0a standard. It features plug and play functionality, allowing you to set it up effortlessly without complicated configurations. This network card supports a range of Windows operating systems from Windows 98SE to Windows 7, ensuring broad usability. Furthermore, it adapts to different network speeds of 10MB, 100MB, and 1000MB, providing you with flexibility based on your network requirements.

What We Like
Easy plug and play installation
Supports multiple Windows OS
Adapts to various network speeds
Compatible with PCI-Express standard
#TOP 5

Ziyituod WiFi 6E PCIe Network Card

AX210S
Ziyituod WiFi 6E PCIe Network Card Cover
WiFi Card 5400Mbps 6E Wireless WiFi Bluetooth 5.3 PCIe Network Card, Intel WiFi 6E AX210 Chip, 6GHz/5GHz/2.4GHz PCI Express Bluetooth WiFi 6 Card for Desktop/PC Windows 11/10(64Bit)

The Ziyituod WiFi Card offers exceptional performance with the WiFi 6E standard, providing access to a clearer 6GHz band for faster, more reliable internet speeds. You can enjoy increased bandwidth, reaching up to 2402Mbps, which enhances your online experience whether you're gaming or streaming. Its two 6dBi antennas ensure optimal signal reception, reducing latency and improving reliability. Additionally, with Bluetooth 5.3, this card enables you to connect various devices like headphones and controllers at twice the speed and four times the coverage of previous versions.

What We Like
Fast speeds up to 2402Mbps
Improved signal reliability
Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity
WPA3 security protection
Compatible with Windows 11/10

TP-Link AC1200 Dual Band Wireless Adapter

Archer T4E
Black
AC1200 Mbps
TP-Link AC1200 Dual Band Wireless Adapter Cover
TP-Link AC1200 Dual Band Wireless PCI Express Adapter with Two Antennas, PCIe Network Interface Card for Desktop, Low-Profile Bracket Included, Supports Windows 11/10/8.1/8/XP (32/64 bit)(Archer T4E)

The TP-Link Archer T4E is designed for easy installation, allowing you to upgrade your desktop by simply plugging the adapter into an available PCI-E slot. With high-speed Wi-Fi capabilities of up to 1200 Mbps, you can enjoy seamless streaming and fast downloads. The 802.11ac dual-band technology provides speeds three times faster than the older 802.11n standard, making it ideal for high-intensity network usage. Additionally, the 2×2 MIMO feature ensures you have reliable access to a high-speed wireless connection, enhancing your overall online experience.

What We Like
Easy installation
High-speed Wi-Fi
Dual-band support
Reliable wireless connection
Broad wireless range
#TOP 7

WAVLINK 1G PCIe Network Card for Fast Ethernet

WAVLINK 1G PCIe Network Card for Fast Ethernet Cover
WAVLINK 1G Base-T PCIe Network Card, 1000/100/10Mbps PCI Express Ethernet Adapter with RTL8111H, 1G NIC for Windows 11/10/8/8.1/7/XP/Vista & Linux with Low Profile Bracket

The WAVLINK 1G Network Card offers exceptional online performance with high-speed transmission, reaching up to 10 times faster than traditional 100Mbps connections. This means you can enjoy rapid file transfers, smooth HD video streaming, and lag-free gaming. Its versatile PCIe compatibility allows for easy installation in various motherboards, giving you the flexibility to upgrade your system effortlessly. Additionally, this card supports multiple operating systems, including Windows and Linux, ensuring you can enjoy high-speed networking without compatibility concerns.

What We Like
High-speed transmission up to 1G
Compatible with various PCIe slots
Supports multiple operating systems
Flexible installation with dual brackets
Robust metal shielding for stability
#TOP 8

Dual-Port PCIe Gigabit Network Card by ULANSEN

TXA094
Multicolor
Dual-Port PCIe Gigabit Network Card by ULANSEN Cover
Dual-Port PCIe Gigabit Network Card PCI Express Gigabit Ethernet Adapter with Intel 82576/82575 Ports PCI Express NIC Support PXE for Windows/Windows Server/Linux/FreeBSD/DOS With Low Profile

The ULANSEN Gigabit Network Card is a versatile solution for your networking needs. It supports multiple operating systems, including Windows and Linux, ensuring compatibility with your setup. With its PCI Express 2.1 interface, it can fit various PCI slots, providing flexibility for installation. The imported alloy heat sink effectively dissipates heat, keeping the card operating efficiently and reliably. Additionally, features like PXE remote boot and VLAN filtering enhance your network management capabilities, making it easier for you to maintain a stable and organised network.

What We Like
Wide OS compatibility
Flexible installation options
Effective heat dissipation
Enhanced network management features
#TOP 9

10Gtek Gigabit Ethernet Network Adapter with Dual Ports

82576-2T-X1(E1G42ET)-Intel
2-RJ45
10Gtek Gigabit Ethernet Network Adapter with Dual Ports Cover
10/100/1000Mbps Gigabit Ethernet Converged Network Adapter (NIC) with Intel 82576 Chip | Ethernet PCI Express Network Card | Dual RJ45 Copper Ports | PCI Express 2.0 X1 | Compare to Intel E1G42ET

The 10Gtek 82576 Network Card is equipped with the original Intel 82576 controller chip, which enhances server stability through Intelligent Offloads. It is compatible with various operating systems, including Windows and Linux, ensuring versatility for your setup. With dual RJ45 copper ports, you can connect to Category-5 cables, meeting data centre demands efficiently. Additionally, the card comes with both a profile and a low-profile bracket, making it simple to install in compact cases.

What We Like
Stable performance with Intel chip
Versatile OS compatibility
Dual RJ45 ports for connectivity
Easy installation options
#TOP 10

BrosTrend 2.5Gbps PCIe Network Card

2.5 Gb PCIe Network Card
Black
BrosTrend 2.5Gbps PCIe Network Card Cover
BrosTrend 2.5 Gigabit PCIe Network Card, Ethernet Network Adapter PCI Express Ethernet RJ45 2500/1000/100 Mbps, Extra Low-Profile Bracket for Windows 11/10, Windows Server/XP, NAS, Lifetime Protection

The BrosTrend Network Card delivers exceptional performance with its 2.5Gbps next-gen connection, allowing you to enjoy speeds 2.5 times faster than standard Gigabit cards. This ultra-fast Ethernet adapter enhances your gaming and streaming experiences by reducing latency and improving responsiveness. Additionally, it facilitates instant local network transfers, ensuring swift data exchange with other devices. With durable metal shielding, you can expect improved stability and reliability for every connection, making it a robust choice for your networking needs.

What We Like
Extremely fast connection speeds
Reduces latency for gaming
Instant local data transfer
Durable and reliable design
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a PCI network card?

A PCI network card is a type of computer hardware that can be installed within a computer's case, directly onto the motherboard of the computer. This type of card is installed into a peripheral component interconnect (PCI) slot on a computer's motherboard.

2. What is RJ45 network card?

RJ45 Network Cards Network cards are added to desktop PCs, workstations or servers to enable connectivity to other users, devices and the outside world. RJ45 is the common wired interface used to connect via Ethernet to network switches and routers.

Editor's Notes

During our network card for pci research, we found 103 network card for pci products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 172,942 customer reviews through our big data system to write the network cards for pci list. We found that most customers choose network cards for pci with an average price of £21.30.

The network cards for pci are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of network cards for pci, including TP-Link, StarTech.com, Multibao, Ziyituod, WAVLINK.

Written by
Tom Law Avatar

Tom Law is an adventurer who has captured his love for nature into all of his works. A native of Newcastle, Tom has always wanted to share beautiful stories alongside the lovely sights of nature. Fortunately, he took into photography on one of his many journeys and gradually grew a passion for it. Tom Law is now an expert photographer who tours the world while creating and keeping memories of his adventures. He frequently puts his thoughts and experiences into writing.