Best Parallel Port Cards of 2025

Tom Law Avatar
Tom Law
Last Updated: 31 Jan 2025

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Parallel port cards are handy add-ons for computers that lack a parallel port, or for those who need additional parallel ports for multiple devices. These cards can be easily installed into a PCI or PCIe slot on a desktop computer, providing reliable and stable communication with parallel devices such as printers, scanners, and other peripherals. With parallel port cards, users can enjoy fast data transfer rates and high-quality print output without the need for special software or drivers. These cards are an affordable and practical solution for expanding the functionality of a computer, and are highly recommended for those in need of parallel ports.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

StarTech.com 1-Port Parallel PCIe Card Cover #TOP 1
StarTech.com 1-Port Parallel PCIe Card
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Multibao PCIe Parallel Port Adapter Card Cover #TOP 2
Multibao PCIe Parallel Port Adapter Card
ftb score rating icon 9.8
KALEA-INFORMATIQUE PCI to Parallel Controller Card Cover #TOP 3
KALEA-INFORMATIQUE PCI to Parallel Controller Card
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Parallel Port Cards

#TOP 1

StarTech.com 1-Port Parallel PCIe Card

PEX1P2
Black
4.7" x 4.3" x 0.8"
StarTech.com 1-Port Parallel PCIe Card Cover
StarTech.com 1-Port Parallel PCIe Card - PCI Express to Parallel DB25 Adapter Card - Desktop Expansion LPT Controller for Printers, Scanners & Plotters - SPP/ECP - Standard/Low Profile (PEX1P2)

The StarTech.com Parallel PCIe Card allows you to easily add a DB25 parallel communications port to your computer using a PCI Express slot. It supports multiple modes, including SPP and ECP, ensuring compatibility with various devices such as printers and scanners. With speeds of up to 2.5Mbps, you can expect efficient data transfer for all your peripherals. The card is versatile, making it suitable for use in different applications, from scientific sensors to medical equipment, providing you with great flexibility in your connectivity options.

What We Like
Easy installation in PCIe slots
Supports multiple communication modes
High-speed data transfer
Versatile for various devices
#TOP 2

Multibao PCIe Parallel Port Adapter Card

Multibao PCIe Parallel Port Adapter Card Cover
Multibao PCIe Expansion Card, PCI Express 1X to DB25 Parallel Port Adapter Card Compatible with IEEE 1284 SPP/Byte ECP Modes for Printers, Scanners

The Multibao Parallel Port Card is designed to connect your parallel peripherals, such as printers and scanners, to your computer system. It features a native single-chip design that ensures maximum performance and reliability. With its single lane PCI Express compatibility, you can expect efficient data transfer rates of up to 1.5Mbps. This card supports various modes including SPP, ECP, and EPP, allowing seamless integration with the existing Centronics interface for your devices.

What We Like
Easy installation in PCIe slot
Supports multiple parallel modes
High data transfer rate
Compatible with various peripherals
#TOP 3

KALEA-INFORMATIQUE PCI to Parallel Controller Card

1985718
Black
KALEA-INFORMATIQUE PCI to Parallel Controller Card Cover
KALEA-INFORMATIQUE PCI to Parallel IEEE1284 controller card, DB25 socket. For printer or scanner

The KALEA-INFORMATIQUE Parallel Card is an excellent solution for connecting printers or scanners to your computer. With its high-quality MOSCHIP MCS9865 chipset, you can expect reliable performance across various operating systems, including Windows and Linux. The card is PCI 2.1 compatible and supports IEEE 1284, enabling fast data transfer rates of up to 1.5Mbps. Its external DB25 connector ensures easy connectivity, allowing you to set up your devices effortlessly and enjoy seamless operations.

What We Like
High-quality MOSCHIP chipset
Supports multiple operating systems
Fast data transfer rates
Easy external connectivity
#TOP 4

GODSHARK PCI to DB25 Parallel Port Card

8541587260
GODSHARK PCI to DB25 Parallel Port Card Cover
GODSHARK PCI to DB25 LPT Parallel Port Expansion Card with Low Profile Bracket, PCI Parallel Port Converter Adapter Controller for Desktop PC Printer

The GODSHARK Parallel Port Card offers a reliable PCI to DB25 connection for your desktop PC, making it ideal for connecting printers. With the WCH CH351Q chip, you can enjoy seamless communication with your printer. Once you install the necessary drivers, you can easily set the printer's port to match the card, ensuring compatibility. This card supports older operating systems like Windows XP, 7, and 8, but does not support Windows 10, so you can be assured of its functionality with your current setup.

What We Like
Easy printer connection
Compatible with older Windows
Reliable chip performance
Low profile design
#TOP 5

Donkey PC Multi-Mode Parallel Port Card

DONKPCI1P
Donkey PC Multi-Mode Parallel Port Card Cover
DONKEY PC - PCI Card 1 Parallel Port Multi-Mode IEEE 1284 (SPP, PS2, EPP, ECP). Up to 1.5 Mbps. Compatible with Linux and Windows. Low Peril Bracket included.

The Donkey PC Parallel Port Card is designed for versatility and efficiency. It supports various devices like ticket printers, barcode readers, and cash registers, making it ideal for your business needs. With transfer rates of up to 1.5 Mbps, you can expect quick and reliable data transfer. This card is compatible with both Windows and Linux operating systems, ensuring broader usability. Additionally, it comes with a low profile bracket, allowing easy installation in slim PC towers.

What We Like
Supports multiple devices
High transfer rates
Compatible with Windows and Linux
Includes low profile bracket
#TOP 6

StarTech.com PCI Parallel Adapter Card

PCI1P_LP
Green
StarTech.com PCI Parallel Adapter Card Cover
StarTech.com PCI1P_LP 1 Port Low Profile PCI Parallel Adapter Card, Parallel Adapter, PCI Low Profile, IEEE 1284, Green

The StarTech.com PCI Adapter allows you to effortlessly add a parallel port to your low profile or small form factor computer via a PCI expansion slot. With its one-port design, this low profile PCI parallel adapter card is perfect for those who need to connect parallel devices. The inclusion of both standard and low-profile brackets ensures that you can install it in almost any system, providing versatility. By using this adapter, you can enhance your computer's connectivity options without hassle.

What We Like
Adds parallel port connectivity
Includes standard and low-profile brackets
Easy installation
Compact design
#TOP 7

Zopsc PCI-E LPT Printer Card Adapter

Zopsc
Zopscpzcsd8hg54
default
Zopsc PCI-E LPT Printer Card Adapter Cover
PCIE to Parallel Port Card, Print Port LPT PCI-E LPT Printer Card Adapter DB25, for Windows, MAC and Linux. Suitable for Printers, Programmers, Scanners, etc.

The Zopsc LPT Printer Card is a PCI Express single parallel port card that allows you to connect various parallel devices such as printers, programmers, and scanners. This versatility means you can easily integrate older devices into your modern setup. It supports multiple operating systems, including Windows, MAC, and Linux, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of computers. The card uses a PCI Express x1 slot, which can be installed in various PCI Express slots, providing flexibility for your system's configuration.

What We Like
Compatible with multiple operating systems
Connects various parallel devices
Flexible installation options
Easy integration of older devices
#TOP 8

ELIATER PCIe Serial Parallel Expansion Card

8541587258
ELIATER PCIe Serial Parallel Expansion Card Cover
ELIATER PCIe Combo Serial Parallel Expansion Card PCI Express to Printer LPT Port RS232 Com Port Adapter IEEE 1284 Controller Card WCH382 Chip for Desktop PC with Low Bracket

The ELIATER Expansion Card is designed to enhance your computer's connectivity options with ease. Its capability allows for the addition of extra serial or parallel cards, making upgrades straightforward. The multi-mode IEEE 1284 compliant controller supports faster data rates of up to 1.5Mbps for the parallel port, which is beneficial for transferring large files efficiently. With Plug and Play functionality, it automatically selects IRQ and IO addresses, saving you time during setup. Furthermore, it is compatible with various operating systems, ensuring versatility for your desktop needs.

What We Like
Easy upgrades for additional ports
Fast data transfer rates
Plug and Play convenience
Wide operating system compatibility
#TOP 9

fasient PCI Parallel Adapter Card - 1 Port

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default
fasient PCI Parallel Adapter Card - 1 Port Cover
fasient PCI Parallel Adapter Card - 1 Port, Support SPP/PS2/ECP/EPP - fasient6v2kfigub9, Compatible with Printers, Laptops, Personal Computers, Operating Systems: Linux, Windows

The fasient Parallel Adapter Card is a versatile PCI Express single parallel port card that connects to various parallel devices, such as printers and scanners. It supports multiple mainstream operating systems, including Windows, MAC, and Linux, making it a convenient choice for users across different platforms. The card utilizes a PCI Express x1 slot, allowing for easy installation in various PCI Express slots, ensuring compatibility with many systems. This flexibility means you can easily enhance your computing setup with additional parallel device support.

What We Like
Supports multiple operating systems
Easy installation in various slots
Connects to diverse parallel devices
Single port card for convenience
#TOP 10

LinksTek PCI Express Parallel Adapter Card

LinksTek
PCIE-PA1
Matte Black
LinksTek PCI Express Parallel Adapter Card Cover
LinksTek 1 Single Port PCI Express (PCIE) Parallel/DB25/LPT Adapter Card-Comply with IEEE 1284 Standard-Support SPP/EPP/ECP-with Low Profile Bracket for Slim PCs(PCIE-PA1)

The LinksTek Parallel Adapter allows you to add a single parallel port to your desktop PC or industrial device. This is particularly useful for connecting older devices such as printers, scanners, and memory card readers, ensuring they can still be used efficiently. Complying with the IEEE 1284 standard, it supports various protocols, including SPP, EPP, and ECP. With a maximum data speed of 1.5 Mbps, it ensures smooth and reliable data transfer for all your old peripherals.

What We Like
Easy connection for old devices
Supports multiple protocols
High data transfer speed
Compatible with various Windows versions
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a parallel port used for?

A parallel port is an interface allowing a personal computer (PC) to transmit or receive data down multiple bundled cables to a peripheral device such as a printer. The most common parallel port is a printer port known as the Centronics port.

2. Is parallel port still used?

Today, the parallel port interface is virtually non-existent because of the rise of Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices, along with network printing using Ethernet and Wi-Fi connected printers. The parallel port interface was originally known as the Parallel Printer Adapter on IBM PC-compatible computers.

3. What are serial ports and parallel ports?

A serial port is able to transmit a single stream of data at a time. A parallel port is able to transmit multiple data streams at a time. A serial port sends data bit by bit after sending a bit at a time. A parallel port sends data by sending multiple bits in parallel fashion.

Editor's Notes

During our parallel port card research, we found 20 parallel port card products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 6,870 customer reviews through our big data system to write the parallel port cards list. We found that most customers choose parallel port cards with an average price of £20.08.

The parallel port cards are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of parallel port cards, including StarTech.com, Multibao, KALEA-INFORMATIQUE, GODSHARK, Donkey pc.

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.