Best USB 2.0 Serial Adapters of 2026

Kenneth Collin Avatar
Kenneth Collin
Last Updated: 4 Feb 2026

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USB 2.0 Serial Adapters are small devices that allow users to connect serial devices such as modems, printers, and scanners to computers or laptops that do not have serial ports. These adapters are a cost-effective solution for those who need to use older serial devices with newer computers. They are easy to install and use, and come in a variety of designs and sizes. USB 2.0 Serial Adapters are perfect for those who need to transfer data between devices, or for those who require serial connectivity for their work or personal projects.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

OIKWAN USB to RS232 Serial Adapter Cable Cover #TOP 1
OIKWAN USB to RS232 Serial Adapter Cable
ftb score rating icon 9.9
WINGONEER CP2104 USB to TTL Serial Converter Cover #TOP 2
WINGONEER CP2104 USB to TTL Serial Converter
ftb score rating icon 9.8
CABLEDECONN USB to RS232 Adapter with Prolific Chipset Cover #TOP 3
CABLEDECONN USB to RS232 Adapter with Prolific Chipset
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 7 USB 2.0 Serial Adapters

#TOP 1

OIKWAN USB to RS232 Serial Adapter Cable

AQ-17
6 ft
OIKWAN USB to RS232 Serial Adapter Cable Cover
OIKWAN USB to RS232, USB Serial Adapter with FTDI Chipset,USB 2.0 to Male DB9 Serial Cable for Windows 11,10, 8, 7, Vista, XP, 2000, Linux and Mac OS(6ft)

The OIKWAN USB Serial Adapter is a versatile tool that connects various serial devices to your computer. It supports multiple operating systems, including Windows, Mac, and Linux, making it easy for you to use with different devices. With its high-quality FTDI chipset, you can expect reliable and fast data transfer rates of up to 1Mbps. The plug-and-play feature simplifies installation, allowing you to start using it right away without any external power supply. Its durable design ensures longevity, making it a handy addition to your tech collection.

What We Like
Wide compatibility with different systems
Fast data transfer rates
Easy plug-and-play installation
Durable and portable design

WINGONEER CP2104 USB to TTL Serial Converter

CP2104
blue
WINGONEER CP2104 USB to TTL Serial Converter Cover
WINGONEER® CP2104 Serial Converter USB 2.0 To TTL UART 6PIN Module compatible with and better than CP2102

The WINGONEER CP2104 Converter is an ideal solution for your USB to TTL electronic projects. It features a standard USB type A male connector and a 6-pin TTL connector, making it easy to connect various devices. This module is compatible with numerous operating systems, including Windows and Mac, ensuring versatility for your needs. Additionally, it is designed for use in upgrading devices such as DVD players, hard disks, routers, and GPS systems, providing efficient performance across different applications.

What We Like
Versatile connectivity options
Compatible with multiple operating systems
Ideal for electronic projects
Supports device upgrades

CABLEDECONN USB to RS232 Adapter with Prolific Chipset

C0407201
USB to RS232 female
CABLEDECONN USB to RS232 Adapter with Prolific Chipset Cover
CABLEDECONN USB to RS232 Adapter with Prolific PL2303 Chipset USB2.0 Male to RS232 Female DB9 Serial Cable 2m 6ft for Windows XP,Windows Vista,7,8,10,Mac OS 10.6 Above Linux

The CABLEDECONN USB to RS232 is an essential adapter for connecting your computer's USB port to RS232 DB9 pin devices. With a straightforward plug-and-play installation, you can enjoy quick setup without hassle. This adapter features the latest Prolific PL2303 chipset, ensuring compatibility with various operating systems, including Windows and Mac. You will benefit from a 1Mbbps data transfer rate, making it ideal for connecting devices like modems and digital cameras, enhancing your productivity and convenience.

What We Like
Easy plug-and-play installation
Wide compatibility with devices
Fast data transfer rate
Supports multiple operating systems

StarTech 6ft USB to Serial Adapter

StarTech
ICUSB232FTN
Black
5.6ft
StarTech 6ft USB to Serial Adapter Cover
StarTech.com 6ft (1.8m) 1-Port USB to Serial RS232 Adapter, FTDI DB9 Serial DCE Adapter Cable, Null Modem, USB 2.0 - TAA

The StarTech USB to Serial Adapter offers excellent portability with its single cable design, eliminating the need for extra adapters and cables. You can easily convert your USB port into a null modem RS232 DB9 serial port, effectively resolving DTE/DCE conflicts. Its broad compatibility means it works seamlessly with USB 1.0 or 2.0 ports across Windows, Mac, and Linux systems. Additionally, you will appreciate the fast transfer speeds, supporting up to 921.6 Kbps, ensuring efficient data transfer for your devices.

What We Like
Maximised portability with single cable
Resolves DTE/DCE conflicts easily
Broad compatibility with multiple systems
Fast transfer speeds up to 921.6Kbps

DTech USB to Serial Female Adapter Cable

DTECH 3FT USB-SERIAL
1M RS233 cable
DTech USB to Serial Female Adapter Cable Cover
DTech USB to Serial Female Adapter Cable DB9 RS232 to USB 2.0 Cord with Prolific PL2303 Chip Windows 11 10 8 7 Mac Linux(1m)

The DTech USB Serial Adapter is a versatile 3ft cable that allows you to connect various RS232 serial devices to your PC. With its PL2303 chipset, it ensures compatibility with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows 11, Mac, and Linux. This adapter is perfect for linking 9-pin serial devices like barcode scanners, digital cameras, and routers, making it convenient for your data transfer needs. Its straightforward design ensures you can easily plug and play without complications.

What We Like
Wide compatibility with devices
Easy plug-and-play setup
3ft length for flexibility
Supports multiple operating systems

DriverGenius USB232A-B-A USB to Serial Adapter

1 st/fp, (3xLED, A)
Black
DriverGenius USB232A-B-A USB to Serial Adapter Cover
DriverGenius SerialEdgeX Serie | USB to Serial RS232 Adapter with 3 x Data LEDs for Industrial CNC Equipment Monitoring - USB2.0 to DB9 (9-Pin) Serial Cable Compatible with Windows 11/macOS 15

The DriverGenius USB232A-B-A is a versatile USB to Serial Adapter, essential for connecting legacy devices to modern systems. With three status monitoring LEDs, you can easily keep track of power and data transmission, enhancing your workflow. The 3ft cable length provides flexibility in setup, while the adapter supports a maximum baud rate of 921.6 Kbps, ensuring fast data transfer. Its wide application range allows you to use it in various IT environments, making it a practical choice for professionals in industrial control, logistics, and more.

What We Like
Compatible with legacy hardware
Three status monitoring LEDs
Flexible 3ft cable length
High data transfer rate
Wide application range

XICOOLEE FT232 USB to UART Module

SG-C232-01C
XICOOLEE FT232 USB to UART Module Cover
FT232RL USB to UART TTL Serial Adapter, Type-C USB 2.0 to Serial Converter Board, 3.3V/5V Level Switch, CTS/RTS Flow Control, TX/RX LEDs, for Arduino, compatible with Raspberry Pi

The XICOOLEE FT232 Module is an efficient USB-to-serial port solution that ensures reliable two-way data transmission between USB and serial ports. With its onboard power supply and TXD/RXD indicators, you can easily monitor the connection status, enhancing your user experience. The convenient UART TTL level switch allows you to toggle between 3.3V and 5V, ensuring compatibility with various devices. Additionally, the inclusion of hardware flow control pins (CTS and RTS) provides flexibility for more complex applications.

What We Like
High-performance data transmission
Onboard power supply included
Easy TTL level switching
Compatible with multiple operating systems
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do USB to serial adapters need drivers?

When you connect a USB-to-Serial cable to your computer, the driver doesn't install. ... No driver found." The devices for some USB-to-Serial cables aren't installed by default on 64-bit operating systems. These cables use unsigned device drivers and must be installed manually.

2. What is a USB to serial port adapter?

USB to serial adapters are cables that convert the data sent by a serial-enabled device for use by a USB port. The serial end has a DB9 connector, which plugs into the serial device. The USB connector plugs into the computer's USB port or a connected USB hub.

3. What is the best serial to USB adapter?

Top Pick: BENFEI USB to Serial Adapter RS-232 Male Prolific Chipset. This cable from BENFEI offers the best connection from your serial device to your USB device. It's an RS232-compatible cable with a 9-pin male DB9 serial connector on one end and a standard USB type A male connector on the other.

4. Can you connect RS232 to USB?

Yes, a RS232 to USB converter does have a full-blown UART circuit built-in. As any standard UART, it does have Rx, Tx, and flow control pins. As any UART, it must be properly configured to be able to communicate with the "partner" at the other end of UART link. To do so, the UART circuit is "bridged" to USB interface.

Editor's Notes

During our usb 2.0 serial adapter research, we found 189 usb 2.0 serial adapter products and shortlisted 7 quality products. We collected and analyzed 25,618 customer reviews through our big data system to write the usb 2.0 serial adapters list. We found that most customers choose usb 2.0 serial adapters with an average price of £14.04.

The usb 2.0 serial adapters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of usb 2.0 serial adapters, including OIKWAN, WINGONEER, CableDeconn, StarTech, DTech.

Written by
Kenneth Collin Avatar

Kenneth Collin graduated from Imperial College, London, at 22. He is a UX/UI designer, a web developer, and a writer, amongst others. At age 14, Kenneth programmed his first app. Kenneth's app served as a remote control for censored devices. "When I was 8, I would pick up scraps from electronics and try to rebuild or at least fix them," Kenneth said in one of his recent articles on Home repairs for top gadgets.