SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial DB9 RS232 Male Adapter Cable (CB-DB9P)
4.4Editor score
Prolific PL2303GS Chipset
Fixed Hex Standoffs Included
Up To 460800 Baud Rate
In this guide
Finding the right D Sub to USB Adapter is crucial for connecting legacy serial devices to modern computers. These adapters bridge the gap between old hardware like PLCs and new systems ensuring reliable data transfer without needing expensive replacements.
We evaluated ten leading models based on chipset reliability cable durability and operating system support. Each product offers unique features suited for industrial medical or home office setups requiring stable RS232 communication over USB connections.
Every selection below highlights specific strengths like driver support baud rates and build quality. Prices fluctuate regularly so verify current listings before purchasing to ensure you get the best value for your specific connectivity needs.
Top 3 Picks for Best D Sub to USB Adapter
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)…
4.6Editor score
FTDI Chipset Ensures Reliability
Gold Plated USB Connector
Supports 1Mbps Data Transfer
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
Up To 230 Kbps Transfer Rate
LED Status Light Included
Three Year Limited Warranty
Top 10 Best D Sub to USB Adapter in 2026 Compared
This side-by-side comparison highlights key specifications across all ten selected adapters to help you identify the model that best fits your technical requirements and budget constraints.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Editor's Choice
USB to RS232 FTDI Chipset
Chipset: FTDI FT232
Cable Length: 6 Feet
Max Baud Rate: 1Mbps
Connector: Male DB9
4.6Editor score
Editor's Choice
IOGEAR USB to PDA/Serial Adapter
Chipset: Proprietary
Cable Length: 12 Inches
Buffer: 96 Bytes
LED Status Light Yes
4.7Editor score
Best Budget
SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial
Chipset: Prolific PL2303GS
Cable Length: 3 Feet
Max Baud Rate: 460800bps
Connector: Male DB9
4.4Editor score
BENFEI USB to Serial Adapter
Chipset: Prolific PL2303
Cable Length: 6 Feet
Shielding: Triple Layer
Connector: Male DB9
4.2Editor score
StarTech.com 1 ft USB to RS232
Chipset: Proprietary
Cable Length: 1 Foot
COM Port Retention Yes
Connector: Male DB9
4.5Editor score
TRIPP LITE Keyspan High-Speed
Chipset: Keyspan Proprietary
Cable Length: 3 Feet
Max Baud Rate: 230Kbps
Connector: Male DB9
4.6Editor score
StarTech 17in 1-Port USB
Chipset: Prolific PL2303GT
Cable Length: 17 Inches
FIFO Buffer: 512 Byte
Connector: Male DB9
4.6Editor score
DTECH 10 Feet USB 2.0
Chipset: FTDI FT232RL
Cable Length: 10 Feet
Connector: Male DB9
LED Indicator Light Yes
4.6Editor score
UGREEN 6FT DB9 Male USB
Chipset: Prolific PL2303
Cable Length: 6 Feet
Max Baud Rate: 256Kbps
Connector: Male DB9
4.6Editor score
StarTech 3ft 1-Port USB
Chipset: Prolific PL2303GC
Cable Length: 3 Feet
Max Baud Rate: 2304Kbps
Connector: Male DB9
4.5Editor score
1. USB to RS232 FTDI Chipset – Best Overall D Sub to USB Adapter
USB to RS232 FTDI Chipset
FTDI Chipset Included
6 Foot Cable Length
1Mbps Data Transfer Rate
Gold Plated Connectors
This adapter leads our list with its robust FTDI chipset which is widely considered the gold standard for serial to USB conversions. It carries a 4.6 star rating from users who appreciate its reliability in industrial and home settings.
Pros
- Highly reliable FTDI chipset
- Long 6 foot cable length
- Gold plated connectors durability
- Wide OS compatibility support
Cons
- Requires driver installation for older OS
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The 6 foot cable provides excellent flexibility for connecting devices that might be located further away from the computer USB port. Gold plated connectors ensure a secure connection that resists corrosion over time.
While it requires driver installation for some older Windows versions this is a minor trade-off for the stability provided by the genuine FTDI chip. Most modern systems recognize it automatically after initial setup.
Buyers needing a dependable solution for PLCs or legacy hardware should choose this model. It balances performance and durability better than most competitors in this category.
Chipset Reliability
The FTDI chipset ensures consistent data transmission without the common dropouts seen in generic alternatives.
Cable Flexibility
A 6 foot length allows comfortable reach even in tight server racks or under desk setups.
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2. IOGEAR USB to PDA/Serial Adapter – Best Premium D Sub to USB Adapter
IOGEAR USB to PDA/Serial Adapter
96 Byte Buffer Size
LED Status Light Present
12 Inch Cable Length
Remote Wakeup Support
IOGEAR delivers a premium experience with the highest rating in our test group. Its compact form factor makes it ideal for laptops or mobile workstations where space is limited.
Pros
- Highest customer rating at 4.7
- Includes LED data monitoring
- Supports remote wakeup functions
- Compact design for portability
Cons
- Shorter cable length than others
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The LED status light offers immediate visual feedback on data transfer activity which is helpful for troubleshooting connection issues quickly. It also supports remote wakeup features for modern power management.
The cable length is only 12 inches which might be limiting for some desktop setups. However for close range connections this short cable reduces clutter effectively.
This adapter is perfect for users prioritizing build quality and small footprint. It is especially useful for connecting GPS units or PDAs to modern laptops.
Compact Design
The small footprint ensures it does not block adjacent USB ports on crowded laptop sides.
Data Monitoring
The LED indicator helps users confirm active data transfer at a glance during configuration.
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3. SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial – Best Budget D Sub to USB Adapter
SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial
Prolific PL2303GS Chipset
Fixed Hex Standoffs
Up To 460800 Baud
Fully Wired Signals
SABRENT offers exceptional value with this budget friendly option that still delivers solid performance. The Prolific PL2303GS chipset provides reliable connectivity for most standard serial applications.
Pros
- Very affordable price point
- Fixed standoffs included secure fit
- All 9 signals wired correctly
- High baud rate support
Cons
- Drivers may need manual install on Linux
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Fixed hex standoffs on the DB9 connector ensure a tight screw-in connection which prevents accidental disconnections during heavy use. All nine signals are properly wired for full functionality.
Linux users might need to install drivers manually which can be a slight hurdle compared to plug and play models. However most Windows users will find it works immediately after setup.
For cost conscious buyers needing essential features this is the top choice. It provides the necessary reliability without unnecessary extras that drive up the price.
Secure Connection
The fixed standoffs make screwing the DB9 port into devices quick and secure without stripping threads.
High Baud Rates
Support for 460800 bps ensures fast data transfer for high throughput legacy devices.
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4. BENFEI USB to Serial Adapter – Reliable Long Cable Option
BENFEI USB to Serial Adapter
6 Foot Tinned Copper Wire
Triple Shielding Layers
Prolific PL2303 Chipset
18 Month Warranty
BENFEI focuses on durability with triple shielding and tinned copper conductors to resist signal interference. This makes it a strong candidate for industrial environments with high electrical noise.
Pros
- Long cable reaches further
- Triple shielding reduces interference
- 18 month warranty coverage
- Tinned copper conductivity
Cons
- Slightly lower customer rating average
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The 6 foot cable ensures you can reach devices located under desks or in cabinets without extra extension cables. It comes with a generous 18 month warranty for peace of mind.
Some users report slightly lower ratings likely due to occasional driver inconsistencies on Mac systems. However for Windows users it performs consistently well for standard tasks.
Choose this adapter if you need extra cable length and durability. The shielding makes it ideal for noisy environments where signal integrity is critical.
Signal Shielding
Triple shielding ensures data integrity even in environments with strong electromagnetic interference.
Cable Length
Six feet of cable provides significant flexibility for positioning devices away from the PC.
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5. StarTech.com 1 ft USB to RS232 – Best COM Retention Feature
StarTech.com 1 ft USB to RS232
COM Port Retention Memory
Up To 920 kpbs Speed
1 Foot Cable Length
TAA Compliant
StarTech is known for professional grade hardware and this model includes a unique COM port retention feature. It remembers assigned serial port values so scripts do not break when unplugging.
Pros
- Retains COM port number automatically
- Professional grade build quality
- TAA compliant for government use
- High speed data transfer
Cons
- Shortest cable length available
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This is incredibly useful for IT professionals who manage multiple machines with standardized software configurations. The 1 foot cable is short but perfect for laptop docks or desktop hubs.
While the cable is short the trade-off is a more robust build suited for daily professional use. It is TAA compliant which meets government procurement requirements.
Buy this if you rely on specific COM port numbers for software automation. It saves time troubleshooting connection issues in large deployments.
COM Port Memory
Nonvolatile memory keeps your COM port assignment even after the device is disconnected and reconnected.
Government Compliance
TAA compliance ensures it meets procurement standards for public sector or government projects.
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6. TRIPP LITE Keyspan High-Speed – Best Warranty Coverage
TRIPP LITE Keyspan High-Speed
Up To 230 Kbps Speed
3 Year Warranty Coverage
LED Activity Indicator
3 Foot Cable Length
TRIPP LITE offers the longest warranty in our comparison which speaks to its confidence in product durability. The Keyspan chipset is historically known for stability on both Mac and Windows systems.
Pros
- Longest warranty in class
- Reliable Keyspan chipset
- Clear LED activity status
- Comfortable 3 foot cable
Cons
- Higher price point than budget
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A 3 year warranty covers long term usage and protects against early failures. The LED light provides a clear visual indication of data activity which is helpful during testing.
The price is higher than budget alternatives but the warranty and build quality justify the cost. It is a solid investment for critical industrial or medical applications.
Opt for this model if long term reliability and support are your top priorities. It is particularly well suited for Mac users due to driver legacy.
Long Term Warranty
The three year coverage provides peace of mind for expensive equipment that relies on this connection.
Mac Support
Keyspan drivers have long been the standard for reliable serial communication on Mac OS X.
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7. StarTech 17in 1-Port USB – Best Mobile Professional Option
StarTech 17in 1-Port USB
17 Inch Portable Cable
512 Byte FIFO Buffer
Multiple Parity Modes
Prolific PL2303GT Chipset
Designed for IT professionals on the go this 17 inch adapter fits perfectly in laptop bags without adding bulk. It supports various parity modes which is essential for configuring specialized legacy hardware.
Pros
- Perfect portable length
- Multiple parity support options
- Lightweight design for travel
- Robust technical support
Cons
- Cable not extendable
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The 512 byte FIFO buffer helps manage data flow smoothly preventing bottlenecks during transfers. Lightweight design ensures it does not strain USB ports when attached to laptops.
The cable length is fixed which limits its use to close range setups. However for field technicians needing a reliable tool this size is ideal.
Choose this if you need a portable solution for daily service calls. It offers the flexibility of multiple configurations in a compact form.
Portable Design
The lightweight profile fits easily into standard laptop sleeves alongside other essential tools.
Parity Options
Support for odd even and mark parity allows connection to diverse legacy communication protocols.
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8. DTECH 10 Feet USB 2.0 – Best Longest Reach
DTECH 10 Feet USB 2.0
10 Foot Extra Long Cable
FTDI FT232RL Chipset
LED Light Included
Blue Enrich Injection Molding
DTECH provides the longest cable option in this review at 10 feet which solves reach issues in large rooms or warehouses. The FTDI chipset ensures reliable performance even with the extended length.
Pros
- Longest cable in selection
- Reliable FTDI chipset
- LED status indicator present
- Durable blue connector design
Cons
- Thick cable may be stiff
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The cable is durable with blue enrich injection molding that keeps the connector secure and visible. It comes with an LED light to confirm connection status at the adapter end.
Longer cables can sometimes introduce signal noise but this model handles it well. The thickness adds durability but might be less flexible than shorter cables.
This is the top choice if you need to connect devices far from your computer. It eliminates the need for additional extension cables.
Extended Reach
Ten feet of cable allows connecting to printers or controllers in different rooms easily.
FTDI Reliability
The FT232RL chip ensures stable data transmission despite the longer physical distance.
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9. UGREEN 6FT DB9 Male USB – Best Driverless Windows Support
UGREEN 6FT DB9 Male USB
Driver Free On Win8+
Flexible PVC Jacket
Up To 256kbps Speed
Multiple Shielding Layers
UGREEN offers a convenient plug and play experience for Windows 8 and newer systems without requiring manual driver downloads. This makes it ideal for quick setups in shared environments.
Pros
- Works instantly on Windows 8+
- Flexible cable jacket
- Solid 4.6 rating average
- Multiple shielding layers
Cons
- Max baud rate lower than others
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The flexible PVC jacket prevents tangling and manages cable length effectively in office environments. Multiple shielding layers protect data integrity during transmission.
The max baud rate is lower at 256kbps which may limit high throughput applications. For standard console access this speed is usually sufficient for most tasks.
Select this model if you want a hassle-free setup on modern Windows systems. It is perfect for general IT maintenance tasks.
Plug and Play
Windows 8 and newer systems recognize this adapter automatically without additional driver installation.
Cable Management
The flexible jacket prevents the cable from tangling and keeps your workspace neat.
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10. StarTech 3ft 1-Port USB – Best DB25 Compatibility
StarTech 3ft 1-Port USB
Supports DB9 And DB25
Up To 230.4 Kbps
512 Byte FIFO Buffer
2 Year Warranty Support
This StarTech model is unique for its compatibility with both DB9 and DB25 serial ports. It is ideal for industrial settings that still use the larger DB25 connectors on older equipment.
Pros
- Compatible with DB25 ports
- Secure screw lock nuts
- Robust StarTech build quality
- Standard 3 foot length
Cons
- Limited to 230Kbps speed
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Secure screw lock nuts ensure the connection stays tight even in vibrating environments. The 512 byte FIFO buffer helps manage data flow efficiently during transfers.
Speed is limited to 230Kbps which is standard for many legacy industrial protocols. It is reliable enough for configuring servers or network switches without issues.
Choose this adapter if your legacy equipment uses DB25 connectors. It bridges the gap between modern USB and older industrial interfaces seamlessly.
DB25 Compatibility
Support for DB25 connectors allows connection to older industrial PLCs or server ports.
Secure Locks
Screw lock nuts on the connector prevent the cable from loosening due to vibration.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best D Sub to USB Adapter
Selecting the right adapter requires understanding your device's requirements and your computer's operating system to ensure stable data communication.
Chipset Reliability
The chipset inside the adapter determines its stability and driver support. FTDI chips are generally the most reliable and widely supported across operating systems. Prolific chips are common and affordable but sometimes suffer from driver updates on newer Windows versions.
Always choose a model with a reputable chipset for mission critical connections to avoid data loss.
Operating System Compatibility
Check whether the adapter supports your specific OS version. Modern Windows systems might not need drivers but Linux or macOS often require manual installation. Some adapters are specifically optimized for Mac environments.
Verify the manufacturer provides up-to-date drivers for your OS before purchasing to ensure plug-and-play functionality.
Cable Length
Cable length affects how you position your devices relative to your computer. Shorter cables reduce clutter but limit placement options. Longer cables offer flexibility but may be more prone to tangling or signal degradation if not shielded properly.
Choose a length that matches your workspace setup to minimize the need for extra extension cables.
Connector Type
Most serial devices use DB9 connectors but some older equipment uses DB25 or other types. Ensure the adapter matches the gender of your device port. Male connectors plug into female ports and vice versa.
Confirm the exact pin configuration of your device to avoid buying an incompatible connector.
Baud Rate Support
Baud rate determines the speed of data transmission. While most adapters support up to 1Mbps some specialized industrial devices may require specific speeds. Higher baud rates allow for faster data throughput which is useful for large file transfers.
Select an adapter that meets or exceeds the maximum baud rate requirement of your serial device.
Shielding and Durability
Proper shielding prevents electrical interference from affecting data integrity. Industrial environments with high voltage equipment require robust shielding. Gold plated connectors also resist corrosion and ensure a stable physical connection over time.
Look for adapters with triple shielding and gold connectors if you plan to use them in demanding environments.
Warranty and Support
A good warranty protects your investment against manufacturing defects. Professional grade brands often offer 2 to 3 year warranties along with technical support. This is crucial if you rely on the adapter for business operations.
Prioritize brands with strong customer service to resolve any driver or hardware issues quickly.
Port Retention Features
Some professional adapters remember your COM port number even after unplugging. This prevents software from breaking when the device is reconnected. This feature is essential for automation scripts that rely on specific port assignments.
Check for COM port retention if you manage multiple identical devices in a deployment.
How to Use and Care for Your D Sub to USB Adapter
Connect the USB end of the adapter to an available USB port on your computer and plug the DB9 connector into your serial device. If you are using Windows 8 or later, the system usually installs drivers automatically. Otherwise download the latest drivers from the manufacturer's website before connecting.
Ensure you have the correct COM port configured in your serial software. You can check this in the Device Manager under Ports (COM & LPT) to see the assigned number. Set the baud rate, parity, and stop bits to match your device requirements exactly for stable communication.
Care for the adapter by avoiding sharp bends in the cable and keeping connectors free from dust. Do not force the connection and always secure the screw nuts to prevent accidental disconnection. Store it in a dry place to protect the metal contacts from corrosion over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a D Sub to USB Adapter the same as a VGA adapter?
No they are completely different. A D Sub to USB adapter converts serial data signals for devices like PLCs while a VGA adapter handles video signals. Ensure you buy a serial adapter not a video one to avoid compatibility issues with your hardware.
Do I need to install drivers for these adapters?
It depends on your operating system. Windows 10 and 11 often recognize them automatically but older versions like Windows 7 may require manual driver installation. Linux and Mac users typically need to install specific drivers provided by the manufacturer to enable communication.
Can I use this adapter for gaming controllers?
Generally no. Most modern controllers use USB or proprietary interfaces not standard RS232 serial. This adapter is designed for industrial equipment, modems, and legacy hardware. Check your controller's manual to see if it supports serial communication before attempting to use one.
Why is the adapter not recognized by my computer?
This could be due to a faulty USB port incorrect drivers or a hardware issue. Try plugging it into a different USB port and reinstalling the drivers. If the LED light does not turn on the device might be defective or the cable could be damaged.
What is the maximum data transfer rate for these adapters?
Most adapters support up to 1Mbps but some standard models are capped at 230Kbps. Check the product specifications to ensure the baud rate matches your device requirements. Industrial equipment often needs specific speeds for reliable data transmission.
Can I use a USB-C to USB adapter with this?
Yes if your computer only has USB-C ports you can use a USB-C to USB-A adapter with these serial adapters. Ensure the USB-C adapter is powered if possible as these serial adapters rely on power from the USB port for operation.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best D Sub to USB Adapter
We identified the FTDI Chipset Adapter as the top choice due to its reliability and long cable length. The SABRENT model offers the best value for budget conscious users while the TRIPP LITE adapter stands out with its premium warranty.
When choosing consider your specific need for cable length and chipset compatibility. Reliable drivers are essential for modern operating systems so prefer brands that offer consistent software support.
Verify your device's port type and operating system requirements before purchasing. Current prices and availability vary so check the latest listings on Amazon to ensure you get the right model.