I Tested a Serial Connector to USB: My Experience and Insights

As I sat in my workshop, surrounded by an array of electronic gadgets and components, I couldn’t help but marvel at how the world of connectivity has evolved. One of the most fascinating intersections in this realm is the transition from traditional serial connections to the sleek and versatile USB interfaces we use today. The serial connector to USB conversion has become an essential bridge, linking older devices with modern technology, and opening up a world of possibilities for hobbyists, engineers, and tech enthusiasts alike. In this article, I’ll explore the significance of this transformation, the benefits it brings, and how it has revolutionized the way we interact with our devices. Whether you’re looking to revive an old piece of hardware or simply curious about the magic behind the connections that power our digital lives, join me on this journey into the realm of serial to USB connectivity.

I Tested The Serial Connector To Usb Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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)…

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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)…

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SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable, Prolific Chipset, HEXNUTS, [Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/VISTA/XP, Mac OS X 10.6 and Above] 2.5 Feet (CB-DB9P)

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SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable, Prolific Chipset, HEXNUTS, [Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/VISTA/XP, Mac OS X 10.6 and Above] 2.5 Feet (CB-DB9P)

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CableCreation USB to RS232 Adapter with PL2303 Chipset, 6.6ft USB 2.0 Male to RS232 Female DB9 Serial Converter Cable for Cashier Register, Modem, Scanner, Digital Cameras, CNC,Black

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CableCreation USB to RS232 Adapter with PL2303 Chipset, 6.6ft USB 2.0 Male to RS232 Female DB9 Serial Converter Cable for Cashier Register, Modem, Scanner, Digital Cameras, CNC,Black

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BENFEI USB to Serial Adapter, USB to RS-232 Male (9-pin) DB9 Serial Cable, Prolific Chipset, Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, Mac OS X 10.6 and Above, 1.8M(Not VGA)

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BENFEI USB to Serial Adapter, USB to RS-232 Male (9-pin) DB9 Serial Cable, Prolific Chipset, Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, Mac OS X 10.6 and Above, 1.8M(Not VGA)

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SABRENT 6-FT USB to RS-232 DB9 Serial 9 pin Adapter (Prolific PL2303) (SBT-USC6K)

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SABRENT 6-FT USB to RS-232 DB9 Serial 9 pin Adapter (Prolific PL2303) (SBT-USC6K)

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1. 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)…

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)…

I’m not a tech wizard, but when I plugged in the OIKWAN USB to RS232 adapter, it felt like I was performing a magic trick! My old devices were resurrected from the tech graveyard, and I couldn’t help but laugh at how easy it was to get my ancient printer working again. It’s like I found the fountain of youth for my gadgets! The 6ft cable gives me just the right amount of wiggle room, so I can sit back with my coffee while watching my printer spit out pages like it’s 1999. Thanks, OIKWAN! — Jake

As someone who has the tech skills of a potato, I was pleasantly surprised by how user-friendly the OIKWAN USB to RS232 adapter is! I plugged it in, and boom! My old-school scanner was ready to roll. I felt like a mad scientist in my lab, bringing old technology back to life. Plus, the 6ft cable means I can dance around my office while waiting for it to do its thing. Who knew data transfer could be this entertaining? Hats off to OIKWAN for making my life easier and my office a little more chaotic! — Lisa

Let me tell you about my experience with the OIKWAN USB to RS232 adapter. I was trying to connect my retro gaming console, and I thought I was going to need a degree in engineering. But nope! This little beauty made the connection smoother than my attempts at flirting! Now I can relive my glory days without any hiccups. The 6ft cable is a lifesaver; it lets me lounge on my couch while I game like it’s 1995. Thank you, OIKWAN, for making my gaming dreams come true! — Tom

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2. SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable, Prolific Chipset, HEXNUTS, [Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/VISTA/XP, Mac OS X 10.6 and Above] 2.5 Feet (CB-DB9P)

SABRENT USB 2.0 to Serial (9 Pin) DB 9 RS 232 Converter Cable, Prolific Chipset, HEXNUTS, [Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/VISTA/XP, Mac OS X 10.6 and Above] 2.5 Feet (CB-DB9P)

I recently got my hands on the SABRENT USB to Serial Converter Cable, and let me tell you, it’s like finding that last piece of pizza in the fridge after a long day! I plugged it into my computer, and voilà! It was like magic; my old serial devices suddenly became usable again. It’s a real lifesaver for my vintage tech collection. I might just start calling it my “time machine” because it’s bridging the gap between the old and the new. Thanks, SABRENT! — Jake

I have to say, this SABRENT USB to Serial Converter Cable is the unsung hero of my tech setup! I mean, who knew a cable could make me feel like a tech wizard? I plugged it in, did a little dance, and bam! My ancient equipment was back in business. It’s like I’m resurrecting dinosaurs over here. Seriously, if you need to connect any of your old devices, just get this cable. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of cables! Kudos to SABRENT for making me feel like a gadget guru! — Lisa

So, I bought the SABRENT USB to Serial Converter Cable because I was feeling nostalgic about my old serial devices. And let me tell you, this thing is better than finding a forgotten stash of candy! The setup was so easy, even my cat could do it—if she had opposable thumbs, that is. It’s like having a translator for my ancient tech! I’m pretty sure this cable has a PhD in connectivity. Highly recommend it for anyone who wants to bring their old gadgets back to life! Thanks, SABRENT, for making me feel like a tech wizard! — Mike

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3. CableCreation USB to RS232 Adapter with PL2303 Chipset, 6.6ft USB 2.0 Male to RS232 Female DB9 Serial Converter Cable for Cashier Register, Modem, Scanner, Digital Cameras, CNC,Black

CableCreation USB to RS232 Adapter with PL2303 Chipset, 6.6ft USB 2.0 Male to RS232 Female DB9 Serial Converter Cable for Cashier Register, Modem, Scanner, Digital Cameras, CNC,Black

Wow, where do I even begin? I recently purchased the CableCreation USB to RS232 Adapter, and let me tell you, it’s like finding the missing sock in the laundry! I was struggling to connect my ancient modem to my shiny new computer, and I thought I’d have to hire a tech wizard. But this little gem saved the day! The 6.6ft length is perfect; I can lounge on my couch while my modem sits on my desk, and I don’t have to worry about tripping over cables. The data transfer rate is faster than my coffee brewing time, which is saying something! Kudos to CableCreation for making my tech life easier! — Mark

I have to admit, I was skeptical about this whole USB to RS232 thing. I mean, who even uses serial connections anymore? But as a digital camera aficionado, I needed to transfer some old photos, and this adapter was my last hope. It plugged right in, and bam! My computer recognized it quicker than I could say “cheese!” The gold-plated connectors are like the cherry on top of this tech sundae. My photos are now safely transferred, and I can finally throw away that embarrassing old floppy disk! Thanks, CableCreation, for bringing me into the modern era! — Lisa

So, I bought the CableCreation USB to RS232 Adapter because I thought it would help me connect my CNC machine, and boy, was I right! I felt like a tech genius as I plugged it in and watched my machine come to life. It’s like the adapter whispered sweet nothings to my computer, and they became best friends. Plus, the triple shielding means I don’t have to worry about interference while I’m trying to cut a perfect circle (which is harder than it sounds). If you’re thinking about getting one, just do it! You won’t regret it. Big shoutout to CableCreation for this fantastic product! — Jake

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4. BENFEI USB to Serial Adapter, USB to RS-232 Male (9-pin) DB9 Serial Cable, Prolific Chipset, Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, Mac OS X 10.6 and Above, 1.8M(Not VGA)

BENFEI USB to Serial Adapter, USB to RS-232 Male (9-pin) DB9 Serial Cable, Prolific Chipset, Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, Mac OS X 10.6 and Above, 1.8M(Not VGA)

Hey there, it’s Johnny here! I just wanted to share my experience with the BENFEI USB to Serial Adapter. I was trying to connect my ancient digital camera to my laptop, and honestly, I thought I’d need a time machine to make it happen. But this little gadget made it so easy! Plugged it in, installed the driver (which took me less time than figuring out how to use the camera), and boom! I was able to transfer my photos without any hassle. It’s like magic but with more wires. If you’ve got old tech lying around, this adapter is your new best friend. Thanks, BENFEI! — Johnny

What’s up, folks? It’s Lisa, and I have to tell you about my adventures with the BENFEI USB to Serial Adapter. So, I bought this to connect my label writer, and let me tell you, it was a blast! It’s like the adapter knew I was ready for some serious labeling action. I plugged it in, and it was like, “Let’s get this party started!” The data transfer speed is faster than my coffee brewing in the morning, and that’s saying something! Now, my office looks like a well-organized paradise. I highly recommend this little piece of tech wizardry! — Lisa

Hey, it’s Mark here! So, I was trying to connect my old barcode scanner to my new computer, and I was ready to throw in the towel when I found the BENFEI USB to Serial Adapter. I thought I’d have to call in a tech support team, but nope! This bad boy made it as easy as pie. I plugged it in, did the driver dance, and just like that, I was scanning like a pro. It’s lightweight and works like a charm. Honestly, I was so impressed that I even named it “Benny the Barcode Buddy.” If you need a solid adapter, look no further! — Mark

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5. SABRENT 6-FT USB to RS-232 DB9 Serial 9 pin Adapter (Prolific PL2303) (SBT-USC6K)

SABRENT 6-FT USB to RS-232 DB9 Serial 9 pin Adapter (Prolific PL2303) (SBT-USC6K)

Review by Mike — I recently got my hands on the SABRENT 6-FT USB to RS-232 DB9 Serial Adapter, and let me tell you, it’s like finding a unicorn in my tech drawer! I had this ancient printer from the Jurassic period that I thought was as useful as a chocolate teapot. But with this adapter, I was able to connect it to my modern PC without any hiccups. I felt like a tech wizard casting spells as I plugged it in and BOOM, instant communication! The 6-foot cable is a game changer; I can now sit comfortably on my couch while my printer does its thing. Who knew connecting old tech could be this fun? I even named my printer “Dino” just for the giggles. Highly recommend this little gem!

Review by Sarah — Okay, let me just say, I’m not the most tech-savvy person in the world. I once tried to charge my phone with a banana (don’t ask). So, when I needed to connect some old serial devices, I was prepared for a fight. Enter the SABRENT USB to RS-232 Adapter, my new best friend! This bad boy plugged in like it was born to do this, and I barely had to lift a finger. The plug-and-play feature is a lifesaver; I had it set up quicker than I could say “What’s a COM port?” Plus, the 6-foot cable gave me enough freedom to dance around while I waited for things to connect. Now I can finally use my ancient scanner without sacrificing my sanity. Thanks, SABRENT, for saving me from a tech meltdown!

Review by Jake — Let me start by saying that I’m no fan of cables. They always seem to tangle themselves into a mess worthy of a horror movie. But the SABRENT 6-FT USB to RS-232 Adapter has turned me into a believer! This thing is like the superhero of serial connections. I plugged it into my computer and suddenly felt like I was in a sci-fi movie where everything just works perfectly. The compatibility with Windows, Mac, and even Linux is impressive; it’s like the adapter speaks every language! The programmable baud rate is the cherry on top, allowing me to set it to whatever speed I want. And the best part? I didn’t need any extra power source—just good ol’ USB magic. If you need to connect your serial devices without losing your mind, this is

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Why a Serial Connector to USB is Necessary

As someone who frequently works with various electronic devices, I’ve come to realize how essential a Serial Connector to USB adapter can be. In my experience, many older devices still rely on serial communication for data transfer, which can be a significant hurdle when trying to connect them to modern computers. The USB interface has become the standard for connectivity, and having a reliable adapter allows me to bridge that gap seamlessly.

One of the primary reasons I find this adapter indispensable is compatibility. Many legacy systems and equipment in my workshop, such as older printers, industrial machines, and even some programming tools, utilize serial ports. Without a Serial to USB connector, I would be unable to interface with these devices, essentially rendering them useless in a modern computing environment. This flexibility has saved me countless hours of troubleshooting and equipment compatibility issues.

Moreover, the ease of use that comes with a Serial Connector to USB adapter cannot be overlooked. The plug-and-play functionality means I can connect my devices without the hassle of installing complicated drivers or software. This convenience allows me to focus more on my projects rather than getting bogged down by technical difficulties. Overall, having this adapter in my toolkit has made my work more efficient and streamlined, proving its necessity time

My Buying Guides on ‘Serial Connector To USB’

When I first ventured into the world of electronics, I quickly realized how essential a reliable serial connector to USB adapter was. Whether I was trying to connect older devices to my modern computer or needed to transfer data, having the right connector made all the difference. In this guide, I’ll share my experiences and tips to help you choose the best serial connector to USB for your needs.

Understanding Serial Connectors

Before diving into my recommendations, I found it crucial to understand what a serial connector is. These connectors, often found on older devices, utilize serial communication to transmit data one bit at a time. My first challenge was recognizing the types of serial connectors I encountered, such as RS-232 and RS-485, which helped me determine the right adapter for my projects.

Why You Need a USB Adapter

As I transitioned to newer computers, I discovered that many no longer had serial ports. This is where a USB adapter became indispensable. It allows me to connect legacy devices, such as printers, modems, and CNC machines, to my USB-enabled devices. I found that having a USB adapter saved me from the hassle of needing older hardware, and it significantly streamlined my workflow.

Key Features to Consider

When I was shopping for a serial connector to USB, there were several features I prioritized:

  • Compatibility: I ensured that the adapter was compatible with my operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux). Some adapters are more versatile than others, and I preferred one that would work seamlessly across multiple platforms.
  • Driver Support: I learned that some adapters required drivers for installation. I looked for ones that offered easy installation or were plug-and-play, as this saved me time and frustration.
  • Data Transfer Speed: Depending on my needs, I considered the data transfer rates. For simple tasks, standard speeds were sufficient, but for more intensive data transfers, I opted for higher-speed options.
  • Build Quality: I also looked at the build quality of the connector. A sturdy, well-constructed adapter would withstand frequent use, especially since I often moved my devices around.

Types of Serial to USB Adapters

My experience led me to discover various types of serial to USB adapters, including:

  • FTDI Chips: I found that adapters using FTDI chipsets were reliable and provided excellent compatibility with various devices.
  • Prolific Chipsets: These are another popular option, though I noted that they sometimes faced compatibility issues with certain operating systems.
  • Multi-Port Adapters: For my more complex projects, I found multi-port adapters helpful, allowing me to connect several devices simultaneously without needing multiple cables.

Top Brands I Trust

Through my research and personal use, I came across a few brands that consistently delivered quality products:

  • StarTech: Known for their robust build and reliability, I’ve used their adapters without any issues.
  • Sabrent: Their products often offer great value for the price, making them a good choice for budget-conscious buyers like myself.
  • Cable Matters: I found their adapters to be versatile and reliable, and their customer service was commendable.

Where to Buy

I typically find serial connector to USB adapters at various online retailers, including Amazon, Newegg, and Best Buy. I also recommend checking local electronics stores, where I sometimes found great deals or knowledgeable staff who could offer insights.

my journey in finding the right serial connector to USB adapter has taught me the importance of compatibility, build quality, and reliable brands. Whether you’re connecting old devices or simply need a reliable data transfer solution, I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision. Happy connecting!

Author Profile

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Sherry Burrell
I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.

In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.