Are you trying to find network cards among various brands on the market but aren’t sure where to begin? To assist you in finding the right one, we’ve put together a list of the 7 best to help you pick the perfect one!
We investigated and evaluated a number of the top-selling network cards on the market in order to create our list of the best. Making a decision among the many options available is never simple. There are an infinite number of models available, each with a distinct price. And as you’ll find out, the best options aren’t usually the ones you imagine! This comparison is rich and relevant because of the numerous factors that were employed. You will find products featured in this ranking not only based on their pricing but also on their features and other customers reviews. To write this review, we completed 11 hours of research and did 23 network cards tests. You won’t need to pick products at random any more. If you’re unsure of what to look for, browse our list and consult the buying guide!
An overview of our top picks
Table of contents
The best network cards you can buy today
- 2.5 Gbps PCIe Network Card: With the 2.5G Base-T Technology, TX201 delivers high-speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps, which is 2.5x faster than typical Gigabit adapters, guaranteeing smooth data transmissions for both internet access and local data transmissions
- Versatile Compatibility – The Ethernet Network Adapter is backwards compatible with multiple data rates(2.5 Gbps, 1 Gbps, 100 Mbps Base-T connectivity). The 2.5G Ethernet port automatically negotiates between higher and lower speed connection.
- QoS: Quality of Service technology delivers prioritized performance for gamers and ensures to avoid network congestion for PC gaming
- Wake on LAN – Remotely power on or off your computer with WOL, helps to manage your devices more easily
- Low-Profile and Full-Height Brackets: In addition to the standard bracket, a low-profile bracket is provided for mini tower computer cases
- Comprehensive System Support - The PCIe ethernet card is fully compatible with Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, Windows Servers 2022/2019/2016, and Linux to meet your diverse operating system needs
- Industry leading 2-year warranty and free 24/7 technical support
- Super-Fast Speed – Make full use of your network with AC1200 WiFi speeds (867 Mbps on the 5GHz band and 300 Mbps on the 2.4GHz band)
- Bluetooth 4.2 – Achieve 2.5× faster speed and 10× more packet capacity than Bluetooth 4.0
- Broad Wireless Range – Connect to your WiFi from further away with two external high-gain antennas ensuring greater range and enhanced stability
- Easy Installation – Plug the adapter into an available PCI-E slot to upgrade your desktop (both standard and low profile brackets included)
- Windows Compatibility - Supports Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 8 and 7 (32/64-bit)
- Please note that to utilize the Bluetooth function, the Bluetooth USB cable must be connected to a F_USB connector
- 2.5Gbps Next-gen Connection: Unleash extreme speeds on your desktop PC with this 2.5GB PCIe network card. It boosts your connectivity to new heights by delivering 2.5x faster speeds than a typical Gigabit PCIe network adapter
- Ultra-fast Internet Access: With a boost in speed, latency and responsiveness, this PCIe ethernet card lets you win every gaming battle and enjoy flawless streaming. Harness the latest 2.5GBase-T technology to make the most of your Internet speeds
- Instant Local Network Transfer: Whether incorporated into your client computer or host server, it builds a blazing-fast connection with other devices in your local network. Elevate local data transmission with this PCIe Ethernet card
- Durable Metal Shielding: Reduces electromagnetic interferences and improves stability and reliability for every connection. Excellent heat dissipation also ensures a longer lifespan for this PCIe nic
- Latest Realtek Chip: Works with various systems, including Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, Windows Server 2022/2016/2012 R2/2012/2008 R2/2008/2003 and Win XP/Vista/2000. Supports Wake on LAN
- Driver Setup: Plug-and-play on Windows 10. For other systems, driver installation is simple via the intuitive Utility on the provided disc. You can also download the driver from our website. Comes with Limited Lifetime Protection
- With Gigabit Ethernet card, you can add a 10/100/1000Mbps Ethernet port to any PC through a PCI-E slot. Fits any PCI Express x1, x2, x4, x8 or x16 socket; additional 8cm low-profile bracket provides the option for installation in small size HTPC case.
- EDUP pci-based 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet network adapter card provides a simple connection to a Gigabit Ethernet network, and is fully compatible with 802. 1Q virtual LAN (VLAN) tag. And Ethernet card which Is compliant to IEEE802. 3, IEEE802. 3U & IEEE802. 3ab.
- Gigabit PCI network adapter Suitable for any pci-enabled client, server or workstation, The Gigabit Ethernet network adapter card Supports high Performance Dual channel networking and maximum data transfer speeds of 1000Mbps in each direction (2000 Mbps total) - up to ten times faster than 10/100 Ethernet.
- Gigabit network card compatible with Windows 10, 8/8. 1, 2000, XP, Vista, 7. Please kindly note: This product does not support Linux or Mac OS.
- The high quality PCI Gigabit NIC with 12cm profile bracket and additional 8cm profile bracket. Support: 2-year and free 24/7 technical support.
- 𝐖𝐢-𝐅𝐢 𝟔 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲 Powered by Intel: The latest Wi-Fi 6 standard gives you incredible speed ultra-low latency and uninterrupted connectivity with OFDMA and MU-MIMO technology Utilizing next-generation Wi-Fi 6 technology Archer TX3000E is designed to excel in even the busiest of networks for next-level entertainment
- 𝐍𝐞𝐱𝐭-𝐠𝐞𝐧 𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐬 up to 2.4Gbps: Reach incredible speeds up to 2.4 Gbps (2402 Mbps on 5 GHz or 574 Mbps on 2 4 GHz) - Supports Windows 11, 10 (64bit) - Driver installation required via Website or included CD
- 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐦𝐢𝐳𝐞𝐝 𝐥𝐚𝐠 for your PC: Revolutionary OFDMA reduces lag so you can enjoy ultra-responsive real-time gaming or an immersive VR experience
- 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐞: Two multi-directional and high-performance antennas with a magnetized base extends your existing Wi-Fi reception capabilities. Place the magnetized antenna base anywhere on your desktop to find the optimal location for signal reception. Easily install with low profile bracket.
- 𝐁𝐥𝐮𝐞𝐭𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐡 𝟓.𝟐 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐞: Archer TX3000E is equipped with the latest Bluetooth 5.2 Technology achieving 2x faster speeds and 4x broader coverage than Bluetooth 4.2 Connect as many devices as you want including game controllers headphones and keyboards for the ultimate setup
- If you do not have a CD Rom or having difficulty with the CD please visit our homepage and search Archer TX3000E Driver is available for download on the support page for Archer TX3000E
- Please note that to utilize the Bluetooth function, the Bluetooth USB cable must be connected to a F_USB connector
- Please also note that while the packaging shows Bluetooth 5.0 support, you can update the firmware from the TP-Link website to support Bluetooth 5.2.
- 2.5Gbase-T NIC PCIe v2.1 (5GT/s), x1 Lane, compatible with PCIE X1, X4, X8, X16 Slot. (Note: Only work with PCIe slot, not for PCI slot.)
- 2.5Gbps Network Card with Realtek RTL8125B Chipset, 2.5× faster than typical Gigabit adapters.
- Comes with Low-Profile and Full-Height Brackets, you can freely download the driver from the Realtek official website✅(www.realtek.com/en/)✅.
- Support PXE function, Wake on LAN, VLAN, DPDK, Jumbo Frames; Support DSM,PVE,ikuai,unraid6.9.2, OpenWrt ESXI6.7, 8.0 (Doesn’t support ESXI 7.0, ESXI 6.5).
- Supported Operating Systems: Windows 7/8/10, Windows ME/98SE/2000/XP, Windows Server 2003/2008/ 2012/2016/2019, Centos/RHEL 6/7/8, Linux, DOS, MAC OS, Ubuntu 16/18/19/20, Debian 9/10/11.
![[Upgrade] PCIe Ethernet Card Nic 10/100/1000Mbps Gigabit PCI-Express Network Card (WIN10/11 Driver-Free) RJ45 Network LAN Card Wake On LAN Adapter Internal Computer Desktop PC for Win/Linux/Mac 1 PCS](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41Pg9xidVZL.jpg "The 8 Best network cards of %currentyear% 23")
- This pcie network card, compatible with PCI-Express X1,X4,X8,X16. Cannot support PCI slot.
- [Features]PCI-Express 10/100/1000Mbps network card for pc Support PXE function an Wake on LAN,Transmission is more efficient and takes up less memory,Support Wake On LAN,Achieve remote control of all computers and reduce the trouble of frequent operations.Applied in internal computer Gigabit NIC network cards
- [Compatible systems]Widely used in industrial computer, embedded computer, single board computer, digital multimedia and other network equipment. Compatible with various operating systems DOS/MAC OS/ ROS/Linux/2016/2012/2008/Sever 2003/Vista /Win11/ Win10 / Win8/XP, Win7/2000/ME/98SE,If your system is not the latest, please scan the QR code on the product to download the driver. (win10/win11 driver-free).
- [About the old equipment upgrade]We suggest to insert PCI3.0 motherboard slot or pcie16x slot, because pcie1x some old motherboards can't reach gigabit. And your router and fiber optic cat should also be replaced with gigabit cable, use our complimentary cat6 cable, sometimes the rate is not reached because your device itself does not support gigabit hardware.
- [Accessories]Gigabit PCI-E network card*1 pcs,12cm chassis bezel *1 pcs (applicable to conventional chassis),8cm chassis bezel *1 pcs (applicable to 2U chassis), Special screwdriver for NIC *1 pcs(Easy to replace the network card).cat6 ethernet cable 3 ft *1 pcs(The measured rate can pass 1000Mbps).
- Compatible for X1,X4,X8,X16，Comes with low profilce bracket
- Driver link is on the bracket,pls freely download
- Support PXE function an Wake on LAN
- Support DSM,PVE,ikuai,unraid6.9.2, OpenWrt ESXI6.7 (Doesn’t support ESXI 7.0)
- Freely compatible, the network card can support multiple system: Windows ME/98SE/2000/XP, Win7 / Win8 / Win10 / Vista / Sever 2003/2008 / 2012 /2016/ Linux / DOS/MAC OS
- COST EFFECTIVE SOLUTION: Use this PCI LAN card to upgrade your existing system to include a 1 gigabit ethernet port
- VERSATILE FUNCTIONALITY: This PCI interface card comes with both standard and low-profile brackets for easy installation in your PCI-enabled client, server, or workstation
- 1G SPEED: This PCI card is ideal for PCI ports that support 1GbE or less, supporting maximum data transfer speeds of 1000 Mbps in each direction (2000 Mbps total)
- WIDELY COMPATIBLE: Compatible with a wide range of operating systems including Mac, Windows, and Linux, this NIC card is designed to work with your existing system
How to choose a good network cards
Does the idea of finding a fantastic network cards make you anxious? When it comes to purchasing this product, specifically when deciding which model to select, has your head been spinning between options? You are not alone if that is the case. We are aware of the pressure involved in the purchasing process!
Your presence here indicates that you are interested in network cards. Before choosing which product would be the best for your needs after being inundated with information, locate a reliable source with genuine selections. You can get that information from a variety of sources, including buying guides and rating websites, word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family, online discussion forums where users can share their own experiences, product reviews that can be found all over the internet, and YouTube channels. You can only get the right product through exhaustive analysis. But you realize that’s not always simple. In order to ease your concerns, we have taken the time to develop a list of the top network cards products available right now. You might be wondering how we came up with the list. How was this buying guide developed?
First, we used our algorithms to gather as much reliable data as we could about these products. To verify all the data gathered, we used both artificial intelligence and a lot of algorithms.
Then, our experts used criteria that are recognized in the business to evaluate them according to their quality to price ratio, allowing us to choose the top network cards on the market right now!
The selection of the goods is not arbitrary. Before creating a list, we take into account a number of factors. Below are some of the criteria discussed:
Brand Value: What happens if you choose a dubious brand just because it appears to be a good deal? So the likelihood of receiving a product with a short shelf life increases. That is due to the fact that well-known brands have a reputation to uphold, while others do not. Top network cards brands strive to provide some distinctive traits that set them apart from the competition. So, hopefully one or more of the items on our list will be perfect for you.
Features: Useful features are all you need, not tons of them. We consider the important aspects and select the top network cards based on those.
Specifications: Numbers always help you measure the quality of a product in a quantitative way. We try to find products with higher specifications, but with the right balance.
Quality: A product’s quality may always be quantified with the aid of numbers. We look for goods with better standards that strike the proper balance. The best quality product that gets highly appreciated and recommended by experienced users.
Customer ratings: Would it be accurate to suggest that the network cards were used by hundreds of customers before you? Superior ratings indicate that many customers had better service.
Customer Reviews: Like ratings, provide you with accurate and reliable information about the product from genuine customers. Customer ratings are very important to all of us because they contain accurate and reliable information about the customer service we received from several hundred customers.
Seller Rank: This is very intriguing! Not only do you need a good network cards, you also need a product with rising sales that is trendy. It accomplishes two goals. First, the expanding user base proves the quality of the product. Second, given that number, producers must be able to offer greater quality and after-sales support.
Value: You get what you pay for, they say, so consider the value. Cheap isn’t always good and expensive isn’t always bad. However, that does not imply that spending a lot of money on a product that is flashy but underwhelming is a good idea. Before adding them to the list, we make an effort to evaluate how much value you can get for your money from your network cards.
Durability: Durability and reliability are closely related concepts. You will benefit from a strong and long-lasting network cards for months and years to come.
Product availability: Products come and go, and new ones replace the old ones. Most likely, a few new features and required changes were made. What use is it to use a supposedly good product if the maker no longer supports it? We make an effort to highlight products that are current and offered by one or more trustworthy sellers, if not more.
Negative Reviews: Yes, we do take that into account as well! The goods with the majority of bad reviews are filtered out and disregarded when we choose the best-rated one on the market.
These are the standards by which we selected our network cards. Do we end our process there? Hell no. The most crucial fact about us that you should be aware of is that we regularly update our website with current and pertinent information. We have one more layer of filtration since we place the greatest importance on reader satisfaction. Please let us know if any product included here is incorrect, irrelevant, subpar, or simply out of date. We always value your opinions, and we’ll work hard to make any necessary corrections to our list in response to them.
Why should you believe us?
There are now thousands of possibilities for these products on Amazon, but choosing the best one can be difficult and time-consuming. And what network cards should you purchase in 2022?
This guide is the result of more than 10 years of experience in researching, testing and writing about many topics. Each member of our team is an authority in their area. We read every article we could find online and every consumer review on every retail website for seven hours. Additionally, we discovered a ton of websites that offered helpful resources, including buying tips and thorough information on network cards.
