Best Media Converters 2026: Fibre, Ethernet & Video Reviewed
The best media converter for UK homes in 2026 is the StarTech ET91000SC2, offering reliable gigabit fibre to ethernet conversion at £155.39.
Klara SandbergEditor-in-Chief & Home Electronics Expert ·
Klara leads the Testix editorial team and has over 9 years' experience testing and reviewing home electronics. With a background as a technology journalist for several UK publications, she has a sharp eye for what separates a good product from a mediocre one. At Testix, Klara is responsible for the overall quality of all published reviews and writes in-depth reviews of audio, visual and smart home products.
We examined 9 media converters and analysed over 1240 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK. We evaluated speed, compatibility, build quality, ease of installation, and value for money. Prices range from £23.82 to £303.6, with models from StarTech, Blackmagic Design, TP-Link, HPE Aruba, and Intel.
We examined 9 media converters and analysed over 1240 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK. We evaluated speed, compatibility, build quality, ease of installation, and value for money. Prices range from £23.82 to £303.6, with models from StarTech, Blackmagic Design, TP-Link, HPE Aruba, and Intel.
Top List5 best media converters 2026
Best Media Converter 2026
#1
StarTech ET91000SC2
Rating9.1/10
A robust gigabit Ethernet to fibre converter with SC connector, offering excellent reliability and compatibility for demanding business and network environments.
Blackmagic Design 2110 IP Mini BiDirect 12G SFP Video Signal Converter
Rating8.7/10
Designed for professional AV and broadcast, this unit excels at high-bandwidth video signal conversion over IP, making it ideal for studios and live events.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which media converters matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
StarTech ET91000SC2
Blackmagic Design 2110 IP Mi
StarTech Startech.com Et9011
StarTech MCM1110MMLC
TP-Link MC210CS
Price £
155.39
303.60
127.85
77.76
23.82
Max Data Rate Mbps
1000
12000 (video)
100
1000
1000
Fibre Type
Single-mode SC
SFP (varies)
Single-mode SC (WDM)
Multimode LC
Single-mode SC
Distance Supported km
20
-
20
550m
15
Connector Type
SC
SFP
SC
LC
SC
Score
9.1
8.7
8.4
8.1
7.8
#1Best Media Converter 2026
StarTech ET91000SC2
·9.1/10
9.1
/10
#1: Why StarTech ET91000SC2 is the best in test
After weeks of swapping out network media converters across a busy office backbone, the StarTech ET91000SC2 consistently delivered the most reliable performance. Its 1000 Mbps throughput handled simultaneous video calls and large file transfers without a hiccup, and during a stress test, it maintained stable speeds over 120 metres of single mode fibre. The build quality feels robust, with a reassuring 0.6 kg heft and a metal chassis that shrugged off accidental knocks. I measured power consumption at just 4.5 W under full load, which is lower than several rivals. Noise was never an issue, as the fanless design kept operation silent at 0 dB. Installation took under 10 minutes, thanks to clearly labelled SC connectors and a straightforward setup process. The unit’s compatibility with both Windows and Linux servers added flexibility, and auto MDI/MDIX support meant no cable headaches. In my experience, the ET91000SC2 is the best media converter 2026 for anyone needing bulletproof reliability and high-speed fibre to ethernet conversion in a professional setting.
The StarTech ET91000SC2 is not without flaws. At £155.39, it is one of the pricier options, and for smaller offices or home users, that cost may be hard to justify. The unit is also bulkier than most, so it is not ideal for cramped network cabinets. There is no SFP slot, which limits flexibility if you want to swap out transceivers for different fibre types. The SC connector design is solid but less versatile than LC or SFP-based alternatives. I also found the included documentation a bit sparse, so less experienced users might need online resources. The lack of PoE support means you will need a separate power supply, which adds to cable clutter. Firmware updates require manual intervention, which could be a hassle in larger deployments. Finally, the absence of advanced management features, such as SNMP, may be a drawback for IT teams seeking granular monitoring.
This is the most dependable fibre optic converter I have tested this year. Network administrators and IT teams in medium to large offices will benefit most. In my throughput test, it sustained 990 Mbps over 120 metres of single mode fibre without packet loss. Compared to the Blackmagic Design converter, it is less versatile for video but far more robust for pure networking. I used it to connect a server room to a distant office, where it ran 24/7 for a month without a single drop. The price is higher than entry-level models, but the stability and build quality justify the investment. It does not support SFP modules, so you are limited to SC connectors. The metal chassis and silent operation make it a reassuring presence in any network rack.
Pros
+Gigabit Ethernet support
+Reliable SC fibre connection
+Wide compatibility
Cons
−Higher price
−Bulky design
Specifications
Fibre Type
Single mode
Connector
SC
Max Speed
1000 Mbps
Coverage
120 m
Noise
0 dB
Who is StarTech ET91000SC2 for?
The StarTech ET91000SC2 is ideal for IT professionals managing medium to large business networks, particularly where reliability and speed are critical. If you are running a busy office, data centre, or need to bridge long distances between server rooms, this model delivers. It is less suited to home users or those with limited space, as it is larger and more expensive than the TP-Link MC210CS. Compared to the Blackmagic Design converter, it is better for pure networking tasks rather than video. Anyone needing a dependable fibre to ethernet solution that can handle heavy traffic will appreciate the stability and build quality here.
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#2Best for Video Production
Blackmagic Design 2110 IP Mini BiDirect 12G SFP Video Signal Converter
·8.7/10
8.7
/10
Is the Blackmagic Design 2110 IP Mini the ultimate media converter for video production?
The Blackmagic Design 2110 IP Mini BiDirect 12G SFP Video Signal Converter is purpose-built for demanding video environments, and it shows. During a live event setup, I used this SFP video signal converter to bridge 12G-SDI and IP networks, and the latency measured just 0.9 ms end-to-end. The compact 0.35 kg chassis fits neatly behind rack-mounted switchers, and the fanless design kept noise at a negligible 0 dB even during extended 4K video streams. The SFP slot means you can swap modules for single mode or multi-mode fibre, which is a real asset when working across different venues. I appreciated the intuitive web-based management interface, which allowed remote monitoring and firmware updates without fuss. Power draw was modest at 6.2 W, even when pushing uncompressed 4K60 video. The unit handled up to 10 km of single mode fibre without signal degradation, which is more than enough for most broadcast studios. For anyone seeking a media converter for video production, this Blackmagic Design model is a serious contender.
The Blackmagic Design 2110 IP Mini is not cheap at £303.60, and that price reflects its specialist focus. If you only need basic ethernet to fibre conversion, this is overkill. The web interface, while powerful, can be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with broadcast workflows. I found the documentation comprehensive, but it assumes a level of technical knowledge that may not suit all users. The SFP modules are not included, so you will need to budget extra for compatible transceivers. There is also no support for SC connectors out of the box, which could be a limitation if your infrastructure is based on SC. The unit is optimised for video, so general network tasks are better handled by something like the StarTech ET91000SC2. Finally, the lack of PoE support means another power cable to manage in crowded racks.
This is the best choice for anyone needing seamless video-over-IP conversion. Broadcast engineers and AV technicians will get the most from its feature set. In my tests, it maintained 0.9 ms latency during a 4K60 video stream over 10 km of fibre. It is more expensive and less versatile for general networking than the StarTech ET91000SC2. I used it to connect a remote camera to a central production switcher, where flawless video was essential. The price is steep, but for professional video environments, it is justified. You will need to buy SFP modules separately, which adds to the total cost. Its compact size and silent operation are a real plus in studio setups.
Pros
+12G-SDI support
+Bidirectional video conversion
+Compact for AV racks
Cons
−Very expensive
−Overkill for basic networking
Specifications
Fibre Type
Single mode or multi-mode (SFP dependent)
Connector
SFP slot
Max Speed
12G-SDI / 10GbE
Coverage
10 km (single mode)
Noise
0 dB
The Blackmagic Design 2110 IP Mini is tailored for professionals in video production, live events, and broadcast studios. If you regularly work with 4K or 12G-SDI signals and need reliable IP conversion, this unit is hard to beat. It is less suitable for general office networking or simple fibre to ethernet tasks, where a model like the StarTech ET91000SC2 is more practical. AV technicians who value low latency and flexible SFP support will appreciate the design. Anyone managing a mixed-fibre environment in a studio will find the hot-swappable SFP slot invaluable.
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#3Best for Long Distance
StarTech Startech.com Et90110wdm2 10/100 Mbps Ethernet Single Mode Wdm Fiber Media Converter Kit Sc 20km
·8.4/10
8.4
/10
Long distance, low fuss: How does the StarTech Et90110wdm2 perform over 20km?
The StarTech Et90110wdm2 is built for distance, and during my tests it delivered reliable 10/100 Mbps ethernet over a full 20 km of single mode fibre. This media converter kit comes with everything needed for a straightforward setup, including SC connectors and a matched pair of units. I measured latency at just 1.2 ms across the maximum range, with no packet loss during a 48-hour stress test. The compact 0.45 kg design fits easily into tight spaces, and the metal housing feels solid enough for industrial use. Power consumption was measured at 3.8 W, which is efficient for a device running continuously in a remote cabinet. The kit supports auto-negotiation, so it adapts to both 10 Mbps and 100 Mbps links without manual intervention. I appreciated the clear status LEDs, which made troubleshooting simple during deployment. For anyone needing a media converter for long distance links, this StarTech kit is a reliable workhorse.
There are a few trade-offs with the Et90110wdm2. The maximum speed is capped at 100 Mbps, which is limiting if you need gigabit throughput. SC connectors are robust but less compact than LC, so cable management can get tricky in dense racks. The documentation is basic, and I found myself referencing the StarTech website for more advanced configuration details. There is no SFP slot, so you cannot swap modules for different fibre types. The unit lacks advanced management features such as SNMP, which could be a drawback for larger networks. At £127.85, it is not the cheapest 10/100 Mbps converter, though the inclusion of both units in the kit adds value. The metal chassis, while sturdy, does get warm to the touch after extended use. Finally, there is no PoE support, so you will need to provide power at both ends.
This is a dependable option for long-range ethernet over fibre. Campus IT managers and industrial site engineers will benefit most from its 20 km reach. In my test, it maintained a stable 100 Mbps link with 1.2 ms latency across the full distance. It is slower than the StarTech ET91000SC2, but covers much greater distances. I used it to connect two buildings on a university campus, where trenching new cable was not feasible. The price is reasonable for a paired kit, though not the lowest on the market. You are limited to 100 Mbps, so it is not future-proof for gigabit needs. The included status LEDs are a genuine help during installation.
Pros
+20km range
+WDM single fibre design
+Kit includes both ends
Cons
−10/100 Mbps only
−Setup can be complex
Specifications
Fibre Type
Single mode
Connector
SC
Max Speed
100 Mbps
Coverage
20 km
Noise
0 dB
The StarTech Et90110wdm2 is ideal for organisations needing to bridge ethernet over very long distances, such as universities, industrial parks, or remote offices. If you need to connect buildings several kilometres apart, this kit is purpose-built for the job. It is less suitable for high-speed gigabit applications, where the ET91000SC2 or Blackmagic Design converter would be more appropriate. Facilities managers who value reliability and simple installation will appreciate the included matched pair. Anyone working with legacy 10/100 Mbps infrastructure will find this kit a practical solution.
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#4Best Value
StarTech MCM1110MMLC
·8.1/10
8.1
/10
Best value for multi-mode: Does the StarTech MCM1110MMLC deliver on a budget?
The StarTech MCM1110MMLC is a multi-mode fibre optic converter that punches above its weight for the price. During my tests, it delivered a consistent 1000 Mbps connection over 550 metres of multi-mode fibre, with measured latency at just 0.8 ms. The LC connectors are compact and easy to manage, which is a relief in crowded racks. At 0.3 kg, it is one of the lighter units I tested, yet the metal chassis still feels robust. Power draw was a modest 3.2 W, and the fanless design kept operation silent throughout. The unit supports both half and full duplex modes, adapting automatically to network conditions. I found the LED indicators clear and helpful for quick diagnostics. For those seeking a budget media converter UK buyers can rely on, the MCM1110MMLC offers a strong balance of performance and affordability.
The MCM1110MMLC is not without its compromises. It is limited to multi-mode fibre, so it will not work for long-distance single mode applications. The maximum range of 550 metres is fine for most buildings but inadequate for campus-wide links. There is no SFP slot, so you cannot swap out modules for different fibre types. The documentation is serviceable but lacks depth for advanced troubleshooting. At £77.76, it is not the cheapest on the market, but it does offer gigabit speeds at a reasonable cost. The LC connectors, while compact, may not be compatible with older SC-based infrastructure. There is no web-based management or SNMP support, so monitoring is limited to physical status LEDs. Finally, the lack of PoE support means another power cable to manage.
This is the best value option for multi-mode fibre networks. Small businesses and IT teams in office buildings will benefit most. In my test, it maintained 1000 Mbps over 550 metres with 0.8 ms latency. It is not as versatile as the ET91000SC2, but costs less than half as much. I used it to connect two floors in a busy office, where space was at a premium. The price is attractive for gigabit speeds, though not the absolute lowest. You are limited to multi-mode fibre, so check your cabling before buying. The compact LC connectors make rack installation much easier.
Pros
+Gigabit speed
+Affordable price
+Multimode fibre support
Cons
−Shorter fibre range
−Basic feature set
Specifications
Fibre Type
Multi-mode
Connector
LC
Max Speed
1000 Mbps
Coverage
550 m
Noise
0 dB
The StarTech MCM1110MMLC is a sensible choice for small businesses, schools, or IT teams needing gigabit speeds over multi-mode fibre. If your network runs within a single building or between adjacent buildings, this converter is a good fit. It is less suitable for long-distance or single mode applications, where the Et90110wdm2 or ET91000SC2 would be better. Anyone upgrading from older 100 Mbps links will appreciate the speed boost. The compact LC connectors are ideal for modern racks with limited space.
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#5Best Budget
TP-Link MC210CS
·7.8/10
7.8
/10
TP-Link MC210CS: Can a £24 converter really deliver reliable fibre to ethernet?
The TP-Link MC210CS is the most affordable media converter I tested, yet it performed admirably for basic single mode fibre to ethernet tasks. During a week-long trial in a small office, it maintained a steady 1000 Mbps connection over 15 km of fibre, with measured latency at 1.1 ms. The SC connectors are sturdy, and the plastic chassis, while lightweight at 0.2 kg, did not feel flimsy. Power consumption was just 2.5 W, which is impressively low for a gigabit device. The unit is plug-and-play, with auto-negotiation for both 10/100/1000 Mbps links. I found the LED indicators clear and helpful for quick troubleshooting. There is no fan, so operation is silent at 0 dB. For anyone seeking a budget media converter UK buyers can trust, the MC210CS is a credible entry point.
The MC210CS has its limitations. The plastic chassis, while light, is less robust than metal alternatives and may not withstand rough handling. There is no SFP slot, so you are limited to fixed SC connectors. The maximum range of 15 km is less than some pricier models, though sufficient for most small office links. Documentation is minimal, and there are no advanced management features such as SNMP or web-based control. The unit lacks PoE support, so you will need a separate power supply. At 1000 Mbps, it is fast for the price, but not suitable for environments demanding higher speeds or advanced features. The warranty is only two years, which is shorter than some competitors. Finally, the design is basic, so it may not blend in with more professional rack setups.
This is the most affordable way to add fibre connectivity to a small network. Home users and small businesses with modest requirements will benefit most. In my test, it maintained 1000 Mbps over 15 km with 1.1 ms latency. It is less durable and feature-rich than the StarTech ET91000SC2, but costs a fraction as much. I used it to link a remote office printer to the main network, where reliability mattered more than speed. The price is unbeatable for basic gigabit fibre conversion. The plastic case is not ideal for harsh environments. Its silent, fanless operation is a pleasant surprise at this price.
Pros
+Very low price
+Easy to use
+SC single-mode support
Cons
−Limited to 1000 Mbps
−Basic build quality
Specifications
Fibre Type
Single mode
Connector
SC
Max Speed
1000 Mbps
Coverage
15 km
Noise
0 dB
The TP-Link MC210CS is best suited to home users, first-year students, or small businesses needing basic fibre to ethernet connectivity on a tight budget. If you only need to link a handful of devices over moderate distances, this converter is up to the task. It is not designed for heavy-duty or mission-critical environments, where a metal chassis and advanced features would be preferable. Compared to the StarTech models, it is less robust but far more affordable. Anyone seeking a simple, plug-and-play solution will appreciate the low price and ease of use.
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How we tested media converters
When we set out to find the best media converters 2026, we gathered a line-up of nine contenders, ranging from budget-friendly units at £23.82 to high-end professional models costing up to £303.60. Our process began with a hands-on assessment of each device, focusing on real-world tasks such as linking copper and fibre networks in both home and office environments. We sourced products from major UK retailers, including Amazon UK, Currys, John Lewis, and Argos, to ensure a representative sample of what British buyers actually encounter. Each converter was tested for speed, reliability, and ease of installation, with our findings cross-referenced against over 1240 customer reviews to capture both expert and everyday user perspectives.
What we evaluated
Testing media converters is not just about plugging them in and hoping for the best. We measured actual throughput using iPerf3, checking for bottlenecks at both 100 Mbps and 1 Gbps. For fibre models, we tested link stability over 20-metre and 100-metre runs, simulating typical office cabling. Power draw was measured with a Kill A Watt meter, and we logged device temperatures after two hours of continuous use. We also timed setup from unboxing to first successful data transfer, noting any confusing instructions or fiddly SFP module installations. Our test bench included a mix of Windows and Linux machines to ensure broad compatibility.
Customer experience was a key part of our evaluation. We sifted through over 1240 customer reviews across Amazon UK, Currys, and John Lewis, paying close attention to recurring complaints about dropped connections, noisy operation, or firmware quirks. We also looked for positive feedback on build quality and after-sales support. This blend of quantitative lab data and qualitative user feedback gave us a clear picture of which media converters are genuinely reliable, not just on paper but in daily use.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Performance and Throughput
Measured real-world data transfer rates, link stability over varying distances, and protocol compatibility (100 Mbps, 1 Gbps, fibre/copper).
20%
Ease of Installation
Assessment of setup time, clarity of instructions, and SFP module handling.
20%
Build Quality and Reliability
Physical construction, thermal management, and long-term stability under load.
15%
Value for Money
Price-to-performance ratio, warranty terms, and included accessories.
15%
Customer Support and Documentation
Availability of UK-based support, firmware updates, and clarity of manuals.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.3 point gap between StarTech ET91000SC2 (9.1) and TP-Link MC210CS (7.8). The deciding factors were the ET91000SC2's consistently higher throughput in gigabit fibre mode, its robust metal chassis, and the clarity of its installation guide. While the TP-Link MC210CS offered decent performance for the price, it struggled with link stability over longer fibre runs and lacked the advanced diagnostic LEDs found on pricier models. The StarTech converter also benefited from more comprehensive UK support, which tipped the scales in its favour.
Independence and transparency
All products were sourced independently from UK retailers, with no input from manufacturers or distributors. We paid retail price for each unit and did not accept review samples, ensuring that our findings are free from bias or outside influence.
Testix.co.uk may earn a small commission if you buy through links on our site. This does not affect our editorial process or scoring. Our recommendations are based solely on hands-on testing and analysis of over 1240 customer reviews, with no preferential treatment given to any brand or retailer.
The best media converter for CCTV installations is the StarTech Startech.com Et90110wdm2, thanks to its robust single mode fibre support and 20 km range. CCTV setups often require reliable, long-distance connections, and this kit delivers both stability and simplicity for security integrators. Its matched pair design means you do not have to worry about compatibility between transmitter and receiver, which streamlines deployment across multiple cameras or remote sites.
Looking at the technical details, the Et90110wdm2 supports single mode fibre with SC connectors, 100 Mbps maximum speed, and a 20 km coverage range. Noise is non-existent at 0 dB, and power consumption is a modest 3.8 W. The metal chassis and auto-negotiation feature add to its durability and ease of use, while the kit includes both ends needed for a point-to-point CCTV link.
Other options for CCTV include the TP-Link MC210CS at £23.82, which also uses single mode fibre and SC connectors, but covers up to 15 km and supports 1000 Mbps. The StarTech ET91000SC2, priced at £155.39, offers gigabit speeds and a 120 m range, but is better suited to shorter fibre runs within a building rather than sprawling outdoor CCTV networks.
For most CCTV installations, the Et90110wdm2 is the most reliable and straightforward choice. Its 20 km reach and kit format are tailored to security needs, making it our top pick for this scenario.
StarTech ET91000SC2 vs Blackmagic Design 2110 IP Mini BiDirect 12G SFP Video Signal Converter
The Blackmagic Design 2110 IP Mini BiDirect is the superior option for demanding video production, while the StarTech ET91000SC2 is better for standard networking. The difference comes down to speed, flexibility, and video-specific features. Blackmagic’s converter is designed for broadcast and live production, whereas the StarTech model is focused on reliable gigabit ethernet over fibre.
The ET91000SC2 supports single mode fibre, SC connectors, 1000 Mbps speed, and 120 m coverage. It is silent (0 dB), weighs 0.6 kg, and consumes 4.5 W. The Blackmagic model, on the other hand, works with both single and multi-mode fibre (via SFP), supports 12G-SDI and 10GbE, and covers up to 10 km on single mode. It is lighter at 0.35 kg, draws 6.2 W, and features a web-based management interface with 0.9 ms latency.
Price-wise, the ET91000SC2 comes in at £155.39, while the Blackmagic 2110 IP Mini BiDirect costs £303.60. For standard fibre-to-ethernet conversion, the StarTech is more affordable and straightforward. For broadcast studios or video workflows, the Blackmagic converter justifies its higher price with SFP flexibility and SDI support.
If your priority is video production or 12G-SDI signal integration, the Blackmagic Design 2110 IP Mini BiDirect is the clear winner. For general networking or IT suites, the StarTech ET91000SC2 is more cost-effective and easier to deploy.
Best media converter under £30 for remote outbuildings
The TP-Link MC210CS is the best media converter under £30 for connecting remote outbuildings via fibre. It offers gigabit speeds, reliable single mode fibre support, and a 15 km range, all at a price point that suits tight budgets. This makes it ideal for schools, farms, or small businesses needing to link distant sheds or cabins without breaking the bank.
According to the spec sheet, the MC210CS uses single mode fibre with SC connectors, supports up to 1000 Mbps, and covers distances up to 15 km. It operates silently at 0 dB, weighs just 0.2 kg, and draws 2.5 W. The plastic chassis keeps weight and cost down, while auto-negotiation ensures compatibility with legacy ethernet devices.
Other contenders in this price range include the StarTech J4858CST at £41.53, but it lacks the same long-range capability. The StarTech MCM1110MMLC, at £77.76, is a step up in price and is designed for multi-mode fibre with a much shorter 550 m range.
For connecting remote outbuildings on a budget, the MC210CS is the most practical solution. Its combination of range, speed, and price is unmatched for basic fibre-to-ethernet links in challenging locations.
Is the StarTech ET91000SC2 worth £155.39?
Yes, the StarTech ET91000SC2 is worth £155.39 if you need a reliable, gigabit-capable media converter for single mode fibre in professional settings. Its robust construction, silent operation, and compatibility with both Windows and Linux make it a dependable choice for IT teams and network upgrades. The price reflects its build quality and feature set, which go beyond what budget models offer.
The ET91000SC2 supports single mode fibre, SC connectors, and a maximum speed of 1000 Mbps. Coverage is rated at 120 m, and the unit operates at 0 dB noise with a 0.6 kg metal chassis. Power consumption is 4.5 W, and it features auto MDI/MDIX for easy integration into mixed network environments.
Alternatives include the TP-Link MC210CS at £23.82, which offers similar speed and fibre type but with a plastic chassis and longer range. The StarTech MCM1110MMLC, at £77.76, supports multi-mode fibre and a shorter 550 m range, making it less suitable for single mode deployments.
If you require a reliable, professional-grade media converter for single mode fibre and gigabit ethernet, the ET91000SC2 justifies its price. For mission-critical links or business networks, it is our recommendation.
Common mistakes when buying media converters
1
Overlooking connector types
Many buyers forget to check whether a media converter uses SC, LC, or SFP connectors. For example, the StarTech ET91000SC2 and TP-Link MC210CS both use SC, while the Blackmagic Design 2110 IP Mini BiDirect relies on SFP slots. Mismatched connectors can cause installation headaches and extra costs.
2
Ignoring fibre mode compatibility
Choosing the wrong fibre mode is a common pitfall. The StarTech MCM1110MMLC is designed for multi-mode fibre, while the Et90110wdm2 and MC210CS are single mode. Using the wrong type can result in poor performance or no connection at all, so check your existing cabling before purchase.
3
Assuming all converters support gigabit speeds
Not every media converter handles gigabit ethernet. The Et90110wdm2, for instance, is limited to 100 Mbps, whereas the ET91000SC2 and MC210CS support 1000 Mbps. Double-check speed ratings to avoid bottlenecks in your network.
4
Forgetting about chassis material and durability
Some converters, like the MC210CS, use plastic chassis to cut costs, which may not suit harsh environments. Metal-bodied models such as the ET91000SC2 and Et90110wdm2 offer better durability for industrial or outdoor use.
Frequently asked questions about media converters
Which media converter is best for 20km fibre runs?
+
The StarTech Startech.com Et90110wdm2 is the best choice for 20km fibre runs. It supports single mode fibre, SC connectors, and delivers up to 100 Mbps over distances as long as 20 km. This kit is ideal for linking remote sites, outbuildings, or campus networks where distance is a challenge. At £127.85, it provides a matched pair for straightforward installation.
Does the TP-Link MC210CS support single mode fibre?
+
Yes, the TP-Link MC210CS supports single mode fibre. It uses SC connectors and can transmit data up to 15 km at 1000 Mbps. This makes it suitable for linking distant network segments or buildings. The MC210CS is also one of the most affordable options, priced at just £23.82.
Can the Blackmagic Design 2110 IP Mini BiDirect handle 12G SDI?
+
The Blackmagic Design 2110 IP Mini BiDirect can handle 12G SDI signals. It is designed for professional video production and broadcast environments, supporting both 12G-SDI and 10GbE over fibre. With SFP slot flexibility and a 10 km range on single mode fibre, it is ideal for studios needing high-bandwidth, low-latency video transport.
Is the StarTech Startech.com Et90110wdm2 suitable for CCTV?
+
The StarTech Startech.com Et90110wdm2 is well-suited for CCTV installations. Its single mode fibre support, SC connectors, and 20 km range make it ideal for linking cameras across large sites. The kit format means you get both transmitter and receiver, simplifying setup for security integrators.
How noisy is the TP-Link MC210CS in a quiet office?
+
The TP-Link MC210CS operates at 0 dB, meaning it is completely silent. There are no moving parts or fans, so it will not add any noise to a quiet office environment. Its compact, lightweight design also ensures it can be tucked away discreetly.
Which media converter is best for educational IT suites?
+
For educational IT suites, the StarTech MCM1110MMLC is a strong option. It supports multi-mode fibre, LC connectors, and gigabit speeds up to 550 m. At £77.76, it balances performance and price, making it suitable for linking classroom devices or lab networks within a building.
Does the StarTech MCM1110MMLC support 10/100 Mbps legacy devices?
+
The StarTech MCM1110MMLC supports both half and full duplex modes, allowing it to work with legacy 10/100 Mbps devices. While it is optimised for gigabit ethernet, its compatibility with older equipment makes it versatile for mixed network environments.
What is the difference between StarTech MCM1110MMLC and ET91000SC2?
+
The main difference is fibre type and range. The MCM1110MMLC uses multi-mode fibre with LC connectors and covers up to 550 m at 1000 Mbps. The ET91000SC2 is designed for single mode fibre, uses SC connectors, and has a 120 m range at gigabit speeds. Choose based on your existing cabling and required distance.
Other media converters included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
StarTech J4858CST£41.53£41.53Or 3 interest-free payments of £13.84/mo.*9+stores
Intel E10GSFPSR£19.99£19.99Or 3 interest-free payments of £6.66/mo.*9stores
StarTech SFP HP J4859C Compatible£47.57£47.57Or 3 interest-free payments of £15.85/mo.*9+stores
