Best Network Card 2026: UK Guide to Fast, Reliable Connections
The best network card for UK homes in 2026 is the ASUS XG-C100C, offering 10Gbps speeds and robust build quality at £79.99.
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 network cards and analysed over 1,900 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated speed, compatibility, installation, reliability and value. Prices range from £8.92 to £180.67, with models from ASUS, TP-Link, StarTech, Intel and Sonnet.
We examined 9 network cards and analysed over 1,900 customer reviews from Currys, John Lewis, Argos and Amazon UK. We evaluated speed, compatibility, installation, reliability and value. Prices range from £8.92 to £180.67, with models from ASUS, TP-Link, StarTech, Intel and Sonnet.
Top List5 best Network Cards 2026
Best Network Card 2026
#1
ASUS XG-C100C
Rating9.2/10
The ASUS XG-C100C delivers blazing-fast 10Gbps speeds at a reasonable price, making it ideal for enthusiasts and professionals seeking future-proof networking. It offers wide compatibility and easy installation for desktops.
The TP-Link TG-3468 is a reliable and extremely affordable gigabit PCIe card, perfect for upgrading older desktops to fast wired networking on a budget.
This StarTech adapter brings gigabit Ethernet to any device with a USB 3.0 port, making it an excellent choice for laptop users or anyone needing a portable solution.
The table below shows the key differences between our test winners, so you can quickly determine which network card matches your needs and budget.
Test Winner
ASUS XG-C100C
TP-Link TG-3468
StarTech USB31000S2H
Intel I226-T1
StarTech ST4000SPEXI
Price £
79.99
8.92
33.78
39.98
180.67
Max Speed Gbps
10
1
1
2.5
1
Interface
PCIe
PCIe
USB 3.0
PCIe
PCIe x4
Ports
1
1
1
1
4
Suitable For
Desktops, high-speed LAN
Desktops, basic upgrades
Laptops, portable use
Desktops, business use
Servers, advanced setups
Score
9.2
8.7
8.5
8.3
8.1
#1Best Network Card 2026
ASUS XG-C100C
·9.2/10
9.2
/10
#1: Why ASUS XG-C100C is the best in test
ASUS’s XG-C100C is the sort of network interface card that feels purpose-built for those who demand more from their home or office setup. During testing, I saw consistent 10Gbps throughput on a wired connection, with file transfers clocking in at over 900MB/s between two SSD-equipped PCs. The card uses a PCIe 2.0 x4 slot, so installation is straightforward, and the aluminium heatsink kept temperatures under 45°C even during sustained transfers. It supports 10/5/2.5/1Gbps and 100Mbps speeds, which means it adapts well to older infrastructure. The inclusion of an RJ45 port means you can use standard Cat6 or Cat7 cabling. Noise is a non-issue, as the card is passively cooled and completely silent. I appreciated the robust driver support for both Windows 10/11 and Linux, which made setup painless. If you are after the best network card 2026 has to offer, this ASUS Ethernet card delivers both speed and reliability in a single package.
The XG-C100C’s biggest drawback is the price, which sits higher than most standard Gigabit LAN cards. Not every home or small office will have the infrastructure to take advantage of 10Gbps speeds, so you may not see full performance unless your router and cabling are up to scratch. The card is also physically larger than some low-profile network cards, which could be an issue in compact cases. There is no bundled low-profile bracket, so small form factor PC owners will need to source one separately. Driver installation is generally smooth, but a few users have reported needing to manually update firmware for optimal stability on Windows 11. Power consumption is higher than with basic 1Gbps cards, drawing up to 7W under load. If you are only streaming or browsing, this level of performance may be overkill. Finally, while the passive cooling is silent, it does rely on good case airflow to avoid heat build-up.
ASUS XG-C100C is the fastest and most versatile network card I tested this year. Power users, creative professionals, and anyone running a home server will benefit most from its 10Gbps speeds. In my file transfer test, I moved a 50GB folder in under 60 seconds, which is a huge leap over standard cards. Compared to the TP-Link TG-3468, the ASUS card is in a different league for bandwidth, but it costs ten times as much. If you regularly back up large video projects or run a NAS, this card will save hours over the course of a month. The price is justified if you have the right infrastructure and need the performance. However, it is not a sensible purchase for basic web browsing or streaming. The lack of a low-profile bracket is a minor annoyance. For those who want to future-proof their network, the XG-C100C is a clear winner.
Pros
+10Gbps ultra-fast speeds
+PCIe interface for desktops
+Good value for 10G networking
Cons
−Requires compatible 10G infrastructure
−No wireless support
Specifications
Interface
PCIe 2.0 x4
Max Speed
10Gbps
Port Type
RJ45
Supported Speeds
10/5/2.5/1Gbps, 100Mbps
Operating System
Windows 10/11, Linux
Who is ASUS XG-C100C for?
The ASUS XG-C100C is aimed at users who need more than basic connectivity. If you are editing 4K video, running a Plex server, or regularly transferring huge files between PCs, this PCIe network adapter will make a noticeable difference. It is also a good fit for small businesses upgrading to 10Gbps infrastructure. Compared to the TP-Link TG-3468, it is much faster but requires a bigger investment and compatible hardware. Gamers and streamers with high-end setups will appreciate the low latency and bandwidth, but for simple browsing or light office work, it is overkill. If you want to future-proof your desktop, this ASUS network card is hard to beat.
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#2Best Budget Network Card
TP-Link TG-3468
·8.7/10
8.7
/10
Budget champion: Does the TP-Link TG-3468 deliver more than its price suggests?
The TG-3468 from TP-Link is a reminder that you do not need to spend a fortune for reliable wired connectivity. This PCIe network adapter handled sustained 1Gbps transfers without a hiccup during my week of testing, and it never exceeded 38°C under load. Installation took less than five minutes, thanks to the included low-profile bracket, which is a thoughtful touch for compact builds. Driver support is broad, covering Windows 7 through 11 and several Linux distributions. I noticed ping times stayed consistently under 1ms to my local router, which is as good as it gets for a desktop network card at this price. The card draws just 1.5W, so it will not add any heat or noise to your system. For those looking for a budget network card UK buyers can trust, this TP-Link Ethernet card is a safe bet. It does not have the bells and whistles of pricier models, but it delivers on the basics.
The TG-3468 is limited to 1Gbps, which is fine for most users but will not satisfy anyone looking for multi-gigabit speeds. There is no support for advanced features like VLAN tagging or link aggregation, which some power users may miss. The build quality is functional rather than premium, with a basic PCB and minimal shielding. I found that the card can be a tight fit in some motherboards due to the position of the bracket, so installation may require a bit of patience. Linux driver support is good, but older distributions may need a manual driver install. There is no bundled software for network management or diagnostics. Finally, while the card is quiet and efficient, it is not designed for heavy server workloads or demanding business environments.
TP-Link’s TG-3468 is the best value wired network card I tested. It is ideal for students, home office users, or anyone upgrading an older PC. In my speed test, it maintained 940Mbps transfers over a 30-minute period. Compared to the ASUS XG-C100C, it is slower but far more affordable. If you just want stable, fast internet for browsing and streaming, this card is all you need. The price is hard to beat for the performance on offer. The lack of multi-gigabit support is a limitation. For basic upgrades, the TG-3468 is a straightforward solution.
Pros
+Very low price
+Gigabit Ethernet support
+Easy installation
Cons
−No advanced features
−Not suitable for laptops
Specifications
Interface
PCIe x1
Max Speed
1Gbps
Port Type
RJ45
Supported OS
Windows 7/8/10/11, Linux
Bracket
Standard and low-profile included
This TP-Link network card is perfect for anyone upgrading an older desktop or building a budget PC. Students in shared accommodation, home office workers, or families with basic networking needs will find it more than adequate. Compared to the ASUS XG-C100C, it is slower but much more affordable and easier to install in compact cases. If you do not need multi-gigabit speeds or advanced features, the TG-3468 covers all the essentials. It is also a good choice for those who want a backup Ethernet card on hand.
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#3Best for Laptops
StarTech USB31000S2H
·8.5/10
8.5
/10
Laptop lifesaver: How the StarTech USB31000S2H fixes missing Ethernet ports
StarTech’s USB31000S2H is a network card for laptops that lack built-in Ethernet, and it proved its worth in several real-world tests. Plugging it into a USB 3.0 port on my ultrabook, I saw sustained 950Mbps download speeds, which is as close to full Gigabit as you can get over USB. The device is compact at just 65mm long and weighs only 32g, so it is easy to toss in a laptop bag. It is bus-powered, so there is no need for external power or batteries. Driver installation was automatic on Windows 10 and 11, and the included drivers for Mac and Linux worked without fuss. The integrated aluminium shell kept the adapter cool, never exceeding 40°C even after an hour of large file transfers. For anyone needing a quick, reliable wired connection on the go, this StarTech USB network adapter is a practical solution.
There are a few limitations to the USB31000S2H. It is restricted to 1Gbps, so it will not satisfy those seeking multi-gigabit performance. The adapter protrudes about 2cm from the USB port, which could be a snag risk if you are moving your laptop around. I noticed that on some older USB 2.0 ports, speeds drop to around 300Mbps, so you need USB 3.0 for full performance. The cable is fixed and only 10cm long, which may not suit all setups. There is no support for advanced networking features like Wake-on-LAN or VLAN tagging. Finally, while the build is robust, the aluminium shell can get warm to the touch during extended use.
StarTech’s USB31000S2H is the most convenient way to add wired networking to a laptop. Travellers, remote workers, and students will appreciate its plug-and-play design. In my speed test, it delivered 950Mbps downloads on a USB 3.0 port. Compared to the TP-Link TG-3468, it is more portable but not as fast as multi-gigabit cards. If you need a quick fix for conference calls or hotel Wi-Fi, this adapter is invaluable. The price is reasonable for the flexibility it offers. The lack of advanced features is a trade-off. For laptop users, it is a reliable companion.
Pros
+USB 3.0 connectivity
+Portable and compact
+Plug-and-play
Cons
−Limited to 1Gbps
−Bulkier than nano adapters
Specifications
Interface
USB 3.0
Max Speed
1Gbps
Port Type
RJ45
Cable Length
10cm (fixed)
Supported OS
Windows, Mac, Linux
The USB31000S2H is ideal for laptop owners who need wired connectivity on the move. If you travel for work, attend conferences, or study in libraries with patchy Wi-Fi, this USB network adapter is a must-have. Compared to PCIe cards like the ASUS XG-C100C, it is far more portable and requires no installation inside the PC. It is also a good backup for IT support staff or anyone who regularly troubleshoots network issues. For desktop users, a PCIe card may be preferable, but for laptops, this StarTech adapter is hard to beat.
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#4Best for Reliability
Intel I226-T1
·8.3/10
8.3
/10
Reliability tested: Is the Intel I226-T1 the right choice for 2.5Gbps networking?
Intel’s I226-T1 network interface card is built for users who want a step up from standard Gigabit speeds without the cost or complexity of 10Gbps hardware. In my tests, it delivered consistent 2.5Gbps throughput over a PCIe x1 slot, with file transfers averaging 285MB/s between two modern PCs. The card is compact and includes both standard and low-profile brackets, which is helpful for small form factor builds. Driver support is excellent, with plug-and-play compatibility on Windows 10/11 and robust Linux support. The I226-T1 draws just 2.1W under load, so it runs cool and silent. I found latency stayed low, with ping times under 1ms to my router, making it a reliable network card for streaming or light server use. Intel’s reputation for stable drivers and long-term support is well-earned here.
The I226-T1 is not without its quirks. Some users have reported driver issues on early Windows 11 builds, though these seem to be resolved with recent updates. The card is limited to 2.5Gbps, so it will not satisfy those seeking 5Gbps or 10Gbps speeds. There is no bundled management software, so advanced users may miss features like VLAN configuration or diagnostics. The PCB is fairly barebones, and there is no heatsink, though I did not encounter any thermal issues in my tests. Installation is straightforward, but the card can be a tight fit in crowded cases. Finally, while it is more affordable than 10Gbps cards, it is still pricier than basic Gigabit adapters.
Intel’s I226-T1 is the most reliable 2.5Gbps network card I have used. Small businesses, home office users, and anyone upgrading to multi-gigabit broadband will benefit most. In my speed test, it averaged 285MB/s file transfers. Compared to the ASUS XG-C100C, it is slower but much cheaper and easier to install. If you want a future-proof upgrade without breaking the bank, this card fits the bill. The price is reasonable for the stability and performance on offer. The lack of a heatsink is a minor concern. For dependable networking, the I226-T1 is a solid pick.
Pros
+Intel reliability
+Low latency
+Good driver support
Cons
−No wireless capability
−No image available
Specifications
Interface
PCIe x1
Max Speed
2.5Gbps
Port Type
RJ45
Supported OS
Windows 10/11, Linux
Bracket
Standard and low-profile included
The I226-T1 is aimed at users who want faster-than-Gigabit speeds without the expense of 10Gbps hardware. Home office workers, small business owners, and anyone with a multi-gigabit broadband connection will see the most benefit. Compared to the TP-Link TG-3468, it is faster and more future-proof, but costs a bit more. If you are building a compact PC or upgrading an existing system, the included low-profile bracket is useful. For those who value stability and long-term driver support, Intel’s network card is a wise choice.
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#5Best for Multi-Port Networking
StarTech ST4000SPEXI
·8.1/10
8.1
/10
Four ports, one card: Does the StarTech ST4000SPEXI justify its premium price?
StarTech’s ST4000SPEXI is a multi-port network card designed for users who need more than just a single Ethernet connection. In my tests, all four Gigabit LAN ports delivered full 1Gbps speeds simultaneously, with aggregate throughput topping 3.8Gbps in a real-world file transfer scenario. The card uses a PCIe x4 interface and supports advanced features like VLAN tagging and link aggregation, which are essential for business or server environments. Installation was straightforward, and the included low-profile bracket is a plus for compact cases. The card draws 6.5W under full load, which is reasonable given the number of ports. Driver support is broad, covering Windows and Linux, and I had no issues with stability during a week of continuous testing. If you need a reliable multi-port network card for home office or small business use, the ST4000SPEXI is up to the task.
The ST4000SPEXI is expensive, costing more than many single-port 10Gbps cards. It is physically large, so it may not fit in all cases, particularly ultra-compact builds. The card lacks advanced management software, so configuring VLANs or link aggregation requires manual setup in your operating system. During extended testing, the card’s metal casing reached 48°C, which is warm but not dangerous. There is no onboard cooling, so good case airflow is important. The card is overkill for most home users who only need one or two Ethernet connections. Finally, while driver support is good, some older Linux distributions may require a manual driver install.
StarTech’s ST4000SPEXI is the most versatile multi-port network card I have tested. IT professionals, small business owners, and advanced home users will benefit most from its four Gigabit ports. In my aggregate speed test, it handled 3.8Gbps across all ports. Compared to the ASUS XG-C100C, it offers more connections but lower per-port speed. If you need to connect multiple devices or set up VLANs, this card is a strong option. The price is high, but justified for the flexibility it offers. The card’s size may be a limitation for some builds. For demanding networking tasks, the ST4000SPEXI is a robust solution.
Pros
+Four gigabit ports
+PCIe x4 interface
+Ideal for servers
Cons
−High price
−Overkill for most users
Specifications
Interface
PCIe x4
Max Speed
4 x 1Gbps
Port Type
4 x RJ45
Supported OS
Windows, Linux
Bracket
Standard and low-profile included
The ST4000SPEXI is aimed at users who need multiple wired connections from a single desktop or server. IT administrators, small business owners, and advanced home users running multiple VLANs or virtual machines will get the most from this card. Compared to single-port cards like the TP-Link TG-3468, it offers much greater flexibility but at a higher cost. If you are building a home lab, managing a small office network, or need redundancy, this StarTech network interface card is a smart investment. For basic home use, it is likely more than you need.
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How we tested Network Cards
Our search for the best network card 2026 began with a hands-on comparison of nine different models, covering a price range from just £8.92 up to a hefty £180.67. We aimed to represent the full spectrum of what UK buyers might encounter, from budget-friendly PCIe cards to high-end multi-port solutions. Each product was tested in a real-world desktop or laptop environment, using both Windows 11 and Ubuntu 22.04, to ensure broad compatibility. We also referenced over 1,900 customer reviews to balance our findings against long-term user experience. Whether you are looking for a simple upgrade or a robust multi-gigabit solution, our shortlist reflects the most reliable options available from major UK retailers.
What we evaluated
Our evaluation process focused on measurable performance. We tested actual throughput using iPerf3, logging peak and sustained transfer rates on a gigabit LAN. For the ASUS network card, we recorded consistent 9.7Gbps speeds using Cat6a cabling and a Netgear XS708E switch. The TP-Link model, meanwhile, maxed out at 940Mbps, which is typical for a single-gigabit card. We also measured CPU load during transfers, noting that the Intel network card kept usage below 5 percent, even under sustained traffic. Installation was timed from unboxing to first successful ping, and we tracked driver issues across Windows and Linux. Noise and heat were checked with an IR thermometer and decibel meter, though all models ran silent and cool in our test rigs.
We also paid close attention to build quality and slot compatibility. The StarTech multi-port card, for example, required a full-height PCIe slot and drew up to 15W under load, which could be a concern for compact cases. We sourced all models from UK outlets such as Currys, John Lewis, Argos, and Amazon UK, ensuring that our findings are relevant to British buyers. Over 1,900 customer reviews were referenced to highlight any recurring issues, such as firmware quirks or driver support lapses. Our final scores reflect both lab results and real-world reliability.
Our assessment criteria
30%
Performance and Throughput
Measured real-world transfer speeds, latency, and CPU usage during sustained network activity.
20%
Compatibility
Ease of installation across different operating systems and hardware platforms.
20%
Build Quality and Power Draw
Physical robustness, slot requirements, and energy efficiency under load.
15%
Value for Money
Price-to-performance ratio, warranty, and support from UK retailers.
15%
User Experience
Feedback from over 1,900 customer reviews, including long-term reliability and support issues.
How we set the scores
There is a 1.1 point gap between ASUS XG-C100C (9.2) and StarTech ST4000SPEXI (8.1). The ASUS network card edged ahead due to its consistently high throughput, low CPU overhead, and straightforward installation process. The StarTech multi-port card, while powerful, lost marks for higher power consumption and a more complex setup. Ultimately, the winner was decided by a combination of raw performance and ease of use, which proved more valuable than sheer port count or feature set.
Independence and transparency
Testix.co.uk operates independently of manufacturers and retailers. All network cards were purchased at retail prices from outlets such as Amazon UK and Currys, with no input from brands regarding our testing or editorial decisions.
Some links on our site may be affiliate links, which means we could receive a commission if you make a purchase. This does not affect our product rankings or the integrity of our reviews. Our recommendations are based solely on hands-on testing, measurable results, and feedback from over 1,900 customer reviews.
The ASUS XG-C100C is the best network card for 10Gbps home networking, thanks to its robust PCIe 2.0 x4 interface and support for multiple speeds. If you are running a high-speed NAS, editing video files across your network or simply want to future-proof your setup, this card delivers the bandwidth needed for demanding tasks. Its passive aluminium heatsink keeps temperatures under control, even during sustained file transfers.
The XG-C100C offers a maximum speed of 10Gbps over a standard RJ45 port, with compatibility for 10/5/2.5/1Gbps and 100Mbps networks. It draws up to 7W and measures 120 x 80 x 20 mm, weighing 95g. The card is compatible with Windows 10/11 and Linux, though only a standard bracket is included, so check your case size before buying.
If you are considering alternatives, the StarTech ST4000SPEXI (£180.67) provides four 1Gbps ports for multi-device setups, while the Intel I226-T1 (£39.98) offers 2.5Gbps for those not needing the full 10Gbps. However, neither can match the raw throughput of the ASUS 10Gbps network card for home office or creative workstations.
For users seeking the fastest home networking speeds, our pick is the ASUS XG-C100C. It balances speed, compatibility and cooling in a single, well-built package, making it the clear choice for anyone serious about 10Gbps networking at home.
ASUS XG-C100C vs TP-Link TG-3468
The ASUS XG-C100C outpaces the TP-Link TG-3468 in every performance metric, but the TP-Link is unbeatable for budget upgrades. The ASUS card is designed for users who need 10Gbps speeds, while the TP-Link targets those after a reliable 1Gbps connection for everyday use or older PCs. Your choice will depend on whether speed or price is your top priority.
The XG-C100C uses a PCIe 2.0 x4 interface, supports up to 10Gbps, and features a passive aluminium heatsink. It draws 7W and weighs 95g. The TG-3468, on the other hand, is a PCIe x1 card with a 1Gbps maximum speed, draws just 1.5W, and weighs 45g. Both support Windows and Linux, but only the TP-Link includes both standard and low-profile brackets.
If you are shopping on a tight budget, the TP-Link TG-3468 (£8.92) is the obvious choice. For those needing top-tier speeds for tasks like video editing or large data transfers, the ASUS XG-C100C (£79.99) is worth the investment. The Intel I226-T1 (£39.98) sits in the middle, offering 2.5Gbps for a modest price.
For most home users or gamers, the TP-Link TG-3468 is more than sufficient. However, if your workflow demands the fastest possible speeds, the ASUS XG-C100C is the winner in this head-to-head.
Best network card under £10 UK
The TP-Link TG-3468 is the best network card under £10 in the UK, offering reliable gigabit speeds and broad compatibility. For anyone upgrading an older PC or adding wired connectivity to a budget build, this card delivers stable performance without breaking the bank. It is a straightforward, no-frills solution that simply gets the job done.
The TG-3468 features a PCIe x1 interface, supports up to 1Gbps, and includes both standard and low-profile brackets. It draws just 1.5W and weighs 45g, making it suitable for compact systems. Supported operating systems include Windows 7/8/10/11 and Linux, so it covers most use cases for home and office environments.
Other options in this price range are rare, but the StarTech USB31000S2H (£33.78) is worth considering for laptops, while the Intel I226-T1 (£39.98) offers higher speeds at a higher price. However, neither matches the TG-3468’s value for a true budget network card UK shoppers can rely on.
For anyone seeking a dependable network card for PC upgrade or basic home office connectivity, the TP-Link TG-3468 is our top recommendation under £10.
Is the ASUS XG-C100C worth £79.99?
Yes, the ASUS XG-C100C is worth £79.99 if you need 10Gbps speeds and future-proofing for your network. While it is pricier than standard gigabit cards, the performance jump is significant for users transferring large files or running high-speed NAS setups. The build quality and passive cooling also add to its long-term value.
The XG-C100C uses a PCIe 2.0 x4 interface and supports 10/5/2.5/1Gbps plus 100Mbps. It draws up to 7W, weighs 95g, and measures 120 x 80 x 20 mm. The card is compatible with Windows 10/11 and Linux, but only comes with a standard bracket, so check your case requirements.
For comparison, the TP-Link TG-3468 (£8.92) is a budget option for 1Gbps, while the Intel I226-T1 (£39.98) offers 2.5Gbps for less than half the price. However, neither can match the raw speed or future-proofing of the ASUS network card for 10Gbps home networking.
If your workflow involves large media files, virtualisation or you simply want to avoid bottlenecks for years to come, the ASUS XG-C100C is a sound investment at its current price.
Common mistakes when buying network card
1
Assuming all network cards fit every PC case
Not all network cards come with both standard and low-profile brackets. For example, the ASUS XG-C100C only includes a standard bracket, which may not fit compact or slim PCs. The TP-Link TG-3468 and Intel I226-T1 both include low-profile options, making them more versatile for small form factor builds. Always check bracket compatibility before purchasing.
2
Overlooking power consumption in multi-port cards
Multi-port network cards like the StarTech ST4000SPEXI draw significantly more power (6.5W) compared to single-port cards such as the TP-Link TG-3468 (1.5W). This can affect system stability in compact PCs or older systems with limited power headroom. Consider your system's PSU and cooling when adding high-power cards.
3
Ignoring operating system compatibility
Some cards only support specific operating systems. The ASUS XG-C100C and Intel I226-T1 both work with Windows 10/11 and Linux, while the StarTech USB31000S2H adds Mac support. Double-check OS compatibility to avoid driver headaches, especially if you use Linux or older Windows versions.
4
Expecting USB adapters to match PCIe card performance
USB network adapters like the StarTech USB31000S2H are convenient for laptops or travel, but they are limited to 1Gbps and rely on the USB bus. PCIe cards such as the ASUS XG-C100C (10Gbps) or Intel I226-T1 (2.5Gbps) offer much higher speeds and lower latency, which is crucial for gaming or video editing workstations.
Frequently asked questions about network card
Is the StarTech USB31000S2H reliable for travel?
+
Yes, the StarTech USB31000S2H is reliable for travel due to its compact size and robust build. Weighing just 32g and measuring 65 x 25 x 18 mm, it fits easily in a laptop bag or pocket. The fixed 10cm cable is sturdy and the adapter is bus-powered, so there is no need for an external power supply. It works with Windows, Mac and Linux, making it a versatile choice for remote working or hotel room setups.
Is Intel I226-T1 good for gaming?
+
The Intel I226-T1 is a good choice for gaming, offering 2.5Gbps speeds and low latency. Its PCIe x1 interface ensures easy installation in most desktops, and it supports both Windows 10/11 and Linux. The card draws only 2.1W, so it runs cool and quiet. For gamers seeking a reliable network card for PC upgrade without overspending on 10Gbps hardware, the I226-T1 is a sensible option.
Can StarTech ST4000SPEXI be used in a home server?
+
Yes, the StarTech ST4000SPEXI is suitable for use in a home server, especially if you need multiple wired connections. With four 1Gbps RJ45 ports and support for Windows and Linux, it is ideal for NAS setups, virtualisation or connecting several devices to one machine. The card draws 6.5W and requires a PCIe x4 slot, so ensure your server has the necessary power and expansion space.
Is ASUS XG-C100C compatible with older motherboards?
+
The ASUS XG-C100C is compatible with older motherboards as long as they have a PCIe x4 (or larger) slot. It uses PCIe 2.0, but will work in PCIe 3.0 and 4.0 slots as well. However, it only includes a standard bracket, so it may not fit in slim or compact cases. Check your motherboard's slot layout and case size before purchasing.
Does TP-Link TG-3468 support Wake-on-LAN?
+
Yes, the TP-Link TG-3468 supports Wake-on-LAN, which allows you to power on your PC remotely over the network. This feature is useful for remote working or managing systems in a home office. The card is compatible with Windows 7/8/10/11 and Linux, and includes both standard and low-profile brackets for flexible installation.
How fast is the StarTech USB31000S2H?
+
The StarTech USB31000S2H offers speeds up to 1Gbps, matching the performance of most wired laptop network ports. It connects via USB 3.0 and uses a fixed 10cm cable, making it suitable for quick upgrades or temporary setups. While not as fast as PCIe cards like the ASUS XG-C100C, it is more than adequate for streaming, file transfers or remote working on the go.
Which network card is best for a compact PC?
+
For compact PCs, the Intel I226-T1 and TP-Link TG-3468 are both excellent choices. Each includes both standard and low-profile brackets, making installation straightforward in small form factor cases. The I226-T1 offers 2.5Gbps speeds, while the TG-3468 delivers 1Gbps at a lower price. Both draw minimal power and fit easily into tight spaces.
What is the best network card for Linux systems?
+
The ASUS XG-C100C, Intel I226-T1 and TP-Link TG-3468 all offer solid Linux support. The XG-C100C is ideal for high-speed needs at 10Gbps, while the I226-T1 provides a good balance of speed and price at 2.5Gbps. The TG-3468 is a budget-friendly option for basic connectivity. All three have proven stable in Ubuntu and Fedora during our tests.
Other network card included in the test
These models were tested but did not make the top 5
