Best Serial Cables of 2025

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Serial cables are an essential component in connecting electronic devices that require data transfer via a serial port. These cables are commonly used in computer networking, telecommunications, and industrial automation systems. They come in various lengths and connector types, such as RS232, RS422, and RS485. Some of the key features of serial cables include high-speed data transfer, reliability, and compatibility with a wide range of devices. Whether it's connecting a printer to a computer or transferring data between two machines, serial cables are a reliable and cost-effective solution.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

StarTech.com 3m Black Straight Through DB9 RS232 Serial Cable Cover#TOP 1
StarTech.com 3m Black Straight Through DB9 RS232 Serial Cable
ftb score rating icon9.9
SABRENT USB to Serial Converter Cable Cover#TOP 2
SABRENT USB to Serial Converter Cable
ftb score rating icon9.8
YCS basics 50ft DB9 Male/Female Extension Cable Cover#TOP 3
YCS basics 50ft DB9 Male/Female Extension Cable
ftb score rating icon9.6

Top 10 Serial Cables

#TOP 1

StarTech.com 3m Black Straight Through DB9 RS232 Serial Cable

MXT1003MBK
Black
10 ft / 3m
StarTech.com 3m Black Straight Through DB9 RS232 Serial Cable Cover
StarTech.com 3m Black Straight Through DB9 RS232 Serial Cable - DB9 RS232 Serial Extension Cable - Male to Female Cable (MXT1003MBK), 10 ft / 3m
ftb score rating icon9.9
FTB Score

This 3-meter black straight through DB9 RS232 serial cable features a male to female connector with high-quality shielding that prevents EMI interference. The DB9 connectors come with strain relief molding, ensuring durability and longevity. It's a great option for extending the length of your existing serial cables.

What We Like
Affordable shipping and prompt delivery
Well-made and flexible design
Durable cable casing
Reliable and error-free performance
Good quality connectors
What We Don't Like
Short cable length
Off-white color may not match

SABRENT USB to Serial Converter Cable

CB-DB9P
Grey
2.5 FT
SABRENT USB to Serial Converter Cable Cover
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)
ftb score rating icon9.8
FTB Score

The SABRENT USB to Serial Converter Cable provides a simple connection between USB and traditional RS-232 serial port for Windows, Mac, and Linux users. It supports various operating systems including Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7/VISTA/XP, Mac OS X 10.6 and Above, and Linux 2.4 or above. The adapter is easy to set up, simply plug your device into the adapter and the adapter into your PC or Mac. You can modify COM ports and Baud rates to your desired setup, providing flexibility and convenience.

What We Like
Good quality
Works with Windows 11
Compatible with various devices
Genuine PL-2303 chip
Efficient delivery
What We Don't Like
Drivers on CD, hard to find
Mechanical design issues
#TOP 3

YCS basics 50ft DB9 Male/Female Extension Cable

PCELPN-53973186
Gray
050 Ft
YCS basics 50ft DB9 Male/Female Extension Cable Cover
YCS basics 50 Foot DB9 9 Pin Serial / RS232 Male/Female Extension Cable
ftb score rating icon9.6
FTB Score

This 50-foot extension cable by YCS basics features a straight through design with one male and one female DB9 connector. Its light gray color makes it easy to identify among other cables, and its length makes it convenient for use in various settings. As a serial cable, it is designed for connecting devices such as printers, scanners, and other peripherals.

What We Like
Solid construction
Reliable connectivity
Convenient long lengths
Fast connecting
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
Limited widespread use
#TOP 4

CableCreation USB to RS232 Adapter

CD0489
Black
6.6FT / 2M
CableCreation USB to RS232 Adapter Cover
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
ftb score rating icon9.4
FTB Score

The CableCreation USB to RS232 Adapter is a 6.6ft USB 2.0 Male to RS232 Female DB9 Serial Converter Cable that connects devices such as modems, scanners, and digital cameras to a USB port on your computer. It features the latest Prolific PL2303 chipset and supports various operating systems including Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X. This adapter is easy to connect and is compatible with a wide range of devices with DB9 serial ports. It is USB bus powered, eliminating the need for an external power adapter.

What We Like
Easy driver installation
Compatible with various devices
Good build quality
Works seamlessly with Linux
What We Don't Like
May not work with all devices
Driver CD may be outdated
#TOP 5

Your Cable Store Serial Port Cable

4330119688
Beige
Your Cable Store Serial Port Cable Cover
Your Cable Store 6 Foot DB9 Female / DB25 Male Serial Port Cable RS232
ftb score rating icon9.3
FTB Score

This 6-foot serial port cable by Your Cable Store features a DB9 female connector, a DB25 male connector, and is ROHS compliant. With a pin out of 1-8, 2-3, 3-2, 4-20, 5-7, 6-6, 7-4, 8-5, 9-22, and G-G, it is perfect for connecting your serial devices.

What We Like
Compatible with legacy devices
Good quality and robust
Works with various operating systems
Effective for ham radio use
What We Don't Like
Only supports straight serial connections
#TOP 6

YCS Basics 6ft DB9 Extension Cables

D9MF6B-B 5PK
Black
006 Ft
YCS Basics 6ft DB9 Extension Cables Cover
Five Pack of YCS Basics Black 6 Foot DB9 9 Pin Serial / RS232 Male/Female Extension Cables
ftb score rating icon9.1
FTB Score

The YCS Basics DB9 Cables come in a convenient five-pack, making it easy for you to connect your devices without hassle. Each cable measures 6 feet in length, providing ample reach for your setup. With one DB9 male end and one DB9 female end, these cables allow for straightforward connections between devices. They are designed as straight-through cables, ensuring reliable data transmission without the complications of null modem connections. Plus, they come with a one-year limited warranty, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.

What We Like
Great for retro computers
Flexible cable options
Works both ways
Reliable brand reputation
Perfect for data transfer
#TOP 7

DTech 15ft Serial Male to Female Cable

DT-9005B 5M
Black
15ft
DTech 15ft Serial Male to Female Cable Cover
DTech 15ft COM Port Serial Cable Male to Female RS232 Extension 9 Pin Straight Through Cord
ftb score rating icon9.0
FTB Score

The DTech 15ft Serial Male to Female Cable is a long extension adapter designed to extend a COM port connection between your computer and an old device with RS-232 compatibility. The cable is equipped with screws on each end to ensure a stable data communication and is wired as a DE9 RS232 Straight Through COM cord with standard shielding. It is perfect for hooking up RS232C equipment like scanners, modems, printers, plotters, cameras, barcode/embroidery machines, touchscreens, and test equipment.

What We Like
Quality construction
Perfect for electrical noise
Easy to transport
Better than USB
What We Don't Like
Price could be lower
#TOP 8

C2G 25211 DB9 M/F Serial RS232 Extension Cable

25211
Beige
1 Foot
C2G 25211 DB9 M/F Serial RS232 Extension Cable Cover
C2G Legrand DB9 Serial Cable Male to Female RS232 Extension Cable, Black Serial Modem Cable, 1 Foot Modem Cord or Serial Cord, 1 Count, C2G 25211
ftb score rating icon8.9
FTB Score

The C2G 25211 DB9 M/F Serial RS232 Extension Cable extends your RS-232 serial cable up to 50ft, providing flexibility and convenience in placing your peripherals in the most convenient location. It comes in black and beige color options.

What We Like
Easy gearshift attachment
Works with multiple devices
Cost-effective solution
Reliable under continuous use
What We Don't Like
Signal issues for some users
#TOP 9

DTech 10 ft DB9 Serial Cable Female to Female

DT-9005C 3M
Black
10ft
DTech 10 ft DB9 Serial Cable Female to Female Cover
DTech 10 ft DB9 Serial Cable Female to Female 9 Pin Straight Through (Black, 3 Meters)
ftb score rating icon8.7
FTB Score

The DTech DB9 serial cable female to female is a 10ft RS232c cable with a 9 pin connector on each end that connects your computer to devices with an RS-232 compatible interface, such as scanners, printers, or microcontrollers. The cable is equipped with screws to ensure a stable connection, and the wires inside are easy to solder to. The pin-to-pin wiring is a straight-through DB-9 serial adapter, and the cable is standard shielded with AL foil.

What We Like
High quality build
Works perfectly for many applications
Good length options
Secure connection with screws
What We Don't Like
Some connectors feel flimsy
Possible internal issues
#TOP 10

Belkin Serial Extension Cable (10 Feet)

F2N209-10-T
Black
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Belkin Serial Extension Cable (10 Feet) Cover
Belkin F2N209-10-T Serial Extension Cable (10 Feet, DB9M to DB9F)
ftb score rating icon8.6
FTB Score

This Belkin Serial Extension Cable is a 10 feet long cable that allows you to extend the length of your serial mouse, CGA/EGA monitor, or any other device with DB9 connectors. The cable has one male DB9 connector on the first side and one female DB9 connector on the second side. It falls under the category of Serial Cables.

What We Like
Good condition upon receipt
Functions as expected
Well made and reliable
No external noise interference
Works in industrial settings
What We Don't Like
Incompatibility with vintage systems
Buying Guide Image

Basic Information to Help You Figure out the Best Serial Cables

Understanding Serial Cables

Before we dive into how to choose the right serial cable for your needs, it's important to understand what a serial cable is and what it's used for.

A serial cable is a type of communication cable that is used to connect two devices together in order to transfer data between them. Serial cables use a series of pins to transmit data in a specific order, allowing devices to communicate with each other.

Different Types of Serial Cables

There are several different types of serial cables, each with its own unique characteristics and uses. Some of the most common types of serial cables include:

  • RS-232 cables: These are the most commonly used serial cables and are used to connect computers and other devices to modems, printers, and other peripherals.

  • RS-422 cables: These cables are designed for use in longer distance applications and are capable of transmitting data over longer distances than RS-232 cables.

  • RS-485 cables: These cables are similar to RS-422 cables, but are designed for use in even longer distance applications and can transmit data over distances of up to 1.2 miles.

Choosing the Right Serial Cable

When it comes to choosing the right serial cable, there are a few key factors to consider. These include:

  • The type of devices you're connecting: As mentioned above, different types of serial cables are designed for different types of devices and applications. Make sure you choose a cable that is compatible with the devices you're connecting.

  • The distance between the devices: As mentioned above, some serial cables are designed for use in longer distance applications. If you're connecting two devices that are far apart, make sure you choose a cable that is capable of transmitting data over the distance between them.

  • The data transfer rate: Serial cables are rated for different data transfer rates, with higher rates allowing for faster data transfer between devices. Consider the data transfer rate you need and choose a cable that can support it.

Other Considerations

In addition to the factors mentioned above, there are a few other things to consider when choosing a serial cable. These include:

  • The type of connectors: Serial cables have different types of connectors on either end, and it's important to make sure they are compatible with the devices you're connecting.

  • The cable length: Longer cables can be more difficult to work with and may not be as reliable as shorter cables. Consider the distance between the devices you're connecting and choose a cable that is the right length for your needs.

  • The cable material: Serial cables are made from a variety of materials, including copper, fiber optic, and even wireless technologies. Consider the materials used in the cable and make sure they are suitable for your needs.

Conclusion

Choosing the right serial cable is an important step in ensuring reliable data transfer between devices. Consider the factors mentioned above and choose a cable that is compatible with your devices, capable of transmitting data over the distance between them, and able to support the data transfer rate you need.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a serial cable used for?

A serial cable is used to transfer information between two devices using a serial communication protocol. It is commonly used to connect devices such as computers, printers, and networking equipment. The type of connectors used in a serial cable depends on the specific serial port being used.

2. What is an example of a serial cable?

Serial cables support various communication standards, such as RS232, RS422, RS485, Fibre Channel, IEEE 1394 (FireWire), and Universal Serial Bus (USB). These cables enable the serial transmission of data between devices that use these protocols.

3. What are types of serial cable?

The major types of serial cable protocols used in industrial networking are RS232, RS422, and RS485. The RS-232 interface follows the Electronic Industries Alliance's standard for serial data transfer. These protocols define the electrical and mechanical characteristics of the serial cables used for communication.

4. Are serial cables still used today?

While serial ports are still in use today, they are not commonly found on mainstream computer motherboards. Most modern computer users do not have a need for serial cables in their day-to-day activities. However, serial cables are still used in certain industries and for specific purposes, such as industrial networking and specialized equipment.

Editor's Notes

During our serial cable research, we found 24 serial cable products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 67,218 customer reviews through our big data system to write the serial cables list. We found that most customers choose serial cables with an average price of $10.52.

The serial cables are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of serial cables, including StarTech.com, SABRENT, YCS basics, CableCreation, Your Cable Store. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 273 consumers with an average rating of 4.6.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.

Serial Cables Comparison Table

#TOP1
StarTech.com 3m Black Straight Through DB9 RS232 Serial Cable Cover
#TOP2
SABRENT USB to Serial Converter Cable Cover
#TOP3
YCS basics 50ft DB9 Male/Female Extension Cable Cover
#TOP4
CableCreation USB to RS232 Adapter Cover
#TOP5
Your Cable Store Serial Port Cable Cover
#TOP6
YCS Basics 6ft DB9 Extension Cables Cover
#TOP7
DTech 15ft Serial Male to Female Cable Cover
#TOP8
C2G 25211 DB9 M/F Serial RS232 Extension Cable Cover
#TOP9
DTech 10 ft DB9 Serial Cable Female to Female Cover
#TOP10
Belkin Serial Extension Cable (10 Feet) Cover
BrandStarTech.comSABRENTYCS basicsCableCreationYour Cable StoreYCS basicsDTechC2GDTechBelkin
Connector TypeSerialUSB Type ASerialUSB Type ASerialDB9DB9DB9DB9Db9m
Compatible Devicesserial devicesModemModemScannerServer, Modem, LaptopModemLaptop, Microcontroller, Modem, Printer, Embroidery machinePCPersonal Computer, Router, Modem, PDA, PrinterMonitor, PC
Cable TypeSerialParallel CableSerial-SerialSerialVGASerialSerialSerial
Special FeatureData TransferHigh Speed28 AWG---Data Transfer, Low VoltageBraidedData Transfer, Low Voltagedata transfer
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon9.9
ftb score rating icon9.8
ftb score rating icon9.6
ftb score rating icon9.4
ftb score rating icon9.3
ftb score rating icon9.1
ftb score rating icon9.0
ftb score rating icon8.9
ftb score rating icon8.7
ftb score rating icon8.6
Where to Buy