5 Best Thunderbolt 3 Ethernet Adapters in 2024

The best Thunderbolt 3 to Ethernet adapters to buy this year.

Intel and Apple have created the newest hardware interface that allows you to establish a lightning-fast connection between a PC and various peripherals. This edgy connectivity standard makes it possible for you to quickly connect your desktop computer or laptop to a high-speed gigabit Ethernet network via a dedicated Thunderbolt port.

By using a Thunderbolt 3 to Ethernet adapter, you can enjoy high connection speed, which is perfect for videoconferencing and other activities. To make the most out of this technology, you need to additionally purchase a Cat 6 cable.

If you are looking for a reliable adapter for your MacBook Pro and MacBook Air, make sure to read this article. I have compiled a list of the best options available today to help you choose a great Thunderbolt 3 Ethernet adapter that will suit your needs most. On this list, you will also find some USB hubs that are fitted with several ports and USB-C adapters that support Ethernet connectivity. After reading these reviews, you will easily find the best adapter your money could buy.

Hardware Interface: Ethernet | Supported Resolutions: 4K@60Hz

By using this Thunderbolt 3 to gigabit Ethernet adapter, you can enjoy a stable connection and high speeds. It’s a perfect option for those who aren’t satisfied with a wireless connection. Being made of high-quality aluminum, it doesn’t overheat.

This braided cable is quite durable and allows you to enjoy an up to 1 Gbps connection speed. Besides, it has backward compatibility, which allows it to support 100Mbps/10Mbps/1Mbps speeds. Thanks to its well-thought-out design, you can quickly connect peripheral devices. What’s more, it won’t prevent you from accessing USB-C ports.

Hardware Interface: Ethernet | Supported Resolutions: up to 4K@30Hz

This handy adapter from Apple is a perfect option for those who are thinking about switching to a high-speed gigabit Ethernet network. It doesn’t take up much space and can be inserted into a Thunderbolt port on your Mac. This model is great for 10/100/1000BASE-T networks.

Hardware Interface: Ethernet | Supported Resolutions: up to 4K@30Hz

This Thunderbolt 3 network adapter from Anker can be used as a hub since it comes with 5 ports. It weighs no more than 2 oz, which makes it suitable for avid travelers. Despite being rather small, it features 3 USB 3.0 ports, a single HDMI port and an Ethernet port. The adapter comes with a special pouch, which protects it during transportation.

The only downside is that its USB 3.0 ports don’t support charging. However, they are perfect for connecting external drives and peripherals. By using them, you can quickly transfer files from an external hard drive to your desktop computer or laptop. You will be impressed with its speed. The HDMI port is quite reliable while the Ethernet cable ensures a stable connection.

Hardware Interface: Ethernet | Supported Resolutions: 4K@30Hz

This Thunderbolt network adapter has a nice design and is made of high-quality materials. It is sold in a special box and has a protective sleeve for safe transportation.

Besides, it doesn’t take up much space and comes with a variety of ports. You can easily take it with you anywhere since it’s quite durable and simple to use. Thanks to its high quality, it is a great value for the money. It has a solid build and will fit into your bag or backpack if you need to take it with you when you are traveling.

Hardware Interface: Ethernet | Supported Resolutions: up to 4K@30Hz

This adapter is compatible with the most recent computers, laptops and smartphones fitted with USB-C ports. With it, you can enjoy high connection speeds thanks to an integrated gigabit Ethernet port.

Being quite portable, it boasts a high-end aluminum exterior, which makes it a perfect match for your MacBook and other devices. As it supports Windows, macOS and Linux, you can quickly install it regardless of the OS you are using. The LED status lights show you whether there is an issue.

When selecting an adapter, pay attention to the cable length as long cables might clutter your workspace. What’s more, the length of a Thunderbolt to Ethernet cable might affect the quality of a signal as well, which is why it’s better to opt for shorter cables. Most Ethernet adapters that you can find on the market are several inches long.

Besides the cable length, you need to take into account the distance between an adapter port and your device, which is especially crucial to consider if you are using a rather short cable. If you have a desktop computer, you will need to use a 10-12 inch cable, while with a portable device, you can use a shorter cable.

Since there are many Ethernet adapters available on the market, you can quickly find a budget model that comes with a single port or an option with several ports that can be used as an adapter hub.

If you bought your device a long time ago, you might face some compatibility issues. Besides, some problems might arise with off-brand smartphones. Some adapters are compatible with only one platform, while other models are too outdated to support the newest versions of operating systems.

I have hand-picked the best Thunderbolt 3 to Ethernet adapters at different price ranges to help you find an option that suits you most.

When selecting an Ethernet adapter for travels, you need to consider its build quality. Since you will often need to connect it to a Thunderbolt 3 port, it might get damaged easily.

If you yank the cable with force or the connector falls from your desk, it might start malfunctioning. In this case, you might need to replace it in the nearest future.

Portable adapters usually have a reversible design. This way, you can quickly flip them over, which will save you some time. If your workspace is rather cramped, a reversible adapter is a great option to consider.

Those who don’t need to use a portable adapter will have more options to choose from. However, a Thunderbolt gigabit Ethernet adapter still should have solid build quality. The best models are quite thick. Some of them are protected with silicone, ABS plastic or PVC.