How Did They Make It This Small??
Why It Matters
The adapter demonstrates that affordable 10 Gbps Ethernet is possible via USB‑C, but only on laptops with the proper USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 ports, influencing upgrade decisions for high‑performance workstations.
Key Takeaways
- •USB‑C 10 Gbps Ethernet adapter costs about $80, cheaper than Thunderbolt.
- •Full 10 Gbps achieved only on USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 compatible ports.
- •Windows and macOS drivers affect real‑world speeds, showing 6‑9 Gbps.
- •Power draw stays under 1 W, temperature peaks at ~42 °C.
- •10 Gbps adapters still pricey; 5 Gbps alternatives offer better value.
Summary
Jeff Geerling reviews a new USB‑C 10 Gbps Ethernet adapter from WisdPi, positioning it as a smaller, cheaper alternative to traditional Thunderbolt dongles for high‑speed networking on laptops.
Testing on a Framework laptop with USB 3.2 Gen 2, a MacBook Pro, and a PC with a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 20 Gbps port, he finds that real‑world throughput ranges from 6 Gbps to 9.5 Gbps depending on the host’s USB controller and driver support. Windows required a newer Realtek driver, while macOS displayed misleading link‑speed labels.
The adapter hit the advertised 10 Gbps (9.5 Gbps after overhead) only on the 20 Gbps USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 port; on other systems it delivered 5‑6 Gbps. Power consumption stayed below 1 W and temperatures peaked at 42 °C, a stark contrast to hotter Aquantia‑based models.
For professionals with 10 Gbps infrastructure, the device offers a viable, portable solution—provided the laptop supports the requisite USB spec. Otherwise, 2.5 Gbps or 5 Gbps adapters remain more cost‑effective, highlighting the importance of matching hardware capabilities to network needs.
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