2-in-1 laptops like the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga are amazing, but one of their disadvantages is that they're too thin for ethernet ports. This means that you're forced to use Wi-Fi — unless, of course, you get yourself a helpful ethernet adapter. Capable of transferring an ethernet connection through an open USB slot, these adapters are perfect for giving users access to the benefits of wired internet. There are tons of these adapters out there. Still, overall, we feel that the StarTech USB Ethernet Adapter is easily the best one thanks to its excellent and useful features, all while maintaining a reasonably low price.
Best Overall: StarTech USB Ethernet Adapter
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If you're looking for the best overall ethernet adapter for your Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga, then you can't beat StarTech's state-of-the-art ethernet adapter. It supports 10/100/1000 networks without any issues, but the best part about it is the special tech built within. It's got onboard Checksum, support for Large Send Offload, Jumbo Frames, and Crossover Detection and Auto-Correction. In layman's terms, these features improve connection stability, while also reducing the amount of CPU power that networking will draw on your device, making it perform better and also making its battery last longer, too. The adapter itself is also designed to be lightweight, making it an excellent choice for travelers who are on the move often.
Best Multipurpose: Anker 3-Port Ethernet Adapter
If an ethernet adapter that doubles as a USB port hub sounds useful to you, you'll love this adapter from Anker. Aside from supporting 10/100/1000 networks, it doesn't have any bonus features. On the other hand, though, it does give you three more USB-A ports to use for peripheral devices and accessories. This pick is an amazing way to get two products in one and make the most out of your money. The helpful green LED is also pretty beneficial, as it informs the user when things are working as they should be.
Best Mid-Range: AmazonBasics USB Ethernet Adapter
If you're looking for something that strikes a great balance between quality and pricing, check out Amazon's AmazonBasics adapter. It supports 10/100/1000 networks and has the CPU-assisting Checksum feature that the StarTech adapter does, but nothing else to speak of. However, the lack of more specialized features means the price increase isn't high, ultimately making it a balanced pick that will satisfy the average user.
Best Durability: Anker Aluminum Ethernet Adapter
If you want an adapter that can take a beating and keep on trucking, Anker's aluminum adapter will be the ideal pick. The sturdy metal frame can go through quite a bit before any noteworthy damage, and the device supports 10/100/1000 networks, allowing it to compete with other options. However, it is rather pricey, so only choose it if durability is a worry for you.
Best Compact: TP-Link Ethernet Adapter
If you want the best adapter out there in terms of compact size, look no further than this little guy. While it lacks quality features beyond basic 10/100/1000 network support, the USB cable does have the unique and nifty ability to fold up into the adapter's body. This means that it will essentially take up no space at all wherever you choose to store it.
Best Budget: Cable Matters USB Ethernet Adapter
If you simply want an adapter that supports 10/100/1000 networks and has nothing else, the Cable Matters USB Ethernet Adapter is your best bet. It only offers the bare minimum, but that may be fine for you if you're on a budget or just don't care about the specialties offered by the other adapters out there on the market.
Bottom line
Ethernet adapters are incredible tools that can give you the ability to use ethernet with your convertible laptops, as well as other devices that are too thin for a standard ethernet cable. They're not too expensive, and if you prefer wired internet over wireless, the money you do pay will be very well spent here.
There are tons of different ethernet adapters out there, and each of them offers something that someone will be pleased with. However, when push comes to shove, we feel that the StarTech USB Ethernet Adapter is the undisputed leader of the pack since it offers a ton of helpful and useful features built into it that will improve your overall experience with your device.
