New 10 GbE USB adapters are cooler, smaller, cheaper
A new generation of 10 Gigabit Ethernet USB adapters, powered by the RTL8159 chip, promises a cooler, smaller, and cheaper way to achieve high-speed networking. While these adapters offer a compelling alternative to bulkier Thunderbolt options, their full 10 Gbps potential is often hampered by the bewildering array of USB standards and inadequate port bandwidth on many modern machines. The Hacker News discussion delves into the real-world implications of USB's fragmented ecosystem and explores alternative implementations of this promising new chip.
The Lowdown
For years, achieving 10 Gigabit Ethernet (GbE) on laptops typically meant investing in expensive, large, and heat-generating Thunderbolt adapters. This landscape is changing with the advent of new RTL8159-based 10 GbE USB 3.2 adapters, which are notably cooler, smaller, and significantly more affordable.
- The new WisdPi 10G USB adapter costs about $80, less than half the price of comparable Thunderbolt models.
- Testing revealed that full 10 Gbps speeds (around 9.5 Gbps) were only achieved on a desktop PC equipped with a USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 (20 Gbps) port.
- Other systems with 10 Gbps USB ports (like USB 3.1 Gen 2 or USB 3.2 Gen 2x1) typically saw speeds of 6-7 Gbps.
- The complex and inconsistent naming conventions of USB standards (e.g., "USB 3.0" for various 3.x speeds) make it challenging for users to determine their port's actual capabilities.
- While Macs generally recognized the adapter without extra drivers, Windows systems often required a Realtek driver installation.
- The adapter exhibited low power consumption (around 0.86W) and surprisingly cool operation, reaching only 42.5°C during sustained use, a significant improvement over older, hotter 10G chipsets.
- For users not strictly needing 10 Gbps, 2.5 Gbps or 5 Gbps USB adapters still offer better value.
In conclusion, these new 10 GbE USB adapters represent a welcome step forward in accessible high-speed networking, offering a more compact and economical solution. However, users must navigate the murky waters of USB port specifications to ensure they can fully leverage the adapter's capabilities, making system compatibility a primary concern.
The Gossip
USB Quandaries and Confusion
Commenters expressed frustration over the confusing landscape of USB standards and naming conventions, noting that many laptop manufacturers seemingly bypassed USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 in favor of USB4/Thunderbolt 4. This fragmentation makes it difficult for users to determine their actual port capabilities, directly impacting the performance of these new 10 GbE adapters.
Alternate Adapter Avenues
The discussion highlighted the versatility of the new RTL8159 chip, with users pointing out its availability in various form factors beyond the reviewed USB dongle. This includes a newly announced Framework expansion card and existing PCIe versions, showcasing that the technology is making its way into different hardware ecosystems for broader adoption.
Power and Performance Predicaments
Users questioned additional functionalities, such as the possibility of powering laptops via PoE++ through these adapters, indicating interest in comprehensive single-cable solutions. One commenter also shared an experience with a 5 Gbps adapter running significantly hotter on one MacBook model compared to another, suggesting that thermal performance might vary based on specific device interactions or workloads, despite the reviewed 10 GbE adapter's cooler operation.
Port Protocols and Ponderings
The conversation touched upon the practical aspects of Ethernet standards, specifically the continued inclusion of 10/100 Mbps support in new NICs. Commenters noted that this backward compatibility is valuable for low-cost devices and enables power-saving modes, ensuring broader interoperability with legacy network infrastructure.