USB to RS232 adapter with FTDI chipset vs USB/RS232/TLL to RS232/485/TLL Multibus Converter

Overall winner: USB/RS232/TLL to RS232/485/TLL Multibus Converter

USB to RS232 adapter with FTDI chipset

USB to RS232 adapter with FTDI chipset

StarTech • ★ 4.1/5 • Mid-Range

USB to serial RS232 adapter converting USB to a null modem DB9 port. Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux. Customers praise plug-and-play setup and reliable FTDI FT232R chip

Pros

  • single cable design eliminates extra adapters
  • null modem RS232 DB9 port for DTE/DCE resolution
  • broad compatibility across USB 1.0/2.0 and major OSes
  • LED indicators show activity

Cons

  • no explicit mention of Windows/mac/linux driver support beyond general compatibility
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USB/RS232/TLL to RS232/485/TLL Multibus Converter

USB/RS232/TLL to RS232/485/TLL Multibus Converter

waveshare • ★ 3.8/5 • Budget

Industrial isolated converter supporting USB, RS232, TTL to RS232, 485, TTL with onboard power isolation and protection circuits. Built on FT232RL for reliable USB communication

Pros

  • industrial-grade isolation
  • supports multiple interfaces (USB, RS232, TTL, 485)
  • built-in over-voltage and over-current protection
  • FT232RL USB communication for compatibility

Cons

  • no protection between host terminal power supplies
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Head-to-Head

CriteriaWinner
Price waveshare
Durability waveshare
Versatility waveshare
User Reviews StarTech