i-tec C31METALGLAN — metal USB-C Gigabit adapter for modern laptops
USB-C1x RJ45 GigabitRTL8153Metal · Space Grey
The i-tec C31METALGLAN is a USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet adapter in a space-grey metal housing, adding a 10/100/1000 Mbps RJ45 port to laptops, tablets and desktops with USB-C, Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4 or USB4 ports. It suits MacBook and ultrabook users, IT technicians and anyone who needs a stable wired connection instead of Wi-Fi.
It is built around the Realtek RTL8153 controller, recognised natively by most operating systems. i-tec lists Windows 10/11, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS, Android and iPadOS. Wake-on-LAN, jumbo frames up to 9 KB, IEEE 802.3az energy saving and IPv4/IPv6 checksum offload are supported.
A 28 cm integrated cable lets the adapter sit on the desk rather than hang from the port, and the metal body dissipates heat during long transfers.
Before you order: This is the USB-C version. For computers with USB-A ports only, choose the i-tec U3METALGLAN. The USB-C port must carry data, not charging only.
What's in the Box
- i-tec C31METALGLAN adapter with integrated 28 cm USB-C cable
- Quick installation guide
- Network cable not included
What It Means in Practice
- Wired Gigabit for MacBooks and USB-C ultrabooks without an RJ45 port.
- Works in Thunderbolt 3/4 and USB4 ports as well as standard USB-C.
- Plug & play on most systems thanks to the RTL8153 chipset.
- Supports iPad and Android tablets with USB-C, per i-tec.
- Wake-on-LAN and energy-efficient Ethernet for managed laptops.
What Will Not Work
- USB-A only computers — use the U3METALGLAN instead.
- USB-C ports that only charge.
- Speeds above 1 Gbps.
- Charging pass-through, HDMI or extra USB ports.
Key Features
Realtek RTL8153
Proven Gigabit chip with built-in drivers in Windows, macOS, Linux and ChromeOS.
Metal housing
Space-grey metal body that matches modern laptops and dissipates heat.
Network features
Wake-on-LAN, 9 KB jumbo frames, 802.3az EEE, checksum offload.
Wide compatibility
USB-C, Thunderbolt 3/4 and USB4 ports; tablets included.
Technical Specifications
| Identification |
| Brand |
i-tec |
| Model / Part Number |
C31METALGLAN |
| EAN / GTIN |
8595611701870 |
| Product Type |
USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet adapter |
| Interface |
| Host Connector |
USB-C, integrated cable (compatible with Thunderbolt 3/4, USB4) |
| Controller |
Realtek RTL8153 |
| Network Port |
1x RJ45 |
| Speed |
10/100/1000 Mbps |
| Cable Length |
28 cm |
| Features |
| Wake-on-LAN |
Yes |
| Jumbo Frames |
Up to 9 KB |
| Energy Efficient Ethernet |
IEEE 802.3az |
| Offload |
IPv4/IPv6 checksum offload |
| Power |
USB bus powered |
| Software |
| OS Support (published) |
Windows 10/11, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS, Android, iPadOS |
| Drivers |
Plug & play; RTL8153 drivers downloadable from i-tec |
| Physical |
| Dimensions |
61 x 23 x 17 mm |
| Weight |
35 g |
| Housing |
Metal |
| Colour |
Space Grey |
| Operating Temperature |
10 to 40 °C |
| Warranty |
| Warranty |
1-Year Warranty (Singular) |
| Manufacturer Term |
2 years per i-tec, with lifetime technical support from i-tec — claims handled through Singular |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it work with an iPad?
i-tec lists iPadOS. iPads with a USB-C port support USB Ethernet adapters and show an Ethernet option in Settings when connected.
Will it work in a Thunderbolt 4 port?
Yes, i-tec lists Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 compatibility.
Do I need a driver?
Usually not. Windows 10/11, macOS, Linux and ChromeOS detect the RTL8153 automatically.
How does it differ from U3METALGLAN?
Same chipset and features; only the plug differs (USB-C here, USB-A on the U3METALGLAN).
Singular Expert Insight · Buyer's Guide
The C31METALGLAN combines a proven RTL8153 chip with a sturdy metal body and the broadest OS list in this group, including iPadOS and ChromeOS. If you need screens and charging too, our
USB-C docking stations may cover everything with one cable.
✓ Buy it if you have a USB-C, Thunderbolt or USB4 laptop or tablet and want a durable, driver-free Gigabit adapter.
✕ Skip it if your computer only has USB-A ports, or you need 2.5G.
→ Also consider i-tec U3METALGLAN (USB-A version) or DICOTA D32048 (with 100 W charging pass-through).
Not sure your USB-C port carries data? Send us the device model and we will check before you order.