TRENDnet TU3-ETG — wired Gigabit for laptops and PCs with a USB-A port
USB 3.0 Type-A1x RJ45 GigabitBus poweredNintendo Switch
The TRENDnet TU3-ETG is a USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet adapter that turns a free USB Type-A port into a 10/100/1000 Mbps RJ45 network port. It is meant for laptops without a network socket, desktops whose onboard LAN has failed, and anyone who wants a stable wired connection instead of Wi-Fi for video calls, large downloads or remote work.
The adapter has a short integrated cable (about 13 cm), takes its power from the USB port and needs no external supply. TRENDnet lists Windows 11, 10, 8.1 and 7, macOS 10.6 to 12, and Nintendo Switch in docked mode. The current hardware version is v3.0R, which TRENDnet rates at 0.95 W maximum power draw.
Before you order: Full Gigabit speed needs a USB 3.0 (blue or SS-marked) port. On a USB 2.0 port the adapter still works, but throughput is limited by USB 2.0 to well below 1 Gbps. For USB-C only laptops, choose the TUC-ETG instead.
What's in the Box
- TRENDnet TU3-ETG USB 3.0 to Gigabit Ethernet adapter (integrated cable)
- Quick Installation Guide
- Network cable not included
What It Means in Practice
- Gives a thin laptop without an RJ45 socket a reliable wired connection at the office desk.
- Replaces a failed onboard network port on a desktop without opening the case.
- Wired Ethernet is usually more stable than Wi-Fi for Teams/Zoom calls, gaming and large file transfers.
- Useful for IT staff as a spare adapter for configuring switches, routers and firewalls.
- On the Nintendo Switch dock it provides wired online play instead of Wi-Fi.
- Wake-on-LAN from suspend is supported, depending on the host computer.
What Will Not Work
- USB-C only laptops (e.g. recent MacBooks) without a USB-A port or a USB-C to USB-A adapter.
- Speeds above 1 Gbps — this is not a 2.5G adapter.
- Full Gigabit speed on a USB 2.0 port.
- Charging or video output — it provides a network port only.
- Linux is not in TRENDnet's published OS list.
Key Features
Plug in and connect
Integrated 13 cm USB cable keeps the adapter from stressing the laptop port, with no external power needed.
Gigabit wired speed
10/100/1000 Mbps with IEEE 802.3x flow control; up to 2 Gbps in full duplex as rated by TRENDnet.
Energy saving
IEEE 802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet and a 0.95 W maximum draw on the v3 hardware.
Broad OS support
Windows 11/10/8.1/7, macOS 10.6–12 and Nintendo Switch listed by TRENDnet.
Technical Specifications
| Identification |
| Brand |
TRENDnet |
| Model / Part Number |
TU3-ETG |
| EAN / GTIN |
0710931302387 |
| Hardware Version |
v3.0R (current) |
| Interface |
| Host Connector |
USB 3.0 Type-A (backward compatible with USB 2.0/1.1) |
| Network Port |
1x RJ45 |
| Speed |
10/100/1000 Mbps (up to 2 Gbps full duplex) |
| Cable |
Integrated, approx. 130 mm |
| Features |
| Wake-on-LAN |
Yes (from suspend) |
| Flow Control |
IEEE 802.3x |
| Energy Efficient Ethernet |
IEEE 802.3az |
| Power |
USB bus powered, max 0.95 W |
| Software |
| OS Support (published) |
Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 7; macOS 10.6–10.15, 11, 12; Nintendo Switch |
| Driver |
Available from TRENDnet support for Windows |
| Physical |
| Dimensions |
73 x 24 x 14 mm |
| Weight |
25 g |
| Warranty |
| Warranty |
1-Year Warranty (Singular) |
| Manufacturer Term |
2-year limited warranty per TRENDnet (UK/EU datasheet) — claims handled through Singular |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it need a driver?
Windows 10/11 usually install it automatically. TRENDnet provides Windows drivers on its support page in case the system does not detect it.
Will it work on a USB-C port?
Only with a USB-C to USB-A adapter. For USB-C laptops the TRENDnet TUC-ETG plugs in directly and is the simpler option.
Why do I only get about 300 Mbps?
The most common reason is a USB 2.0 port. Use a USB 3.0 port (usually blue or marked SS), a Gigabit switch port and a Cat5e or better cable.
Can I use it with a docking station?
Yes, it works in a USB-A port on a dock or hub, but speed then depends on the dock's USB bandwidth and other connected devices.
Singular Expert Insight · Buyer's Guide
The TU3-ETG is a dependable, small adapter from a networking brand, and the integrated cable is kinder to laptop ports than rigid plug-in dongles. If you also need extra USB ports, HDMI or charging on the same desk, one of our
docking stations may replace several adapters at once.
✓ Buy it if your laptop or PC has a USB-A 3.0 port and you want a stable wired Gigabit connection.
✕ Skip it if your laptop has USB-C ports only, or you need 2.5G speeds.
→ Also consider TRENDnet TUC-ETG for USB-C, or i-tec U3METALGLAN for a metal-housed USB-A adapter.
Not sure which adapter fits your laptop? Send us the model and we will confirm the right port type before you order.