Monoprice is known for its audio, networking and Mac accessories that hit the market with a lower cost than many of its competitors. The company’s latest release fits into the latter of the categories, and looks to bring the latest and greatest network connectivity to your machine over a USB-C interface. Monoprice’s new Thunderbolt 3 10G Ethernet Adapter launches with an aluminum, bus-powered design and more. Head below for the full scoop.
Entering the market in the late 2000’s, 10G Ethernet has just started becoming something everyday consumers are able to take advantage of in the past few years. With USB-C and the debut of Thunderbolt 3, manufactures have been able to take advantage of the high speed port to bring the networking standard to previously released machines.
Monoprice’s Thunderbolt 3 Adapter takes the form of a pretty unassuming black, rectangular box. On one side you’ll find a single RJ45 Ethernet jack, while on the other there’s a USB-C port. The adapter is bus-powered, meaning you don’t need an additional power source which can be handled by your MacBook. It also features an all-aluminum casing, which helps with heat dissipation and also lends it to being a solid option for use on-the-go.
While 10G connectivity is the main selling point, it’s also backwards compatible. So you’ll be able to take advantage of speeds anywhere up to 10G. The adapter is also said to be ready to go out of the box; as in, not requiring any additional drivers to bolster your machine’s networking capabilities.
In terms of compatibility, you’re looking at both Mac OS and Windows support. Included alongside the adapter itself is a Thunderbolt 3-enabled USB-C cable. Monoprice’s new Thunderbolt 3 10G Ethernet Adapter is now available for purchase. Adding it into your arsenal of accessories will run you $179.99, a aligning itself with other available options.
Electronicsforward’ Take
10 Gigabit Ethernet isn’t something that everyone needs for their workflows. But like many, I was beyond thrilled when Apple noted that the newest Mac mini would have an optional 10G upgrade available. In the past few months since the mini’s release, I’ve been loving the speeds and wishing my MacBook Pro was equally as well-equipped.
Monoprice’s Thunderbolt 3 Adapter does step in to fill the craving, but its price leaves a lot to be desired. As we said before, USB-C 10G Ethernet adapters are nothing new. But where Monoprice’s entry into the category could have stood out is with a more appealing price tag.
Sure, it’s $10 less than Akitio’s option. But at launch, that $10 difference most likely isn’t worth the uncertainty of knowing how Monoprice’s alternative will perform. I personally would have loved to see it enter under $150, though that isn’t to say that the adapter isn’t worth its price tag.
Monoprice is a trusted brand with a solid reputation for its products. Its other networking gear, especially the SlimRun Ethernet cables are some of the best out there. So at the end of the day, the $180 price is most likely justified; or at least doesn’t seem like we’re being overcharged.
Do you find Monoprice’s latest Mac accessory to be a compelling option? Let us know in the comments below.
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