If you’re in the market for a new laptop, you might notice that some models no longer come with an Ethernet port. This trend is becoming increasingly common, and there’s a valid reason behind it. As laptops strive for thinner and sleeker designs, the traditional RJ45 connector, which is used for Ethernet connections, poses a challenge due to its larger size.
The RJ45 connector, named after the Ethernet port it serves, has remained largely unchanged since its introduction in 1991. While advancements have been made in other aspects of networking technology, the physical design of the RJ45 connection has remained the same.
A huge connector that bothers a lot
Especially in slim and portable laptops, the RJ45 female port, found on laptops and motherboards, presents physical dimensions that pose challenges for manufacturers. The connector measures approximately 13.1 mm in height and 16.26 mm in width. While it may seem compact, it requires additional space due to its connection pins and structural requirements.
Standard laptops, excluding gaming models, typically have a thickness of around 20 mm. Although the RJ45 connector can fit in terms of height, its larger structure increases the laptop’s thickness to approximately 25 mm.
To address this issue, laptop manufacturers are gradually phasing out the RJ45 connector in favor of alternative options. One such alternative is the USB-C port, which offers Ethernet compatibility. USB-C ports have standard dimensions of approximately 8.8 mm in width and 3 mm in height, making them significantly smaller than the RJ45 connector.
It’s worth noting that laptops also feature other connectors like USB-A, HDMI, and DisplayPort. USB-A female ports measure around 14.5 mm in width and 7.2 mm in height, while HDMI sockets have a width of 14 mm and a height of 6 mm. DisplayPort female ports, on the other hand, measure approximately 16.1 mm in width and 4.76 mm in height. These connectors are generally two to three times smaller than the RJ45 connector, making them more compatible with the design requirements of laptop manufacturers.
However, it’s common to find an Ethernet port on gaming laptops. These models tend to be thicker, around 30 mm, to accommodate components like the processor heatsink and graphics card, leaving ample space for the inclusion of an Ethernet connection port.
If my laptop doesn’t have an Ethernet port, what do I do?
Laptops without an Ethernet port rely on wireless connectivity via WiFi for internet access. However, if you need a wired connection, you can easily resolve this issue by using an adapter. Numerous solutions are available on Amazon to cater to different needs, although it is uncommon to find a laptop without a USB-C port nowadays. Here are some interesting options:
1. UGREEN adapter (€15.99): This simple USB-C adapter offers Gigabit Ethernet connectivity and is compatible with Windows, MacOS, and Raspberry Pi.
2. TP-Link UE300 (€12.99): TP-Link is a well-known brand in the networking industry. This adapter provides a straightforward solution with a USB-A connector, in case your laptop lacks a USB-C port.
3. Ciin adapter (€7.28): This sleek USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet adapter is another alternative. However, be cautious as they also offer a 100 Mbps Ethernet adapter.
4. Baseus adapter (€8.78): If you’re seeking an economical solution with an attractive design, this USB-A adapter with a Gigabit Ethernet port is worth considering.
5. Anker Ethernet 2.5G (€39.99): For those seeking higher internet connection speeds and advanced capabilities, this USB-C adapter features a 2.5G Ethernet port.
6. UGREEN USB-C Hub (€45.99): Why limit yourself to just adding an Ethernet port? This hub offers multiple USB ports, an HDMI port, a card reader, and a Gigabit Ethernet port, providing a comprehensive solution.
With these adapters and hubs, you can easily connect your laptop to a wired network and enjoy stable and reliable internet access, regardless of the absence of an Ethernet port.
