The Nintendo Switch is a popular gaming device with hundreds of games available. However, it requires a network that can deliver a lag-free and smooth internet connection. Your home Wi-Fi may not be able to provide this, which is where a Nintendo Switch Ethernet Adapter comes in.
To achieve a stable connection, you will need to use Ethernet LAN to connect directly to the switch. However, most switches do not have ports for this, which is why you need an adapter.
There are many different Nintendo Switch Ethernet Adapters on the market, so it can be difficult to know which one to choose. In this article, we will provide you with a guide on the best adapters on the market, as well as the features that you should consider when making a purchase.
8 Best Nintendo Switch Ethernet Adapters
1. Nintendo Switch Wired Ethernet Internet LAN Adapters By HORI
One of the best LAN adapters recommended by Nintendo is the HORI Nintendo Switch Wired Internet LAN Adapter. It is durable and provides high-speed internet. If you have a Nintendo Switch, you can connect to your router through an Ethernet cable using this adapter. This will provide you with high-speed internet. Additionally, the adapter supports 10, 100, and 1000 ethernet quality. It also offers download speeds of up to 1 Gbps.
The Nintendo Switch is a gaming console, so if you want to experience the best gaming experience, you should get this adapter. It offers a lag-free wired Wi-Fi connection. The materials used in making this adapter are of high quality. This adapter is Nintendo licensed, which means it is the best adapter you can use with the Switch. Many people who have used this adapter have reported that it improves the signal quality. If you are looking for an adapter that will help you improve your gaming experience, this is the one for you. It is the most ideal adapter for the Nintendo Switch dock.
- Pros:
- Reliable
- Fast data connection
- Connects up to 16 devices to a router
- Lag-free experience
- 3 status reporting LEDs
- Guaranteed switch compatibility
- Cons:
- Expensive
2. UGREEN Ethernet Adapters USB 2.0
The UGREEN Ethernet adapter is a cost-effective option that is compatible with a wide range of devices, including Switch, Windows, Mac, and Linux. The adapter features an ASIX AX88772 chipset that provides stable internet connectivity, and it also has LED indicators that keep tabs on the active link.
In addition to full-duplex support with excellent flow control, the adapter also supports duplex operation with backpressure operation. Backpressure is a technique that helps to control the flow of data for faster connections.
- Pros:
- Simple to install
- Connects up to 16 devices to the router
- Excellent range of compatibility
- Reliable ethernet performance
- Available in two color variations
- Cons:
- Uses a USB 2.0 plug, which is an older type
- Does not support ARM Windows
3. UGREEN Ethernet Adapter USB 3.0
The UGREEN Ethernet Adapter USB 3.0 is one of the highest rated adapters on the market, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5. It is an upgraded version of the UGREEN plug USB 2.0. While the predecessor was exclusive to the Switch gaming platform, this adapter is not. It still supports the Switch, but it also supports Windows, Linux, and Mac OS. In terms of compatibility, it is the best adapter on the market. It is compatible with 10BASE-T, 100BASE-T, and 1000BASE-T. It also doubles as a USB hub, with three USB 3.0 ports. It supports a maximum speed of 1000 Mbps and has the AX88179 chipset, which provides a fast and stable internet connection. Overall, this is another great Ethernet adapter.
- Pros
- USB 3.0 connectivity
- Maximum speed of 1000 Mbps
- Supports multiple platforms
- Can be used as a USB 3.0 hub
- Easy to install
- Cons
- Short cable
- More expensive than the predecessor
4. Techkey Ethernet Adapter USB 3.0
The Techkey Ethernet Adapter USB 3.0 has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. It is one of the best ethernet adapters that can be used with a Nintendo Switch. The adapter is a 3.0 USB adapter that is compatible with the Switch gaming platform. It can also be used with computers, laptops, ultrabooks, MacBooks, and tablets. In addition, the adapter supports routers, modems, and switches. The adapter supports Windows, Linux, Mac OS, and the new Chrome OS. It also has backward compatibility with USB 2.0 and 1.1.
The adapter is able to connect to Wi-Fi in dead zones, which is useful for those who experience Wi-Fi dead zones. The adapter can be used for HD video streaming, large file transfers, and software upgrade downloads. The adapter can support 10, 100, and 1000 Mbps gigabit networks through USB 3.0. It can achieve speeds of up to 5 Gbps. The adapter is not compatible with Wii U, Android, or Windows RT.
- Pros:
- Features 3.0 USB connectivity
- Supports speeds up to 1000 Mbps
- Wide range of compatibility
- Affordable price
- Can be used for activities other than gaming
- Cons:
- Short cable
- Not compatible with a few platforms
5. SMAYS Ethernet Adapter USB 2.0
The SMAYS adapter is a cost-effective ethernet adapter that supports a maximum bandwidth of 100 Mbps. It features a USB 2.0 interface, which is less capable than USB 3.0 connectivity, but still provides a faster and more reliable connection than a standard Wi-Fi adapter. The adapter is lightweight and compact, making it easy to transport and use. It is also not a gigabit adapter, which means it cannot reach the same speeds as some other ethernet adapters.
The SMAYS adapter is compatible with the Nintendo Switch and Wii U, as well as Windows and Mac OS. It is also compatible with 10BASE-T, 100BASE-T, and 1000BASE-T networks.
- The SMAYS adapter has several advantages, including:
- Lightweight and compact design
- Suitable for the Nintendo Switch and Wii U
- Cost-effective
- Fast and reliable internet connection
- Stable internet connection
- Supports RJ45 cables
- However, the SMAYS adapter also has some disadvantages, including:
- Does not feature USB 3.0
- Limited speed compared to other adapters
6. AmazonBasics USB 3.0 Adapter
The AmazonBasics USB 3.0 Adapter is another top-rated adapter for the Switch. It features USB 3.0 with low power consumption, and it has an RJ45 connector, which means it can be used with a wide range of electronic devices. The AmazonBasics USB 3.0 Adapter also supports the Checksum Offload Engine for improved data transfer speeds. With a maximum speed of 1000 Mbps, it offers fast and efficient performance at an affordable price.
The adapter supports 10, 100, and 1000 gigabit Ethernet connections, and it also supports IPV4/IPv6. It is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Chrome OS, but it does not support Android or Windows RT.
- Pros:
- Supports USB 3.0
- Compatible with multiple platforms
- Has a Checksum Offload Engine for fast data transfer
- Affordable
- Efficient with speeds up to 1000 Mbps
- Cons:
- Not compatible with Android or Windows RT
- Occasional driver installation issues
7. Plugable USB To Ethernet Adapter, USB 3.0 To Gigabit Ethernet
This is another USB 3.0 adapter. It is compatible with Windows, Chrome OS, and Nintendo Switch. Therefore, if one wishes to engage in online gaming or video conferencing, this adapter will provide the best experience. The ASUS AX88179 is utilized in this adapter, which provides 10/100/1000 Mbps of speed to all USB 2.0 and 3.0 connections. One disadvantage of this adapter is that it does not support Mac OS or Android.
Most individuals are looking for a power-efficient adapter, and this adapter is one of them. Furthermore, it features a Checksum that enhances CPU speed. It is ideal when utilized with Nintendo Switch Ethernet Adapters since it provides latency-free online gaming.
- Advantages
- Reliable in terms of data connection
- A Point of Entry for network security
- Connects up to 16 devices to the router
- Relatively affordable
- Made with high-quality materials
- Disadvantages
- Installation takes time
8. USB Ethernet Adapter, CableCreation USB 3.0 To 10/100/1000 Gigabit Wired LAN Network Adapter
The adapter is one of the best in terms of performance as it uses the Realtek RTL8153 chip, which provides faster connections to your device. One unique feature of this adapter is that it can connect your device to Wi-Fi, which is an advantage in areas where the router cannot reach.
After the initial installation, you are guaranteed fast connections.
The adapter can be used with Windows 7, XP, Vista, Mac, and Linux devices via an Ethernet cable. However, it is not compatible with Windows RT and Android devices. The adapter is a simple plug-and-play device with a maximum speed of 1000 Mbps. However, it is also compatible with 10 and 100 speeds. Additionally, it has full and half-duplex control systems, which means that some ports can both send and receive data.
- Pros:
- Portable
- Affordable
- Excellent performance
- Three status LEDs
- Point of Entry Filter for network security
- Can connect up to 16 devices to a router
- Cons:
- Overheating issues
What to Consider When Shopping For Nintendo Switch Ethernet Adapters
Ethernet adapters are generally similar in design and construction, but the quality of the components and features vary widely. The following are some of the most important features to consider when choosing an Ethernet adapter for your Nintendo Switch:
- Ethernet port type: Most Ethernet adapters use an RJ45 port, also known as a 45-pin connector. This is the most common type of Ethernet port and is compatible with most cables. However, some adapters may use other types of ports, such as CAT5 or CAT6. It is important to make sure that the adapter you choose is compatible with the cables you have.
- Number of ports: Most Ethernet adapters have a minimum of two ports: a USB port and an Ethernet port. However, some adapters may have more than two ports, such as additional USB ports or other types of connection ports. This can be useful if you have multiple devices that you want to connect to your Switch.
- Compatibility: When choosing an Ethernet adapter for your Switch, it is important to consider the compatibility of the adapter with other devices. For example, you may want to choose an adapter that is compatible with your desktop computer or laptop. It is also important to consider the operating system (OS) that you are using. Some Ethernet adapters are only compatible with specific OSes.
- Cost: Ethernet adapters are generally inexpensive, with many models available for under $30. However, some newer or more advanced models may cost more. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping for an Ethernet adapter.
- Energy efficiency: Some Ethernet adapters are more energy-efficient than others. This can be a significant factor if you are concerned about the environmental impact of your gaming habits. Energy-efficient adapters can help to reduce your power consumption, which can save you money and help to protect the environment.
- Data offloading: Some Ethernet adapters can offload data processing tasks from the CPU, which can improve performance. This can be especially helpful if you are using your Switch for gaming or other bandwidth-intensive tasks.
- Installation: The installation process for Ethernet adapters can vary depending on the specific adapter. It is important to read the instructions carefully before you begin the installation process.
- Other features: There are a number of other features that you may want to consider when choosing an Ethernet adapter for your Switch. These include:
- Wake-on-LAN: This feature allows you to turn on your Switch remotely.
- Suspend mode: This feature allows you to put your Switch into sleep mode to conserve power.
- Full-duplex and half-duplex: Full-duplex ports can send and receive data simultaneously, while half-duplex ports can only send or receive data at a time.
- Crossover detection: This feature allows you to connect two devices using a single Ethernet cable.
- Auto-correction: This feature automatically corrects the connection if the hub or switch is miswired.
It is important to understand the different features of Ethernet adapters before you make a purchase. By considering the factors listed above, you can choose the best Ethernet adapter for your Nintendo Switch.
How to Connect a Switch to an Ethernet Port
- The following steps should be followed to connect your switch to the port. These guidelines are general, but they are specific to the Nintendo Switch. It is important to note that the console must be in TV mode in order to connect online using a wired connection.
- Step 1: Connect the Nintendo Switch to a LAN through an Ethernet adapter. You can use the Nintendo Switch Wired Internet LAN Adapter by HORI or the UGREEN 2.0 USB Ethernet Adapter. Insert the LAN cable into the terminal of the adapter, and then plug the USB port of the adapter into the dock of the Nintendo Switch.
- Step 2: Connect the LAN cable to the router or gateway.
- Step 3: After connecting the LAN, place the Nintendo Switch into the Nintendo Switch dock.
- Step 4: On the Nintendo Switch console, select System Settings from the HOME Menu screen.
- Step 5: Select Internet, and then select Internet Settings.
- Step 6: Select the Wired Connection option.
- Step 7: Select the Connect to the Internet via Wired Connection option.
- Step 8: The Nintendo Switch will connect to the internet through a wired connection. It will first test the internet connection, and then you will need to click the OK button.
Once the Nintendo Switch is connected to the internet, you will be able to operate it smoothly.
Why is My Nintendo Switch Ethernet Adapters Sometimes Not Working?
It is possible that the Wi-Fi is working, but the Ethernet adapter is not. There are a few reasons why this may be occurring:
First, the Switch tablet must be docked in the base station in order to use a wired connection. If the tablet is not docked, the Switch will not be able to access the wired connection.
Second, there is no wireless connection between the tablet and the base station. When docked in the base station, there is no Wi-Fi module inside the base station. Only the Switch tablet connects to the Wi-Fi direct.
Steps to Fix Ethernet Not Working:
There are a few simple steps that you can follow to resolve the issue of your Ethernet not working:
- Open the lid on the back of the base station and unplug the power adapter cable.
- Make sure that the Ethernet cable is connected to your router.
- Plug the Ethernet cable into your USB-to-Ethernet adapter.
- Plug the USB-to-Ethernet adapter into the base station.
- Re-plug the power adapter cable into the base station.
- Place the Switch tablet into the base station and turn on your TV.
- Go to Settings > Internet and test the connection.
If the information says Wired Connection, then you have successfully resolved the issue. You should expect to see the connection speed displayed shortly. If the issue persists, repeat the process and make sure that all of the cables are connected properly.
FAQs – Frequently Ask Questions
Can you use any of the Ethernet adapters for the switch?
It is possible to utilize an Ethernet adapter with the Nintendo Switch. However, specific adapters are recommended for some devices, such as the Nintendo Switch. This is the most effective adapter for the Nintendo Switch, providing users with the best possible experience.
How is a wired connection better than a wireless connection?
Wired connections are typically faster than wireless connections, as there is no interference from unnecessary traffic. Additionally, the two devices are directly connected, which reduces the amount of latency.
How to use a LAN adapter With a Switch?
To use a LAN adapter with a Switch, insert the LAN adapter into a USB port on the Switch dock. Then, connect one end of an Ethernet cable to the LAN adapter and the other end to the network port on your router. Alternatively, you can connect the Ethernet cable to your modem. Once the connection is complete, the Switch will be able to access the internet.
Does Nintendo switch support gigabit Ethernet?
The Nintendo Switch supports Gigabit Ethernet. However, some adapters may not support this, and as a result, they may be limited to lower speeds.
What is the Nintendo switch LAN adapter?
A Nintendo Switch LAN adapter is a device that allows the Switch to connect to the internet via a wired connection. This can be done either through a router or a modem. The Switch requires a reliable internet connection for optimal gaming performance, but the built-in Wi-Fi adapter may not be able to provide the necessary bandwidth for a smooth gaming experience. In these cases, an adapter can be used to connect the Switch directly to the router or gateway, providing a more stable and reliable connection.
Final Recap
The selection of a product from an abundant array of options can be a daunting task. The selection of a suitable adapter from the many available in the market is no exception. A thorough research and adherence to the buying guides will assist in the acquisition of the optimum LAN adapter. This process is dependent upon the switch requirements of the user. After reading the reviews, it is hoped that the reader will have a greater understanding of the adapters and will be able to make an informed decision on which adapter to purchase. The breakdown is comprehensive and will allow the reader to make a decision that is best suited for their needs.