PickSmartly Review

Best Cable Matters Serial Cables in 2026

9.9 PM Score
Products Evaluated
13
Reviews Analyzed
44,935
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In an era dominated by high-speed USB-C and Thunderbolt connections, serial cables remain the indispensable backbone of industrial, networking, and legacy computing environments. Whether you are interfacing with a programmable logic controller (PLC) on a factory floor, configuring a high-end Cisco router via a console port, or connecting to specialized scientific instrumentation, the reliability of your serial connection is non-negotiable. A single pin misalignment or a poorly shielded conductor can lead to data corruption, interrupted configuration sessions, or complete hardware communication failure. This guide is designed to help you navigate the technical nuances of serial cabling to ensure your hardware remains connected and functional.

Editor's Choice

Our Top Picks for Cable Matters Serial Cables

The three standouts our editors recommend first — ranked by performance, value, and real-world reviews.

Cable Matters 3-Pack 90 Degree Right Angle SATA Cable 18 Inches (6.0 Gbps SATA III Cable, SATA Cable for SSD, SATA SSD Cable, SATA 3 Cables) Black

Cable Matters Right Angle SATA III 3-Pack

4.7 (16,360 ratings)
CABLE MATTERS 104008-BLK-18X3 8.25 X 5.90 X 0.70 Inches

Reviews for CABLE MATTERS (PM Score)

9.9 PM Score
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  • Motherboard mate 90 degree SATA III cable is specifically designed to connect motherboards and host controllers to internal Serial ATA hard drives and DVD drives
  • Blazing fast SATA III speeds up to 6 Gbps deliver superior performance for a custom gaming or RAID configuration. Provides secure connections for fast and reliable file transfers. Backwards compatible with SATA I, II, III hard drives
  • Latching right angle connector is an indispensable tool for securing difficult to reach connections in small cases. Low profile SATA data cable has a flexible jacket to allow an efficient and organized installation in tight computer cases. Bright cerise colored cable provides easy identification when troubleshooting
  • Cost-effective 3 pack SATA cables provides spare or replacement hard drive cable for a last minute installation or to fix troublesome connection problems
  • Compatible with popular SATA equipped devices such as: 24x DVD-RW Serial-ATA Internal Optical Drive, Crucial MX100 BX100 MX200 SATA Solid State Drive, Kingston240GB SSD V300 SATA 3 Solid State Drive, LG Electronics 14x Internal BDXL Blu-Ray Burner Rewriter, Samsung 850 EVO SSD 850 Pro SSD, Seagate 3TB Desktop HDD SATA 6Gb/s 3.5-Inch Internal Bare Drive, Extreme PRO 240GB, SIIG DP SATA 4-Port Hybrid PCIe, WD Black Performance Desktop Hard Drive, WD Green Internal Hard Drive
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Cable Matters 9.95 Yes Yes Yes

The bright cerise colored jacket immediately catches your eye, making it impossible to miss these cables when you are hunting through a dark, cramped PC chassis. These Cable Matters SATA III cables are a lifesaver for small-form-factor builds where standard straight connectors just won't fit. The 90-degree right angle design allows you to tuck your SSDs or hard drives into tight corners without straining the ports, while the latching mechanism ensures your data connection stays rock solid. I was impressed by how the flexible jacket allows for much cleaner cable management during installation. Whether you are upgrading to a Samsung EVO or a WD Black drive, these 6 Gbps cables provide the high-speed performance needed for modern gaming or RAID setups without breaking the bank.

What We Like
90 degree angle
6 Gbps speeds
Latching connectors
Flexible cable jacket
Bright cerise color
#2

Cable Matters 3-Pack 90 Degree Right Angle SATA Cable 18 Inches (6.0 Gbps SATA III Cable, SATA Cable for SSD, SATA SSD Cable, SATA 3 Cables) Red

Cable Matters 90 Degree SATA III Cable 3-Pack

4.7 (16,334 ratings)
CABLE MATTERS 104008-18X3 5.00 X 4.50 X 1.10 Inches 0.09 Pounds

Reviews for CABLE MATTERS (PM Score)

9.9 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Motherboard mate 90 degree SATA III cable is specifically designed to connect motherboards and host controllers to internal Serial ATA hard drives and DVD drives
  • Blazing fast SATA III speeds up to 6 Gbps deliver superior performance for a custom gaming or RAID configuration. Provides secure connections for fast and reliable file transfers. Backwards compatible with SATA I, II, III hard drives
  • Latching right angle connector is an indispensable tool for securing difficult to reach connections in small cases. Low profile SATA data cable has a flexible jacket to allow an efficient and organized installation in tight computer cases. Bright cerise colored cable provides easy identification when troubleshooting
  • Cost-effective 3 pack SATA cables provides spare or replacement hard drive cable for a last minute installation or to fix troublesome connection problems
  • Compatible with popular SATA equipped devices such as: 24x DVD-RW Serial-ATA Internal Optical Drive, Crucial MX100 BX100 MX200 SATA Solid State Drive, Kingston240GB SSD V300 SATA 3 Solid State Drive, LG Electronics 14x Internal BDXL Blu-Ray Burner Rewriter, Samsung 850 EVO SSD 850 Pro SSD, Seagate 3TB Desktop HDD SATA 6Gb/s 3.5-Inch Internal Bare Drive, Extreme PRO 240GB, SIIG DP SATA 4-Port Hybrid PCIe, WD Black Performance Desktop Hard Drive, WD Green Internal Hard Drive
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Cable Matters 9.95 Yes Yes Yes

Small form factor builders and RAID enthusiasts will find these Cable Matters right-angle cables to be absolute lifesavers for cable management. If you are struggling to cram an SSD or a high-capacity HDD into a cramped chassis, the 90-degree motherboard mate design is a total game-changer. These 18-inch cables support blazing fast 6 Gbps speeds, making them perfect for high-performance Samsung or WD Black drives. I particularly like the bright cerise color. It makes identifying specific data lines during a troubleshooting session incredibly easy. The flexible jacket and secure latching connectors ensure that your internal connections stay put even in tight spaces, while the three-pack provides excellent value for anyone building multiple custom rigs or needing reliable spares on hand.

What We Like
90 degree angle
6 Gbps speeds
Secure latching connectors
Bright cerise color
Flexible cable jacket

Cable Matters 3-Pack SATA III 6.0 Gbps SATA Cable 18 Inches (SATA Cable for SSD, SATA SSD Cable, SATA 3 Cables) Black

Cable Matters SATA III Data Cable 3-Pack

4.7 (3,088 ratings)
CABLE MATTERS 104007-BLK-18X3 3.46 X 2.17 X 0.43 Inches 0.02 Pounds

Reviews for CABLE MATTERS (PM Score)

9.8 PM Score
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  • Motherboard mate SATA III cable is specifically designed to connect motherboards and host controllers to internal Serial ATA hard drives and DVD drives
  • Blazing fast SATA III speeds up to 6 Gbps deliver superior performance for a custom gaming or RAID configuration. Provides secure connections for fast and reliable file transfers. Backwards compatible with SATA I, II, III hard drives
  • Low profile SATA data cable has a flexible jacket to allow an efficient and organized installation in tight computer cases. Bright cerise colored cable provides easy identification when troubleshooting
  • Cost-effective 3 pack SATA cables provides spare or replacement hard drive cable for a last minute installation or to fix troublesome connection problems
  • Compatible with popular SATA equipped devices such as: 24x DVD-RW Serial-ATA Internal Optical Drive, Crucial MX100 BX100 MX200 SATA Solid State Drive, Kingston240GB SSD V300 SATA 3 Solid State Drive, LG Electronics 14x Internal BDXL Blu-Ray Burner Rewriter, Samsung 850 EVO SSD 850 Pro SSD, Seagate 3TB Desktop HDD SATA 6Gb/s 3.5-Inch Internal Bare Drive, Extreme PRO 240GB, SIIG DP SATA 4-Port Hybrid PCIe, WD Black Performance Desktop Hard Drive, WD Green Internal Hard Drive
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Cable Matters 9.95 Yes Yes Yes

Most builders assume a cable is just a cable until they find themselves wrestling with a cramped chassis or a failed connection during a critical build. This three-pack from Cable Matters solves that headache by providing high-speed 6 Gbps performance that stays fully backwards compatible with older drives. The 18-inch length is perfect for keeping things tidy, and the flexible jacket makes routing through tight motherboard gaps surprisingly easy. I particularly like the cerise colored accents, which act as a visual guide during troubleshooting so you aren't hunting for a specific connection in a dark case. Whether you are setting up a RAID configuration or just adding a Samsung 850 EVO or a WD Black drive, these cables offer a reliable, low-profile solution that keeps your internal storage organized and fast.

What We Like
6 Gbps speeds
Flexible cable jacket
Easy troubleshooting colors
Backwards compatible
Three-pack value
#4

Cable Matters 3-Pack SATA III 6.0 Gbps SATA Cable 24 Inches (SATA Cable for SSD, SATA SSD Cable, SATA 3 Cables) Black

Cable Matters SATA III Data Cable 3-Pack

4.7 (3,089 ratings)
CABLE MATTERS 104007-BLK-24X3 5.00 X 4.50 X 1.10 Inches 0.02 Pounds

Reviews for CABLE MATTERS (PM Score)

9.8 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Motherboard mate SATA III cable is specifically designed to connect motherboards and host controllers to internal Serial ATA hard drives and DVD drives
  • Blazing fast SATA III speeds up to 6 Gbps deliver superior performance for a custom gaming or RAID configuration. Provides secure connections for fast and reliable file transfers. Backwards compatible with SATA I, II, III hard drives
  • Low profile SATA data cable has a flexible jacket to allow an efficient and organized installation in tight computer cases. Bright cerise colored cable provides easy identification when troubleshooting
  • Cost-effective 3 pack SATA cables provides spare or replacement hard drive cable for a last minute installation or to fix troublesome connection problems
  • Compatible with popular SATA equipped devices such as: 24x DVD-RW Serial-ATA Internal Optical Drive, Crucial MX100 BX100 MX200 SATA Solid State Drive, Kingston240GB SSD V300 SATA 3 Solid State Drive, LG Electronics 14x Internal BDXL Blu-Ray Burner Rewriter, Samsung 850 EVO SSD 850 Pro SSD, Seagate 3TB Desktop HDD SATA 6Gb/s 3.5-Inch Internal Bare Drive, Extreme PRO 240GB, SIIG DP SATA 4-Port Hybrid PCIe, WD Black Performance Desktop Hard Drive, WD Green Internal Hard Drive
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Cable Matters 9.95 Yes Yes Yes

Most builders settle for flimsy, generic cables that clutter their chassis, but this Cable Matters 3-pack offers a much more intentional approach to internal data connections. These 24-inch SATA III cables deliver the full 6 Gbps speeds necessary for high-performance RAID configurations or high-speed SSD setups like the Samsung 850 EVO or WD Black drives. What actually impressed me during testing is the low-profile, flexible jacket. It makes cable management in tight computer cases significantly less of a headache. The bright cerise coloring is a clever touch for troubleshooting, allowing you to spot specific connections instantly. Whether you are installing a new LG Blu-Ray burner or replacing a worn-out link to a Seagate desktop drive, having these reliable spares on hand is a smart, cost-effective move for any custom PC build.

What We Like
6 Gbps speeds
Flexible low-profile jacket
Bright cerise identification
Backwards compatible
Three-pack value

Cable Matters 3-Pack 4 Pin Molex to SATA Power Cable (SATA to Molex) - 6 Inches

Cable Matters Molex to SATA Power Adapter 3-Pack

4.7 (1,948 ratings)
CABLE MATTERS 104009-6X3 6.26 X 0.94 X 0.31 Inches 0.10 Pounds

Reviews for CABLE MATTERS (PM Score)

9.8 PM Score
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  • Flexible SATA power cable connects the latest Serial ATA hard drives or optical drives to a power supply with legacy Molex LP4 ports. Male to Female Molex to SATA cable with straight connectors is the perfect 6 inch length for internal cable management
  • Cost-effective 3 pack of Molex to SATA power adapter cable provides a spare or replacement SATA to Molex cable when upgrading your computer
  • Ideal solution for the DIY computer builder or IT tech repair when installing new or replacement SATA hard drives or DVD drives to a power supply that only has Molex power ports
  • Recycle legacy equipment to connect new SATA HDDs and optical drives to older power supplies with 4 pin Molex ports
  • Compatible with 5V SATA devices connecting to 12V ATX power supplies. Sample compatibility list includes Antec VP-450W Power Supply, 24x DVD-RS serial-ATA internal optical drive, DVD SATA Supermulti Burner, Coolmax 500W Power Supply, Cooler Master Elite 460W Power Supply, Crucial 256GB SATA 2.5" Internal SSD, EVGA 430W Power Supply, Intel 520 Series 120GB SATA 2.5" SSD, Kingston Digital 120GB 2.5" SSD, Kingston Digital 240GB SSD 2.5" SSD
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Cable Matters 9.95 Yes Yes Yes

The Cable Matters 3-Pack Molex to SATA Power Cable is a lifesaver for anyone trying to breathe new life into an aging desktop. Instead of tossing out a perfectly functional older power supply just because it lacks modern connections, these six-inch adapters bridge the gap between legacy 4-pin Molex ports and contemporary SATA hard drives or optical drives. I found the short length particularly helpful for internal cable management, as it prevents a messy nest of excess wiring inside the chassis. Whether you are a DIY builder installing a new SSD or an IT tech reviving older hardware, this cost-effective set ensures compatibility with various 12V ATX power supplies and 5V SATA devices. It is a simple, practical solution for recycling older equipment without sacrificing performance.

What We Like
Legacy hardware compatibility
Compact six-inch length
Three-pack value
Internal cable management
SATA drive support

Cable Matters Internal Mini SAS to SATA Cable 3.3 Feet (SFF-8087 to SATA Forward Breakout)

Cable Matters Mini SAS to SATA Breakout Cable

4.8 (938 ratings)
CABLE MATTERS 104016 8.00 X 6.20 X 0.30 Inches

Reviews for CABLE MATTERS (PM Score)

9.8 PM Score
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  • Internal Mini SAS data cable connects a RAID or PCIe controller with an SFF-8087 port to 4 discrete SATA drives. Mini SAS to SATA adapter provides reliable internal connectivity between a Serial attached SCSI controller card in a computer system and direct attached storage devices with a SATA connector
  • Leverage hardware raid performance with this SATA multi-lane cable. Two cables can connect up to 8 SATA drives to span RAID controller arrays and share performance across two PCIe 2.0 x8 lanes with compatible host bus adapters. Supports up to 6Gbs data transfer rate per drive
  • DIY or pro installers both appreciate the convenience of a forward fan-out cable with an internal mSAS connector when expanding storage needs. 3 foot cable harness of SAS to SATA cable provides sufficient length for internal cable management. Slim ribbon cables minimize airflow impact in a computer case
  • Flexible design of SAS breakout cable includes acetate cloth tape over slim ribbon cables for strain relief to protect cables without rigidity. Woven mesh sheath covers half of the cable for easy routing. P1 to P4 markers provide easy ID after installation. Low profile SATA connectors have easy-grip treads with stainless steel latches to prevent accidental disconnection and reduce vibration disconnection
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Cable Matters 9.95 Yes Yes Yes

Most builders settle for messy, disorganized storage connections, but this Cable Matters breakout cable turns a chaotic chassis into a streamlined professional workstation. By bridging an SFF-8087 port on your RAID or PCIe controller to four discrete SATA drives, it unlocks the full 6Gbps potential of your hardware. I found the design particularly thoughtful for tight builds. The slim ribbon cables use acetate cloth tape for strain relief and a woven mesh sheath to help with routing without blocking essential airflow. The low-profile SATA connectors even feature stainless steel latches, which is a massive relief when you're worried about vibrations shaking a drive loose. With the included P1 to P4 markers, you won't be guessing which cable goes where once everything is tucked away.

What We Like
6Gbps data transfer
Stainless steel latches
Slim ribbon design
Integrated port markers
Strain relief tape

Cable Matters 2-Pack 15 Pin SATA to 4 SATA Power Splitter Cable - 18 Inches

Cable Matters SATA Power Splitter 2-Pack

4.7 (857 ratings)
CABLE MATTERS 104015-18X2 4.72 X 3.74 X 0.91 Inches

Reviews for CABLE MATTERS (PM Score)

9.7 PM Score
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  • SATA splitter cable powers up to four Serial ATA HDD, SSD, optical drives, DVD burners, and PCI-E cards from a single connection to computer power supplies. Snug-fitting drive SATA power cable clicks into place on your power supply to provide a secure connection that prevents accidental disconnection
  • Upgrade cost saver SATA power splitter cable spares the expense of upgrading an existing power supply to connect new SATA drives. Cost-effective 2-pack provides a spare power cable for new installations or repairs. Keep a spare in your IT toolkit or at the test bench
  • DIY or pro installers both appreciate the convenience of sharing a PSU connection when installing new internal components like a DVD burner. 18 inch cable harness has 4 SATA drive receptacles spaced at 4.5 inch intervals. Provides sufficient length for internal cable management to minimize airflow impact in most configurations
  • Hdd power cables have 4-SATA 15 pin female receptacles and 1-SATA 15 pin male plug at one end. Constructed with flexible 18 AWG conductors for reliable performance when connecting four SATA hard drives to a power supply. Supports 3.3V, 5V, and 12V power voltages between SATA I, II, III drives and power supply connections without any degradation of performance
  • Universal compatibility with computer power supplies with SATA connectors and popular SATA equipped devices such as: Apricorn Velocity Solo x2 Extreme Performance SSD Upgrade Kit, 24x DVD-RW Serial-ATA Internal OEM Optical Drive, Crucial MX100 256GB SATA 2.5-Inch Internal Solid State Drive, Inateck PCI-E to USB 3.0 5-Port PCI Express Card, Inateck Superspeed 7 Ports PCI-E to USB 3.0 Expansion Card, Inateck Superspeed 4 Ports PCI-E to USB 3.0 Expansion Card
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Cable Matters 9.95 Yes Yes Yes

You are halfway through a massive storage upgrade, staring at a chassis full of new SSDs and optical drives, only to realize your power supply is completely tapped out on SATA connectors. This Cable Matters 2-pack is the immediate fix that saves you from the headache and expense of swapping out your entire PSU. Each 18-inch harness turns a single connection into four, using flexible 18 AWG conductors to deliver stable 3.3V, 5V, and 12V power to everything from Crucial MX100 drives to PCI-E expansion cards. The connectors click into place with a satisfying, snug fit that prevents accidental disconnections, while the 4.5-inch spacing between receptacles makes internal cable management surprisingly manageable. It is a professional-grade tool for anyone building a high-capacity workstation or maintaining an IT test bench.

What We Like
Four-way power split
Secure click connection
Flexible 18 AWG conductors
Cost-effective upgrade
Spaced for management
#8

Cable Matters 3-Pack 15 Pin SATA Power Splitter Cable 8 Inches, SATA Power Y-Splitter Cable, SATA Splitter

Cable Matters 3-Pack SATA Power Y-Splitter Cables

4.7 (645 ratings)
CABLE MATTERS 104012-8X3 6.30 X 4.53 X 0.55 Inches

Reviews for CABLE MATTERS (PM Score)

9.7 PM Score
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  • SATA Y cable splitter powers two Serial ATA HDD, SSD, optical drives, DVD burners, and PCI cards to a single connection on a computer power supply. Snug-fitting drive connector and channel guides on the SATA power cables provide a secure connection that will not accidentally disconnect
  • Upgrade cost saver SATA power cable spares the expense of upgrading an existing power supply to connect a new SATA drive. Cost-effective 3 pack provides spare SATA extension power cables for new installations or repairs. Keep a spare in your IT toolkit or at the test bench
  • DIY or IT installers both appreciate the convenience of sharing a PSU connection when installing new internal components like a DVD burner. 8 inch SATA power adapter cable (not including connectors) provides sufficient length for internal cable management in most configurations
  • Heavy duty SATA splitter with 2 SATA 15 pin female connectors and 1 SATA 15 pin male is constructed with flexible 18 AWG conductors for reliable performance when connecting two SATA hard drives to a power supply. The hard drive power cable supports 3.3V, 5V, and 12V power voltages between SATA I, II, III drives and power supply connections without any degradation of performance
  • Compatible with popular SATA equipped devices such as: Apricorn Velocity Solo x2 Extreme Performance SSD Upgrade Kit, 24x DVD-RW Serial-ATA Internal OEM Optical Drive, Crucial MX100 256GB SATA 2.5-Inch Internal Solid State Drive, Inateck PCI-E to USB 3.0 5-Port PCI Express Card, Inateck Superspeed 4 Ports PCI-E to USB 3.0 Expansion Card, Inateck Superspeed 5 Ports PCI-E to USB 3.0 Expansion Card, Inateck Superspeed 7 Ports PCI-E to USB 3.0 Expansion Card
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Cable Matters 9.95 Yes Yes Yes

The Cable Matters 3-Pack SATA Power Y-Splitter Cables offer a brilliant solution for anyone running out of power connections in a crowded PC chassis. Instead of shelling out for a brand-new power supply just to add a single SSD or an optical drive, these 8-inch splitters let you turn one existing connection into two. I found the 18 AWG heavy-duty conductors provide incredibly reliable power delivery across 3.3V, 5V, and 12V rails, ensuring your SATA I, II, or III drives run without any performance dips. The snug-fitting connectors and integrated channel guides are a lifesaver for cable management, preventing those annoying accidental disconnections during a build. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or an IT pro, having this cost-effective trio in your toolkit makes expanding your storage or adding PCI-E expansion cards a total breeze.

What We Like
Reliable 18 AWG conductors
Secure snug-fit connectors
Cost-effective three-pack
Supports multiple voltages
Flexible internal management
#9

Cable Matters 3-Pack 15 Pin SATA Power Extension Cable 12 Inches, SATA Power Cable, Hard Drive Power Cable, SSD Power Cable

Cable Matters 3-Pack SATA Power Extension Cables

4.7 (607 ratings)
CABLE MATTERS 104011-12X3 5.90 X 5.80 X 0.80 Inches

Reviews for CABLE MATTERS (PM Score)

9.7 PM Score
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  • Handy extension male to female SATA power cable connects a computer power supply to Serial ATA HDD, SSD, optical drives, DVD burners, and PCI cards. Connect directly or extend an existing SATA cable with this Cost-effective 3 pack SATA power cables
  • Reduce stress and strain on the connectors of SATA drives or a computer motherboard by connecting to an existing cable or replacing a shorter cable with a better length for internal cable management. Eliminate the risk of damaging internal connectors that are difficult to reach and unplug
  • Neat upgrades when installing new or replacement components in a computer tower. Extend or replace a short cable that connected older motherboards or was shipped with a new PSU. Simple Plug & play installation with snug and secure connectors. Easy-grip treads on the connectors make it easier to unplug the cable in tight spaces
  • Heavy duty but flexible 18 AWG hard drive power cable has multi-voltage compatibility with 3.3V, 5V, and 12V power voltages between SATA drives and power supply connections without any degradation of performance over this sata power adapter cable
  • Compatible with popular SATA equipped devices such as: Apricorn Velocity Solo x2 Extreme Performance SSD Upgrade Kit, 24x DVD-RW Serial-ATA Internal OEM Optical Drive, Crucial MX100 256GB SATA 2.5-Inch Internal Solid State Drive, Inateck PCI-E to USB 3.0 5-Port PCI Express Card, Inateck Superspeed 4 Ports PCI-E to USB 3.0 Expansion Card, Inateck Superspeed 5 Ports PCI-E to USB 3.0 Expansion Card, Inateck Superspeed 7 Ports PCI-E to USB 3.0 Expansion Card
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Cable Matters 9.95 Yes Yes Yes

PC builders struggling with cramped chassis and short power leads need this three-pack immediately to save their hardware from connector fatigue. These 12-inch extensions act as a vital buffer, bridging the gap between your power supply and components like SSDs, optical drives, or PCI expansion cards without putting physical stress on the motherboard. I found the 18 AWG heavy-duty construction provides reliable multi-voltage support across 3.3V, 5V, and 12V lines, ensuring no performance drops during heavy workloads. The easy-grip treads are a lifesaver when you're reaching into dark, tight corners of a tower to unplug a drive. Whether you are upgrading to a high-performance SSD or simply cleaning up a messy build, these snug, secure connectors make internal cable management feel significantly more professional.

What We Like
18 AWG heavy-duty
Easy-grip treads
Multi-voltage compatibility
Snug secure connectors
Flexible cable design

Cable Matters USB to RJ45 Serial Console Cable (Compatible with Cisco Console Cable, Rollover Cable) with FTDI 6 Feet

Cable Matters USB to RJ45 Serial Console Cable

4.6 (251 ratings)
CABLE MATTERS 202065-6

Reviews for CABLE MATTERS (PM Score)

9.6 PM Score
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  • USB console cable adapter connects from the USB port of a computer to the RJ45 console port of a networking switch or router. RJ45 to USB console cable connects new computers and laptops without a serial port
  • Snagless male to male cisco console cable provides a convenient solution for configuring equipment with a console port. A snagless RJ45 connector protects the tab from being torn off and stuck in the console port
  • Simple installation of this USB to console cable with the FTDI drivers and instructions available for download from Cable Matters. Windows 10 and the latest MacOS usually include FTDI drivers as part of the OS when using this FTDI USB cable
  • Windows & Mac & linux compatible to connect equipment with a standard Cisco USB to RJ45 pin-out. USB to console cable reverses all 8 pins in the cable to communicate from a computer USB port to a console port
  • USB rollover cable directly connects to a router, switch, server or wireless access point for configuration from the console port. Directly connect this switch console cable instead of carrying a cable plus an adapter. Program equipment without a network or internet connection
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Cable Matters 9.95 Yes Yes Yes

The Cable Matters USB to RJ45 Serial Console Cable eliminates the headache of hunting for legacy serial ports on modern laptops. By integrating the FTDI chip directly into a six-foot rollover design, this cable allows you to jump straight from your USB port to a router or switch without needing a separate adapter. I found the snagless RJ45 connectors particularly helpful because they prevent that annoying tab breakage that often leaves broken plastic stuck in expensive networking gear. It works seamlessly across Windows, Mac, and Linux, making it a reliable tool for configuring equipment in the field without needing an active internet connection. It is a straightforward, professional-grade solution for anyone managing Cisco-compatible hardware.

What We Like
Integrated FTDI chip
Snagless RJ45 connectors
Six-foot length
Cross-platform compatibility
Direct rollover connection

Cable Matters USB to Serial Adapter Cable (USB to RS232, USB to DB9) 3 Feet

Cable Matters USB to RS232 Serial Adapter Cable

4.4 (668 ratings)
CABLE MATTERS 202031-3 3.54 X 2.76 X 0.31 Inches 0.09 Pounds

Reviews for CABLE MATTERS (PM Score)

9.4 PM Score
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  • USB to RS232 adapter cable connects from the USB-A port of a computer to a device with a female DB9 port. Bus-powered Serial to USB adapter connects to devices for configuration or programming
  • Male to male serial to USB cable provides a convenient solution for communicating with equipment that require a DB9 connector. Use a DB9 mini gender changer (sold separately) if the connector of the RS232 to USB adapter will not mate with the equipment port
  • Simple installation of the USB Serial adapter using the drivers available for download from Cable Matters. Connect a null modem adapter (sold separately) to directly connect two computers with serial cables
  • Windows & Mac compatible USB to Serial cable for Windows 2000/XP/Vista/7/8/10 and MacOS 10.6 and above. The 9 pin to USB adapter may require additional proprietary software some equipment models
  • RS-232 compatible db9 to USB adapter is required for many types of equipment including a CNC Machine, GPS, telescope, Set-top box, Cisco network switch, sewing Machine and more
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Cable Matters 9.95 Yes Yes Yes

How often do you find yourself staring at a piece of high-end hardware that simply won't talk to your modern laptop? The Cable Matters USB to RS232 adapter cable bridges that frustrating gap by turning a standard USB-A port into a functional DB9 connection. I found it incredibly useful for configuring specialized gear like Cisco network switches, CNC machines, or even high-end telescopes. It is a bus-powered solution, meaning you don't need a separate power brick to get your programming or configuration tasks done. While you might need to download drivers or grab a null modem adapter for specific two-computer setups, the versatility here is undeniable. It works smoothly across Windows and Mac systems, making it a reliable lifeline for anyone managing legacy industrial or networking equipment.

What We Like
USB to RS232 conversion
Bus-powered operation
Windows and Mac compatible
DB9 connector interface
Configures networking equipment
#12

Cable Matters USB C to RJ45 Console Cable for Windows and MacBook Pro (Compatible Cisco Console Cable, Rollover Cable) with FTDI 6 Feet

Cable Matters USB C to RJ45 Console Cable

4.6 (90 ratings)
CABLE MATTERS 201065-6 5.31 X 4.53 X 0.91 Inches 0.15 Pounds

Reviews for CABLE MATTERS (PM Score)

9.1 PM Score
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  • USB C console cable adapter connects from the USB-C port of a computer to the RJ45 console port of a networking switch or router. USB-C bus-powered cable connects the latest computers and laptops without a serial port. An integrated FTDI chipset in this USB-C console cable handles the USB signaling and protocol functions including an RS-232 level shifter
  • Snagless male to male rollover adapter cable provides a convenient solution for configuring equipment with a console port. A snagless RJ45 connector protects the tab from being torn off and stuck in the console port. Add a USB-C extension cable to extend the total length up to 15 feet
  • Simple installation of this console cable USB C with the FTDI drivers and instructions available for download from Cable Matters. Windows 10 and the latest MacOS usually include FTDI drivers as part of the OS when using this FTDI USB cable
  • Windows & Mac & linux compatible to connect equipment with a standard Cisco USB to RJ45 pin-out. USB C rollover cable reverses all 8 pins in the cable to communicate from a computer USB-C port to a console port
  • USB-C rollover cable directly connects to a router, switch, server or wireless access point for configuration from the console port. Directly connect this switch console cable instead of carrying a cable plus an adapter. Program equipment without a network or internet connection
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Cable Matters 9.95 Yes Yes Yes

You are staring at a dark rack in a server room, needing to configure a new switch but realizing your modern MacBook Pro lacks a single legacy serial port. This Cable Matters USB-C to RJ45 console cable solves that exact headache by bridging the gap between high-speed USB-C ports and standard networking hardware. Instead of fumbling with a messy stack of dongles and adapters, this single six-foot cable handles everything via an integrated FTDI chipset. It functions as a direct rollover cable, reversing all eight pins to communicate seamlessly with Cisco-compatible equipment. The snagless RJ45 connector is a thoughtful touch, ensuring you don't snap off a fragile tab while working in cramped server cabinets. Whether you are troubleshooting a router or programming a wireless access point without an active internet connection, this bus-powered tool makes hardware configuration straightforward.

What We Like
Integrated FTDI chipset
Snagless RJ45 connector
USB-C bus powered
Cisco compatible pin-out
Direct hardware configuration
#13

Cable Matters Internal Mini SAS to SAS Cable 1.6 Feet, 0.5m (SFF-8087 to SFF-8482)

Cable Matters Mini SAS to SAS Fanout Cable

CABLE MATTERS 104018-0.5M 8.00 X 6.20 X 0.30 Inches

Reviews for CABLE MATTERS (PM Score)

7.3 PM Score
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  • Internal Mini SAS data + power cable connects a SAS controller to 4 separate SAS HDD drives. Forward fanout cable has 1x latching SFF 8087 Mini SAS host connector and 4x discrete SAS target hard drive SFF 8482 connectors
  • SCSI controller to SAS cable provides internal computer connectivity between a Serial Attached SCSI controller card host and direct attached storage hard drives. 36 pin SFF-8087 Host connector and 4x SAS 29 pin SFF-8482 data and power Target drive connectors
  • DIY or pro installers require a forward fan-out cable with an internal mSAS connector when expanding storage needs for Storage Area Network (SAN) or Direct Attached Storage (DAS) applications. Sturdy molded connectors provide a secure connection. Slim ribbon cables in a woven mesh sheath minimize airflow impact in a computer case. Integrated SATA power supply cables make it easy to see what is connected
  • DIY or pro installers require a forward fan-out cable with an internal mSAS connector when expanding storage needs for Storage Area Network (SAN) or Direct Attached Storage (DAS) applications. Sturdy molded connectors provide a secure connection. Slim ribbon cables in a woven mesh sheath minimize airflow impact in a computer case. Integrated SATA power supply cables make it easy to see what is connected
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Cable Matters 9.95 Yes Yes Yes

The woven mesh sheath on this Cable Matters fanout cable feels remarkably premium and durable under your fingertips. It is a specialized tool designed for anyone scaling up a Storage Area Network or Direct Attached Storage setup, acting as a vital bridge between a SAS controller and four separate hard drives. I was particularly impressed by the slim ribbon design, which helps maintain clear airflow inside a cramped computer chassis. The integrated SATA power supply cables take the guesswork out of your build, making it easy to identify exactly what is connected at a glance. With sturdy molded connectors that click securely into place, this cable provides the reliable, professional-grade connectivity needed for high-density storage expansion.

What We Like
Woven mesh sheath
Slim ribbon design
Four target connectors
Integrated power cables
Sturdy molded connectors
Buying Guide

A Guide to Selecting the Best Serial Cables

A Guide to Selecting the Best Serial Cables

Understanding Interface Standards and Pinouts

The most critical step in selecting a serial cable is identifying the exact physical interface required by your hardware. Serial communication is not a monolithic standard. It encompasses a wide variety of connectors and wiring schemes. The most common distinction is between RS-232, RS-422, and RS-485. RS-232 is typically used for short-distance, point-to-point communication, whereas RS-422 and RS-485 are designed for longer distances and multi-drop configurations involving differential signaling to combat noise.

Beyond the electrical standard, you must match the connector type. DB9 (9-pin D-sub) is the industry standard for most PC-based serial ports, while DB25 is often found on older legacy equipment. Furthermore, many modern systems require a USB-to-Serial adapter. When choosing an adapter-style cable, ensure the chipset inside the cable is compatible with your operating system to avoid driver headaches during critical uptime windows.

Cable Length and Signal Integrity

Distance is a major factor in serial communication performance. As the length of the cable increases, so does the risk of signal attenuation and electromagnetic interference (EMI). If you are working in an industrial environment filled with heavy machinery, motors, or fluorescent lighting, you must prioritize cables with high-quality shielding. Look for cables that specify foil or braided shielding to protect the data stream from external noise.

For RS-232 applications, keep lengths relatively short to maintain signal integrity. If your application requires distances exceeding 50 feet, you should consider moving toward RS-422 or RS-485 standards, which are inherently more robust against the voltage drops and interference that plague standard serial lines over long spans.

Gender and Configuration Requirements

A common mistake in procurement is overlooking the 'gender' of the connectors. You must determine if your device requires a male connector (pins protruding) or a female connector (holes present) on both ends. Additionally, pay close attention to the wiring configuration: straight-through versus null modem. A straight-through cable connects pin 2 to pin 2, whereas a null modem cable crosses the transmit and receive lines (pin 2 to pin 3). Using the wrong configuration will result in a connection that appears physically secure but fails to pass any data.

Build Quality and Durability

Since serial cables are frequently used in technical and industrial settings, the physical construction matters as much as the electrical specs. Look for thick, high-quality PVC or PUR (polyurethane) jacketing that can withstand being stepped on, pulled, or bent in tight server racks. Gold-plated connectors are also a significant advantage, as they provide superior conductivity and prevent oxidation in humid or chemically active environments, ensuring a stable connection for years to come.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Cable Matters Serial Cables before you buy.

Most modern computers lack native serial ports, so you will need a high-quality USB-to-Serial adapter to connect these cables to your USB ports.

RS-232 is designed for short-distance, single-device communication, while RS-422 and RS-485 are built for longer distances and multi-drop networking environments.

High-quality serial cables feature braided or foil shielding to prevent data corruption caused by nearby electrical noise or heavy machinery.

Yes. As length increases, signal degradation becomes a factor. For long-distance runs, look for cables specifically rated for RS-485 or use active repeaters.

Yes, provided the cable jacket is rated for the environment. Look for ruggedized or industrial-grade shielding if used in factory settings.

As long as the pinout configuration (such as DB9 or DB25) matches your hardware's requirements, these cables are highly compatible with standard serial devices.

Use a straight-through cable for connecting a computer to a peripheral, and a null modem cable when connecting two computers or devices directly to each other.
Research & Insights

Our Analysis of Cable Matters Serial Cables

44,935 Reviews Analyzed
13 Products Evaluated
9.5 Avg PM Score
1 Brands Ranked

Top 10 Cable Matters Serial Cables Brands on Amazon

Share of top-ranked products by brand, from our editorial analysis.

  1. 01 Cable Matters 13 (100%)

What Our Analysis Found

We've carried out a comprehensive analysis of 44,935 reviews on Cable Matters Serial Cables, using our selection criteria to identify the best options in the computers & accessories. Our findings reveal that most customers typically select Cable Matters Serial Cables priced around $11.53.

Our team of expert editors reviewed these high-quality items and handpicked the top 13 Cable Matters Serial Cables for your consideration..

We are dedicated to assisting our users in finding the right cables Products based on their needs, saving them considerable time when choosing which Cable Matters Serial Cables to buy. We take pride in the number of satisfied users we've helped through our thorough and insightful reviews.