PickSmartly Review

Best Lightning Serial Cables in 2026

9.8 PM Score
Products Evaluated
11
Reviews Analyzed
5,498
Brands Ranked
2
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Editor's Choice

Our Top Picks for Lightning Serial Cables

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

StarTech.com 3m Black Straight Through DB9 RS232 Serial Cable (MXT1003MBK) & StarTech.com Slimline Serial DB9 Gender Changer - M/M - Serial Gender Cha...

StarTech.com DB9 Serial Cable and Gender Changer Set

4.6 (2,522 ratings)
STARTECH.COM

Reviews for STARTECH.COM (PM Score)

9.8 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Product 1: 1x DB9 Serial (male) connector
  • Product 1: 1x DB9 Serial (female) connector
  • Product 1: High quality shielding prevents EMI interference
  • Product 1: DB9 connectors with strain relief molding
  • Product 2: M/M
  • Product 2: Serial gender changer
  • Product 2: DB-9 (M) to DB-9 (M)
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes No

Reliable data transmission often depends more on the quality of your shielding than the length of your cable. This StarTech.com combo solves the common headache of mismatched serial ports by pairing a sturdy 3m DB9 cable with a slimline male-to-male gender changer. I found the cable's strain relief molding particularly impressive, as it prevents the common fraying seen in cheaper alternatives. The high-quality shielding does the heavy lifting by preventing EMI interference, which is critical when you are running serial connections near other electronic equipment. Whether you are connecting legacy hardware or setting up a new industrial workstation, having this specific combination of a straight-through cable and a compact gender changer ensures you won't be left stranded by a mismatched connector.

What We Like
EMI interference protection
Strain relief molding
Slimline gender changer
DB9 male-to-female cable
High quality shielding

StarTech.com 2m Black DB9 RS232 Serial Null Modem Cable F/F - DB9 Female to Female - 9 pin RS232 Null Modem Cable - 2 meter, Black (SCNM9FF2MBK)

StarTech.com DB9 Female to Female Null Modem Cable

4.6 (682 ratings)
STARTECH SCNM9FF2MBK 78.70 X 1.30 X 0.60 Inches 0.25 Pounds

Reviews for STARTECH (PM Score)

9.6 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • - Connect your serial devices and transfer your files
  • 2m DB9 Null Modem Cable
  • DB9 Female to Female Cable
  • RS232 Null Modem Cable
  • 9 pin Null Modem Cable
  • 2 m Black Female to Female Null Modem Cable
  • 1x DB9 (F)/1x DB9 (F)
  • Black
  • 2m/ 6.56ft
  • High quality shielding prevents EMI interference
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

IT professionals managing legacy hardware or industrial serial equipment cannot afford to compromise on signal integrity when connecting devices. This StarTech.com 2-meter null modem cable is a specialized lifeline for anyone needing to bridge two RS232 serial devices for direct file transfers. I found the build quality to be remarkably reliable, particularly because the high-quality shielding does the heavy lifting to prevent EMI interference from corrupting your data stream. The DB9 female-to-female configuration is exactly what you need for standard 9-pin serial ports, and the 6.56ft length provides just enough slack to manage your workspace without creating a tangled mess. It is a straightforward, no-nonsense solution for maintaining critical communication between older hardware components.

What We Like
EMI shielding protection
RS232 serial interface
DB9 female connectors
Two meter length

StarTech.com 10' RS232 Serial Null Modem Cable - Null modem cable - DB-9 (F) to DB-9 (F) - 10 ft (SCNM9FF)

StarTech RS232 Serial Null Modem Cable

4.6 (943 ratings)
STARTECH SCNM9FF 120.00 X 0.01 X 0.01 Inches 0.32 Pounds

Reviews for STARTECH (PM Score)

9.6 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • DB9 Female to DB9 Female
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Legacy hardware enthusiasts and network administrators will find this StarTech null modem cable to be an absolute essential for maintaining critical serial communications. Connecting two devices via RS232 can be a headache without the correct wiring, but this DB9 female-to-female solution eliminates the guesswork by handling the necessary signal crossover internally. At ten feet long, it provides more than enough slack to reach between rack-mounted equipment or desktop workstations without creating unnecessary tension on the ports. It is a straightforward, no-nonsense tool that performs exactly as intended for a very reasonable price. Whether you are debugging older industrial equipment or configuring console ports, this cable delivers the reliable connectivity required for professional environments.

What We Like
DB9 female connectors
Ten foot length
RS232 serial interface
Null modem configuration

StarTech.com 2m Black DB9 RS232 Serial Null Modem Cable F/M - DB9 Male to Female - 9 pin Null Modem Cable - 1x DB9 (M), 1x DB9 (F), Black (SCNM9FM2MBK...

StarTech.com DB9 RS232 Null Modem Cable

4.6 (302 ratings)
STARTECH.COM SCNM9FM2MBK 8.86 X 4.92 X 0.39 Inches 0.25 Pounds

Reviews for STARTECH.COM (PM Score)

9.6 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Connect your serial devices
  • and transfer your files
  • 2m DB9 Null Modem Cable
  • DB9 Male to Female Cable
  • RS232 Null Modem Cable
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

You are hunched over a server rack in a dimly lit data center, frantically trying to establish a handshake between two legacy serial devices to push a critical file transfer. This StarTech.com RS232 Null Modem Cable is the exact lifeline you need in that high-stakes moment. Spanning two meters, the male-to-female DB9 configuration provides the necessary bridge to connect your hardware without the headache of mismatched ports. It is a straightforward, no-nonsense solution for anyone managing industrial equipment or older computing hardware that relies on serial communication. The build quality feels reliable enough to handle the rigors of technical environments, ensuring that your data moves exactly where it needs to go when downtime isn't an option.

What We Like
RS232 serial connection
Male to female ends
Two meter length
DB9 connector style

StarTech.com 10 ft Cross Wired DB9 to DB25 Serial Null Modem Cable - F/M - Null Modem Cable - DB-9 (F) to DB-25 (M) - 10 ft (SCNM925FM)

StarTech.com DB9 Female to DB25 Male Null Modem Cable

4.5 (387 ratings)
STARTECH.COM SCNM925FM 4.88 X 0.67 X 8.50 Inches 0.35 Pounds

Reviews for STARTECH.COM (PM Score)

9.5 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • SERIAL CABLE: The SCNM925FM 10ft Cross Wired Serial/Null Modem Cable features one DB9 female & one DB25 male connector, allowing you to connect a 9-pin serial device to a 25-pin serial port, or transfer files from PC-to-PC via a serial connection
  • QUALITY AND DURABILITY: Designed to provide a reliable, long-lasting connection. Made with molded connectors for strain relief and using high quality shielding to prevent EMI
  • SPECS: 10ft (3m) DB9 female to DB25 male cable | Pinout: Cross-wired/Null-modem | Jacket Material: PVC | Color: Gray
  • NOTE: This is a cross-wired/null modem cable. Please consult the manufacturer of your device to see if it requires a straight-through or null modem connection. This will not work for straight-through connections
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Most people assume all serial cables are interchangeable, but picking up a straight-through cable when you actually need this specific null modem configuration is a recipe for a connectivity headache. This 10-foot StarTech.com solution is built for that precise cross-wired requirement, bridging the gap between a 9-pin female device and a 25-pin male port. I found the build quality to be quite reassuring. The molded connectors provide much-needed strain relief, and the high-quality shielding does a solid job of blocking EMI interference. It is a specialized tool designed for PC-to-PC file transfers or connecting legacy hardware, so just make sure your device specifically calls for a null modem connection rather than a standard straight-through setup before you plug it in.

What We Like
Cross-wired pinout
Molded strain relief
EMI shielding
Ten-foot length
Durable PVC jacket

StarTech.com 1m Black DB9 RS232 Serial Null Modem Cable F/F - DB9 Female to Female - 9 pin RS232 Null Modem Cable - 1 meter, Black

StarTech.com DB9 Female to Female Null Modem Cable

4.4 (376 ratings)
STARTECH.COM SCNM9FF1MBK 8.86 X 4.72 X 0.39 Inches 0.10 Pounds

Reviews for STARTECH.COM (PM Score)

9.4 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Connect your serial devices and transfer your files
  • 1m DB9 Null Modem Cable
  • DB9 Female to Female Cable
  • RS232 Null Modem Cable
  • 9 pin Null Modem Cable
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Most people assume that connecting legacy hardware is a headache involving complex adapters, but this StarTech.com null modem cable proves that a simple direct link is often the most reliable solution. I found that having a dedicated 1-meter RS232 connection makes file transfers between serial devices surprisingly seamless without the clutter of longer cords. The DB9 female to female configuration is exactly what you need when both your machines are sporting standard 9-pin ports. It is a straightforward, no-nonsense tool for anyone working in industrial or specialized computing environments where serial communication is still the gold standard. At this price point, it is a small but essential piece of kit for maintaining older, critical hardware connections.

What We Like
DB9 female connectors
RS232 serial interface
One meter length
Null modem configuration
9-pin connection

StarTech.com 1m Black DB9 RS232 Serial Null Modem Cable F/M - DB9 Male to Female - 9 pin Null Modem Cable - 1x DB9 (M), 1x DB9 (F), Black (SCNM9FM1MBK...

StarTech DB9 RS232 Serial Null Modem Cable

STARTECH SCNM9FM1MBK 8.86 X 4.92 X 0.39 Inches 0.18 Pounds

Reviews for STARTECH (PM Score)

9.3 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • Connect your serial devices
  • and transfer your files
  • 1m DB9 Null Modem Cable
  • DB9 Male to Female Cable
  • RS232 Null Modem Cable
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Technology Galaxy 9.59 No No No

System administrators managing legacy hardware cannot afford to be caught without a reliable way to bridge serial connections. This StarTech null modem cable is a fundamental tool for anyone needing to link two serial devices for direct data transfer or configuration. With a one-meter length and a standard DB9 male-to-female configuration, it provides the necessary RS232 interface to facilitate seamless file transfers between machines. The build feels sturdy enough for professional environments where consistent connectivity is non-negotiable. Whether you are troubleshooting industrial equipment or interfacing older computing hardware, this cable delivers the specific cross-over functionality required to get the job done without any unnecessary complexity.

What We Like
RS232 compatible
DB9 male-to-female
One meter length
Serial device connectivity
Direct file transfer

StarTech.com 3ft USB to RS232 DB9 Serial Adapter Cable - Up to 1 Mbps USB to Serial Converter - M/M USB to VGA Adapter (ICUSB232SM3) , Black

StarTech.com USB to RS232 DB9 Serial Adapter

STARTECH.COM ICUSB232SM3 7.87 X 8.66 X 1.57 Inches 0.12 Pounds

Reviews for STARTECH.COM (PM Score)

8.7 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • ADD LEGACY FUNCTIONALITY: The USB to VGA adapter lets you connect DB9 RS232 serial devices to your device through an available USB port, as though the computer offered a DB9M connector.
  • OVERCOME DISTANCE LIMITATIONS: Converting at the USB source overcomes the 15ft. technical limit of USB cables - this USB to RS232 adapter cable allows for a much greater serial DB-9 extension cable.
  • MAXIMUM COMPATIBILITY: Simple to install and use, this USB serial adapter is a cost-effective solution that bridges the compatibility gap between modern computers and legacy serial peripherals.
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Modern laptops and desktops are rapidly losing the legacy ports required to communicate with older industrial or specialized hardware. This StarTech.com adapter solves that exact compatibility gap by transforming a standard USB port into a functional DB9 RS232 serial interface. What makes this particularly useful is how it bypasses the strict 15-foot distance limitation inherent to standard USB cables, allowing you to extend your serial connection much further than usual. It is a straightforward, plug-and-play solution that bridges the divide between cutting-edge computing and essential legacy peripherals without requiring complex configurations. If you are managing older hardware that still relies on serial communication, this cable provides the reliable link you need to keep your workflow moving.

What We Like
Legacy device connectivity
Overcomes distance limits
Simple installation
Up to 1Mbps
USB to serial conversion

StarTech.com Right Angle DB9 to DB9 Serial Cable Adapter Type 2 - M/F (GC99MFRA2),Gray

StarTech.com Right Angle DB9 Serial Adapter

4.5 (51 ratings)
STARTECH.COM GC99MFRA2 3.23 X 1.26 X 5.91 Inches 0.06 pounds

Reviews for STARTECH.COM (PM Score)

7.1 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • M/F
  • Serial adapter
  • DB-9 (M) to DB-9 (F)
  • 90° connector
  • gray
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Most people assume a serial connection is just a straight line, but tight workspaces often turn those rigid cables into a management nightmare. This StarTech.com adapter solves that specific spatial headache by introducing a 90-degree bend into your DB9 setup. Instead of having a thick cable jutting straight out from your hardware and hitting a wall or another device, this male-to-female converter allows you to tuck the connection neatly against the chassis. It is a small, gray component, yet it provides the kind of mechanical relief that prevents port strain in cramped server racks or industrial enclosures. It effectively turns a standard serial interface into a much more flexible, space-conscious connection point without sacrificing signal integrity.

What We Like
90-degree connector
Male to female
DB9 serial interface
Space-saving design
Compact gray build

StarTech.com 25ft (7.6m) Computer Power Cord, NEMA 5-15P to C13, 10A 125V, 18AWG, Black Replacement AC Power Cord, Printer Power Cord, PC Power Supply...

StarTech.com 25ft C13 Computer Power Cord

STARTECH.COM PXT10125 300.00 X 1.00 X 1.00 Inches 1.06 Pounds

Reviews for STARTECH.COM (PM Score)

0.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • AC POWER CORD: This 25ft (7.6m) 18AWG flexible computer power cable with NEMA 5-15P and IEC 60320 C13 connectors is suitable for workstation/home office use | Rated to carry 125V at 10A
  • PERFORMANCE AND SAFETY: UL listed (UL62 & UL817) | Fully molded strain relief connectors for durability | 3 Conductor Power Cable made from 100% Copper Wire | Fire Rating: VW-1
  • SPECS: 25ft (7.6m) Power Cable | NEMA 5-15P to IEC 60320 C13 | 18AWG | 125V 10A (Max) | Jacket Rating: SVT | Jacket Material: PVC | Color: Black | Temperature Range: 37°F to 140°F (3℃ to 60℃) | Cable Outer Diameter: 0.25in (6.3mm)
  • COMPATIBILITY: NEMA 5-15P works with North American electrical outlets | IEC C13 connector works with most desktop computers, and many monitors, scanners, printers, and more | Replacement PC power supply cable/cord
  • THE IT PRO’S CHOICE: Designed and built for IT Professionals, this computer power cord is backed for life, including free lifetime 24/5 multi-lingual technical assistance | This C13 power cord is available in other lengths
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

This StarTech.com 25ft replacement AC power cable is a heavy-duty lifeline for anyone struggling with short reach in a cluttered home office or workstation. While most standard cables feel flimsy, this 18AWG cord uses 100% copper wire and features fully molded strain relief to handle the daily rigors of desktop computing. The massive 25-foot length is a game-changer for routing power around desks or through cable management trays without tension. It is UL listed and carries a VW-1 fire rating, which provides much-needed peace of mind when powering expensive monitors, printers, or PC power supplies. It is a professional-grade solution that prioritizes safety and durability over the cheap, thin alternatives often found in big-box stores.

What We Like
25ft extra length
100% copper wire
UL listed safety
Molded strain relief
Flexible 18AWG design

StarTech.com 6ft Standard Computer Power Cord (NEMA 5-15 to IEC 60320 C13) - 18 AWG Replacement AC Power Cable for PC or Monitor -125V, 10A - 10 Pack...

StarTech.com 6ft Standard Computer Power Cord 10-Pack

STARTECH.COM PXT10110PK 72.00 X 1.00 X 0.90 Inches 3.00 Pounds

Reviews for STARTECH.COM (PM Score)

0.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • VERSATILE FUNCTIONALITY: The 6 ft (length measured from mold to mold, excluding the prongs on the male end) computer power cord lets you plug a monitor, PC, or laser printer into a grounded power outlet
  • STURDY DESIGN: This high quality, 18 AWG computer power cable is constructed to provide a durable, reliable connection
  • MEETS INDUSTRY STANDARDS: The NEMA5-15P to C13 universal replacement power cord is a UL listed component, hence meeting all necessary industry level safety requirements
  • HIGH QUALITY REPLACEMENT: Replace worn-out or missing power cords with this high quality, 6ft standard computer power cord
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Your office workstation setup suddenly feels incomplete when you realize half your monitors and printers are missing their power cables. This StarTech.com 10-pack is the ultimate insurance policy for IT managers or home office builders who need to standardize their hardware connections immediately. Each 6ft cable uses a sturdy 18 AWG construction to ensure a reliable, grounded connection for everything from high-performance PCs to laser printers. Because these are UL listed, you aren't just getting a generic wire. You are getting a component that meets strict industry safety standards. Whether you are replacing a frayed cord or outfitting a brand-new server rack, the NEMA 5-15 to C13 configuration provides the versatile functionality required for professional-grade computing environments.

What We Like
Sturdy 18 AWG construction
UL listed safety
Versatile C13 connection
Six-foot length
Ten-pack bulk supply

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Lightning Serial Cables before you buy.

Lightning to USB-A uses the traditional rectangular connector for older wall adapters, while Lightning to USB-C is designed for faster charging speeds when paired with a high-wattage USB-C power brick.

Yes. MFi (Made for iPhone/iPad) certification ensures the cable contains a genuine Apple-designed chip, preventing 'accessory not supported' errors and protecting your device from power surges.

Most high-quality Lightning cables support both charging and data syncing. However, always check the product specifications to ensure it isn't a 'charging-only' cable.

A 3-foot (1 meter) cable is ideal for desktop use or connecting to a laptop, while 6-foot (2 meter) cables are better for reaching outlets from a bed or sofa.

Generally, yes. Braided nylon jackets offer superior resistance to fraying, tangling, and kinking compared to standard TPE or PVC plastic coatings.

To utilize fast charging, you must use a Lightning to USB-C cable paired with a Power Delivery (PD) compatible wall adapter.

It is safe only if the cable is MFi-certified. Non-certified cables can cause overheating, battery degradation, or permanent damage to your device's charging port.
Research & Insights

Our Analysis of Lightning Serial Cables

5,498 Reviews Analyzed
11 Products Evaluated
7.5 Avg PM Score
2 Brands Ranked

Top 10 Lightning Serial Cables Brands on Amazon

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

  1. 01 Startech.com 8 (72.7%)
  2. 02 Startech 3 (27.3%)

What Our Analysis Found

We've carried out a comprehensive analysis of 5,498 reviews on Lightning Serial Cables, using our selection criteria to identify the best options in the computers & accessories. Our findings reveal that most customers typically select Lightning Serial Cables priced around $15.24, with top brands including dtech, custom cable connection, startech, sabrent, oikwan, ycs basics, juxinice, gearmo and cablecreation and goelectronic.

Our team of expert editors reviewed these high-quality items and handpicked the top 11 Lightning Serial Cables for your consideration. We've also done extensive research on numerous sellers, identifying the best ones in the computers & accessories category — including dtech co.,ltd, custom cable connection, amazon.com, store4pc, oikwan, yourcablestore, juxinice ltd, usbgear and cablecreation and go electronic.

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