“Discover the best RS-485 to USB converter in 2025. Compare top 5 models, features, and buying tips to connect RS-485 devices to modern PCs with ease.”
Introduction
If you work with industrial automation, IoT devices, or smart building systems, chances are you’ve come across the RS-485 to USB converter. This handy device allows you to connect legacy RS-485 equipment to modern computers through a simple USB port. In 2025, RS-485 communication is still widely used because of its reliability and long-distance capability, making these converters an essential tool for engineers, technicians, and hobbyists.
In this guide, we’ll review the Top 5 Best RS-485 to USB Converters in 2025, explain their features, and help you choose the right one for your needs.
What is an RS-485 to USB Converter?
An RS-485 to USB converter is a small device that enables communication between a computer’s USB port and an RS-485 device such as PLCs, HMIs, sensors, or smart meters.
- USB side: Connects to laptops, PCs, or Raspberry Pi.
- RS-485 side: Connects to industrial devices using differential signaling.
- Drivers: Often plug-and-play, but some require driver installation.
👉 Image suggestion: A labeled diagram showing how an RS-485 to USB converter connects between a PC and an RS-485 device.
Why Do You Need an RS-485 to USB Converter?
- Modern laptops no longer support RS-485 ports.
- Easy configuration and testing of industrial devices.
- Cost-effective and portable solution.
- Works across multiple operating systems (Windows, Linux, Mac).
Top 5 Best RS-485 to USB Converters in 2025
Here’s a detailed comparison of the best RS-485 to USB converters available in 2025:
1. UT-890C Industrial RS-485 to USB Converter
UT-890C Industrial RS-485 to USB Converter
- U-Tek
- USB Type C
- 3600 Megabits Per Second
- Speed: Up to 3 Mbps
- OS Support: Windows, Mac, Linux
- Features: Built-in surge protection, rugged metal casing
- Pros: Reliable for heavy industrial use, long cable support
- Cons: Slightly expensive
👉 Best for industrial automation environments.
2. StarTech ICUSB485 USB to RS-485 Converter
StarTech ICUSB485 USB to RS-485 Converter
- Supports RS-485 and RS-422 serial interfaces via DB9 or Terminal Block connections for versatile connection options
- Circuit isolation provides electrical protection for sensitive, and often expensive industrial equipment
- Rugged, USB Bus powered enclosure requiring no external power adapter for simple integration into harsh industrial environments
- Circuit isolation provides electrical protection for sensitive, and often expensive industrial equipment
- RS-485 mode supports Auto Transceiver Turn Around (ATTA)
- Speed: 921.6 kbps
- OS Support: Windows & Linux
- Features: Compact design, plug-and-play
- Pros: Lightweight, portable, affordable
- Cons: Not the best for high-noise environments
👉 Best for students, hobbyists, and small labs.
3. DTECH DT-5019 USB to RS-485 Converter
DTECH DT-5019 USB to RS-485 Converter
- USB to RS485/RS422 converter It easily lets you connect RS485 or RS422 device directly to your Laptop PC computer USB port
- RS485 Serial to USB adapter is ideal for industrial environment -provides 600w surge protection and 15KV ESD isolated protection on signal pins to protect costly and often sensitive control equipment against electrical damage
- USB to RS485 cable adapter is with high performance quality processor chip (FTDI-chipset FT232) and I/O auto conversion circuitry which makes RS 485 to USB convertor one of the most reliable dongle on the market
- 4ft USB serial RS-485 RS-422 adapter cable supports windows 11 10 8 7, Mac and more; plug-and-play, No power supply needed
- There are no IRQ and COM port conflicts, since the port do not require any additional IRQ, DMA, memory as resources on the system; RS485 for Half duplex and RS422 for Full duplex communication
- Speed: 2 Mbps
- OS Support: Windows, Linux, Mac
- Features: Built-in indicator lights, ABS plastic casing
- Pros: User-friendly, budget-friendly
- Cons: Not suitable for rugged industrial applications
👉 Great for small IoT and DIY projects.
4. B&B Electronics USOPTL4 USB to RS-485 Converter
B&B Electronics USOPTL4 USB to RS-485 Converter
- Serial Communication: Converts RS-422/485 serial data to USB for easy communication with computers and other devices.
- Non-Isolated: Does not require an isolation transformer for safe operation.
- Compact Design: Small form factor allows for easy integration into existing systems.
- Automatic Baud Rate Detection: Detects and adjusts baud rate for compatibility with different serial devices.
- Includes USB Cable: Comes with a USB cable for quick and easy installation.
- Speed: 921.6 kbps
- OS Support: Cross-platform support
- Features: Optical isolation, surge protection
- Pros: High safety, industrial-grade reliability
- Cons: Bulkier than other models
👉 Best for long-distance communication in noisy environments.
5. Waveshare USB to RS-485 Converter (Isolated Version)
- his is an industrial USB to RS485 converter with original FT232RL And SP485EEN inside. It features embedded protection circuits such as lllgthningproof, resettable fuse, ESD protection, and TVS diode, etc. It’s pretty small in size.
- The USB TO RS485 is very easy to use, allows automatic transceiving. Due to its fast communication, stability, reliability, and safety, it is an ideal choice for industrial control equipments and/or applications with high communication requirement.
- USB to RS485 communication Adopt original FT232RL, fast communicating, stable and reliable, better compatibility
- Onboard TVS (Transient Voltage Suppressor), effectively suppress surge voltage and transient spike voltage in the circuit anti-electrostatic
- Onboard self-recovery fuse and protection diodes, ensures the current/voltage stable outputs, provides over-current/over-voltage proof, improves shock resistance 3 LEDs for indicating the power and transceiver status
- Speed: 3 Mbps
- OS Support: Windows, Linux, Raspberry Pi support
- Features: Optical isolation, LED indicators
- Pros: Excellent for IoT & Raspberry Pi projects, stable performance
- Cons: Slightly more technical setup
👉 Perfect for developers and IoT enthusiasts.
Comparison Table – Best RS-485 to USB Converters (2025)
| Model | Max Speed | OS Support | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UT-890C | 3 Mbps | Win/Mac/Linux | Rugged, Surge Protection | Industrial Automation |
| StarTech ICUSB485 | 921.6 kbps | Win/Linux | Portable, Easy to Use | Students & Labs |
| DTECH DT-5019 | 2 Mbps | Win/Mac/Linux | Indicator Lights | IoT Projects |
| B&B USOPTL4 | 921.6 kbps | Multi-OS | Optical Isolation | Long-Distance Use |
| Waveshare Isolated | 3 Mbps | Win/Linux/RPi | Optical Isolation, LED | IoT & Development |
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best RS-485 to USB Converter
When choosing an RS-485 to USB converter, consider:
- Data Speed: Higher baud rates are better for fast communication.
- Isolation & Protection: Essential for noisy industrial setups.
- Compatibility: Ensure it works with your OS (Windows, Linux, Mac).
- Build Quality: Rugged models are better for long-term use.
- Price vs Features: Match the converter to your exact use case.
Installation & Usage Tips
- Install drivers (if required).
- Connect the USB side to your computer.
- Connect RS-485 terminals (A+, B-) correctly.
- Configure COM port settings (baud rate, parity, stop bits).
- Test communication with your RS-485 device.
👉 Image suggestion: A step-by-step wiring diagram with labels (PC → Converter → RS-485 Device).
Common Issues & Troubleshooting
- No communication: Check wiring polarity (A+, B-).
- Driver issues: Update from the manufacturer’s website.
- Baud rate mismatch: Ensure both devices use the same baud rate.
- Data errors: Use shielded cables for noisy environments.
The RS-485 to USB converter is more than just a small accessory—it’s a powerful bridge between modern computers and legacy RS-485 devices. Whether you’re working in industrial automation, smart building management, energy monitoring, or DIY electronics projects, having the right converter ensures reliable communication and smooth data transfer.
In this guide, we reviewed the Top 5 Best RS-485 to USB Converters in 2025, from budget-friendly models like UGREEN and DTECH to rugged, industrial-grade options like StarTech, B&B Electronics, and Gearmo. Each converter has its own strengths, so the best choice depends on your specific needs:
- 💡 For beginners or students: Go with UGREEN or DTECH.
- ⚙️ For industrial and professional environments: StarTech, Gearmo, or B&B Electronics are worth the investment.
No matter which option you choose, investing in a reliable RS-485 to USB converter will save you time, reduce errors, and make your systems more efficient.
👉 If you’re planning to buy one, always check for compatibility, protection features, and data speed to match your project requirements.
