Realtek's Cheap 10GbE NIC Could Finally Bring 10 Gigabit Ethernet to the Masses

Realtek showcased its new RTL8127 10GbE network controller at Computex 2025. This tiny (9mm x 9mm) PCIe 4.0 x2 controller supports 2.5Gbps, 5Gbps, and 10Gbps speeds, boasts a low power consumption of 1.95W, and integrates ECC and CRC features. Priced at around $10, it promises to drastically reduce the cost of integrating 10GbE into motherboards. While 10GbE switches and CAT6 cables remain relatively expensive, wider adoption of the RTL8127 by motherboard manufacturers could accelerate the普及 of 10GbE networking.