How to add an Ethernet port to the Razer Blade 15

The trouble with the Ethernet port is that it's pretty tall. And tall doesn't mix with slim laptops, like the latest Razer Blade 15, so it often gets left out.

It's not tough to add, though, and in the case of the Razer Blade 15 there are different solutions based on what else you might be doing.

USB Ethernet adapter

USB Ethernet

The cheapest, easiest and most portable method of getting Ethernet for your Razer Blade 15 is a USB adapter. Just plug in the dongle, connect your cable and you've got yourself some tasty wired internet.

A gigabit Ethernet adapter such as this one from Anker is only $14 and is also a perfect companion for travel. It takes up no space in your bag and doesn't require power, so it's absolutely perfect. It's also available in a metal finish for $20 if you're so inclined.

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USB-C hub

USB-C Hub

If you're looking to add Ethernet alongside something else the Razer Blade 15 doesn't have, namely an SD card slot, then a hub is a great way to go.

You'll get added functionality such as more USB ports as well as Ethernet and an SD slot, all in one package that's still small enough to toss in a bag and take on the road with you.

Something like this one from Lenovo for around $57 is ideal. Simply plug into the USB-C port on your Razer Blade 15 and away you go.

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Thunderbolt 3 dock

Thunderbolt 3 dock

If your primary concern is using Ethernet at home, a Thunderbolt 3 dock, while pricey, might be a good investment. From a single cable connected to your Razer Blade 15 you can transform it into a full desktop computer.

Besides the wired internet, you can connect up to two 4K displays, a bunch of USB devices, your SD cards and even audio devices.

Thunderbolt 3 requires power, so it's not exactly portable, but for a home office situation, the $220 asking price for this one from Cable Matters is good value for using with a laptop like this.

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Razer Core V2

Razer Core V2

Razer Core X

Razer's Thunderbolt 3 dock isn't just a dock. It's also an external GPU if you need more graphics horsepower than is included inside. It's also a good way to futureproof the Razer Blade 15, ensuring you can use future generation GPUs with it for minimal fuss.

Like other Thunderbolt 3 docks, the Core V2 turns your laptop in a full desktop PC with multiple connectivity options, external display connections, Ethernet, and will even help you set up VR a little easier.

All down a single cable to and from the laptop. It's the most expensive option at $500, but it's also the one that adds the most to your Razer Blade 15.

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Richard Devine
Managing Editor - Tech, Reviews

Richard Devine is a Managing Editor at Windows Central with over a decade of experience. A former Project Manager and long-term tech addict, he joined Mobile Nations in 2011 and has been found on Android Central and iMore as well as Windows Central. Currently, you'll find him steering the site's coverage of all manner of PC hardware and reviews. Find him on Mastodon at mstdn.social/@richdevine