This article covers M.2 A Eキーから2.5ギガビットイーサネット.

Overview

The youyeetoo i226 2.5G M.2 A+E Ethernet Card is a clever solution for adding high-speed wired networking to systems where PCIe slots are already occupied. Powered by the reliable Intel I226V controller, it delivers up to 2.5Gbps over a standard RJ45 port, yet occupies a tiny M.2 2230 slot (A+E keyed). This makes it ideal for compact builds—ITX desktops, thin laptops, and even single-board computers like the youyeetoo X1. What sets it apart is the included 30cm flat cable that lets you position the NIC away from the M.2 slot, avoiding airflow restrictions and allowing flexible placement inside the chassis. If you need fast wired networking but have no free PCIe slot, this card is a straightforward and cost-effective alternative.

Connectivity & Compatibility

Interface: M.2 A+E key (PCIe x1) — the card communicates over PCIe, not SATA or USB Ethernet: Single RJ45 port with auto-negotiation (10/100/1000/2500 Mbps) Controller: Intel I226V (same chip used in many high-end add-in cards) Physical: M.2 2230 module (22×30 mm), half-height/low-profile compatible Cable: 30cm flat FFC cable (connects M.2 slot to the NIC module) Compatible Systems: Any device with an M.2 A+E slot that supports PCIe — including notebooks, mini PCs, industrial boards, and SBCs Important caveat: The M.2 slot must be wired for PCIe. M.2 slots dedicated to SATA or USB (e.g., some wireless card slots) won't work. Check your motherboard manual before buying.

Product Info

Released in late 2024, the youyeetoo i226 2.5G M.2 Ethernet Card is priced at around ¥5,834 (about $40 USD) on Japan. That's significantly cheaper than most USB 2.5GbE adapters, while offering the stability and driver maturity of Intel silicon. The package includes the NIC module, a 30cm FFC cable, and a quick-start guide. Warranty varies by seller but typically 30 days to 1 year. This card sits solidly in the value-to-mid-range segment—it won't break the bank, but it also lacks advanced features like multi-queue offloading present on enterprise NICs.

Best Use Cases

Users maxing out PCIe slots: If your motherboard already has a GPU, capture card, and NVMe storage installed, an M.2 A+E slot can still be leveraged for 2.5GbE without sacrificing expansion. Laptop owners with spare M.2: Some ultrabooks have a free M.2 A+E slot (often used for WWAN). Slap in this card and you've got built-in 2.5GbE—no USB dongle required. SBC / industrial system builders: The youyeetoo X1 and similar boards frequently have M.2 A+E slots. This card adds a second wired LAN port for routing, firewall, or network storage applications. Not ideal for users who: Need 10GbE, have no M.2 A+E slot, or are already happy with integrated 1GbE LAN. In those cases, a USB 2.5GbE adapter or PCIe 10GbE card would be more appropriate.

Product Disclosure (Amazon)

  • Manufacturer: youyeetoo
  • Seller: Amazon US
  • Fulfilled by: Amazon US
  • ASIN: B0DDPMK2VK
  • Note: This article covers a manufacturer-made product based on Amazon listing details.