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17 Best Network Switch Reviews 2019

A network switch is a computer networking device that connects a different variety of Ethernet-enabled gadgets together.

Most commonly by using packet switching architecture to receive, process and forward data to the desired destination.

They are available with different port sizes and numerous types but generally marketed by a network switch, switching hub, bridging hub or even a MAC bridge.

Moreover, you need to understand the basic types of a switching hub;

  • Unmanaged: A plug and play switch without any particular network management software.
  • Managed: A network management switch with either web or desktop based utilities.

The unmanaged ones are driverless, and all you need is to plug and play, whereas the unmanaged ones do require initial network configurations, then we have hybrid switches also known as a smart network switch which is aimed to deliver professional networking features even with a bit of technical knowledge.

No Time To Read? Network Switch Reviews in 30 Seconds

If you’re in the market for a new ethernet switch, PGB dedicated review page will help you to make the best choice based on your needs and requirements so you can select the best network switch for your home, office, gaming or any other small businesses. Unlike all the other Ethernet switch reviews you see on the web, we’re one of the only homemade webpage still around.

That’s because our recommendations are based on our personal experience and not influenced by a company sending us their latest product.

Before I get to the switch reviews, allow me to provide you with a bit of background: I have been in the networking field for over eight years now.

My goal is to present you with the most honest reviews of today’s top network switches so that you can easily make a better buying decision for yourself.

Each Ethernet switch has been designed to serve a specific purpose. For example, if you’re a normal user and need one for your home, then the TP-Link TL-SF1005D will be your top choice. If you’re looking for Gigabit switch then go for TP-Link 5-ports TL-SG1005D.

If you’re a professional gamer seeking ultra-high performance and lag-free gaming, then the Netgear Nighthawk S8000 Advanced 8-port gigabit switch is recommended for gaming and streaming.

Zyxel GS105SV2 is also good and cheaper alternative of Nighthawk switch for gaming.

Want more for professional work including office, hospitals or any other small businesses then you should consider Cisco Small Business 200 Series SLM2048T-NA.

In terms of value? Right now, the TP-link TL-SG1024DE 48-port Rackmount unmanaged is a good bet under $250.

If you just want quick summaries of each switch, then read below as I go through the best all-around switches (and recommended) currently available today.

But why do I need a Network Switch?

Most of us think that wired networking is a history, well that’s not true and practically never would be.

Although it’s difficult to play with wires but considering the utilities they can drive and the control over the entire network are way ahead of wireless networks.

You might be needing switches for home or office for connecting all kinds of network devices, such as PCs, Laptops, Media Players, Printers, IP cams, Servers, Routers and even more than that. To be able to share files or stream media over the network with blazing speeds.

Is Your bridging hub cheating on YOU?

But it’s hard to select the best switch for all your needs, not anymore! Because we carefully examined the specific requirements for bridging hubs and that’s how we selected the best ones available on Amazon.
So, whether you are willing to create a home, gaming, office, workgroup, or what so ever network, all you need is to identify the number of ports and the type of switch you need. Rest is all well detailed below!

1. TP-Link TL-SF1005D – 5-Port Fast Ethernet Switch

An unmanaged Fast Ethernet plug and play switch with 5 auto-negotiation RJ45 ports to deliver 10/100 Mbps of network speed. This MDI supported hub works on non-blocking switching architecture to store and forward packets at full wire-speed, maintaining reliability by the IEEE 802.3x flow control.

Let it auto-sense the MAC address of all your networking goodies, where all You need is to monitor the bright LED indicators. The little fanless plastic design is good enough to sit anywhere on your desktop or stick to a wall, with energy efficient hardware for quiet but powerful networking throughput.

The TP-Link TL-SF1005D is a plug and play driverless switch to not only guess what’s plugged but is widely compatible with any Ethernet hardware. Let it be PCs, Laptops, gaming consoles or even media players, powered by either Windows, Mac OS, Linux or even Android in case.

With 4.6 mighty stars and a consistent Amazon’s best seller ranking, It’s literally the most affordable 100Mbps Fast Ethernet switch under $10. And what’s better than 2-years of TP-Link Warranty for all your very basic; home, office or gaming needs to have some extra fast Ethernet ports.

2. TP-Link TL-SG1005D – 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch

An unmanaged gigabit network switch with 5 intelligent ports with MDI and MDIX support, capable of delivering blazing network speeds up to 1000Mbps. Powered by TP-Link’s insane hardware and software combo readily available for a very fast, reliable and power-efficient networking experience.

The minimal, futuristic design is well equipped with very powerful 9K Jumbo frame network architecture to optimally store, forward and handle data for maximum throughput. Whereas, IEEE 802.3x flow control increases the reliability of packet filtering for full wire-speed.

Compatible with nearly any Ethernet networking gadget of all kinds, you won’t need drivers to plug and play this switching beast to empower your house, office, or work group with consistently insane data transfer speeds of 1Gbps.

The 5-port is yet a basic option but is genuinely the best choice for limited gigabit ports. Considering very positive ratings all over the web, and even a top best seller at Amazon, the TL-SG1005D is proudly known as the best 5-port gigabit switch under $20, along with 2-years of TP Link’s 24/7 support and warranty.

3. Linksys SE3008 – 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch

This is an excellent 8-port gigabit switch with non-head of line blocking architecture and full duplex IEEE802.3x flow control. The uplink auto-detection support consistently detects and auto broadcast speed of up to 1000Mbps, with efficient power management to quietly deliver maximum network performance.

It’s a top performer in power gaming or media playing uses, where you can adjoin multiple Smart TVs, Gaming rigs, VoIP gadgets, printers and more. All without any technical knowledge and to enjoy blazing media streaming and transferring across your home or office.

From professional to basic need, SE3008 wears a premium metallic body and reliable hardware inside. If you are looking for a top selling 8-port gigabit switch under $40 with a 1-year warranty and 24/7 award-winning online support, SE3008 by Linksys should be your definite choice.

4. Netgear ProSafe GS116NA – 16-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch

A full featured 16-port gigabit switch with 16K Jumbo frames, 250KB buffer memory, and 8000 MAC entries. The famous Netgear 32Gbps bandwidth with throttling full duplex 2000 Mbps speed and TOS plus QoS proves that GS116NA is perfect all-rounder network switch.

It’s still the most widely compatible unmanaged 16gig switch, all you need is to plug and play all varieties of PCs, Laptops, or even media players with nearly any operating system. Let it be pro gaming sessions in the neighborhood or streaming 4K videos instantly across your network.

We call it the best 16-port gigabit switch under $80, specially designed for massive media network. Also, because NetGear topped the US switching hubs market in 2015, and You are well assured with the mighty 5-year warranty!

5. TP-Link TL-SG108E – 8-Port Gigabit Smart Switch

This is the next gen 8-port gigabit switch with easy, smart technology and features. It’s not just a switch, but more of a network controller with powerful options to manage the entire Ethernet network security with a few clicks.

You get 16Gbps of bandwidth along with 1000Mbps throttling 8 RJ45 ports, each one of them can be mirrored or prevented from looping and even diagnosed for bad cables intelligently. QoS ensures latency to stay low at power hours, where VLAN prevents the entire network from malicious threats.

Statistically, it can forward packets at 11.9Mbps with Jumbo frames of 16KB each. The 2Mb buffer memory with a MAC address table of 8K is truly an insane combination of a blazing network. All of this is neatly packed in a high-quality fanless body, that can proudly sit on a desk or can be rack-mounted easily.

The TL-SG108E is smart enough to guess any network device even in off-state, so you literally need to skip the compatibility part! This is truly an all in one smart switch to fulfill all your smart switching needs with 8-ports in mind.

Where we call it the perfect gaming smart switch under $35 with TP-Link’s limited lifetime warranty.

6. NETGEAR ProSAFE JGS524NA – 24-Port Gigabit Rackmount Switch

The JGS52NA is literally a very reliable 24-port gigabit switch with high-quality hardware packed with a premium solid design. The blazing bandwidth of 48Gbps with 250KB of buffer memory along with max MAC entries up to 8000, sums up how throttling the entire Ethernet network would be.

You get a consistent speed of 1000Mbps from all the auto-sensing ports equally, regardless of network load. Ready to plug and play without any kind of drivers for all kind of network hardware or software, while consuming lowest possible power.

Being a top seller at Amazon with 4.6 mighty rating stars, it wouldn’t be wrong to call it the best 24-port gigabit rack mountable switch under $140. Widely used for networking durability of a small office, powerhouse, workgroups and even by pro gamers. And what’s even better than Netgear lifetime warranty with 24/7 support?

7. NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit PoE Web Managed Switch

Next, we have the mighty web managed plus switch with 8 throttling gigabit ports to deliver 2000Mbps along with 4 additional PoE ones with 53W power. The high-end tech features, VLAN, QoS, IGMP and the most impressive DDOS prevention, which means maximum network speeds with minimum threats.

It’s more of a network manager for excellent control and security, along with the entire bandwidth of 16Gbps with max MAC entries of up to 4000 and you can add up to 32 VLAN groups at once.

The standard gigabit ports will empower all your PCs, media players, etc. Whereas the PoE ports are specially designed to adjoin, IP phones, IP surveillance cameras, wireless access points, and even more gadgets that require power over Ethernet.

It’s the best suit for an entire household requirement or even a small office set up, as it can cover all the possible Ethernet goodies with advanced web management tools. The best part is that this managed PoE switch is an excellent choice under $90, along with Net gear’s lifetime warranty and that’s why it’s a best-seller on Amazon with 4.5 stars.

8. TP-Link 24-Port Gigabit Easy Smart Switch

The TL-SG1024DE is a high end easy, smart switch with 24 1000Mbps auto-sensing ports and 48Gbps of entire network bandwidth. Apart from QoS, VLAN, IGMP, and even IEEE 802.3x flow, we got some very advanced management tools to easily set up, monitor and even diagnose the entire Ethernet network.

With 36Mbps of packet forwarding, 4Mb buffer memory and up to 10KB of a jumbo frame, TP-Link ensures consistency of speeds and minimum latency. The high-quality build ensures durability along with low power consumptions.

It can be professionally trusted for office or large work groups with speedy ports and secure architecture. Whereas TP-Link’s 5-year warranty will prevent you from losing the best 24-port smart gigabit switch under $110.

9. Cisco Gigabit Smart Switch with mini-GBIC

Smartest business class bridging hub with 24 insane gigabit ports with up to 1000Mbps speed, along with 2 additional mini-GBIC connections to support high-bandwidth applications with ease.

The combination of QoS, Layer 3 static routing, and IPV6, let’s you control the entire network with perfection using the web portal for mass deployment activities. The switching capacity of 39Mbps along with 52Gbps of packet forwarding will nail the performance of virtual business applications.

It’s literally quite easy to plug and manage the entire network with Cisco inside, you don’t have to worry about diagnostics and troubleshooting anymore. Forget about compatibility barriers, the SG200-26 is designed for professionals with little knowledge, but who are willing to control the network in a better way.

Let it be Link aggregation, or managing multiple access points, this smart business switch would be the best choice under $210 also considering a limited lifetime warranty.

10. TRENDnet Gigabit Web Smart Switch with SFP Slots

An enterprise level 24 gigabit port web smart switch along with 4 shared SFP slots, burstable to 2000Mbps with 48Gbps switching capacity. Apart from easily configurable management portal with power networking tools, we have features like SNMP and STP.

Additionally, we have 512Kb of RAM for data buffering along with 10KB of Jumbo frame each. What’s better than iPv6 and Voice VLAN combo, these features will exhale high-end data transfer speeds with enough compatibility and management options to never worry about your network anymore.

With full duplex uplink speeds and enterprise design, you can’t cut the TEG-240WS from the list of best web smart network switches under $190.

It’s all good for heavy server connections in a workplace, or an electric outlet. Being one of the best sellers on Amazon with 4.6 stars and thousands of positive reviews, and finally a lifetime warranty tag from Trendnet!

11. D-Link DGS-1210-52 Review

D-Link is another reliable brand name in the world of networking and data communications solutions.

D-Link DGS-1210-52 is an absolute powerhouse which is equipped with 52 Ethernet ports; 48 of which are 10/100/1000BASE-T Ports and the remaining 4 being the Gigabit SFP ports.

DGS-1210-52 performance is extraordinary, and you will not disappoint you. It is the not just the amount of ports that make this network switch standout from the competitors. It features 802.1Q VLAN, Auto Voice VLAN and Auto Surveillance VLAN, QoS, link aggregation, port mirroring, spamming tree, and IGMP snooping.

All the above-mentioned features makes it perform better. It also comes with high-security features which give you better control over your privacy and security settings.

Overall the D-Link DGS-1210-52 is a reliable network switch that saves you from maintaining another network switches.

12. TP-LINK TL-SG1048

TP-LINK TL-SG1048 tops the list of the best gigabit network switches in the market at the moment.

TP-LINK devices are renowned for their seamless and satisfying job, but this model TL-SG1048 is particularly ranked amongst the best network switches for the year 2017 and 2018.

It offers functional connectivity and a number of cool features that a networking enthusiast may enjoy greatly.

Much like its predecessor DGS-1210-52, TP-LINK TL-SG1048 is initially a rackmount server, with its 48 ports.

Additionally, this network switch packs three different models that are desktop unmanaged, easy, smart, and rackmount managed.

The rackmount model offers great support for IEEE 802.3x flow control for Full Duplex mode and backpressure for Half Duplex mode.

Furthermore, the device features Auto MDI/MDIX. These modes are specifically designed to virtually get rid of the need to maintain crossover cables. It is also compatible with MAC address auto-learning and on auto-aging.

13. TRENDnet TEG-424WS

Next, we have, TRENDnet’s TEG-424WS which is a 24 port network switch with several port configurations.

But that’s not the only reason this device made it to our list of the best. This network switch features a 10/100 Mbps Web Smart Switch with 4 Gigabit Ports and 2 Mini-GBIC Slots.

By its design, the device looks like an ordinary network switch with standard features, but its network performance will blow you away.

It is equipped with SNMP (v1), IEEE 802.1X and STP, holds a 12.8 Gbps switching capacity Broadcast Storm Control, and also supports IEEE 802.1Q VLAN, Asymmetric VLAN, QoS, IGMP, Trunking, and Mirroring.

All these features make TRENDnet TEG-424WS a reliable switch to tackle all your networking needs within a reasonable price tag and is a secure switch solution for SMB networks.

14. Netgear ProSafe GS724T Switch

Netgear has emerged as a reliable global network company with a vast variety of network switches. Another favorite network switch from Netgear on this list is the ProSafe GS724T Switch.

It is specifically designed to cater to the needs of the SMB customers that want high networking performance, require SB-oriented features and are easy to manage.

The overall design of this switch makes it ideal for commercial use. It has the switching capacity of 48 Gb/s, has 28 copper 10/100/1000 Mb/s ports and two SFP 100/1000 ports.

It is also great for small organizations that require network switches for smooth running of applications, for instance, VoIP, video conferencing and system security.

The 24 ports are based on the standard RJ45 Ethernet connections and have auto-arrange designed for exchanges. The SFP ports can fully support large data exchanges and cater to other networking requirements.

It not only proves to be reliable in the long run, but it is also quite inexpensive. It delivers a speedy performance as it is PoE powered, making it an ideal choice for smaller organizations that do not want progressed switches.

Netgear ProSafe GS724T Switch is a very cost-effective network switch that comes with the lifetime guarantee and a technical support up to a year.

15) Linksys SE1500

If you are on the hunt for a cheap yet reliable network switch, that would not cost you a few extra significant dollars then SE1500 5-Port by Linksys is a good option.

The device has a small design and is equipped with five ports. But do not underestimate its performance by its design and size as this Ethernet switch delivers seamless networking execution.

Linksys SE1500 5-Port is available in both 10/100 and Gigabit versions. You can check out the eight-port version; however, in this review, we are focusing on its five port model. It features an auto-sensing technology which is capable of sensing the networking speed being transmitted to the network.

Overall, the performance is not disappointing at all, and it is indeed a trusted budget-friendly network switch for your home or places where the network traffic is not too heavy.

16) Linksys SE2800 – 8-Port Gigabit Switch

Another recommended pick from Linksys is its SE2800 8-Port Gigabit Switch. Linksys has remained to be a reliable data networking hardware provider primarily for homes and smaller organizations.

This switch can enhance your network up to the speed of 1000 Mbps 10x which is speedier than any standard Ethernet. The device embodies a slim, stylish and compact design with the resolution of 720p.

It is a plug and play device, which means you can simply connect it to your PCs, printers, game consoles, and different gadgets very easily and share media between the Gigabit gadgets.

The 8-Port Gigabit network switch also supports auto MDI/MDI-X. Users can set it up easily without any troublesome configuration changes.

Furthermore, this network switch packs power-saving characteristics such as auto shut down of unused ports, sleep mode during inactivity of ports and power-savvy function for short cable runs. It utilizes an eight auto-sensing Gigabit (10/100/1000) ports for connecting the gadgets or devices.

Linksys SE2800 8-Port Gigabit Switch is highly recommended for users who have multiple internet connections.

17) ZyXEL GS105SV2 – Cheaper for Gaming & Media

Next, is a Taiwanese brand that manufactures networking devices which promise good performance and connectivity.

GS105SV2 is the Ethernet switch that is ‘the one’ for gaming and media freaks. The device offers superfast connectivity, speedy browsing, and a great gaming experience. It is amongst the best Ethernet switch of its kind when it comes to its performance, speed, size, design, and user-interactivity.

The hardware is designed to improve better command and control over desired network usage. It has prominent features like power saving design and ultra-fast connectivity. It has the switching capacity of 10 Gb/s, with 5-ports, making it an ideal network switch for small businesses and home users.

Equipped with 5 QoS ports and THREE-Level Prioritization which allows users to synchronize and connect to different platforms with just one device. The ports of this device are also compatible with auto MDI/MDI-X.

Speaking of speed and performance, this device performs an exemplary job. The Gigabit connection delivers an ultra-fast gaming and streaming experience to the users and enables smoother transmission of data from one device to the other.

Furthermore, ZyXEL GS105SV2 is a plug and play network switch which allows users to deal with their connectivity requirements easily. It is truly an economical hardware device that ensures easy user-interactivity.

Wrap Up!

That was all about the best networks switches available in the market for all your personal to enterprise networking needs. All our top picks were hunted from Amazon best sellers with very positive reviews across the web.

So, have you selected and ordered the best-suited network switch yet? You are well assured of the quality, reliability, and durability of all our top picks!

But if you are unable to make a choice for the desired needs? You are good to ask anything related to this article in the comments below!

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Imran Aftab
 

Hello, I'm Imran Aftab, a tech enthusiast using Android, iOS, and Windows. Hardware expert for Gaming & Crypto mining rigs. I have been writing on tech since 2013, starting with ohguideme, then Androidcentral. I have written and published several guides and tutorials on how to root Android, flash custom ROM, recovery, and jailbreak iPhone, and have written several guides on how to bypass FRP. I also worked in a phone repair shop, so I have pretty good experience with mobile software and troubleshooting. So, all the guides you see here have been tested and confirmed to work.

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