Best Gigabit Ethernet Switches
Best overall Best value Gaming Best for large networks
Linksys SE3008 8 Port
Metallic Gigabit Switch TP Link TL-SG108 NETGEAR Nighthawk GS810EMX TRENDnet
EG-224DG
Our pick
Which gigabit Ethernet switch performs best?
Linksys SE3008 is the best gigabit Ethernet switch for most uses. The Linksys SE3008 has eight ports and is easy to set up. It also features simple Quality of Service (QoS), which prioritizes audio and video streaming.
The best gigabit Ethernet switch depends on the number of ports and features that you need to run your wired network. We also list top choices for Ethernet switches that are specifically designed for gaming and large networks.
Top Ethernet switches
Best for Model Image Prices* Number of gigabit ports
Best overall–Linksys SE3008
Overall, the best
Specs:
8 gigabit Ethernet ports
Plug and Play
Full duplex
Auto MDI/MDI-X cable detection
Linksys SE3008
Our research shows that the Linksys SE3008 Ethernet switch is the best for home use. It is easy to use, just plug it in. However, it has QoS features that will streamline your data flow to stream movies and music.
The sturdy metal frame of the switch can be placed on your desk or mounted to a rack. It features eight front-facing ports that have LED status lights, so you always know which port
is active.
Pros
Construction that is sturdy
It’s easy to plug and play
Basic QoS to support multimedia performance
Cons
Basic switches are more expensive than their basic counterparts
On the opposite side of Ethernet ports, power jack
Best value–TP-Link TL-SG108
Best value
Specs:
8 gigabit Ethernet ports
Plug and Play
Full duplex
Auto MDI/MDI-X cable detection
The eight-port gigabit Ethernet switch has all the features that you would expect from an unmanaged switch, but it is very affordable. It features a metal frame and basic QoS traffic optimization.
It comes with a lifetime warranty that covers you if it breaks.
Although the TL-SG108 is made of metal, it only weighs in at 14 ounces. The weight of Ethernet connections can cause it to move if it isn’t secured properly. This could be frustrating since cord management can get messy enough without having your switch all tangled up.
Pros
Low price
Exterior made of metal
Lifetime guarantee
Cons
Lightweight construction
Best for gaming – NETGEAR Nighthawk GS810EMX
Gaming is best
Specs:
8 gigabit Ethernet ports
2 10G/multigig ports
Interface that is user-friendly
Mode Ethernet that is energy efficient
This list is missing the NETGEAR Nighthawk GS808E gaming switches. Although it is more complex and takes longer to set up, it allows you greater control over your network connections. This is a great advantage if you need to set up your connections to prioritize gaming data or reduce latency.
The switch’s two multigigabit Ethernet ports make it super fast for switching. It is more expensive than regular switches, but it has all the nice features. However, the benefits far outweigh any costs. Although the managed switch can be a bit more complicated to set up, it is easy to do once.
Pros
Design with low latency
Software for managing your business easily
Cons
High prices
Unmanaged switches are more difficult to set up
Ideal for large networks – TRENDnet TEG S24DG
Ideal for large networks
Specs:
24 gigabit Ethernet ports
Plug and Play
Full duplex
Auto MDI/MDI-X cable detection
Energy efficient design
This TRENDnet TEG–S24DG network switch is ideal if you have more than five to eight Ethernet ports. This gigabit switch offers both 16-port and 24 port options. It is a great way to increase your connections.
This device is similar to other cisco 1921 router, unmanaged Ethernet switches. It doesn’t offer many QoS features such as port configuration. It does however comply with GREENnet energy savings performance standards, which adjust power consumption based upon the devices plugged in to the switch.
You can either place the TEG-S24DG on your desk or mount it to a rack. However, you will need to purchase the rack-mounting hardware separately.
Pros
There are many ports
Lifetime guarantee
Cons
Rack-mounting hardware not included
Best for power over Ethernet -NETGEAR GS305Pv2
Best for Ethernet power over
NETGEAR GS305Pv2 PoE Ethernet switch
Specs:
Ports for 5Gigabit Ethernet
Power output: 63 watts
Plug and Play
Housing for the fanless
Energy efficient design
Although Ethernet cables are often associated with wired networking they can also be used to supply power. You can use them to install security cameras even in places without electrical outlets or lines. An Ethernet cable can be connected to allow the cameras to receive both power and data. Check out intel dh55tc motherboard price online in India.
NETGEAR’s GS305P version 2 provides power of up to 30 watts per ports, but you can only get 63 watts maximum output. The “plus” edition costs $20 more and comes with software that allows for you to manage your device. The GS316PP is available with 16 ports and a 183-watt power reserve. It starts at $399.99. Ouch.
Pros
Maximum 30 watts per port
Plug-and-play design
Cons
63-watt power budget
