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9 Best POE Switch 2024 – Reviews & Buying Guide

With the ever-increasing demand for seamless connectivity, the importance of choosing the best POE switch cannot be overstated. It not only simplifies cabling but also significantly enhances the power management capabilities for devices like IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points.

To ensure our recommendations stand the test of reliability and performance, we tested several poe switches in different scenarios from high-density office settings to remote outdoor locations.

Our finalized list of the best poe switches is shortlisted based on three critical factors that include

  • Port Count: Opt for a POE switch with a generous number of ports to accommodate current needs and allow for future expansion.
  • Bandwidth Capacity: Ensure the switch can handle high bandwidth to support remote viewing of video footage via apps and software without causing a holdup in network performance.
  • Power Supply: Verify the switch’s power capacity to confirm it can adequately power all cameras in your setup, as it is responsible for both data transfer and providing power to the cameras.

For more details, check out the insights we have provided in our comprehensive “Buying Guide”.

Top 10 POE Switches Comparison

POE SwitchNumber of PortsWattageWarrantyBuy Now
NETGEAR POE Switch8 ports123 wattsLimited lifetime warrantyCheck On Amazon
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TP-Link POE Switch5 ports65 wattsLimited lifetime warrantyCheck On Amazon
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Linksys POE Switch16 ports80 watts1 yearCheck On Amazon
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BV-Tech POE Switch6 ports60 watts1 yearCheck On Amazon
YuanLey 8 Port PoE Switch8 ports120 wattsNot SpecifiedCheck On Amazon
Cisco POE Switch16 ports45 wattsLimited lifetime warrantyCheck On Amazon
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D-Link POE Switch8 ports-Limited lifetime warrantyCheck On Amazon
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MokerLink POE Switch24 ports400 watts1 yearCheck On Amazon
STEAMEMO POE Switch16 ports200 watts---Check On Amazon
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VIMIN 16 Port PoE Switch8 ports---1 yearCheck On Amazon

Best POE Switch Reviews

1. NETGEAR 8-Port POE Switch

NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit

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NETGEAR’s POE switch has managed top position in curated list for its simplicity. It’s perfect for anyone looking to power up without dealing with complex configurations. Each of its 8 ethernet ports is PoE+ enabled, sharing a generous 123W total power budget to keep your devices powered up and operational. So, it offers ample connectivity for a variety of devices.

It has an energy-efficient design that meets IEEE802.3az standards that ensures your network’s power consumption is kept to a minimum without sacrificing performance. Coming to installation, it supports desktop, wall, or rackmount placement, ensuring it fits perfectly in any setup.

Its silent operation makes it an ideal choice for environments where noise is a concern, allowing you to focus on work or relaxation without unnecessary distractions. It comes with Lifetime Limited Hardware Warranty with Next Business Day Replacement, and around-the-clock access to NETGEAR experts.

Specifications

  • 8 PoE+ ports, 123W total
  • Plug-and-play simplicity
  • Desktop, wall, rackmountable
  • Includes mounting hardware
  • Lifetime Limited Warranty
  • 24/7 NETGEAR expert chat
  • Energy efficient, IEEE802.3az
  • Silent operation
  • Dimensions: 9.3″L x 4″W x 1.1″H

Pros

  • Easy plug-and-play setup
  • Generous PoE+ power budget
  • Versatile mounting options
  • Silent, energy-efficient design
  • Robust warranty and support

Cons

  • No advanced network features

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2. TP-Link 5-Port POE Switch

TP-Link TL-SG1005P V2 POE Switch

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Our second recommendation is POE switch from TP-Link which the perfect balance between power, performance, and ease of use. It is designed to keep your PoE devices powered up and your network running smoothly, all while staying quietly in the background.

It offers four PoE+ ports capable of delivering up to 30W per port, with a total power budget of 65W, making it a powerhouse for powering devices like IP cameras and access points. The switch’s fifth port is a non-PoE gigabit port, ideal for high-speed connections.

Its PoE Auto Recovery keeps your devices up and running by automatically rebooting them if they become unresponsive. So, no manual resets required. Another amazing features of this poe switch is the Extend Mode which stretches the ransmission distance up to 820 ft, making it perfect for large-scale deployments.

The switch doesn’t skimp on smart features either; with Port-based QoS and IGMP Snooping, it ensures that video and voice data flows smoothly, prioritizing traffic as needed. The durable metal casing and fan-less design mean it’s built to last and operates silently. This poe switch comes with 3-year warranty and free tech support offer peace of mind.

Specifications

  • 5 Gigabit Ethernet ports
  • 4 PoE+ ports, 65W total
  • Plug and play setup
  • Extend Mode to 820 ft
  • QoS, IGMP Snooping
  • Metal casing, durable build
  • Fanless, quiet operation
  • 3-year warranty
  • Power Overload Protection
  • Automatic PD Detection

Pros

  • Easy no-software setup
  • Extended PoE range feature
  • Sturdy, metal construction
  • Quiet, fanless design
  • Reliable with warranty support

Cons

  • Limited to 5 ports

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3. Linksys 16-Port POE Switch

Linksys LGS116P Business 16-Port Network Switch

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Linksys POE Switch is the unsung hero for offices looking to streamline their setups without getting tangled in the complexities of network management. It offers a robust 16-port configuration, with half of those ports enabled for PoE+ to power devices directly through network cables. This reduces clutter and eliminate the need for separate power adapters.

This unmanaged switch delivers wired connection speeds up to 1,000 Mbps, ensuring that data moves quickly across your network. And the dedicated PoE power budget of 80W ensures that all powered devices receive the juice they need without overloading the system.

The plug-and-play design of the LGS116P makes the installation simple. The auto-sensing ports will adjust automatically to the speed of each connected device, optimizing performance without any manual input.

Quality of Service (QoS) features prioritize traffic to ensure that critical applications like video conferencing and IP telephony get the bandwidth they need to perform flawlessly, even when the network is under heavy load. This ensures smooth, lag-free communication essential for business operations.

Specifications

  • 16 Gigabit Ethernet ports
  • 8 PoE+ ports, 80W total budget
  • Plug-and-play installation
  • QoS for traffic prioritization
  • Metal enclosure, durable design
  • 1,000 Mbps speed per port
  • IEEE 802.3at/af PoE standards
  • Max Power Consumption: 13.41 W
  • Operating Temp: 0–50°C
  • Auto-sensing ports

Pros

  • High-speed wired connections
  • Simplifies device installation
  • Sturdy, metal case design
  • Efficient power management
  • QoS enhances critical traffic

Cons

  • Limited advanced management features

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4. BV-Tech 6 Port POE Switch

BV-Tech 6 Port PoE Switch 

BV-Tech is ideal for those looking to power up their network devices with efficiency and reliability, all while keeping things straightforward and stress-free. It comes with four PoE ports that can dish out standard PoE (15W), PoE+ (30W), or even Ultra Hi-PoE Power (60W) on the first port, ensuring your devices get the juice they need.

It’s extend-mode pushes the boundaries, offering a 250m transmission distance. So, it is perfect for larger setups needing that extra reach. This switch isn’t just about power; it’s smart too. With automatic PD detection, it knows exactly what power your devices need and protects non-PoE equipment from damage.

All of this comes packed in a durable, lightweight metal housing that’s as tough as it looks, ready to stand up to whatever your environment throws at it.

Specifications

  • 4 PoE+ ports, 2 Ethernet uplinks
  • 60W total PoE power
  • Extend mode up to 250m
  • Compact, rugged design
  • Auto PD detection
  • 1.8G switching capacity
  • 890kpps forwarding rate
  • 768Kb packet buffer
  • 2K MAC table size
  • DC48-57V power input

Pros

  • High PoE power per port
  • Extended transmission distance
  • Durable metal housing
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Plug and play simplicity

Cons

  • Limited to 10/100Mbps

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5. YuanLey 8 Port PoE Switch

YuanLey 8 Port PoE Switch

YuanLey PoE switch is yet another model that assures power and performance required without any complications of complicated configurations. This switch is a versatile tool suited for various applications, including IP surveillance, wireless networking, and more.

It is equipped with 8 PoE ports that support speeds up to 100Mbps, along with 2 Gigabit Uplink ports for high-speed data transfer needs, ensuring a smooth and efficient network experience. With a generous 120W total power supply compliant with IEEE 802.3af/at standards, this switch can deliver up to 30W per port to power devices such as IP cameras, wireless access points, and IP phones. Its plug-and-play functionality means installation is easy with no configuration required.

Its switch’s extend mode enables a transmission distance of up to 250m at 10Mbps, perfect for larger coverage areas. Additionally, VLAN support on ports 1-8 helps reduce network congestion and enhances security by isolating traffic. The compact, durable metal design and bilateral heat dissipation ensure reliability and longevity, while LED indicators provide at-a-glance status updates.

Specifications

  • 8 PoE ports, 100Mbps each
  • 2 Gigabit Uplink ports
  • 120W total power supply
  • IEEE 802.3af/at compliant
  • Plug and play setup
  • Extend mode, up to 250m
  • VLAN support on ports 1-8
  • Durable metal housing
  • Bilateral heat dissipation
  • LED status indicators

Pros

  • High total power budget
  • Gigabit Uplink for faster data
  • Easy plug-and-play installation
  • Extended range with VLAN support
  • Sturdy, reliable build

Cons

  • Only 100Mbps on PoE ports
  • Not compatible with 24V passive PoE

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6. Cisco 8 Port POE Switch

Cisco SG250-08HP Smart Switch with 8 Gigabit

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The CBS110 PoE Switch from Cisco is a perfect choice for medium-sized businesses aiming to streamline their operations without the headache of complex network management. The switch’s design is both elegant and compact, making it a great fit for environments like retail stores, open-plan offices, and classrooms, where space and aesthetics matter.

It offers 16 Gigabit Ethernet ports, delivering high-speed connectivity and making it a breeze to connect multiple devices with enhanced network efficiency. This switch is designed with simplicity in mind; plug-and-play functionality means you can get up and running without any specialized IT knowledge.

Its performance is bolstered by integrated Quality of Service (QoS) intelligence, optimizing services that are sensitive to delay and overall improving network performance. With its compliance to IEEE802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet standards, ensuring operational costs are kept low.

Since it is a fan-less design, this PoE switch ensures quiet operation. It comes with a standard limited-lifetime warranty, return to factory replacement, and one-year technical support.

Specifications

  • 16 Gigabit Ethernet ports
  • Plug-and-play simplicity
  • QoS for optimized performance
  • Compact, elegant design
  • Energy-efficient, IEEE802.3az compliant
  • Fanless, silent operation
  • Limited-lifetime warranty
  • Includes mounting hardware
  • Dimensions: 11″L x 6.69″W x 1.75″H
  • Cisco Business Dashboard compatible

Pros

  • High-speed Gigabit ports
  • Easy, no-fuss setup
  • Quiet, fanless design
  • Energy-saving features
  • Comprehensive warranty

Cons

  • Not managed for customization

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7. D-Link 8-Port POE Switch

D-Link PoE Switch

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D-Link POE switch is suitable for powering up both home and small offices. features eight gigabit ports to accelerate your network to Gigabit speeds, ensuring every device operates at its full potential.

It comes with the first four ports, which support IEEE 802.3af and 802.3at PoE standards, dishing out up to 30W per port within a total PoE budget of 68W. This means your IP cameras, VoIP phones, or wireless access points get the power they need directly through the network cables.

This plug-and-play switch is all about ease of installation. There is no need for complicated setups or configurations; just connect your devices and you are good to go. The inclusion of QoS (Quality of Service) ensures that high-priority traffic like voice calls and video streams gets the fast lane, so your critical communications always get through without delay.

D-Link’s Green technology makes this switch a friend to both your wallet and the planet. By optimizing power usage and reducing energy consumption without compromising on performance, it helps you save on operational costs. Plus, its fan-less design means the switch operates in complete silence, perfect for noise-sensitive environments.

Specifications

  • Eight Gigabit Ethernet ports
  • 4 PoE ports, up to 30W each
  • 68W total PoE budget
  • Plug-and-play, no setup required
  • Supports QoS for traffic priority
  • Energy-efficient Green technology
  • Fanless for silent operation
  • Compact and sleek design
  • Includes mounting hardware
  • Limited Lifetime Warranty

Pros

  • High-speed Gigabit connections
  • Efficient PoE support on 4 ports
  • Silent, fanless design
  • Energy-saving features
  • Easy to set up and use

Cons

  • Only 4 PoE ports
  • Limited advanced features

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8. MokerLink 24 Port POE Switch

MokerLink 24 Port PoE Switch

If you want to power many devices while maintaining high-speed connectivity, MokerLink POE Switch is a reliable choice. It offers 24 PoE ports with speeds up to 100Mbps and 2 gigabit Uplink ports to handle high-speed data transfer needs. The gigabit Uplink ports ensure that your network doesn’t choke under pressure, providing more bandwidth to connect routers, NVRs, and other devices.

With 400W of power, this switch can comfortably supply up to 30W per port, supporting both IEEE 802.3af and IEEE 802.3at devices. This means you can connect a variety of power-hungry devices without worrying about running out of juice. The extend function is a boon for large deployments, allowing PoE transmission up to 250 meters at 10Mbps, perfect for extending your network reach without sacrificing reliability.

The unmanaged plug-and-play functionality of the MokerLink switch makes it incredibly user-friendly. Just plug it in, connect your devices, and you’re good to go, with no need for complex configurations.

Designed with durability in mind, the switch features a robust metal casing and industrial-grade fans to ensure it keeps cool under heavy operation. Its compact size and LED indicators for power, PoE, and extend functions make monitoring and troubleshooting a breeze.

Specifications

  • 24 PoE ports, 100Mbps each
  • 2 Gigabit Uplink ports
  • 400W total power supply
  • IEEE 802.3af/at supported
  • Plug-and-play, no setup needed
  • Extends up to 250m at 10Mbps
  • Metal casing, durable design
  • Industrial-grade cooling fans
  • Rackmount support, hardware included
  • Operates at -10 to +55°C

Pros

  • High power output (400W)
  • 2 Gigabit Uplink ports
  • Simple plug-and-play setup
  • Extend mode for long reach
  • Durable, metal case design

Cons

  • No support for passive 24V PoE

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9. STEAMEMO 16-Port POE Switch

STEAMEMO PoE Switch

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The STEAMEMO PoE Switch is perfect choice for those needing a reliable, powerful, and silent PoE switch for a busy network. It equipped with 16 PoE ports capable of 100Mbps each, alongside two gigabit Uplink ports to ensure your network is seamlessly connected.

With a total PoE of 240W, this switch can deliver up to 30W per port, making it capable of supporting a wide range of devices. It features AI PD Detection to intelligently determine if a connected device requires power, preventing damage to non-PoE devices by not supplying unnecessary power.

The built-in power supply simplifies setup by integrating directly into the switch, reducing clutter and simplifying your network infrastructure. An extend function allows for power and data transmission up to 250 meters, surpassing the standard limit to reach devices located further away.

It comes in a fanless design, ensuring silent operation and making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. The switch supports both desktop and 19-inch rack-mount installation, offering versatility in setup.

Specifications

  • 16 PoE ports, 100Mbps each
  • 2 Gigabit Uplink ports
  • 1 x 1.25G SFP port
  • 240W total power budget
  • AI PD Detection
  • 4KV Lightning Protection
  • 250m Extend Function
  • Fanless, silent operation
  • 19″ Rackmount Design
  • LED port indicators

Pros

  • High total PoE power budget
  • Silent, fanless cooling
  • Extend range up to 250m
  • Built-in power supply
  • Lightning protection feature

Cons

  • Not for passive PoE devices

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10. VIMIN 16 Port PoE Switch

VIMIN 16 Port PoE Switch

Whether you’re looking to power a fleet of IP cameras or ensure your wireless access points never run out of juice, this PoE switch from VIMIN has got your back. It offers 16 Gigabit PoE+ ports and 2 additional Gigabit uplink ports, providing not just power but also high-speed network access to a wide array of devices.

It supports the IEEE 802.3af/at standards, ensuring compatibility with a vast range of devices while offering up to 30W per port to meet the demands of power-hungry equipment. The total power budget of 250W means you can connect multiple high-power devices without worrying about running out of power.

With One-Key VLAN feature, it improves network security and bandwidth utilization by isolating ports from each other. So, it is an ideal choice for networks handling sensitive information. Moreover, its 4KV lightning protection guards against voltage spikes, ensuring your network remains stable and reliable even in adverse conditions.

Thanks to its versatile design, this PoE switch fits just as easily on a desk as it does in a rack. The sturdy metal housing ensures durability, while its plug-and-play nature means you can get your network up and running in no time.

Specifications

  • 16 PoE+ Gigabit ports
  • 2 Gigabit Uplink ports
  • 1 x 1.25G SFP slot
  • IEEE 802.3af/at support
  • 250W total power budget
  • One-Key VLAN mode
  • 4KV lightning protection
  • 36Gbps switching capacity
  • Metal housing, rack-mountable
  • Plug-and-play setup

Pros

  • High-speed Gigabit connections
  • Robust 250W power for devices
  • Enhanced security with VLAN
  • Easy installation, versatile placement
  • Reliable with lightning protection

Cons

  • Limited to 100Mbps PoE ports
  • No management features

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How to Choose the Best POE Switch?

This buying guide provides key considerations to help you select the most suitable POE switch for your needs.

1. Number of Ports

When planning your network, it’s essential to evaluate both your current device requirements and future expansion plans. Each connected device, whether it’s a CCTV camera or a Wi-Fi access point, needs its own port on the POE switch.

Selecting a switch with a higher number of ports than your present needs will helps save costs only future requirements as your network grows. This ensures that your network infrastructure can accommodate new devices without the hassle of replacing the entire switch.

2. Power Budget

It refers to the maximum amount of power the switch can supply to connected devices. To ensure reliable performance, the switch’s power budget should surpass the combined power requirements of all devices connected to it.

Factoring in future network expansions when calculating your power needs can prevent power shortages and support the addition of more devices. This foresight in selecting a switch ensures that your network remains operational and scalable, catering to both current and anticipated power demands.

3. Bandwidth and Data Throughput

Bandwidth and data throughput are key considerations that impact network efficiency. A switch must offer ample bandwidth to prevent data bottlenecks, which is especially crucial in networks with high data demands, such as those supporting video surveillance or providing high-speed internet.

Moreover, the switch’s capacity to handle your network’s data volume is vital for ensuring uninterrupted data flow and efficient network operation. Opting for a switch with adequate bandwidth and throughput capacity guarantees that your network can support smooth streaming, fast data transfers.

4. Switch Type

The choice between unmanaged and managed switches hinges on the complexity and flexibility required in your network.
Unmanaged switches are straightforward, offering a simple plug-and-play setup with no configuration needed, making them ideal for basic connectivity needs.

On the other hand, managed switches provide comprehensive control over your network, with features such as Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs), Quality of Service (QoS), and network monitoring.
These capabilities are crucial for intricate network setups that require fine-tuned management, advanced security, and traffic prioritization.

5. Standards and Compatibility

Ensuring your POE switch adheres to IEEE 802.3af/at/bt standards is essential for compatibility with a wide array of POE devices. These standards define the power output levels and mechanisms for delivering power over Ethernet cables, ensuring that the switch can accommodate devices with varying power needs.

Furthermore, verifying device compatibility is crucial to ensure that all connected devices can operate optimally. This includes checking if the switch meets the specific power requirements of each device, preventing potential power supply issues.

6. Network Security

In environments where data security is paramount, opting for a switch with robust security features is vital. Advanced security features like Access Control Lists (ACLs), port security, and IEEE 802.1X authentication help safeguard your network against unauthorized access and potential breaches.

ACLs allow for control over the traffic between network devices, port security limits the number of devices that can connect to a switch port, and IEEE 802.1X provides network access control, ensuring only authenticated users and devices can access the network. These security measures are indispensable for protecting sensitive information and maintaining network integrity.

Best POE Switches – FAQs

1. Can I use a POE switch with non-POE devices?

Ans: Yes, you can connect non-POE devices to a POE switch; the switch will only send power to devices that are POE-compatible and will transmit data to any connected device.

2. How do I know if a device is POE compatible?

Ans: Check the device’s specifications for POE support, usually indicated by compliance with IEEE 802.3af (POE) or 802.3at (POE+) standards.

3. What’s the difference between POE and POE+ switches?

Ans: POE switches provide up to 15.4W of power per port, while POE+ switches can provide up to 30W per port, supporting devices with higher power requirements.

4. Can I use POE switches for outdoor devices?

Ans: Yes, but ensure the switch is in a safe location, and consider using outdoor-rated Ethernet cables or protective enclosures for connections to outdoor devices.

5. Do all ports on a POE switch supply power?

Ans: Not necessarily; some switches have a mix of POE and non-POE ports. Always check the switch specifications to determine which ports provide power.

6. What happens if I exceed the power budget of a POE switch?

Ans: The switch may shut down ports to prevent overload, prioritizing ports based on power requirements or manual settings, potentially causing some devices to lose power.

7. Can I extend the range of a POE switch beyond 100 meters?

Ans: Yes, using extenders or repeaters can push the connection beyond the standard 100 meters limitation, but this may reduce data speeds.

8. Are POE switches difficult to install?

Ans: No, most POE switches are designed for plug-and-play setup, requiring no special configuration for basic operation.

Conclusion

Whether you are setting up a new network or upgrading an existing one, our selection of the best POE switches has an option for everyone. But out top choices are

  • The NETGEAR 8-Port POE Switch is perfect for businesses looking for a robust, reliable network solution with comprehensive power management capabilities.
  • The TP-Link 5-Port POE Switch is an ideal choice for small to medium-sized networks, offering an affordable, efficient way to power and connect devices.
  • The Linksys 16-Port POE Switch is suited for users who prioritize seamless integration and high performance in their home or office network setups.

Still have any questions? Comment below.

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