Looking for the best POE switch to power your devices efficiently? You’re in the right place! Power over Ethernet (POE) switches are essential for any network, providing both data and power through a single cable. Whether you’re setting up security cameras, VoIP phones, or wireless access points, a reliable POE switch can make all the difference.
Factors to Consider:
- Number Of POE Ports: The number of POE ports determines how many devices you can connect and power simultaneously. Consider your current and future needs; if you have several IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points, you’ll need a switch with at least 16 ports. Smaller setups might get by with an 8-port switch.
- Power Capacity (Wattage): Power capacity is crucial to ensure all connected devices receive adequate power. Look for switches with higher total power budgets, like 250W or more, to support high-power devices without interruptions. A lower wattage might suffice for basic needs, but for a robust setup, ensure ample power capacity.
- Compatibility: Ensure the switch is compatible with your existing network equipment. It should support standards like IEEE 802.3af and 802.3at to work seamlessly with various POE-enabled devices. Compatibility ensures smooth integration and performance across your network.
By considering these factors, you can find a POE switch that meets your needs and ensures a reliable and efficient network setup. For more details, check out the insights we have provided in our comprehensive “Buying Guide”. Let’s get deeper into the best options available.
10 Best POE Switch Comparison
| POE Switch | Number of Ports | Wattage | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| TP-Link TL-SF1009P POE Switch | 8 | 65 watts | Check On Amazon Check On Walmart |
| NETGEAR GS108PP POE Switch | 8 ports | 123 watts | Check On Amazon Check On eBay |
| TP-Link TL-SG1005P POE Switch | 5 ports | 65 watts | Check On Amazon Check On Walmart |
| STEAMEMO 16-Port POE Switch | 16 ports | 200 watts | Check On Amazon Check On Walmart |
| BV-Tech Megabit-2 POE Switch | 6 ports | 60 watts | Check On Amazon |
| STEAMEMO POE Switch | 8 ports | 120 watts | Check On Amazon |
| D-Link DGS-1008P POE Switch | 8 ports | - | Check On Amazon Check On Walmart |
| MokerLink 24 Port POE Switch | 24 ports | 400 watts | Check On Amazon |
| Linksys LGS116P POE Switch | 16 ports | 80 watts | Check On Amazon Check On Walmart |
| YuanLey 8 Port PoE Switch | 8 ports | 120 watts | Check On Amazon |
10 Best POE Switch Reviews
1. TP-Link TL-SF1009P POE Switch
The TP-Link TL-SF1009P is a highly reliable choice for those who need a POE switch capable of supporting a surveillance system. With its nine ports and a total PoE power of 65W, it efficiently powers multiple devices like IP cameras and access points while maintaining steady data transfer.
This model excels with its specialized modes. The Extend Mode is particularly useful, boosting data and power transmission up to 250 meters, making it ideal for covering large areas. Priority Mode also plays a crucial role, ensuring that vital devices such as video surveillance equipment receive uninterrupted, high-quality data transmission.
Durability is a hallmark of the TP-Link TL-SF1009P. Its robust metal casing ensures it can endure the demands of an active network environment, promoting long-term reliability. The absence of fans in its design also guarantees silent operation, perfect for quiet office settings.
Specifications
- 9 PoE+ ports compliant with 802.3at/af
- Up to 30W per port, 65W total PoE budget
- Extend Mode supports up to 250m transmission
- Priority and Isolation Modes for enhanced data security
- Silent operation due to fan-less design
- Sturdy metal casing enhances durability
- Intelligent power management to prevent overload
- Simple Plug and Play setup
- Broad compatibility with various devices
Pros
- Generous power budget for multiple devices
- Long transmission range ideal for extensive setups
- Constructed for longevity
- Operates quietly without fan noise
Cons
- PoE budget might be insufficient for larger networks
Buy Now From Amazon Buy Now From Walmart
2. NETGEAR GS108PP POE Switch
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
Buy Now From Amazon Buy Now From eBay
3. TP-Link TL-SG1005P POE Switch
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
Buy Now From Amazon Buy Now From Walmart
4. STEAMEMO 16-Port POE Switch
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
Buy Now From Amazon Buy Now From Walmart
5. BV-Tech Megabit-2 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
6. STEAMEMO POE Switch
The STEAMEMO POE Switch is a ideal choice for those needing a flexible POE solution. It supports both active and passive POE devices, ensuring compatibility with different network setups. With eight POE ports, each delivering up to 30W and a total budget of 120W, it’s perfect for demanding environments.
A key feature is its AI Watchdog function. This enhances network stability by monitoring and restarting ports with data or power issues, ensuring uninterrupted service for critical applications.
The switch has a rugged metal construction, suitable for various environmental conditions, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. Its fanless design ensures silent operation, perfect for noise-sensitive areas.
Specifications
- 8 POE ports with up to 30W per port
- Total POE budget of 120W
- AI Watchdog function for automatic problem detection and reboot
- Supports both active and passive POE devices
- AI extended mode increases transmission distance to 250 meters
- 4KV lightning protection safeguards against electrical surges
- Fanless design ensures silent operation
- Durable metal housing for environmental resilience
- LED indicators for easy monitoring of port status
- Compatible with IP cameras, wireless access points, and IP telephones
Pros
- High power budget accommodates multiple high-demand devices
- AI features enhance network reliability and performance
- Robust build quality suitable for various environments
- Silent operation without compromising efficiency
- Effective lightning protection increases device safety
Cons
- AI Mode limits speed to 10 Mbps over extended distances
- Non-POE devices require separate power sources
7. D-Link DGS-1008P POE Switch
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
Buy Now From Amazon Buy Now From Walmart
8. 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
9. Linksys LGS116P POE Switch
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
Buy Now From Amazon Buy Now From Walmart
10. 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
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
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.
Ans: Check the device’s specifications for POE support, usually indicated by compliance with IEEE 802.3af (POE) or 802.3at (POE+) standards.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Ans: Yes, using extenders or repeaters can push the connection beyond the standard 100 meters limitation, but this may reduce data speeds.
Ans: No, most POE switches are designed for plug-and-play setup, requiring no special configuration for basic operation.
Conclusion
So, you’ve explored the exciting world of PoE switches! These handy devices offer a powerful and streamlined way to connect and power your network devices, eliminating the clutter of separate power adapters. But with so many options on the market, choosing the perfect PoE switch can feel like a daunting task.
Remember, the key lies in understanding your specific needs. Consider the number of devices you need to connect, the power they require, any desired manageability features, and of course, your budget.
Here are three excellent PoE switch recommendations from the list:
- NETGEAR GS108PP PoE Switch: Ideal for its simplicity and robust power budget of 123W across 8 ports. It supports desktop, wall, or rackmount placement, and ensures silent operation, making it versatile and user-friendly.
- TP-Link TL-SF1009P PoE Switch: Offers nine ports with 65W total power, Extend Mode for 250m transmission, and a fanless design for silent operation. It’s perfect for surveillance systems and demanding environments.
- MokerLink 24 Port PoE Switch: Features 24 PoE ports with a 400W power budget and 2 Gigabit uplink ports. Its extend function supports long-distance transmission, making it suitable for large networks and demanding applications.
