The 10 Best Network Switches of 2025

These are the times when everyone is looking for an error-free connection. However, have you ever wondered how these networks are so reliable? The secret is the network switch.

The network switches make sure that the data flows between different devices smoothly. It helps reduce the lag and prevent bottlenecks. This means you need a good network switch if you want to manage a live event or corporate networks.

For this reason, we reviewed the 10 best network switches that you can use. So, let's have a look, so you can weigh the pros and cons to make a final choice!

Part 1: What Is a Network Switch?

A network switch is a central node of the local area network. It helps connect multiple devices, such as cameras, servers, printers, and computers. Similarly, it will direct the data flow between different devices. In addition, a network switch sends data only to the required device. This helps improve security and speed.

Types of Network Switches:

• Unmanaged Switches: These are plug-and-play devices with no configuration needed. Best for home networks or small offices.
• Managed Switches: These allow you to control traffic flow, prioritize certain devices, and monitor network performance. Ideal for businesses.
• PoE (Power over Ethernet) Switches: These deliver both data and power through one cable, useful for IP cameras or VoIP phones.
• Layer 2 & Layer 3 Switches: Based on the OSI model, Layer 2 switches operate at the data link layer, while Layer 3 switches can also handle routing functions.

Part 2: The 10 Best Network Switches

Quick Comparison:

1. Ubiquiti UniFi Switch 24

If you're building a serious network, the UniFi Switch 24 is one of the best home switches. It's part of Ubiquiti's UniFi ecosystem, which means you can monitor and manage your network from a single dashboard. With 24 gigabit ports and seamless integration into the UniFi software, it's designed for people who want both power and convenience. This is perfect for businesses, advanced home setups, and anyone planning to scale up.

Pros

• Integrates with UniFi Controller for centralized management
• Sturdy build and enterprise-grade reliability
• Great for VLANs and expanding office networks

Cons

• Requires UniFi software for advanced features
• Higher price compared to basic switches

2. NETGEAR GS324 Switch

Sometimes, all you want is something that just works with no tinkering, no complex setup. This is the case when people are looking for the best home network switch. That's where the NETGEAR GS324 Switchcomes in. With 24 gigabit ports, it provides straightforward connectivity for medium-sized offices or shared workspaces. It's fanless, silent, and dependable, making it an excellent choice for anyone who wants hassle-free performance at a fair price.

Pros

• Plug-and-play setup, no configuration needed
• Silent, fanless design
• Affordable for the number of ports

Cons

• No VLANs, monitoring, or advanced options
• Not ideal for fast-growing networks

3. TP-Link SG 116

If your network needs are simple and your budget is tight, TP-Link SG 116delivers. It may not have gigabit speeds, but for a small office with older equipment or light networking demands, it's more than capable. Think of this as one of the best home switches as a practical option for printers, VoIP phones, or non-speed-critical devices.

Pros

• Very low price point
• Small and easy to fit into any setup
• Reliable enough for basic office gear

Cons

• Limited to 100 Mbps (not future-proof)
• Outdated compared to gigabit switches

4. UGREEN 2.5Gb 6-Port Ethernet Switch

For speed enthusiasts, the UGREEN 2.5Gb switch packs a punch in a small package. This is a good Ethernet switch that's designed for gamers, streamers, or anyone working with high-speed storage who needs more than a gigabit but doesn't want a bulky setup. With six multi-gig ports, it ensures buttery-smooth file transfers and ultra-low latency connections for modern devices.

Pros

• 2.5 Gbps speeds across all ports
• Compact and energy-efficient
• Great for gamers and streamers

Cons

• Only 6 ports, which is limited for bigger setups
• Slightly pricier than gigabit options

5. Cisco Business CBS110

When it comes to business networking, Cisco Business CBS110is often the first name that comes to mind. Their 24-port gigabit switch reflects why: it's rock-solid, secure, and built for long-term use. This is the kind of switch you'll find in offices where downtime isn't an option. If you're managing servers, access points, and multiple teams, this is the best Ethernet switch that provides the performance and stability you can trust.

Pros

• Enterprise-grade performance and security
• Available with PoE options
• Long-lasting, durable hardware

Cons

• Higher price compared to consumer models
• Overkill for small or casual users

6. TP-Link TL-SG108

Small, affordable, and incredibly reliable, the TP-Link TL-SG108is one of the most popular home switches for a reason. It fits neatly on a desk or shelf, runs silently, and gives you eight gigabit ports for connecting laptops, smart TVs, NAS devices, or consoles. If you're setting up a small but fast home network, this best home ethernet switch is a fantastic place to start.

Pros

• Very budget-friendly
• Small, fanless, and quiet
• Simple plug-and-play setup

Cons

• Only 8 ports, so it fills up quickly
• No management or customization features

7. D-Link 16-Port Gigabit Slim Switch

For setups that don't have much room to spare, the D-Link Slim Switch is a clever solution. It's thin, lightweight, and even wall-mountable, making it easy to tuck out of sight. Despite its compact design, it delivers full gigabit speeds, which makes it ideal for home offices, classrooms, or small studios.

Pros

• Slim profile, easy to mount
• Reliable gigabit speeds
• Affordable price point

Cons

• No PoE support
• Limited to unmanaged use only

8. Tenda TEG1024D

If you need lots of ports without spending a fortune, the Tenda TEG1024D is a solid pick. With 24 gigabit ports, it provides plenty of room for growth at a fraction of the cost of higher-end models. It’s a straightforward, plug-and-play switch that does exactly what it promises, making it ideal for budget-conscious offices or busy homes with lots of devices.

Pros

• Very affordable per-port cost
• Durable metal casing
• Easy plug-and-play use

Cons

• No management features
• Louder cooling compared to fanless models

9. GigaPlus 26-Port 2.5Gb Unmanaged Ethernet Switch

Need speed and scale? This GigaPlus switch combines both. With 26 multi-gig ports, it's made for serious power users, whether that's a gaming community, a production studio, or a data-heavy office. It's a step above traditional gigabit switches, giving you room to grow into the faster future of networking.

Pros

• 2.5 Gbps across 26 ports
• Excellent for data-heavy environments
• Fanless design for silent operation

Cons

• Higher upfront cost
• No advanced management features

10. Linksys 24-Port Gigabit Managed Network Switch

Linksys 24-Port Gigabit Managed Network Switch delivers a managed switch that's approachable yet powerful. With VLANs, QoS, and monitoring features, it gives businesses control without overwhelming complexity. It's a great middle ground for companies that want advanced tools but don't want to dive into the deep end of enterprise-level gear.

Pros

• Advanced management (VLANs, QoS, monitoring)
• Rackmount-ready and durable
• Optional PoE models available

Cons

• Expensive compared to unmanaged options
• Requires setup and networking knowledge

Part 3: How to Choose a Network Switch

Picking the best network switch isn't just about grabbing the cheapest or the most powerful option; it's about matching your network needs with the right features. Here are the key factors to consider before buying:

1. Managed vs. Unmanaged Switch

Unmanaged switches are perfect for home users, small offices, or anyone who just wants a "plug-and-play" setup. No configuration required, just connect and go.

Managed switches offer advanced control like VLAN segmentation, traffic prioritization (QoS), and monitoring tools. These are ideal for businesses or power users who want greater oversight and flexibility.

2. Number of Ports

Think about both your current devices and future growth.

• 8 ports or fewer: Best for small households or gaming setups.
• 16–24 ports: Great for growing homes, small businesses, or streaming studios.
• 24+ ports: Designed for offices, production teams, or advanced setups with lots of servers, APs, and IoT devices.

3. Speed (Gigabit vs. Multi-Gig vs. 10Gb)

• Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps): It is outdated for most uses today; okay only for legacy devices.
• Gigabit (1 Gbps): It is standard for most homes and offices. Works well for streaming, gaming, and general file sharing.
• 2.5/5 Gbps (Multi-Gig): It is becoming popular for gaming PCs, NAS devices, and high-res video editing.
• 10 Gbps: It is still premium-priced, but essential for heavy-duty creative work, server clusters, or data centers.

4. PoE (Power over Ethernet) Support

PoE switches send both power and data through one cable. These are ideal if you’re running IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points. This reduces clutter and simplifies installation. For home users, it might not be essential, but for businesses or smart home setups, it can be a game-changer.

5. Form Factor & Noise

The desktop / Fanless models are compact, quiet, and perfect for living rooms, desks, or small offices. On the other hand, the rackmount models are designed for server rooms or business environments, often with more power and cooling (sometimes louder).

Part 4: FAQs About Best Network Switch

1. What is the best speed for a network switch?

For most setups, Gigabit (1GbE) is enough. For professional streaming or large file transfers, 2.5GbE or higher is recommended.

2. What is the average lifespan of a network switch?

The average lifespan of a network switch is typically 5–10 years, depending on its grade, usage, and environmental conditions.

3. How to pick a network switch?

Match your speed, port count, management needs, and PoE requirements to your intended use case.

4. How many network switches can I connect?

You can daisy-chain multiple switches, but excessive chaining can cause latency. Managed switches with proper topology are best for large setups.

5. What are the L2 and L3 switches?

Layer 2 switches operate at the data link layer, while Layer 3 switches can route traffic between different networks.

Conclusion

Choosing the best network switch means finding a balance between speed, reliability, and feature set. Whether it's for a simple home office or a multi-camera live streaming studio using tools like the OBSBOT Tail 2, a well-chosen switch ensures your network runs smoothly, delivering the performance your devices demand.