With the increasing number of gadgets and devices in every household and office, the need for a network switch has become evident.
The advantage of using a network switch is that it allows you to connect multiple devices to your network with more reliability and stability. With the help of a network switch, you can easily connect your laptop, gaming consoles, printers, computers, and other devices.
If you are looking for the Best unmanaged switch, you have come to the right place. We have handpicked some of the top-rated products that can help you expand your network capacity. So without any delay, let’s take a look at the below.
What is the Unmanaged Switch?
An unmanaged switch is a variant of a network switch. It is the opposite of managed switches.
Unmanaged switches are plug-and-play devices with no software installation or configuration. Unlike managed switches, it doesn’t involve a complex setup. You can easily complete the installation without the aid of an expert administrator or engineer.
This type of network switch allows Ethernet devices to communicate with one another by a network connection. They come with a fixed configuration, which cannot be altered like in managed switches. It is because of this reason you don’t need to prioritize the packets.
Unmanaged switches can either be desktop or rack-mounted. They are less expensive than managed switches and can be used for both home and small office networks.
7 Best Unmanaged Switch Review
Below you will find 7 of the best unmanaged Network switch that is currently best-selling on Amazon. Go through the details of each of the products and choose the most appropriate one for yourself.
1. TP-Link TL-SG105 | 5 Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch: Top Pick
- PLUG-AND-PLAY - Easy setup with no configuration or no software needed
- ETHERNET SPLITTER - Connectivity to your router or modem for additional wired connections (laptop,...
- 5 Ports GIGABIT ETHERNET - 5 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit auto-negotiation RJ45 ports greatly expand...
When it comes to buying network equipment, TP-Link is one of the top brands in the market. It offers quality and sustainable products at affordable prices. With the TP-Link TL-SG105, you can easily upgrade your home network. It is an energy-saving switch equipped with the latest technologies.
Why is it Unique?
TP-Link TL-SG105 is designed for reliable data transfer and performance. It comes with 5× 10/100/1000Mbps RJ45 ports with each supporting auto MDI/MDIX and auto-negotiation.
It uses the latest technology to make the switch power-saving. It helps expand your network with much less power consumption. By installing this unit, you will not only enjoy the high performance but also save on your energy bills.
The IEEE 802.3X flow control promotes reliable data transfer. This is what makes it an ideal choice for your home network.
Buyer’s Experience
The TL-SG105 unit has received high ratings from buyers. They find this unit useful because it is energy-saving and promotes fast data transfer.
It also features a fanless design to ensure silent operation. This makes it suitable for non-sensitive environments.
Buyers also like the plug-and-play setup. It makes the installation process easier. Unlike other switches, it doesn’t require configuration or software installation.
It comes with a sturdy metal case for durability. The good thing about this unit is that you can either place it near a desktop or mount it on a wall.
Pros
- It includes limited lifetime protection.
- It comes with free 24/7 technical support.
- It can be mounted on a wall.
- It is easy to set up.
Cons
- It doesn’t have power over Ethernet.
- It lacks network management options.
Best Fit For
This unit is ideal for anyone who wants to prioritize their traffic for high-quality audio or video data transmission. It helps increase the reliability of your network connections. You can use it for both home and office networks to get your work done easily.
2. NETGEAR 8-Port Unmanaged Switch (GS108): Best Overall
- 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Simple plug-and-play setup with no software to install or configuration needed
- Supports desktop or wall mount placement
Netgear is a brand that needs no introduction. It is known to offer top-notch quality products with the best features. One of the finest examples is netgear GS108 8 port unmanaged switch. With this powerful unmanaged gigabit switch, you can transmit data at incredible speeds.
Why is it Unique?
It is an energy-efficient unit, compliant with IEEE8023az. It is designed to provide high performance while consuming very less power.
It includes 8 gigabit Ethernet ports for fast and reliable data transfers. Given the number of ports, it makes an ideal choice for a small office network.
It comes with plenty of administrative and security features, which makes it safe to use. With this unit, you don’t need to worry about piracy on your network.
The best thing about this unit is that it can work with old, half-duplex systems and modern devices. It includes network management options that can be helpful for business owners.
Buyer’s Experience
There are plenty of reasons why this unit is popular among buyers. First of all, it has a simple plug-and-play design that requires no configuration or software installation.
Secondly, it supports both desktop and wall-mount placement. It is up to your convenience where you want to place the device.
Working with this unit is easy as it operates silently. It features a fan-less design, which makes it ideal for noise-sensitive places like your office.
Last but not least; it includes a lifetime warranty to make your purchase risk-free.
Pros
- It features a plug-and play-design.
- It has half-duplex support.
- It comes with a lifetime warranty.
- It includes a lot of network management options.
Cons
- It has a 128 KB buffer.
- It lacks power over Ethernet.
Best Fit For
With this unit, you can add 8-gigabit ports to your network. Whether you are using all the ports or not, it makes a great choice for small businesses that don’t need lots of video or audio transferred. It also includes a lot of management options for IT administrators.
3. TP-Link 5 Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch | Unmanaged (TL-SG1005D): Best Gigabit Unmanaged Switch
- PLUG-AND-PLAY - Easy setup with no configuration or no software needed
- ETHERNET SPLITTER - Connectivity to your router or modem router for additional wired connections...
- 5 Port GIGABIT ETHERNET - 5 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit auto-negotiation RJ45 ports greatly expand...
If you are looking for the best gigabit unmanaged switch, the TL-SG1005D switch from TP-Link could be the best choice for you. It is a powerful, 5-port gigabit switch that makes data transfer easy. But before you get your hands on this unit, let’s check out its features.
Why it is Unique?
It includes 5 ports and all of them support auto MDI/MDIX for smooth and reliable data transmission.
Unlike other gigabit switches, the TL-SG1005D doesn’t consume a lot of power. With this unit, you can save up to 70% of energy.
It offers an easy way to boost the speed of your network. The non-blocking, 5 x 10/100/1000 Mbps ports allow for instant data transfer. It can easily transfer large files without interference.
The non-blocking switching system not only improves network response times but also speeds up the traffic between subnets. This is achieved by filtering and forwarding packets at full speed for maximum throughput.
Buyer’s Experience
This unit is designed to keep the requirements of users in mind. It has a plug-and-play design which makes installation hassle-free. Unlike other units, it doesn’t require configuration.
The ports are equipped with auto MDI/MDIX to eliminate the need for crossover cables. The auto-negotiation feature on each port enables it to detect the link speed of a device and adjust it for optimal performance.
Users can also connect it to their modem or router for additional wired connections.
Pros
- It can automatically adjust power consumption.
- It is easy to install.
- It comes with a limited lifetime warranty.
- It offers 24/7 technical support for free.
Cons
- It doesn’t support half-duplex systems.
- It has no network management options.
Best Fit For
It is a reliable unit with fast data transfer speeds. It is a perfect choice for users who want an energy-efficient switch. It can be connected to your router or modem for wired connections, such as a gaming console, laptop, printer, etc.
4. TP-Link 5 Port Ethernet Switch | Unmanaged (TL-SF1005D): Best Budget
- PLUG-AND-PLAY - Easy setup with no configuration or no software needed
- ETHERNET SPLITTER Connectivity to your router or modem router for additional wired connections...
- 5 Port FAST ETHERNET - 5 10/100 Mbps auto-negotiation RJ45 ports greatly expand network capacity
We have another TP-Link unit which is a great choice for all budget users. TP-Link TL-SF1005D is not only affordable, but it will also help you save money on energy bills. If you want complete value for your money, you should consider opting for this unit.
Why is it Unique?
With TL-SF1005D you get the choice to go green. It is equipped with advanced energy-saving technology that can easily expand your network capacity with much less power. At the same time, you can also save money.
All the 5-ports are equipped with a non-blocking switching system that helps improve the response time of your network.
It can deactivate empty ports, and keep track of signal demand as well.
Buyer’s Experience
Many buyers have commented about the compact and stylish design of the unit. They find it easy to install as it occupies less space. The design is so good that you can simply place it on a shelf in your living room for everyone to see.
It has auto features that make the installation process hassle-free. Like most other units in this list, TL-SF1005D doesn’t require configuration or software installation.
Due to its fanless design, it operates silently. You can operate it in your workplace without getting disturbed.
Pros
- It saves up to 68% of energy consumption.
- It features a stylish design.
- It is easy to set up.
- It operates silently.
Cons
- It has limited VLAN support.
- It is not suitable for an office network.
Best Fit For
This unit is ideal for a home network. It can be connected to a modem or router to establish more wired connections with various network devices. If you are considering using it for your small office, we suggest you don’t. It is not equipped to handle the office network.
5. D-Link, 8 Port Gigabit Unmanaged Ethernet Switch (DGS-108): Best Energy-Efficient
- Inexpensive Gigabit Ethernet solution for SoHo, small and medium businesses
- Supports IEEE 802.1p QoS traffic prioritization
- Built to last: Rugged metal housing, fan less
When buying the best unmanaged switch, energy consumption matters a lot. But with the DGS-108 Switch, you don’t have to worry about increased power bills. This is one of the most energy-efficient units available in the market. So if you want an economical option for your network, this could be the best choice for you.
Why is it Unique?
The DGS-108 offers an easy way to expand your network capacity at home or the office. It is equipped with 8 Gigabit ports for easy and quick expansion of your network.
The plug-and-play design allows for quick setup. Instead of relying on an expert, you can complete the setup yourself.
With the help of this unit, you can enjoy high-speed data transfer and optimum performance.
It is equipped with D-Link’s Green Technology which makes it energy-efficient. Not just that, but it also eliminates overheating issues. This in turn extends the life expectancy of the product without sacrificing functionality or performance.
This switch is also compliant with IEEE 802.3az which enables it to detect when a device is connected or switched off so that it can automatically power down the empty port. This helps it to save a good amount of power.
It can also save power by detecting the cable length and using only the required amount of power. These features significantly reduce power consumption and heat dissipation.
Buyer’s Experience
Most buyers love this unit because it is energy efficient and easy to operate. By installing this switch, you will not only get fast data transfer speeds but also save energy.
Despite all the advanced features, it has a low price tag. It comes with rugged metal housing for durability and features a fanless design.
Pros
- It comes with a lifetime warranty.
- It doesn’t have heating issues.
- It operates silently.
- It has many energy-saving features.
Cons
- It lacks power over Ethernet.
- It has only a 128 KB buffer.
Best Fit For
This unit is specially devised for small businesses and offices. However, you can also use it for your home network.
6. NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS308): Best Value for Price
- 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Simple plug-and-play setup with no software to install or configuration needed
- Supports desktop or wall mount placement
If you are looking for a device that will give you value for your money, you should opt for NETGEAR GS308 8-port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch. It provides an easy and affordable way to expand your network.
Why is it Unique?
With 8 gigabit ports, it makes a perfect choice for home and office networks. All the ports have support for Auto-MDI/MDI, which makes it more efficient than its competitors.
Due to the plug-and-play design, you can install it without the help of an expert.
Each port has an LED indicator, auto-negotiation, and a non-blocking switching system.
Buyer’s Experience
Like most other Netgear products, GS308 is also quite popular among users.
This is an energy-efficient unit that can help you save more on your energy bills. In addition, it has a fanless design, which enables it to operate without making any sound.
Buyers have also mentioned the easy setup and installation process. It supports both desktop and wall-mount placement. It is up to your choice how you want to place it.
Pros
- It is easy to operate.
- It consumes less power.
- It can be mounted on a wall.
- It has a fanless design.
Cons
- It is not long-lasting.
- It lacks network management options.
Best Fit For
You can use this power-saving unit both at home or office. It works effectively for small networks.
7. NETGEAR 16 Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS316): Best Noiseless
- 16 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Simple plug-and-play setup with no software to install or configuration needed
- Supports desktop or wall mount placement
Lastly, we have a 16 port unmanged switch unit from Netgear. This unit is ideal for users who want a network switch to install in noise-sensitive environments.
Why is it Unique?
It is a high-quality network switch with a total of 16 port gigabit switches. This allows you to connect it to a large number of devices. Compared to its features, it has a low price tag. This is one of the main reasons why it is so popular among users.
It features a simple, plug-and-play design, so you can install it with ease. Unlike managed switches, it doesn’t have a complex setup process.
One of the good things about this unit is that it has support for both half and full-duplex systems.
Buyer’s Experience
Buyers find this unit easy to operate. They also like the fact that it has 16-gigabit ports for all the devices they want to connect.
It is also energy-efficient and is compliant with the IEEE802.3az standard. But it has received maximum positive reviews for its silent operation.
Pros
- It is completely noiseless.
- It has 16-gigabit ports.
- It is best suited for small businesses.
- It is affordable.
Cons
- It has minimal power over Ethernet.
- It is quite heavy.
Best Fit For
This NETGEAR 16-Port Gigabit Switch is specifically designed for small businesses. It can connect as many devices as possible.
Factors You Should Consider Before Buying the Best Unmanaged Switches
Buying the best unmanaged switch can be very overwhelming, especially when you have less knowledge about it. But no worries, we have got your back. In the buyer’s guide below we have explained all the important factors that matter when buying a network switch.
- Nature of Usage
The first thing you need to consider is what you need the network switch for. This is an important aspect that many people tend to ignore.
Before buying a network switch you need to answer the question of whether you need it for home or office use. Buying an unmanaged switch is advantageous because it doesn’t require configuration or software installation.
- Number of Ports
The next important thing is the number of ports, which varies from one unit to another. The number of ports you need depends on the number of devices you want to connect.
Two of the ideal choices are 5-port and 8-port switches. But if you have more devices to connect, then a 16-port unit will be a good option for you.
- Quality of Service (QoS)
This feature is important for the performance of the unit. When buying a network switch, make sure it has QoS. This enables the unit to differentiate between the traffic that leads to your devices.
The advantage of this feature is that it ensures the best network service to all the applications.
- Auto-MDI/MDI-X
MDI and MDI-X are two different standards for receiving and sending over Ethernet. When buying a network switch, you must check whether it has this feature or not.
The advantage of Auto-MDI/MDI-X is that it automatically senses the device that is connected to the unit and thus, adjusts the standards accordingly. Not only that, but it also eliminates the need for crossover cables. It leaves more ports available for you on the switch.
- Power Over Ethernet (POE)
For those unversed, POE refers to using an Ethernet cable for both network traffic and electrical power. This is a useful feature to have in your network switch. Whether you want this feature or not depends largely on the type of devices you want to connect to your network.
For example, POE is not needed for laptops, PCs, and gaming consoles. But it is crucial to operating VoIP phones, IP cameras, wireless access points, remote Ethernet switches, and industrial controllers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What are unmanaged network switches used for?
Ans: Best Unmanaged switches are plug-and-play devices that don’t require a complex setup. This type of switch allows Ethernet devices to communicate with one another by providing network connections and transferring information.
Q2. Why should you opt for unmanaged switches?
Ans: Unmanaged switches are easier to handle than managed switches. It can be set up and installed without needing a skilled engineer. This is why it makes an ideal choice for home networks.
Q3. When should you use an unmanaged switch?
Ans: Unmanaged switches are often deployed across small networks in an industrial setup. It is used to add temporary devices or connect edge devices to a larger network.
Q4. What is the advantage of using an unmanaged switch?
Ans: The advantage of using the Best unmanaged switches is that it is easy to set up. These switches feature a plug-and-play design that can be connected immediately to your network. It doesn’t require the aid of a skilled engineer. It also has in-built QoS services to ensure its works well.
Q5. Do unmanaged switches have IP addresses?
Ans: Unmanaged switches don’t have an IP address. It switches Ethernet packets, which have no IP addresses.
Final Words
Having the right Best unmanaged switch can benefit you in many ways. Instead of wasting your time browsing through different units, you can simply choose one from our list. All the products mentioned in the list have received high ratings from users. By choosing any of these units, you can enjoy faster data transmission and high performance.
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