Best Switches of 2026

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 11, 2026

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Switches are essential components in electronic devices that enable users to turn devices on or off, control the flow of electricity, and select different modes of operation. They come in various types, including rocker, toggle, push-button, and slide switches, and are used in a wide range of applications, from household appliances to industrial machinery. Switches are available in different sizes, shapes, and colors to suit various design requirements and are made from high-quality materials to ensure durability and reliability. Whether you're building a new electronic device or repairing an existing one, switches are crucial components that you can't do without.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS308) Cover #TOP 1
NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS308)
ftb score rating icon 9.9
TP-Link TL-SG108: 8 Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch Cover #TOP 2
TP-Link TL-SG108: 8 Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch
ftb score rating icon 9.8
NETGEAR 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS305) Cover #TOP 3
NETGEAR 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS305)
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Switches

NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS308)

GS308-300PAS
Yellow
Single Pack
NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS308) Cover
NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Essentials Switch (GS308) - Home Network Hub, Office Ethernet Splitter, Plug-and-Play, Silent Operation, Desktop or Wall Mount

The NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS308) offers simple plug-and-play setup with no software to install. You can place it on your desktop or wall mount it. It has 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports and is compliant with IEEE802.3az, making it energy efficient. The switch operates silently, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Plus, it's backed by an industry-leading 3-year limited hardware warranty.

What We Like
Easy plug-and-play setup
Reliable performance
Solid metal construction
Consistent gigabit speeds
Quiet and efficient operation
What We Don't Like
Limited management features
Power cord placement minor issue
#TOP 2

TP-Link TL-SG108: 8 Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch

TL-SG108
Black
8 Port
TP-Link TL-SG108: 8 Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch Cover
TP-Link 8 Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch - Ethernet Splitter | Plug & Play | Fanless | Sturdy Metal w/ Shielded Ports | Traffic Optimization | Unmanaged | Lifetime Protection (TL-SG108)

The TP-Link TL-SG108 is an unmanaged plug and play network switch with 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports that support auto negotiation and auto MDI/MDIX. This switch saves energy with its latest innovative energy-efficient technology, ensuring reliable data transfer with IEEE 802.3X flow control and fanless design for quiet operation. Advanced software features prioritize traffic and guarantee high quality data transmission with port-based 802.1p/DSCP QoS and IGMP snooping. This switch is designed with a sturdy metal case and can be wall-mounted, providing limited lifetime protection and free 24/7 technical support.

What We Like
Plug-and-play simplicity
Sturdy metal build
Silent fanless operation
Reliable gigabit performance
Compact and energy efficient
What We Don't Like
Requires nearby power outlet
Only unmanaged features
#TOP 3

NETGEAR 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS305)

GS305-300PAS
Purple
0.24 kg (0.53 lb)
NETGEAR 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS305) Cover
NETGEAR 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Essentials Switch (GS305) - Home Network Hub, Office Ethernet Splitter, Plug-and-Play, Silent Operation, Desktop or Wall Mount

The NETGEAR 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS305) is a versatile and easy-to-use network hub that supports plug-and-play setup with no configuration required. It has a fanless design that ensures silent operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. It supports both desktop and wall-mount placement, and is energy efficient, lowering operating costs. Additionally, it comes with a 3-year limited hardware warranty and is rigorously tested for reliability, quality, and performance.

What We Like
Plug and play setup
Reliable and fast connection
Solid build quality
Compact and space-saving design
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Minor power connector placement issue
Initial network lag if not configured
#TOP 4

TP-Link TL-SG1005P V2 | 5-Port Gigabit PoE Switch

TL-SG1005P
black
TP-Link TL-SG1005P V2 | 5-Port Gigabit PoE Switch Cover
TP-Link TL-SG1005P, 5 Port Gigabit PoE Switch, 4 PoE+ Ports @65W, Desktop, Plug & Play, Sturdy Metal w/ Shielded Ports, Fanless, QoS & IGMP Snooping

The TP-Link TL-SG1005P V2 is a 5-port Gigabit PoE switch that provides flexible full gigabit 5-port PoE configuration, advanced software features, and sturdy metal case. It allows you to expand your network to where there are no power lines or outlets, where you wish to fix devices such as APs, IP Cameras, or IP Phones, etc. The switch is easy to set up with no software installation or configuration needed. It can prioritize your traffic and guarantee high-quality video or voice data transmission with Port-based 802.1p/DSCP QoS and IGMP Snooping. The fanless design ensures quiet operation, and the switch is backed by a limited lifetime warranty and free 24/7 technical support.

What We Like
Plug-and-play installation
Reliable PoE+ power delivery
Sturdy metal construction
Silent fanless operation
Compact size
What We Don't Like
Lacks advanced management features
Fan noise in some models
#TOP 5

TP-Link LS108GP 8-Port PoE Gigabit Switch

LS108GP
Black
TP-Link LS108GP 8-Port PoE Gigabit Switch Cover
TP-Link LS108GP | 8 Port PoE Gigabit Ethernet Switch | 8 PoE+ Port @ 62W | Plug & Play | Extend Mode | PoE Auto Recovery | Desktop/Wall Mount | Silent Operation

The TP-Link PoE Gigabit Switch offers eight Power over Ethernet (PoE) ports, each capable of delivering up to 30W, making it great for powering devices like security cameras or access points without extra cables. It supports a fast 16 Gbps switching capacity, ensuring smooth data flow for your network. If you need to cover large spaces, the Extend Mode lets you transmit power and data up to 820 feet, perfect for wide surveillance setups. Plus, with PoE Auto Recovery, the switch can automatically reboot any connected device that stops responding, keeping your network running smoothly without manual intervention.

What We Like
Plug-and-play setup
Fast gigabit speeds
Reliable PoE performance
Sturdy metal build
Multiple ports available
What We Don't Like
Poe power may be limited

NETGEAR 8 Port PoE Gigabit Ethernet Plus Switch

GS308EP-100NAS
Black
Plus
NETGEAR 8 Port PoE Gigabit Ethernet Plus Switch Cover
NETGEAR 8 Port PoE Gigabit Ethernet Easy Smart Managed Essentials Switch (GS308EP) - with 8 x PoE+ @ 62W, Desktop or Wall Mount

The NETGEAR 8 Port PoE Gigabit Ethernet Plus Switch (GS308EP) is a smart managed plus switch designed to power PoE applications such as VoIP phones, IP cameras, and wireless access points with its 8 PoE+ ports totaling a power budget of 62W. Its plus software interface offers basic managed capabilities to optimize your network's performance. The switch also supports desktop or wall mount placement, is energy-efficient, and operates silently making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments.

What We Like
Easy plug-and-play installation
Reliable Gigabit speeds
Affordable PoE solution
Solid build quality
Simple web management
What We Don't Like
Basic VLAN management interface
External PSU may need replacement
#TOP 7

TP-Link 16-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch

TL-SG116
Black
16 Port 1G
TP-Link 16-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch Cover
TP-Link 16 Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch, Desktop/ Wall-Mount, Fanless, Sturdy Metal w/ Shielded Ports, Traffic Optimization, Unmanaged (TL-SG116)

The TP-LINK 16-port 10/100/1000Mbps desktop switch is an ideal solution for expanding your network. With Auto Negotiation and Auto MDI/MDIX, setup is a breeze. This switch has advanced software features like Port-based 802.1p/DSCP QoS and IGMP Snooping to prioritize traffic for high-quality video or voice data transmission. The energy-efficient design saves power consumption and money. With a fanless quiet design and sturdy metal case, it can be easily mounted on a desktop or wall. Plus, the switch comes with limited lifetime protection and 24/7 technical support.

What We Like
Plug-and-play setup
Sturdy metal build
Silent fanless operation
High-speed gigabit ports
Reliable performance
What We Don't Like
Large physical size

UGREEN USB 3.0 Switch 2 Computers Sharing USB C & A Devices

15705
Black
UGREEN USB 3.0 Switch 2 Computers Sharing USB C & A Devices Cover
UGREEN USB 3.0 Switch 2 Computers Sharing USB C & A Devices, 4 Port USB Switcher Sharing Keyboard and Mouse, Printer/Scanner USB Switch Hub for Two Computers with 2 USB3.0 Cables and Controller

UGREEN USB Switch Hub allows two computers to share up to 4 USB devices such as keyboards, mice, printers, and cameras. You can easily switch between your work and personal computers, enhancing your productivity. The switch supports both USB C and USB A devices, offering versatility. With fast data transfer speeds of up to 5Gbps, it is compatible with various operating systems. Additionally, it features a USB-C power supply for stable operation of high-power devices. You can switch devices using the remote control or button, keeping your workspace organized.

What We Like
Easy device switching
Minimal latency
Reduces desk clutter
Plug and play setup
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Occasional remote button issue
Some compatibility with gaming peripherals
#TOP 9

UGREEN 6-Port 2.5Gb Ethernet Switch

Grey
UGREEN 6-Port 2.5Gb Ethernet Switch Cover
UGREEN 2.5Gb Switch, 6-Port Ethernet Switch, 5 x 2.5Gb Uplink + 1 x 10Gb SFP+, Standard/Link Aggregation to 5Gbps/VLAN 3 Modes, Plug & Play Unmanaged Ethernet Splitter, Desktop/Wall Mount, for NAS, PC

The UGREEN 2.5Gb Switch offers a powerful network upgrade with five 2.5Gb uplink ports and a 10Gb SFP+ port, allowing you to enjoy faster data transfers and smoother gaming or work sessions. You can easily switch between three modes—Standard, Link Aggregation, and VLAN—to customize your network. For example, Link Aggregation lets you combine ports to reach speeds up to 5Gbps, which is great for devices like NAS. The 10Gb SFP+ port supports various modules, giving you flexible options for connecting with fiber or ethernet cables. Plus, it’s plug-and-play, so setting it up is quick and hassle-free.

What We Like
Plug and play setup
Supports 2.5Gbps speeds
Reliable performance
Good value for price
Compatible with SFP+ modules
What We Don't Like
Limited link aggregation options
Short-term reliability only tested
#TOP 10

NETGEAR GS308E 8-Port Switch

GS308E-400NAS
Gray
NETGEAR GS308E 8-Port Switch Cover
NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Easy Smart Managed Essentials Switch (GS308E) - Desktop or Wall Mount, Home Network Hub, Office Ethernet Splitter, Silent Operation

The NETGEAR 8-Port Switch is designed to enhance your home or office network. With eight Gigabit Ethernet ports, you can connect multiple devices for fast and reliable internet access. The included user-friendly software allows you to easily manage, secure, and monitor your network settings, providing peace of mind. You can choose to place the switch on your desk or mount it on the wall, offering flexibility in setup. Plus, it operates quietly, ensuring minimal disruption in your workspace.

What We Like
Easy VLAN management
Silent operation, no fan
Solid metal build
Reliable gigabit performance
User-friendly web interface
What We Don't Like
No Layer 3 functionality
Learning curve for interface
Buying Guide Image

Learn More About Purchasing the Switches

This equipment must have functional characteristics, which we are going to expand in this article so that it serves as a guide to buy the best network switch and thus achieve the communication speed you require.

Speed

When we make a comparison of network switches, we first verify the speed it provides in the context in which we place it. This is how we can get devices that have an Ethernet connection at a speed of 10 to 100 Mbps, which is the basis of any device of this type.

However, to facilitate connections, there are types of speeds that reach 1000 Mbps. This will speed up the processes and combat the traffic that usually occurs when we want to send a file to print or we want to share some heavy elements from one computer to another.

Security

Safety is an aspect that we seek to support with all the artifacts we are looking for, since it is about the confidence that the product comes to give us both in its coating, because it translates into duration, as in its operation.

In this sense, a network switch must allow data encryption in the information that is shared, in order to have some privacy in the contents that are disseminated.

However, there are models that are not self-manageable, that is, they cannot be previously configured to take care of the information. In other words, it will not be possible to have information stored securely, before which security measures must be taken.

Ports

The number of ports is essential to know if it suits us or not. Some have 5 ports which are the standard number with which we can find most switches. However, to ensure a better experience, there are those that have a higher number of ports, for example, there are about 8 ports, which allow extending the possibility of connection at home or in a small work area.

On the other hand, there are models that have a total number of 24 ports, which allow to spread of communications in much larger work areas. A company might be especially interested in such an appliance since it allows a considerable number of ports for all employees to be connected.

Connectivity

The connection is an aspect of interest that we follow up on. In this sense, a network switch necessarily has to have cables compatible with our needs. First, they must be long enough to optimize the possibility of connection. In addition to this, they have to have support for MD / MDIX, so we will take away the concern about the type of cable to be used for connectivity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the 4 types of switches?

The four main types of switches are single pole single throw, single pole double throw, double pole single throw, and double pole double throw. These types of switches have different configurations and are used in various electrical and electronic applications.

2. What switches are used for?

Switches are essential components in networking systems. They are used to connect multiple devices, such as computers, printers, servers, and wireless access points, on the same network within a building or campus. Switches enable these devices to communicate and share information with each other.

3. What are the 3 common types of switches?

The three common types of switches are linear, tactile, and clicky. These types of switches are often labeled by color, with red representing linear switches, brown representing tactile switches, and blue representing clicky switches. Different companies may have their own variations, but these color associations are commonly used.

4. What are the different types of switch?

There are various types of switches, including pushbutton switches, selector switches, joystick switches, limit switches, proximity switches, speed switches, pressure switches, and temperature switches. Each type of switch serves a specific purpose and is used in different applications based on its design and functionality.

5. How do different switches work?

Switches work based on their design and purpose. The most common switches are on/off toggle switches. Three-way and dimmer circuits are similar in design, with three-way circuits having two switches that control the same device, while dimmer circuits control the amount of electricity passing through. Different switches have different mechanisms to control the flow of electricity based on their specific function and application.

Editor's Notes

During our switch research, we found 24 switch products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 492,056 customer reviews through our big data system to write the switches list. We found that most customers choose switches with an average price of $42.74.

The switches are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of switches, including NETGEAR, TP-Link, UGREEN. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.

Switches Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand NETGEAR TP-Link NETGEAR TP-Link TP-Link NETGEAR TP-Link UGREEN UGREEN NETGEAR
Color Yellow Black Purple black Black Black Black Black Grey Gray
Number of Ports 8 8 5 5 8 8 16 - 6 8
Compatible Devices Computers, servers, other switches, and networking hardware Desktop Desktop Compatible With IEEE 802.3af/at Compliant PDs Desktop Computers, IP cameras, VoIP phones, network devices Desktop Desktops, Laptops Desktop, Gaming Console, Laptop, NAS, Router -
Voltage 12 Volts (DC) - 100240 Volts 48 Volts - 2 Volts 12 Volts - 12 Volts (DC) 2 Volts
Item Weight 0.86 Pounds - 8.8 ounces 1 Pounds - 1.1 Kilograms 2.1 Pounds - 1.63 pounds -
Case Material Metal - Metal Metal - Plastic Metal - Metal -
Interface Type RJ45 - RJ45 5 10/100/1000Mbps RJ45 PortsAUTO Negotiation/AUTO MDI/MDIX - RJ45 16 x 10/100/1000Mbps PortsAuto-Negotiation, Auto-MDI/MDIX - RJ45, SFP+ -
Data Transfer Rate 1 Gigabits Per Second - 1000 Megabits Per Second 1000 Megabits Per Second - 16 Gigabits Per Second 1000 Megabits Per Second - 2.5 Gigabits Per Second -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.6
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