The transcript discusses a comparison of various two and a half gig ethernet switches, which are network devices used to connect multiple computers or other devices on a network. The speaker, who is part of the STH team, has reviewed 15 different switches, ranging from five-port to eight-port models, with some offering gigabit Ethernet and PoE (Power over Ethernet) capabilities.
The speaker's team purchased these switches to determine which were the best options in terms of price and performance. The switches were found on various platforms, including Amazon and AliExpress, and the team paid attention to factors such as power consumption, cost per port, and whether they were managed (i.e., capable of being configured remotely) or unmanaged.
The switches reviewed include the QNAP QSW11055T, Netgear Ms 305 and MS105, Trendnet TEG S350, ZyXEL MG105, ASUS ASW205T, Mochrolink 2G 041G, TP-Link TL-HS1008, and Netgear MS108UP.
The speaker found that the QNAP QSW11055T was the most cost-effective switch, costing $110 and offering good power efficiency. The ASUS ASW205T was also a good option, offering power efficiency and international compatibility due to its variety of plug adapters.
The TP-Link TL-HS1008 was found to be the most solid and affordable eight-port switch, and the Mochrolink 2G 041G was the least expensive switch in their roundup. The Netgear MS108UP was the best option for those needing Poe ports, offering Poe plus plus capabilities up to 60 watts.
In conclusion, the speaker recommends the QNAP QSW11055T as the best overall low-cost switch due to its balance of price and performance. However, the best choice will depend on the specific needs of the user, including the number of ports required, power consumption considerations, and whether managed or unmanaged functionality is needed.
1. The speaker is discussing the difficulty of finding an inexpensive 2.5 gig ethernet switch.
2. The speaker and their team bought 15 different switches to determine the best options.
3. The team looked at options ranging from 5-port to 8-port models, some with 10 gigabit Ethernet, some managed, and some with Power over Ethernet (PoE).
4. The switches were reviewed on the STH main site and on Amazon.
5. The speaker has a preference for fanless units, which are more energy-efficient.
6. The team found the QNAP QSW11055T to be a good low-cost option, costing around $110 and consuming about 4 Watts at idle.
7. The Netgear MS305 and MS105 were found to be identical in terms of power consumption, but the MS105 offered a lifetime warranty while the MS305 had a three-year warranty.
8. The Trendnet TEG S350 was found to be more expensive but had a good power-to-price ratio.
9. The Zycel MG105 was found to be the cheapest option but consumed more power.
10. The ASUS ASW205T had a low idle power consumption of 3.7 Watts and came with international power adapters.
11. The Mochrolink 2G041G was found to be the third least expensive switch, costing $106.
12. The TP-Link TL-HS1008 was found to be a solid and affordable 8-port switch, with a power consumption of about 4.4 Watts at idle.
13. The Trendnet TEG S762 was found to be a high-end switch with two 10 gig ports, priced at $190.
14. The QNAP QSW210425A was found to be a good option for those needing a mix of 2.5 gig Ethernet and 10 gig ports, priced at $130.
15. The Hasvo U5GT2SPLUS SE was a high-end managed switch with PoE, priced at $165.
16. The Netgear MS108UP was found to be the best PoE plus plus switch, offering 60 watt ports and priced at $230.
17. The speaker has a preference for PoE plus plus switches that offer higher wattage ports.
18. The speaker has a preference for managed switches, which offer more features and control.
19. The speaker and their team will continue to review and recommend switches based on their findings.