Best Network Switches with 8 Ports: 15 Spec-Based Picks
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Adding a network switch with 8 Ports gives your setup reliable wired connections for computers, streaming hardware, and storage drives. The TP-Link Litewave 8-Port Gigabit Switch takes the top spot because its unmanaged Gigabit ports deliver silent, plug-and-play expansion without configuration overhead.
We compared 15 models based strictly on the specifications published on their listings. This guide helps you choose the right balance of port speeds, PoE power delivery, and smart management features for your wired home network.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You need basic unmanaged Gigabit expansion without extra configuration. TP-Link Litewave 8-Port Gigabit Switch It provides eight unmanaged Gigabit Ethernet ports in a lightweight plug-and-play unit.
- You need managed traffic control powered over Ethernet input. Goalake 8-Port Smart Managed Gigabit Switch It combines smart managed traffic control with PoE-in power support across eight Gigabit ports.
- You need high unmanaged PoE power across all ports. NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch It delivers an unmanaged 123W total PoE+ budget across all eight Gigabit ports.
- You only need basic connections for low bandwidth hardware. TP-Link 8-Port Fast Ethernet Switch It provides eight 10/100 Mbps Fast Ethernet ports for basic low-speed networking.
Our 15 picks
TP-Link Litewave 8-Port Gigabit Switch
Best for: silent, plug-and-play Gigabit network expansion
- Number of Ports
- 8 Ports (what this guide is about)
- Port Count
- 8
- Port Speed
- 10/100/1000 Mbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- Dimensions
- 5 × 2.62 × 0.91 inches
- Weight
- 3.88 ounces
The TP-Link Litewave 8-Port Gigabit Switch gives you eight 10/100/1000Mbps RJ45 ports to expand your wired home setup. It operates silently due to a fanless build and handles data transfer using IEEE 802.3x flow control. This unmanaged switch requires zero setup, software, or configuration—you just plug devices directly into your router or modem. It suits you if you need basic, quiet desktop connectivity for consoles, computers, and printers.
Pros
- 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports with auto-negotiation and auto MDI/MDIX
- Fanless design for silent operation
- Plug-and-play setup requiring zero configuration or software
- IEEE 802.3x flow control for reliable data transfer
Cons
- Unmanaged architecture provides no VLAN or network control options
- Lacks Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities
Good fit if
- You need eight basic Gigabit Ethernet ports to expand your wired network.
- You want a fanless, silent switch that requires zero setup or software.
Skip if
- You require Power over Ethernet (PoE) to power connected hardware.
- You need managed switch settings like VLANs or traffic controls.
Verdict: TP-Link Litewave 8-Port Gigabit Switch delivers eight silent, plug-and-play Ethernet connections for simple home network expansion. It offers reliable Gigabit speeds without setup hassle if you do not need PoE or management tools.
Goalake 8-Port Smart Managed Gigabit Switch
Best for: managed setups powered via PoE input
- Number of Ports
- 8 Ports (what this guide is about)
- Port Count
- 8
- Port Speed
- 1 Gbps
- Management Type
- Easy Smart Managed
- Mounting Type
- Desktop, Wall Mount
- PoE Support
- PoE
The Goalake 8-Port Gigabit Smart Managed Switch expands your wired network using eight Gigabit ports inside a compact metal casing. It supports web and mobile app configuration, giving you access to 802.1Q VLANs, QoS, and port mirroring. A dedicated PoE-in port allows the unit to run on power delivered through an uplink Ethernet cable. This switch suits you if you need managed traffic controls away from AC wall outlets.
Pros
- Dedicated PoE-in port accepts power from an upstream PoE connection
- Smart management features include 802.1Q VLANs, QoS, and port mirroring
- Fanless metal chassis provides silent desktop or wall-mounted operation
- Configurable via mobile app, web interface, or management software
Cons
- Does not deliver PoE power output to connected downstream devices
- Port bandwidth caps at standard 1 Gbps Gigabit speeds
Good fit if
- You need VLAN or QoS controls on an eight-port switch.
- You want to power the switch via an upstream PoE cable without a nearby wall outlet.
- You prefer configuring your network via an app or web browser.
Skip if
- You need PoE output to power devices like access points or security cameras.
- You require multi-gigabit speeds beyond 1 Gbps for local network transfers.
Verdict: Goalake 8-Port Gigabit Smart Managed Switch delivers managed networking features like VLANs and QoS alongside a PoE-in power option. It is a practical pick when you need managed traffic control in locations lacking nearby power outlets.
D-Link 8-Port Gigabit Metal Switch
Best for: quiet desktop gaming and streaming setups
- Number of Ports
- 8 Ports (what this guide is about)
- Port Count
- 8
- Port Speed
- 1 Gbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- Mounting Type
- Desktop, Wall-Mount
- Use Case
- Gaming
This D-Link unit gives you eight auto-negotiating Gigabit Ethernet ports inside a fanless steel chassis. It features built-in 802.1p Quality of Service traffic prioritization and IGMP snooping to keep data streams smooth without manual configuration. It works well if you need an unmanaged plug-and-play desktop or wall-mounted switch to connect gaming consoles, PCs, and media devices to your home network without added noise.
Pros
- 802.1p QoS traffic prioritization for automated packet handling
- Fanless all-steel chassis provides silent passive cooling
- IGMP snooping handles multicast video traffic efficiently
- Wall-mount keyhole slots and desktop rubber feet included
Cons
- Unmanaged design provides no browser interface or custom settings
- Lacks Power over Ethernet support on all ports
Good fit if
- You want automated 802.1p QoS prioritization without configuring software.
- You need silent operation in a bedroom, office, or gaming space.
- You prefer a metal desktop enclosure that also supports wall mounting.
Skip if
- You need a managed switch with VLAN or port configuration controls.
- You require PoE output to power IP cameras or access points.
Verdict: D-Link 8-Port Gigabit Metal Switch provides plug-and-play wired connectivity with integrated hardware traffic prioritization in a silent, sturdy chassis. It delivers reliable zero-setup networking for setups with gaming consoles and media streamers.
TP-Link 8-Port Fast Ethernet Switch
Best for: low-bandwidth Fast Ethernet desktop networking
- Number of Ports
- 8 Ports (what this guide is about)
- Port Count
- 8
- Port Speed
- 10/100 Mbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- Mounting Type
- Desktop
- PoE Support
- PoE
This TP-Link desktop unit gives you eight 10/100 Mbps Fast Ethernet ports for basic local networking. It operates as an unmanaged switch with automatic MDI/MDIX negotiation and IEEE 802.3x flow control on every RJ45 connection. The hardware uses a fanless, quiet design that adjusts power draw based on link status and cable length. It suits you if you need simple wired connections for printers, media adapters, or low-bandwidth devices.
Pros
- Eight 10/100 Mbps auto-negotiation RJ45 ports
- Fanless design for quiet desktop operation
- Supports Auto-MDI/MDIX to eliminate crossover cables
- IEEE 802.3x flow control for data transfer
- Power-saving technology adjusts usage by link status and cable length
Cons
- Port speeds max out at 10/100 Mbps Fast Ethernet rather than Gigabit
- Unmanaged design provides no traffic management or configuration software
Good fit if
- You need eight wired ports for devices that only require 10/100 Mbps speeds.
- You want silent, fanless hardware for a desktop workspace.
- You prefer plug-and-play setup without any software configuration.
Skip if
- You require Gigabit 1000 Mbps speeds across your local network.
- You need managed switch features to configure VLANs or prioritize traffic.
Verdict: TP-Link 8-Port Fast Ethernet Switch provides a quiet, unmanaged solution for connecting standard 10/100 Mbps wired hardware. It works reliably for basic network tasks where Gigabit throughput is not necessary.
TP-Link 8-Port Gigabit Metal Switch
Best for: silent plug-and-play desktop wired expansion
- Number of Ports
- 8 Ports (what this guide is about)
- Port Count
- 8
- Port Speed
- 10/100/1000 Mbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- PoE Support
- PoE
- Dimensions
- 6.22 × 3.94 × 0.98 inches
This unmanaged switch gives you eight Gigabit Ethernet ports in a compact metal housing. It operates silently due to a fanless build, making it suitable for quiet workspaces. Setup is plug-and-play with no software configuration needed. It automatically adjusts power draw based on cable length and connection status. This switch suits you if you need to add basic wired connections for computers, game consoles, or printers across your home network.
Pros
- Eight 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit RJ45 ports
- Fanless design for silent operation
- Durable metal housing with shielded ports
- Energy-efficient power adjustment based on cable length and link status
Cons
- Unmanaged operation with no custom configuration settings
- Maximum port speed capped at 1000 Mbps Gigabit
Good fit if
- You need a silent, fanless switch for a bedroom or quiet office.
- You want basic plug-and-play Gigabit expansion without network setup.
- You prefer a durable metal casing with shielded Ethernet ports.
Skip if
- You require managed switch capabilities to configure custom network traffic.
- You need multi-gigabit Ethernet speeds exceeding standard 1000 Mbps.
Verdict: TP-Link 8-Port Gigabit Metal Switch delivers eight silent, plug-and-play wired ports inside a sturdy enclosure. It provides straightforward wired expansion for home networks without configuration overhead.
TP-Link 8-Port Gigabit Switch with 4 PoE+ Ports
Best for: powering up to four desktop PoE devices
- Number of Ports
- 8 Ports (what this guide is about)
- Port Count
- 8
- Port Speed
- 10/100/1000 Mbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- PoE Support
- PoE+ (802.3at/af)
- PoE Power Budget
- 64 W
View on Amazon: TP-Link 8-Port Gigabit Switch with 4 PoE+ Ports
This unmanaged switch gives you eight Gigabit Ethernet ports in a sturdy metal desktop enclosure. Four of the ports deliver PoE+ power with a total power budget of 64W, supplying up to 30W per port for devices like access points or cameras. It operates quietly without fans and requires zero configuration. Built-in traffic prioritization features include IGMP snooping and 802.1p QoS, making it a reliable fit for powered network gear.
Pros
- Four PoE+ ports with up to 30W per port and 64W total budget
- Fanless metal enclosure ensures silent desktop or wall-mounted operation
- Supports 802.1p/DSCP QoS and IGMP snooping traffic prioritization
- Plug-and-play unmanaged setup requires no software configuration
Cons
- Only four of the eight ports supply PoE power
- Unmanaged design offers no web management or VLAN control
Good fit if
- You need to power up to four PoE devices without separate injectors
- You want a silent, fanless metal switch for desktop or wall placement
- You prefer an unmanaged plug-and-play setup without software configuration
Skip if
- You need PoE power delivery across more than four ports
- You require managed network features such as web-based configuration
Verdict: TP-Link 8-Port Gigabit Switch with 4 PoE+ Ports combines eight Gigabit connections with a 64W power budget across four ports in a quiet, fanless metal housing. It is a dependable choice when you want straightforward power delivery without software management.
Linksys 8-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch
Best for: basic plug-and-play home and media networking
- Number of Ports
- 8 Ports (what this guide is about)
- Port Count
- 8
- Port Speed
- Gigabit
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- Dimensions
- 2.36 × 7.4 × 2.36 inches
- Weight
- 1.2 pounds
This Linksys 8-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch adds eight Gigabit Ethernet ports to your home or office network. It features unmanaged plug-and-play operation, auto MDI/MDI-X cable detection on every port, and IEEE 802.1p QoS traffic prioritization for streaming applications. Integrated power-saving technology detects unused ports to lower energy draw. It suits you if you need straightforward wired expansion for media setups and everyday local networking without managing software or complex port settings.
Pros
- Eight auto-sensing Gigabit Ethernet ports
- IEEE 802.1p QoS prioritizes video and audio traffic
- Power-saving mode automatically detects unused ports
- Auto MDI/MDI-X cable detection across all ports
Cons
- Unmanaged design provides no web or software configuration
- No Power over Ethernet support listed
Good fit if
- You need eight Gigabit ports without software setup or configuration.
- You want built-in QoS traffic prioritization for media streaming.
- You want hardware that reduces power consumption on inactive ports.
Skip if
- You need managed switch features such as VLANs or manual port controls.
- You require Power over Ethernet to power IP cameras or access points.
Verdict: Linksys 8-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch delivers reliable wired connectivity with hardware-level QoS and automated power-saving modes. It gives you straightforward Gigabit expansion for everyday home and office hardware without configuration overhead.
TP-Link 8-Port Smart Managed Gigabit Switch
Best for: small networks requiring VLAN and QoS management
- Number of Ports
- 8 Ports (what this guide is about)
- Port Count
- 8
- Port Speed
- Gigabit
- Management Type
- Easy Smart Managed
- Mounting Type
- Desktop/Wall-Mount
- Dimensions
- 6.2 × 4 × 1 inches
This TP-Link unit is an 8-port smart managed Gigabit switch built in a metal enclosure. It gives you basic Layer 2 traffic control, including support for up to 32 VLANs, QoS traffic prioritization, and IGMP snooping via a web interface or utility. It suits your home network if you need manageable wired segmentation without stepping up to complex enterprise gear.
Pros
- 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports with shielded design
- Easy Smart management via web interface or software
- Supports up to 32 VLANs and QoS traffic prioritization
- Layer 2 features include link aggregation and port mirroring
- Compact metal casing supports desktop or wall mounting
Cons
- No Power over Ethernet (PoE) ports provided
- VLAN capacity limited to 32 concurrent VLANs
Good fit if
- You need VLAN segmentation or QoS controls on an 8-port network.
- You prefer configuring switch features through a web interface.
- You want a metal desktop or wall-mountable switch.
Skip if
- You need Power over Ethernet to supply power to connected devices.
- You require an unmanaged switch with zero configuration options.
Verdict: TP-Link 8-Port Smart Managed Gigabit Switch delivers essential Layer 2 management tools like VLANs and QoS in a compact metal chassis. It gives your home network controlled traffic separation across 8 Gigabit connections.
NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch
Best for: silent, plug-and-play wired network expansion
- Number of Ports
- 8 Ports (what this guide is about)
- Port Count
- 8
- Port Speed
- 1.0Gbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- Mounting Type
- Desktop or Wall-Mount
- Dimensions
- 8.54 × 6.5 × 4.29 inches
The NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch expands your wired network with eight auto-negotiating 1.0 Gbps Ethernet ports. It features a fanless metal enclosure that supports either desktop or wall-mount placement without producing noise. Built-in IEEE 802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet helps reduce power consumption automatically. This switch suits you if you need straightforward, silent plug-and-play wired connections for your gear without configuring software.
Pros
- Eight auto-negotiating 1.0 Gbps Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Fanless design for silent operation
- Metal enclosure with desktop and wall-mount support
- IEEE 802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet support
Cons
- Unmanaged design provides no VLAN or management controls
- No Power over Ethernet support listed
- Regional compatibility limited to the United States and Canada
Good fit if
- You need eight silent Gigabit ports in a durable metal chassis.
- You want plug-and-play setup without software or network configuration.
Skip if
- You need Power over Ethernet to run devices like cameras or access points.
- You require managed switch capabilities like traffic monitoring or VLANs.
Verdict: NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch delivers silent, durable metal-cased Gigabit expansion with zero configuration required. It provides a dependable choice if you need basic plug-and-play wired connectivity for home networking.
TP-Link 8-Port Gigabit Smart Managed PoE Switch
Best for: small managed networks needing four PoE ports
- Number of Ports
- 8 Ports (what this guide is about)
- Port Count
- 8
- Port Speed
- Gigabit
- Management Type
- Easy Smart
- PoE Support
- PoE (802.3af)
- PoE Power Budget
- 57W
View on Amazon: TP-Link 8-Port Gigabit Smart Managed PoE Switch
This TP-Link unit gives you eight Gigabit Ethernet ports with smart management features in a compact black chassis. Four of the ports deliver 802.3af PoE power with a combined budget of 57 watts, supplying up to 15.4 watts per port. You also get web-based management for VLAN traffic segmentation, QoS prioritization, and IGMP snooping. It fits small offices or home setups where you need managed power for a few devices.
Pros
- Four 802.3af PoE ports with 15.4W per port and a 57W total budget
- Smart management utility and web interface for VLANs, QoS, and IGMP snooping
- Eight Gigabit Ethernet ports in a one-pound metal chassis
- Plug-and-play design works without mandatory software installation
Cons
- PoE power is restricted to four ports rather than all eight
- Power output is capped at 15.4W per port under 802.3af standards
Good fit if
- You need to power up to four low-draw PoE devices
- You want network traffic segmentation via VLANs and QoS
Skip if
- You need PoE delivery on more than four ports
- You have high-draw devices requiring more than 15.4W per port
Verdict: TP-Link 8-Port Smart Managed PoE Switch provides eight Gigabit connections, smart traffic management tools, and 57W of PoE power across four ports. It delivers network segmentation and device power in a single desktop footprint.
BV 8-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch
Best for: PoE devices needing dedicated Gigabit uplinks
- Number of Ports
- 8 Ports (what this guide is about)
- Port Count
- 10
- Port Speed
- 10/100/1000 Mbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- PoE Support
- PoE+
- PoE Power Budget
- 120W
This unmanaged switch gives you eight Gigabit PoE+ ports alongside two dedicated Gigabit uplink ports, delivering up to 30W per port with a 120W total power budget. It includes an internal power supply inside a metal casing, eliminating external power bricks entirely. It suits you if you need to run security cameras or access points while keeping dedicated high-speed uplinks to your router without configuring software.
Pros
- Two dedicated Gigabit uplink ports alongside eight PoE+ ports
- 120W total PoE budget with up to 30W per port
- Internal power supply with no external adapter brick
- Metal housing designed for heat dissipation and quiet operation
Cons
- Unmanaged operation provides no traffic management or VLAN configuration
- Two uplink ports do not provide PoE power
Good fit if
- You want dedicated Gigabit uplinks that leave all eight PoE+ ports free for devices.
- You need up to 120W total PoE+ power for access points or cameras.
- You prefer an internal power supply instead of an external power brick.
Skip if
- You need managed switch features like VLANs, QoS, or remote monitoring.
- You require PoE power on all 10 available Ethernet ports.
Verdict: BV-Tech 8-Port PoE+ Switch with Dual Uplinks provides plug-and-play PoE+ delivery with a 120W budget and dual Gigabit uplinks for direct router connections. It is a solid hardware choice when you need reliable power distribution without complex software management.
NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch
Best for: powering multiple PoE+ devices without configuration
- Number of Ports
- 8 Ports (what this guide is about)
- Port Count
- 8
- Port Speed
- 1.0 Gbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- PoE Support
- PoE+
- PoE Power Budget
- 123W
This NETGEAR unit gives you eight Gigabit Ethernet ports that all supply PoE+ power under a 123W total power budget. Because it is an unmanaged switch, setup requires no software or complex configuration to run. The fanless metal chassis ensures silent operation on a desktop, wall, or rack. It suits you if you need to run several power-hungry network devices like access points or cameras without management overhead.
Pros
- All 8 Gigabit ports supply PoE+ power
- 123W total PoE power budget
- Fanless metal chassis for silent operation
- Supports desktop, wall, or rack mounting
Cons
- Unmanaged switch with no traffic management or VLAN configuration
- Lacks dedicated uplink or fiber SFP ports
Good fit if
- You need to power multiple PoE+ devices across all eight ports.
- You prefer plug-and-play installation without configuring software.
- You want silent, fanless operation in desktop, wall, or rack setups.
Skip if
- You require managed switch features such as VLANs or QoS controls.
- You need dedicated uplink ports separate from your eight PoE connections.
Verdict: NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit 123W PoE+ Switch delivers substantial power across every port using a silent, unmanaged metal design. It provides a straightforward hardware upgrade when you need reliable PoE+ connectivity without network setup hurdles.
NETGEAR 8-Port Unmanaged Gigabit Switch
Best for: silent, plug-and-play Gigabit wired expansion
- Number of Ports
- 8 Ports (what this guide is about)
- Port Count
- 8
- Port Speed
- 1.0Gbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- Mounting Type
- Desktop or wall-mount
- Dimensions
- 6.22 × 4.02 × 1.02 inches
This NETGEAR unit gives you eight Gigabit Ethernet ports in a compact metal housing. It operates as an unmanaged switch with automatic speed negotiation, requiring no software installation or manual configuration. A fanless build delivers silent operation on a desk or mounted to a wall, while IEEE 802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet regulates power use. It suits you if you need straightforward, quiet wired expansion for your local network devices.
Pros
- Eight 1.0Gbps auto-negotiating Ethernet ports
- Silent fanless operation with metal housing
- Supports desktop and wall-mount placement
- IEEE 802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet support
Cons
- Unmanaged design provides no software configuration options
- Does not provide Power over Ethernet (PoE)
- Regional compatibility limited to the U.S. and Canada
Good fit if
- You need a silent, fanless switch for a desktop or wall-mounted setup.
- You want plug-and-play Gigabit ports without software management.
- You operate your network within the U.S. or Canada.
Skip if
- You need to power network hardware using Power over Ethernet.
- You require managed switch capabilities like VLANs or traffic control.
- You need hardware compatible outside the U.S. and Canada.
Verdict: NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch provides silent, plug-and-play wired connectivity in a durable metal chassis. It is a reliable option if you want simple eight-port network expansion without any setup overhead.
NETGEAR 8-Port Smart Managed Gigabit Switch
Best for: smart network management in silent workspaces
- Number of Ports
- 8 Ports (what this guide is about)
- Port Count
- 8
- Port Speed
- 1.0Gbps
- Management Type
- Smart Managed
- Mounting Type
- Desktop, Wall-Mount
- Dimensions
- 4.13 × 6.22 × 1.06 inches
The NETGEAR 8-Port Smart Managed Gigabit Switch expands your wired network with eight 1.0Gbps auto-negotiating ports and a single power delivery port. Its smart management software provides SNMP access and includes one year of NETGEAR Insight for remote controls. Built with a fanless metal housing, it supports desktop or wall mounting while remaining silent. It suits you if you need managed network controls and quiet, energy-efficient Gigabit distribution.
Pros
- Eight 1.0Gbps auto-negotiating Ethernet ports
- Smart management with SNMP support and 1 year NETGEAR Insight
- Fanless metal chassis for silent operation
- Supports desktop and wall-mount placement
- Includes 1 PD port for powering compatible devices
Cons
- Includes only one power delivery port
- Max throughput caps at 1.0Gbps per port
Good fit if
- You need smart management software with remote Insight access.
- You want a fanless metal switch for desktop or wall mounting.
- You require eight auto-negotiating Gigabit ports with SNMP control.
Skip if
- You need multi-gigabit port speeds above 1.0Gbps.
- You need more than one power delivery port.
Verdict: NETGEAR 8-Port Smart Managed Gigabit Switch provides quiet, fanless Gigabit connectivity paired with SNMP tools and remote cloud management. It is a solid choice when you need deeper configuration options across eight local ports.
YuanLey 8-Port Gigabit 120W PoE Switch
Best for: powering up to eight PoE+ hardware devices
- Number of Ports
- 8 Ports (what this guide is about)
- Port Count
- 8
- Port Speed
- 1000 Mbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- PoE Support
- PoE+ (802.3af/at)
- PoE Power Budget
- 120W
The YuanLey 8-Port Gigabit 120W PoE+ Switch is an unmanaged desktop switch designed to power network gear without extra adapters. You get eight 1000Mbps Gigabit Ethernet ports that all deliver IEEE 802.3af/at power up to 30W per port across a 120W total budget. With a fanless metal build, built-in power supply, and 12Gbps backplane, it suits you if you need silent power for multiple PoE access points or security cameras.
Pros
- All eight Gigabit Ethernet ports supply 802.3af/at PoE+ power
- Total PoE power budget of 120W with up to 30W per port
- Silent operation with a fanless metal enclosure
- Built-in internal power supply eliminates bulky adapters
Cons
- Unmanaged design provides no VLAN or traffic management controls
- Lacks dedicated uplink ports or optical SFP interfaces
Good fit if
- You need to provide PoE+ power across all eight connected devices
- You prefer a silent, fanless switch with an integrated power supply
- You want simple plug-and-play hardware without software configuration
Skip if
- You require managed networking capabilities like VLANs or QoS
- You need dedicated uplink ports separate from the eight PoE interfaces
Verdict: YuanLey 8-Port Gigabit 120W PoE+ Switch delivers full PoE+ capability across all eight ports alongside a sturdy fanless design. It provides a simple plug-and-play solution for powering cameras and access points without configuration.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | TP-Link Litewave 8-Port Gigabit Switch | Goalake 8-Port Smart Managed Gigabit Switch | D-Link 8-Port Gigabit Metal Switch | TP-Link 8-Port Fast Ethernet Switch | TP-Link 8-Port Gigabit Metal Switch | TP-Link 8-Port Gigabit Switch with 4 PoE+ Ports | Linksys 8-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch | TP-Link 8-Port Smart Managed Gigabit Switch | NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch | TP-Link 8-Port Gigabit Smart Managed PoE Switch | BV 8-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch | NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch | NETGEAR 8-Port Unmanaged Gigabit Switch | NETGEAR 8-Port Smart Managed Gigabit Switch | YuanLey 8-Port Gigabit 120W PoE Switch |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Port Count | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| Port Speed | 10/100/1000 Mbps | 1 Gbps | 1 Gbps | 10/100 Mbps | 10/100/1000 Mbps | 10/100/1000 Mbps | Gigabit | Gigabit | 1.0Gbps | Gigabit | 10/100/1000 Mbps | 1.0 Gbps | 1.0Gbps | 1.0Gbps | 1000 Mbps |
| Management Type | Unmanaged | Easy Smart Managed | Unmanaged | Unmanaged | Unmanaged | Unmanaged | Unmanaged | Easy Smart Managed | Unmanaged | Easy Smart | Unmanaged | Unmanaged | Unmanaged | Smart Managed | Unmanaged |
| PoE Support | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | PoE+ (802.3at/af) | not specified | not specified | not specified | PoE (802.3af) | PoE+ | PoE+ | not specified | not specified | PoE+ (802.3af/at) |
| PoE Power Budget | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 64 W | not specified | not specified | not specified | 57W | 120W | 123W | not specified | not specified | 120W |
| Uplink Ports | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 2 x Gigabit | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Switching Capacity | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 12 Gbps |
| Mounting Type | not specified | Desktop, Wall Mount | Desktop, Wall-Mount | Desktop | not specified | Desktop, Wall-Mount | not specified | Desktop/Wall-Mount | Desktop or Wall-Mount | not specified | not specified | Desktop, Wall-Mount, Rackmount | Desktop or wall-mount | Desktop, Wall-Mount | not specified |
| Number of Ports | 8 Ports | 8 Ports | 8 Ports | 8 Ports | 8 Ports | 8 Ports | 8 Ports | 8 Ports | 8 Ports | 8 Ports | 8 Ports | 8 Ports | 8 Ports | 8 Ports | 8 Ports |
| Use Case | not specified | not specified | Gaming | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Uplink Port Type | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Gigabit Uplink | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Recommended Use | not specified | not specified | Office | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Dimensions | 5 × 2.62 × 0.91 inches | 5.19 × 3.14 × 1.06 inches | 6.38 × 4.02 × 1.1 inches | 8.03 × 2.56 × 6.5 inches | 6.22 × 3.94 × 0.98 inches | 3.9 × 6.7 × 1.1 inches | 2.36 × 7.4 × 2.36 inches | 6.2 × 4 × 1 inches | 8.54 × 6.5 × 4.29 inches | 6.22 × 3.98 × 0.98 inches | 11.3 × 1.75 × 7 inches | 4.02 × 1.06 × 9.29 inches | 6.22 × 4.02 × 1.02 inches | 4.13 × 6.22 × 1.06 inches | 9.06 × 7.48 × 2.76 inches |
| Weight | 3.88 ounces | not specified | 15.5 ounces | 13.8 ounces | 13.8 ounces | 1.15 pounds | 1.2 pounds | 1.12 pounds | 1.72 pounds | 1 pounds | not specified | 1.3 pounds | 13.8 ounces | 15.2 ounces | 2.16 pounds |
| Color | black | Black | Black | White | Black | Black | Black,Blue | Black | Blue | Black | Black | black | Yellow | Black | Black |
| Model | LS1008G | 8 Gigabit Ports|Easy Managed | DGS-108 | TL-SF1008D | TL-SG108 | TL-SG1008P | SE3008-AMZ | TL-SG108E | GS108-400NAS | TL-SG108PE | POE-SW802G | GS108PP-100NAS | GS308-300PAS | GS108Tv3 | 8 Port 1G PoE Unmanaged Switch (120W) |
| Size | not specified | 8 Ports | 8-Port Switch | 8 Port | 8 Port, 1 Gigabit | 8 Port w/ 4-Port PoE+ | 1-Pack | 8 Port | 8-Port | Easy Smart Managed, 8 Port w/ 4 PoE+ Port | not specified | 8 Port, PoE+ @ 123W | 8 Port | 8 Port | 8 Port | 8*PoE+ (120w) |
If you need in-wall lighting controls instead of Ethernet hardware, compare the best TREATLIFE smart switches to evaluate their power and wiring specifications.
How to Choose an 8-Port Switch
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Port Speed Rating
Check the port speed rating before selecting a model. Most models feature Gigabit ports that handle modern throughput across your local network. However, units like the TP-Link TL-SF1008D provide Fast Ethernet ports capped at 10/100 Mbps. Fast Ethernet suits basic low-bandwidth tasks, but it bottlenecks high-speed data transfers between local computers, storage units, and routers. If you transfer large media files or stream high-definition video across local systems, verify that every port explicitly specifies Gigabit speed to ensure full throughput.
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Total PoE Power Budget
Calculate the cumulative wattage your powered equipment draws if you choose a Power over Ethernet model. Different switches supply distinct total power limits. For example, the NETGEAR GS108PP-100NAS provides a 123W power budget, while smaller alternatives provide 57W or 64W. If your connected access points or security cameras pull more total wattage than the internal power supply delivers, devices will lose connection or fail to boot. Add up the maximum wattage listed on each device's technical label, then pick a switch budget that exceeds that combined sum.
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PoE Port Allocation
Examine how many ports actually deliver electrical power. Some 8-port switches deliver power across all eight connections, while models like the TP-Link TL-SG1008P deliver PoE+ across four ports and standard non-powered data on the remaining four. If you connect four or fewer powered devices alongside regular computers and printers, a partial PoE layout meets your needs. If your installation involves five to eight cameras or endpoints requiring power, select a switch engineered with power delivery across every individual port to avoid adding external power injectors.
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Dedicated Uplink Ports
Identify whether the switch includes dedicated uplink ports for connecting back to your router. On standard switches, connecting to your network gateway consumes one of the primary ports, leaving only seven ports available for end devices. Hardware such as the BV POE-SW802G features dual Gigabit uplink ports alongside eight standard ports. This dedicated uplink architecture preserves all eight primary connections exclusively for your access points, media hardware, or cameras. Check this spec if your network requires exactly eight available client connections without losing a port to your router feed.
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Physical Mounting Support
Review the supported mounting options and physical dimensions before buying. Switches designed strictly for desktop placement sit flat on tables or shelves, which can consume work surface space in compact areas. Units like the TP-Link TL-SG108E include integrated wall mount support, allowing you to secure the chassis inside utility closets, structured media panels, or underneath desks. If you plan to install hardware off your desk, check the specifications to confirm wall mounting slots exist on the unit, and verify the physical dimensions fit your allocated mounting footprint.
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Advanced Traffic Management
Choose between unmanaged and smart managed architectures based on how much control you need over local traffic. Unmanaged models function strictly as plug-and-play splitters without configuration menus. Smart managed switches, such as the NETGEAR GS108Tv3, provide configuration utilities including VLAN segmentation, Quality of Service prioritization, SNMP monitoring, and cloud management. If you need to separate guest traffic, isolate security cameras from personal computers, or monitor port health across your network, choose a smart managed model that includes these Layer 2 management tools in its firmware specifications.
Frequently asked questions
Do 8-port switches need a dedicated uplink port to connect to a router?
You do not need a dedicated uplink port for standard setups. Most unmanaged units let you plug your router into any available port. However, specialized hardware like the BV POE-SW802G provides dual Gigabit uplinks so you retain all standard ports for your connected endpoint hardware.
Can an 8-port PoE switch power non-PoE network devices safely?
Yes, you can connect non-PoE equipment directly to PoE ports. Compliant switches detect power requirements before sending electric current. Models like the NETGEAR GS108PP-100NAS and YuanLey deliver power only to compatible hardware, operating as standard Gigabit data connections for regular computers or printers.
What is the difference between unmanaged and smart managed 8-port switches?
Unmanaged switches operate strictly as plug-and-play splitters without configuration interfaces. Smart managed units, such as the NETGEAR GS108Tv3 and TP-Link TL-SG108PE, provide management software for deeper network control. These let you configure traffic segmentation, monitor ports through SNMP, and adjust Quality of Service rules.
How much total PoE power budget do 8-port switches offer?
Power output varies widely across models based on internal power supplies. For example, the TP-Link TL-SG108PE provides a 57W budget across four ports, while the TP-Link TL-SG1008P offers 64W. Higher-capacity models like the NETGEAR GS108PP-100NAS supply up to 123W across all eight connections.
Can you mount an 8-port network switch on a wall?
Yes, several models support both desktop placement and wall mounting via built-in mounting slots. Units like the Goalake Smart Managed Switch and the TP-Link TL-SG108E specify dual desktop and wall-mount compatibility. Always verify chassis dimensions and mounting specifications before planning your equipment placement.
Do 8-port Gigabit switches make noise during operation?
Most 8-port models operate silently because they use passive cooling without fans. Switches such as the NETGEAR GS108Tv3, YuanLey 120W PoE model, and TP-Link TL-SG1008P feature fanless designs. This allows you to place them on desks or inside media cabinets without generating background noise.