TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch vs TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet Switch: Spec Comparison
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When you compare the tp link 5 port gigabit ethernet vs 5 port unmanaged ethernet, you see two simple switches from TP-Link. Both offer five ports for expanding your wired network. They are both unmanaged and plug-and-play. The main difference is speed. One supports Gigabit speeds up to 1000 Mbps. The other supports Fast Ethernet up to 100 Mbps. Your choice depends on your internet plan and connected devices.
Key differences
| Aspect | TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch | TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet Switch |
|---|---|---|
| Port Speed | 10/100/1000 Mbps | 10/100 Mbps |
| Case Material | Metal | Not listed |
| Mounting Type | Desktop or wall-mounting | Desktop |
| Weight | 7.76 ounces | 3.53 ounces |
| Power Saving | Not listed | Up to 68% power saving |
Which one should you choose?
Choose TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch if
- You need speeds up to 1000 Mbps for fast file transfers or 4K streaming.
- You want a sturdy metal case for better heat dissipation and durability.
- You plan to mount the switch on a wall to save desk space.
Choose TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet Switch if
- You have an internet plan slower than 100 Mbps.
- You prefer a lighter, smaller device for tight spaces.
- You want maximum power efficiency with automatic power adjustment features.
Verdict: Choose the Gigabit model if your internet service or local network devices benefit from speeds over 100 Mbps. The Fast Ethernet switch is sufficient for basic internet browsing and light tasks on slower connections. Both switches handle the same number of ports with equal ease of setup.
Speed, Build, Size, Power, and Mounting
Port speed rating
The TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch offers 10/100/1000 Mbps ports. This Gigabit speed supports modern internet plans and fast local file transfers. The TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet Switch caps at 10/100 Mbps. This limit may bottleneck connections above 100 Mbps. If you have a fast internet plan or move large files between devices, the Gigabit switch handles the traffic better. The Fast Ethernet model is sufficient for basic web browsing and email on older connections. For future-proofing your home network, the higher speed rating of the Gigabit model is the more practical choice.
Build material
TP-Link uses different materials for these two units. The Gigabit switch features a sturdy metal case. Metal provides better heat dissipation and durability. The Fast Ethernet switch uses a plastic housing. Plastic is lighter but less rigid than metal. Both designs are fanless and quiet during operation. The metal casing on the Gigabit model suggests a more robust build for continuous use. If you place the switch in a busy area or a warm spot, the metal construction offers a slight advantage in longevity and thermal management compared to the plastic alternative.
Physical dimensions
Size matters for tight spaces. The Gigabit switch measures 3.9 inches wide, 3.9 inches long, and 1 inch high. The Fast Ethernet switch is smaller at 2.74 inches wide, 4.07 inches long, and 0.87 inches high. The Fast Ethernet model has a more compact footprint. It takes up less desk space. The Gigabit switch is slightly wider but flatter. Both are small enough to sit discreetly behind a TV or near a router. If you have limited desk space, the smaller Fast Ethernet unit fits more easily. Otherwise, both are unobtrusive.
Mounting options
Placement flexibility differs between the two. The Gigabit switch supports both desktop and wall-mounting. You can secure it to a wall to save surface space. The Fast Ethernet switch is listed as desktop design only. It does not mention wall-mounting capabilities. If you want to hide the switch behind a desk or on a wall, the Gigabit model gives you that option. The Fast Ethernet unit must sit on a flat surface. For users who prefer a clean look with minimal clutter, the ability to mount the switch on a wall is a useful feature.
Power efficiency
Energy use varies by model. The Fast Ethernet switch highlights up to 68% power saving. It automatically adjusts power based on link status and cable length. This feature helps reduce electricity costs over time. The Gigabit switch data does not list specific power-saving percentages. Both are fanless and generate little heat. However, the explicit power management on the Fast Ethernet model is a noted benefit. If you leave the switch on 24/7, the power-saving technology in the Fast Ethernet unit may result in lower energy consumption compared to the Gigabit version.
Which switch fits your needs
Users with gigabit internet or NAS
The TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch supports 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds. This ensures your wired connections do not bottleneck high-speed internet plans or fast local file transfers. The sturdy metal case offers durability. It is the right choice when maximum throughput matters for your daily network tasks.
Budget buyers with slow internet
The TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet Switch caps at 10/100 Mbps. If your internet plan is slower than 100 Mbps, this switch handles your needs perfectly. It is smaller, lighter, and often more affordable. It provides reliable plug-and-play expansion for basic devices like printers or older laptops.
Those wanting compact desktop placement
The TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet Switch measures 2.74 by 4.07 inches. It weighs just 3.53 ounces. This compact size fits easily on any desk. The fanless design keeps it quiet. You get five ports in a footprint that takes up minimal space for simple home office setups.
The products compared
TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch
Best for: expanding wired ports quietly
- Port Count
- 5
- Port Speed
- 10/100/1000 Mbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- Mounting Type
- Desktop or wall-mounting
- Number of Ports
- 5 Ports
- Dimensions
- 3.9 × 3.9 × 1 inches
View on Amazon: TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch Affiliate link
This unmanaged switch gives you five 10/100/1000 Mbps ports for wired connections. The sturdy metal case helps with heat dissipation without a fan. It plugs directly into your router or modem to expand network capacity for devices like laptops or gaming consoles. You get simple setup with no software needed. It fits desktops or walls.
Pros
- Five Gigabit ports support 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds
- Sturdy metal case provides a fanless, quiet design
- Plug-and-play setup requires no configuration or software
- Supports desktop or wall-mounting installation
Cons
- Unmanaged design offers no advanced traffic settings
- Lacks Power over Ethernet (PoE) capability
- No web interface for remote monitoring
Good fit if
- You need extra wired ports for stationary devices
- You want a quiet, fanless connection for your home network
- You prefer a metal build for durability
Skip if
- You require Power over Ethernet for cameras or access points
- You need advanced VLAN or traffic management features
- You want to control the switch via a mobile app
Verdict: TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch is a solid, quiet option for users who simply need more wired ports without setup hassle. It fits homes or offices where metal durability and silent operation matter more than remote management.
TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet Switch
Best for: Basic wired expansion without gigabit needs
- Port Count
- 5
- Port Speed
- 10/100 Mbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- Mounting Type
- Desktop
- Number of Ports
- 5 Ports
- PoE Support
- PoE
View on Amazon: TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet Switch Affiliate link
This is a TP-Link 5-port unmanaged switch with 10/100 Mbps Fast Ethernet ports. It expands your wired network for devices like laptops, gaming consoles, and printers. The unit is fanless, quiet, and desktop-sized. It supports auto-negotiation and IEEE 802.3x flow control for reliable data transfer. It is best for users who do not need gigabit speeds.
Pros
- 5 Fast Ethernet ports for 10/100 Mbps connections
- Plug-and-play setup with no configuration needed
- Fanless design for quiet operation
- Up to 68% power saving based on link status
Cons
- Port speed limited to 100 Mbps, not gigabit
- No PoE support for connected devices
- Unmanaged interface with no remote settings
Good fit if
- You need extra wired ports for basic devices
- You want a quiet, fanless desktop switch
- You do not require gigabit internet speeds
Skip if
- You need gigabit speeds for large file transfers
- You want to power devices via Ethernet cables
- You require remote management or configuration
Verdict: TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet Switch is a simple, quiet expansion for basic wired connections. It fits users who only need 100 Mbps speeds and do not require PoE or advanced settings.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch | TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet Switch |
|---|---|---|
| Port Count | 5 | 5 |
| Port Speed | 10/100/1000 Mbps | 10/100 Mbps |
| Management Type | Unmanaged | Unmanaged |
| Mounting Type | Desktop or wall-mounting | Desktop |
| Number of Ports | 5 Ports | 5 Ports |
| PoE Support | not stated | PoE |
| Dimensions | 3.9 × 3.9 × 1 inches | 4.07 × 2.74 × 0.87 inches |
| Weight | 7.76 ounces | 3.53 ounces |
| Size | 5-Port Gigabit | 5 Port |
| Color | Black | 5 |
| Model | TL-SG105 | TL-SF1005D |
Frequently asked questions
Which TP-Link switch is better for fast internet?
Choose the TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch if you have high-speed internet. It supports 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds. This ensures your wired connections do not bottleneck modern internet plans. The other model caps at 10/100 Mbps. That limit may slow down large file transfers or 4K streaming.
Does the gigabit switch have a metal case?
Yes, the TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch features a metal case. This design offers better durability for homes or offices. The alternative model does not have this metal construction. It is built for basic wired connections where ruggedness is not a priority.
Are both switches unmanaged?
Both devices are unmanaged switches. You do not need to configure settings or log into a dashboard. They are plug-and-play devices. You simply connect cables and they start working. This makes them ideal for users who want simple expansion without setup hassle.
Which switch is smaller and lighter?
The TP-Link 5-Port Fast Ethernet Switch is smaller and lighter. It weighs 3.53 ounces and measures 2.74 by 4.07 inches. The Gigabit model is heavier at 7.76 ounces and larger at 3.9 inches wide. The smaller unit fits easily in tight spaces.
Can I use these switches for NAS file transfers?
Use the Gigabit model for NAS file transfers. It supports 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds. This ensures fast local data movement between devices. The Fast Ethernet switch only reaches 100 Mbps. This may create a bottleneck when moving large media files or backups.
Is there a difference in port count?
No, both switches offer five ports. They provide the same number of wired connections for your devices. The difference lies in speed and build quality. Both models expand your network equally in terms of connection points. Choose based on your speed requirements.