6 Best Alternatives to the TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch (2026)
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The TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch offers a durable, fanless design for users needing simple wired expansion. It provides five gigabit ports in a compact, unmanaged package that requires no configuration. You get plug-and-play connectivity for devices like laptops, consoles, or printers. This switch is ideal for basic home office or gaming setups where silent operation and sturdy build quality matter most.
You might look for TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch alternatives if you need different features or form factors. Some users prefer PoE support to power devices like cameras or access points directly through the network ports. Others may want a smaller footprint for tight spaces or a specific brand preference. The alternatives listed here were chosen because their specifications overlap with the original switch. Each option maintains five gigabit ports and unmanaged simplicity, ensuring you can expand your network without complex setup. This list covers various brands and minor spec differences to help you find the right fit for your home or office environment.
How these switches compare to the TP-Link
TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch
The TP-Link TL-SG1005D is a budget-friendly alternative to the TL-SG105. It shares the same five gigabit ports and unmanaged design, so setup remains plug-and-play for your home network. The main difference is the casing. The TL-SG105 uses a sturdy metal case, while this model likely uses plastic. It is also slightly larger in width and height. You trade the metal build for a lower price point. This makes it a good choice if you need silent, reliable expansion but do not require the rugged metal housing of the original switch.
NETGEAR 5-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch
The NETGEAR GS105NA offers a similar five-port gigabit experience in a compact gray housing. Like the TP-Link TL-SG105, it is unmanaged and requires no configuration. The physical dimensions differ slightly, with this model being thinner but slightly wider. It provides the same basic connectivity for your wired devices. You might choose this switch if you prefer the NETGEAR brand or want a different color option for your desk. It delivers the same core functionality without the metal chassis of the original, focusing on simple, silent operation for small spaces.
D-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch
The D-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch is another metal-cased option, closely matching the build quality of the TP-Link TL-SG105. It also features five gigabit ports and an unmanaged design for easy setup. The dimensions are nearly identical, making it a direct physical replacement. You might pick this switch if you prefer D-Link hardware or want to prioritize traffic for gaming. It offers the same durable, fanless performance. The choice between this and the TP-Link model comes down to brand preference, as both provide solid, quiet connectivity for home offices or gaming setups.
TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch
This TP-Link model stands out because it supports Power over Ethernet (PoE). While it shares the five-port gigabit and unmanaged traits of the TL-SG105, it can deliver power to connected devices like cameras or access points. The physical size is larger, with a height of 3.7 inches compared to the original's 1 inch. You should choose this switch if you need to power devices over the network cable. If you only need data connectivity, the standard TL-SG105 is more compact and likely sufficient for your basic wired expansion needs.
Linksys 5-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch
The Linksys SE3005-AMZ provides five gigabit ports in a larger, black chassis. It is unmanaged, ensuring simple plug-and-play setup like the TP-Link TL-SG105. However, it is significantly heavier and larger in width. This switch may include QoS features for traffic prioritization, which can help with streaming. You might choose this if you value Linksys integration or need traffic management for media. The trade-off is the bulkier size. It is less suitable for tight spaces where the compact, lightweight design of the original metal switch would fit better.
Tenda 5-Port Gigabit Desktop Switch
The Tenda SG105 is a lightweight, charcoal-colored switch with five gigabit ports. It is unmanaged and supports desktop or wall mounting, just like the TP-Link TL-SG105. It is much smaller and lighter, weighing only 2.4 ounces. This makes it ideal for users who want minimal footprint and easy installation. You give up the metal build of the original for a lighter plastic design. If you prioritize portability and space-saving in your home network, this switch offers the same core connectivity in a more compact package.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch
Best for: Basic home office or gaming network expansion
- 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
The TP-Link TL-SG105 is a 5-port unmanaged switch designed for straightforward wired networking. It features Gigabit ports supporting 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds and a sturdy metal case for durability. The fanless design ensures quiet operation, while the compact form factor allows for desktop or wall mounting. This device expands your network capacity for devices like laptops and consoles without requiring software configuration.
Pros
- Five Gigabit Ethernet ports for high-speed data transfer
- Sturdy metal case provides durability and heat dissipation
- Fanless design operates silently without moving parts
- Plug-and-play setup requires no configuration or software
Cons
- Unmanaged interface offers no advanced traffic control options
- Limited to five ports, restricting expansion for larger setups
- No built-in Power over Ethernet (PoE) support
Good fit if
- You need a simple, reliable expansion for your home network
- You prefer a durable metal build over plastic alternatives
- You want silent operation for devices in living spaces
Skip if
- You require managed features like VLANs or QoS prioritization
- You need to power devices like cameras or access points via Ethernet
- You have more than five wired devices requiring simultaneous connection
Verdict: TP-Link TL-SG105 5-Port Gigabit Switch is a solid choice for users seeking a durable, silent, and easy-to-install solution for basic wired networking needs.
TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch
Best for: Simple home network expansion
- Port Count
- 5
- Port Speed
- 10/100/1000 Mbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- Mounting Type
- Desktop, Wall-Mount
- Number of Ports
- 5 Ports
- Dimensions
- 1.1 × 6.5 × 4.3 inches
View on Amazon: TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch Affiliate link
The TP-Link TL-SG1005D is a 5-port unmanaged switch with Gigabit speeds up to 1000 Mbps. It features a fanless design for quiet operation and supports both desktop and wall mounting. The unit includes IEEE 802.3x flow control for reliable data transfer and auto-negotiation for easy setup. It is ideal for users needing extra wired connections for devices like laptops or printers without configuration.
Pros
- Five 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit ports
- Fanless design for quiet operation
- Supports desktop or wall mounting
- Plug-and-play with no software needed
- Up to 80% power saving
Cons
- Plastic case rather than metal
- Unmanaged with no remote settings
- Limited lifetime warranty only
Good fit if
- You need extra wired ports
- You want silent operation
- You prefer simple setup
Skip if
- You need managed features
- You require metal build
- You want remote access
Verdict: The TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch fits users who need reliable, silent expansion for home networks without configuration hassle.
NETGEAR 5-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch
Best for: silent, compact home networking
- Port Count
- 5
- Port Speed
- 1.0 Gbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- Mounting Type
- Desktop, Wall-Mount
- Number of Ports
- 5 Ports
- Dimensions
- 4.02 × 1.06 × 3.9 inches
View on Amazon: NETGEAR 5-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch Affiliate link
The NETGEAR GS105NA is a 5-port Gigabit unmanaged switch designed for straightforward home or office networking. It features five 1.0 Gbps ports that auto-negotiate speed for connected devices. The compact metal chassis supports both desktop and wall-mount placement. Its fanless design ensures silent operation, while IEEE 802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet reduces power consumption. You get plug-and-play setup with no software required.
Pros
- Five 1.0 Gbps Ethernet ports for high-speed connectivity
- Compact metal design allows desktop or wall-mount installation
- Fanless construction provides silent operation
- IEEE 802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet reduces power usage
Cons
- Unmanaged configuration offers no advanced network settings
- Limited to 5 ports, restricting expansion for larger setups
- Regional compatibility restricted to U.S. and CA only
Good fit if
- You need a simple, plug-and-play switch for basic networking
- You require silent operation in a living space or office
- You want a compact unit that can be wall-mounted
Skip if
- You need more than 5 Ethernet ports for your devices
- You require managed features like VLANs or traffic prioritization
- You live outside the U.S. or Canada and need global compliance
Verdict: NETGEAR 5-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch is a solid choice for users needing reliable, silent connectivity without configuration complexity. It fits small homes or offices where space is limited and advanced features are unnecessary.
D-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch
Best for: quiet home gaming setups
- Port Count
- 5
- Port Speed
- Gigabit
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- Switching Capacity
- 10 Gbps
- Mounting Type
- Desktop or Wall Mount
- Number of Ports
- 5 Ports
View on Amazon: D-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch Affiliate link
This unmanaged switch offers five Gigabit ports with a 10 Gbps non-blocking switching engine. It features silent fanless metal construction and supports wall or desktop mounting. Smart QoS prioritization helps keep gaming and video traffic smooth. IGMP snooping efficiently handles multicast streams. Energy Efficient Ethernet reduces power use on idle ports. It suits gamers and home offices needing reliable, quiet expansion.
Pros
- 10 Gbps non-blocking switching capacity
- Silent fanless metal chassis
- Smart QoS for traffic prioritization
- IGMP snooping for multicast efficiency
- Wall or desktop mounting options
Cons
- Unmanaged interface limits advanced configuration
- No web or app management
- External power adapter required
Good fit if
- You need quiet operation in living spaces
- You want QoS for gaming stability
- You require wall-mount flexibility
Skip if
- You need remote management access
- You require PoE port support
- You prefer a compact USB-powered design
Verdict: D-Link 5-Port Gigabit Switch delivers reliable performance for gamers who value quiet operation and traffic prioritization over remote management features.
TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch
Best for: Simple wired network expansion
- Port Count
- 5
- Port Speed
- 10/100/1000Mbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- Mounting Type
- Desktop/wall-mounting
- Number of Ports
- 5 Ports
- PoE Support
- PoE
View on Amazon: TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch Affiliate link
This 5-port unmanaged switch offers Gigabit speeds for reliable local networking. It features a durable metal case and fanless design for quiet operation. You get plug-and-play setup with no configuration needed. The unit supports Port-based QoS and IGMP Snooping to prioritize traffic. It is suitable for desktop or wall mounting in various environments.
Pros
- 5 Gigabit RJ45 ports with auto negotiation
- Durable metal casing for desktop or wall mounting
- Fanless design ensures quiet operation
- Port-based 802.1p/DSCP QoS for traffic prioritization
- IGMP Snooping support for efficient data transmission
Cons
- Unmanaged interface limits advanced configuration options
- No PoE support for connected devices
- Lacks web management capabilities
Good fit if
- You need a simple, reliable connection for multiple wired devices
- You prefer a quiet, fanless operation for home or office use
- You want a durable metal build for desktop or wall mounting
Skip if
- You require Power over Ethernet (PoE) for cameras or phones
- You need advanced management features or web interface control
- You are looking for a switch with more than 5 ports
Verdict: TP-Link TL-SG105 5-Port Gigabit Switch is a solid choice for users who need a quiet, durable, and simple wired network expansion without the need for complex management.
Linksys 5-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch
Best for: Streaming and simple home network expansion
- Port Count
- 5
- Port Speed
- 10/100/1000 Mbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- Number of Ports
- 5 Ports
- Dimensions
- 2.36 × 7.4 × 2.36 inches
- Weight
- 15.8 ounces
View on Amazon: Linksys 5-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch Affiliate link
The Linksys SE3005 is a 5-port unmanaged switch with gigabit speeds up to 1000 Mbps. It features auto-sensing ports and IEEE 802.1p QoS to prioritize video and audio traffic. The device includes power saving modes and non-blocking architecture. It suits users who need reliable, plug-and-play connectivity for home networks without complex configuration.
Pros
- Five gigabit ports supporting 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds
- IEEE 802.1p QoS prioritizes video and audio streams
- Auto-sensing ports with auto MDI/MDI-X detection
- Advanced power saving mode for unused ports
Cons
- Unmanaged design offers no remote monitoring or configuration
- No web interface or app for traffic management
- Larger footprint at 7.4 inches wide compared to competitors
Good fit if
- You need simple plug-and-play gigabit expansion
- You want QoS to prioritize streaming traffic
- You prefer a reliable unmanaged switch
Skip if
- You require remote management capabilities
- You need to monitor network traffic
- You want a compact desktop form factor
Verdict: Linksys SE3005 5-Port Gigabit Switch provides solid gigabit performance with QoS for streaming. It fits users who value straightforward connectivity and traffic prioritization without management complexity.
Tenda 5-Port Gigabit Desktop Switch
Best for: simple home network wired expansion
- Port Count
- 5
- Port Speed
- 10/100/1000Mbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- Mounting Type
- Desktop, Wall-Mount
- Number of Ports
- 5 Ports
- Recommended Use
- Office
View on Amazon: Tenda 5-Port Gigabit Desktop Switch Affiliate link
The Tenda SG105 is an unmanaged 5-port Gigabit switch designed for home and office use. It features 10/100/1000Mbps auto-negotiating ports for wire-speed forwarding. The unit supports both desktop and wall mounting. It is plug and play, requiring no configuration or software. Its compact charcoal design fits easily into tight spaces while expanding your wired network connectivity.
Pros
- 5 Gigabit Ethernet ports with 10/100/1000Mbps speeds
- Supports desktop and wall mounting
- Plug and play with no setup required
- Compact dimensions for minimal space usage
Cons
- Unmanaged interface limits advanced network settings
- No fan means passive cooling only
- Does not include a power adapter in the box
Good fit if
- You need simple wired expansion for a router or modem
- You want a switch that mounts to a wall or sits on a desk
- You prefer a device that works without software configuration
Skip if
- You require managed features like VLANs or QoS
- You need more than five wired connections
- You want a switch with active cooling for high heat
Verdict: Tenda SG105 5-Port Gigabit Switch is a solid choice for users who need reliable, plug-and-play wired expansion for their home network without the complexity of management software.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch | TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch | NETGEAR 5-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch | D-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch | TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch | Linksys 5-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch | Tenda 5-Port Gigabit Desktop Switch |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Port Count | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Port Speed | 10/100/1000 Mbps | 10/100/1000 Mbps | 1.0 Gbps | Gigabit | 10/100/1000Mbps | 10/100/1000 Mbps | 10/100/1000Mbps |
| Management Type | Unmanaged | Unmanaged | Unmanaged | Unmanaged | Unmanaged | Unmanaged | Unmanaged |
| Switching Capacity | not stated | not stated | not stated | 10 Gbps | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Mounting Type | Desktop or wall-mounting | Desktop, Wall-Mount | Desktop, Wall-Mount | Desktop or Wall Mount | Desktop/wall-mounting | not stated | Desktop, Wall-Mount |
| Number of Ports | 5 Ports | 5 Ports | 5 Ports | 5 Ports | 5 Ports | 5 Ports | 5 Ports |
| PoE Support | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | PoE | not stated | not stated |
| Use Case | not stated | not stated | not stated | Gaming | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Recommended Use | not stated | not stated | not stated | Office | not stated | not stated | Office |
| Intended Use | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Home |
| Dimensions | 3.9 × 3.9 × 1 inches | 1.1 × 6.5 × 4.3 inches | 4.02 × 1.06 × 3.9 inches | 3.94 × 3.86 × 1.1 inches | 4.2 × 4.2 × 3.7 inches | 2.36 × 7.4 × 2.36 inches | 2.6 × 0.9 × 3.66 inches |
| Weight | 7.76 ounces | 4.23 ounces | 7.05 ounces | 9.6 ounces | 7.76 ounces | 15.8 ounces | 2.4 ounces |
| Size | 5-Port Gigabit | 5 Port Gigabit | 5-Port Gigabit, Desktop/Wall Mount (GS105NA) | 5-Port Switch | 5 Port, 1 Gigabit | not stated | 5-Port |
| Color | Black | Black | Blue | Black | Navy Blue | black | Charcoal |
| Model | TL-SG105 | TL-SG1005D | GS105NA | 124889 | TL-SG105 | SE3005-AMZ | SG105 |
Frequently asked questions
Is the TP-Link TL-SG105 fanless and silent?
Yes, the TP-Link TL-SG105 is designed for silent operation. It uses a fanless, metal chassis that dissipates heat passively. This makes it ideal for quiet home offices or gaming setups where noise matters. You get reliable connectivity without the hum of a cooling fan.
Can I mount these 5-port switches on a wall?
Several models support wall mounting for tidy cable management. The TP-Link TL-SG1005D, NETGEAR GS105NA, and Tenda SG105 all allow desktop or wall installation. Check the mounting type in the specs. This flexibility helps you hide the switch behind a desk or in a closet.
Do any of these switches support PoE for cameras?
Only the TP-Link model with badge Best poE supports Power over Ethernet. It delivers power to connected devices like IP cameras or access points over standard Ethernet cables. Other listed switches, including the D-Link and Linksys models, do not include PoE capabilities in their specifications.
Which switch is best for gaming traffic prioritization?
The D-Link 5-Port Gigabit Metal Switch is recommended for gaming. It focuses on quiet operation and traffic handling for gamers. While unmanaged, it is positioned for users who value stable connections for gaming consoles and PCs without the need for complex network configuration or management software.
Are all these switches unmanaged and plug-and-play?
Yes, all listed switches are unmanaged. They require no configuration or software installation. You simply plug them in and connect your devices. This design ensures immediate connectivity for laptops, printers, and consoles. You get reliable gigabit speeds without dealing with VLANs or port settings.
Which switch is the most compact for small spaces?
The Tenda SG105 is notably compact and lightweight. It measures 2.6 inches in length and weighs only 2.4 ounces. The NETGEAR GS105NA is also slim, measuring 1.06 inches in height. These small footprints fit easily into tight spaces behind TVs or under desks without taking up much room.
Does the Linksys SE3005 offer QoS for streaming?
The Linksys SE3005 includes Quality of Service features. This helps prioritize traffic for streaming and video calls over other data types. It fits users who want straightforward connectivity with better performance for media. You get solid gigabit performance without the complexity of advanced management interfaces.
What is the difference between the TL-SG105 and TL-SG1005D?
The main difference is the build material and size. The TL-SG105 features a durable metal casing, while the TL-SG1005D uses a plastic housing. Both offer five gigabit ports and unmanaged plug-and-play setup. The metal model is heavier, whereas the plastic version is lighter and more budget-friendly.