Looking Beyond the WAVLINK 28-Port Full Gigabit Switch? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The WAVLINK 28-Port Gigabit PoE Switch delivers 250W of PoE+ power across 24 ports, plus two SFP and two Gigabit uplinks. This high-density setup suits users who need to power many devices like IP cameras and access points without complex management. However, you might seek wavlink 28 port full gigabit alternatives if your needs differ. Perhaps you require a smaller footprint, silent fanless operation, or a different port count. Some environments prioritize specific uplink types or basic non-PoE connectivity over high power budgets.
We selected these alternatives because their specifications overlap with the original. Each option shares core traits like Gigabit speeds and unmanaged simplicity, ensuring they fit similar network roles. You will find choices ranging from 5-port compact units to 48-port high-capacity racks. This list helps you compare port counts, PoE budgets, and uplink options directly. By focusing on these published specs, you can identify the right switch for your specific deployment size and device requirements.
How each alternative compares
TP-Link 24-Port Fanless Gigabit Switch
The TP-Link 24-Port Fanless Gigabit Switch drops PoE entirely, focusing only on data connectivity. It offers 24 Gigabit ports without the 250W power budget or SFP uplinks found on the WAVLINK unit. This makes it lighter and quieter, weighing just 3.44 pounds. You should choose this if you only need to connect computers or storage devices and want to avoid the complexity of power delivery. It lacks VLAN support and fiber options, so it is best for simple, non-PoE network expansions where silence and low cost matter more than versatility.
YuanLey 16-Port PoE+ Switch with 2 Uplinks
The YuanLey 16-Port PoE+ Switch provides 250W of PoE power across 16 ports, matching the WAVLINK budget but with fewer connections. It includes two Gigabit uplinks but lacks the SFP fiber ports available on the WAVLINK model. This unit supports VLAN mode for port isolation, a feature the unmanaged WAVLINK switch does not explicitly list. It is a solid choice for moderate deployments needing traffic segmentation without full management. You would pick this if you prioritize VLAN security over the higher port count and fiber connectivity of the WAVLINK switch.
NICGIGA 48-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch with 2 SFP
The NICGIGA 48-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch nearly doubles the port density of the WAVLINK model, offering 48 PoE+ ports and two SFP uplinks. It supports a 400W PoE budget, significantly higher than the WAVLINK’s 250W. This makes it suitable for large installations requiring extensive power and connectivity. However, it lacks the specific VLAN and LAG features listed for the WAVLINK unit. You should consider this if you need maximum raw capacity and higher power output, accepting the trade-off of fewer advanced management features compared to the WAVLINK switch.
MokerLink 5-Port 10G Unmanaged Switch
The MokerLink 5-Port 10G Unmanaged Switch focuses on speed rather than density. It offers five ports with speeds up to 10Gbps, far exceeding the Gigabit speeds of the WAVLINK switch. It does not support PoE, so it cannot power cameras or access points directly. This unit is ideal for small setups requiring high-throughput links to servers or NAS devices. You would choose this if you need fast data transfer for a few critical devices and do not require the high port count or power delivery of the WAVLINK 28-Port switch.
D-Link 16-Port Fanless Gigabit Switch
The D-Link 16-Port Fanless Gigabit Switch provides 16 Gigabit ports without PoE support. It is fanless, ensuring silent operation, unlike the WAVLINK unit which uses a cooling fan. It lacks SFP uplinks and PoE power, making it less versatile for powering devices. However, it is designed for basic traffic management in small offices. You should pick this if you need a quiet, reliable switch for standard network devices and do not require PoE or fiber connectivity. It is a simpler, quieter alternative for users who prioritize build quality over high port density.
TP-Link 8-Port Gigabit Switch with 4 PoE+ Ports
The TP-Link 8-Port Gigabit Switch with 4 PoE+ Ports is a compact option with only four PoE ports, compared to the WAVLINK’s 24. It lacks SFP uplinks and has a much lower total power budget. This unit is designed for small offices needing basic PoE for a few devices. It is desktop-only and smaller in size. You would choose this if you have a small number of powered devices and need a simple, quiet solution. It is not suitable for large deployments requiring high port density or extensive power capacity like the WAVLINK switch.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
WAVLINK 28-Port Gigabit PoE Switch
Best for: High-density PoE deployments
- Port Count
- 28
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- PoE Support
- PoE+ (802.3af/at)
- PoE Power Budget
- 250W
- Uplink Ports
- 2 x SFP, 2 x Gigabit Ethernet
- Mounting Type
- Desktop, Rackmount
View on Amazon: WAVLINK 28-Port Gigabit PoE Switch Affiliate link
This unmanaged switch offers 28 full Gigabit ports, including 24 PoE+ ports with a 250W power budget. It features two SFP and two Gigabit uplinks for flexible connectivity. The metal chassis supports desktop or rack mounting. You get plug-and-play operation with VLAN, LAG, and PD-Alive modes. It suits offices or surveillance setups needing many powered devices.
Pros
- 24 PoE+ ports with 30W per port
- 250W total PoE power budget
- 2 SFP and 2 Gigabit uplink ports
- Supports VLAN, LAG, and PD-Alive modes
- Metal casing with fan for cooling
Cons
- Unmanaged interface limits advanced configuration
- Built-in fan may produce noise
- No web or app management access
Good fit if
- You need to power many cameras or access points
- You want fiber uplink options via SFP ports
- You prefer simple plug-and-play installation
Skip if
- You require remote management capabilities
- You need silent operation without a fan
- You only have a few devices to connect
Verdict: WAVLINK 28-Port Gigabit PoE Switch is a high-capacity solution for users deploying numerous powered devices. It fits environments where many connections and simple setup are priorities over advanced network control.
TP-Link 24-Port Fanless Gigabit Switch
Best for: Basic 24-port Gigabit expansion without PoE
- Port Count
- 24
- Port Speed
- 10/100/1000 Mbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- Mounting Type
- Desktop, Rackmount
- Number of Ports
- 24 Ports
- PoE Support
- PoE
View on Amazon: TP-Link 24-Port Fanless Gigabit Switch Affiliate link
This unmanaged switch gives you 24 Gigabit ports for straightforward network expansion. It uses a sturdy metal case for heat dissipation and EMI protection. The fanless design ensures quiet operation, making it suitable for offices or homes. It supports both desktop placement and standard 1U rackmounting. You get plug-and-play setup with no software needed. It is a reliable choice for basic Gigabit connectivity without PoE requirements.
Pros
- 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports for high-density connections
- Fanless design for silent, reliable operation
- Sturdy metal casing for durability and heat management
- Supports desktop and standard 1U rackmount installation
Cons
- No Power over Ethernet (PoE) support
- Unmanaged interface with no configuration options
- Limited to 1 Gigabit speeds, no 2.5G or 10G uplinks
Good fit if
- You need a simple, high-port-count switch for non-PoE devices
- You require a quiet, fanless unit for office or home use
- You want a durable metal switch that fits in a standard rack
Skip if
- You need to power devices like cameras or access points via PoE
- You want to manage VLANs or traffic prioritization
- You require multi-gigabit speeds for future-proofing
Verdict: TP-Link 24-Port Unmanaged Gigabit Switch fits users who need bulk connectivity without the complexity or cost of PoE. It is ideal for connecting computers and storage in a standard rack or on a desk.
YuanLey 16-Port PoE+ Switch with 2 Uplinks
Best for: moderate PoE deployments needing VLAN support
- Port Count
- 18
- Port Speed
- 1000Mbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- PoE Support
- IEEE802.3af/at
- PoE Power Budget
- 250W
- Uplink Ports
- 2 Gigabit UpLink
View on Amazon: YuanLey 16-Port PoE+ Switch with 2 Uplinks Affiliate link
This YuanLey unit offers 16 Gigabit PoE+ ports and two Gigabit uplinks. It provides a 250W power budget, delivering up to 30W per port. The metal chassis includes an industrial fan for cooling. You get VLAN isolation to reduce network congestion. It supports plug-and-play setup with no configuration required. This switch suits security monitoring and office networks where stable power and speed are priorities.
Pros
- 16 Gigabit PoE+ ports with 1000Mbps speed
- 250W total power budget, 30W per port
- VLAN isolation for traffic management
- Metal build with industrial fan cooling
Cons
- Unmanaged interface limits advanced configuration options
- Only 16 PoE ports compared to 24-port alternatives
- Heavier and bulkier than compact desktop switches
Good fit if
- You need 16 PoE ports for cameras or APs
- You want VLAN isolation to reduce congestion
- You prefer a metal chassis with active cooling
Skip if
- You require web management for remote control
- You need more than 16 PoE ports
- You want a fanless design for quiet operation
Verdict: YuanLey 16-Port Gigabit PoE Switch fits users who need a robust, fan-cooled metal unit with VLAN support for moderate-sized PoE deployments.
NICGIGA 48-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch with 2 SFP
Best for: High-density PoE deployments
- Port Count
- 50
- Port Speed
- 10/100/1000 Mbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- PoE Support
- PoE+ (IEEE 802.3af/at)
- PoE Power Budget
- 400W
- Uplink Ports
- 2 x 1G SFP
View on Amazon: NICGIGA 48-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch with 2 SFP Affiliate link
This NICGIGA unit offers 48 PoE+ ports and 2 SFP uplinks in a single chassis. With a 400W power budget, it supports high-density deployments of cameras and access points. The unmanaged design allows for plug-and-play operation without configuration. Its metal shell and industrial fan provide stability for rack or desktop mounting. You get a robust solution for large-scale network infrastructure needs.
Pros
- 48 PoE+ ports with 30W per port support
- 400W total PoE power budget
- 2 Gigabit SFP uplink ports
- 4KV lightning protection design
- Supports both desktop and rack mounting
Cons
- Unmanaged configuration limits network control
- Heavy 9.81-pound build requires sturdy support
- Does not support passive PoE
Good fit if
- You need to power many devices from one unit
- You prefer simple plug-and-play setup
- You require rack mounting options
Skip if
- You need smart management features
- You require passive PoE support
- You have limited space for a large unit
Verdict: NICGIGA 50-Port Unmanaged PoE+ Switch fits large installations needing high port density and simple operation. It suits users who prioritize raw capacity over configuration flexibility.
MokerLink 5-Port 10G Unmanaged Switch
Best for: Small setups requiring high-speed 10G connectivity
- Port Count
- 5
- Port Speed
- 10 Gbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- Switching Capacity
- 160Gbps
- Mounting Type
- Desktop, Wall, Rackmount
- Number of Ports
- 5 Ports
View on Amazon: MokerLink 5-Port 10G Unmanaged Switch Affiliate link
This MokerLink switch offers five 10Gbps ports that auto-adapt to 10G, 5G, 2.5G, or 1G speeds. It provides 160Gbps of switching capacity for non-blocking line-speed forwarding. The unmanaged design requires no configuration, making it plug and play. The metal chassis supports desktop, wall, or rack mounting. It suits users needing high-speed connectivity for a small number of devices without complex setup.
Pros
- Five ports support 10G, 5G, 2.5G, and 1G speeds
- 160Gbps switching capacity ensures non-blocking performance
- Auto-negotiation and auto-flip features simplify connections
- Metal case allows desktop, wall, or rack mounting
Cons
- Only five ports limit expansion for larger setups
- Unmanaged interface lacks remote monitoring or configuration options
- No mention of PoE support for powered devices
Good fit if
- You need high-speed uplinks for a few key devices
- You prefer a simple plug-and-play unmanaged switch
- You require flexible mounting options for small spaces
Skip if
- You need to power multiple devices via PoE
- You require more than five high-speed ports
- You need managed features for network monitoring
Verdict: MokerLink 5-Port 10G Unmanaged Switch fits users who need fast, simple connectivity for a small cluster of devices. It delivers high throughput without the complexity of management software.
D-Link 16-Port Fanless Gigabit Switch
Best for: Silent office networks needing port isolation
- Port Count
- 16
- Port Speed
- Gigabit
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- Mounting Type
- Desktop, Rackmount, Wall-Mount
- Number of Ports
- 16 Ports
- Dimensions
- 11 × 4.95 × 1.73 inches
View on Amazon: D-Link 16-Port Fanless Gigabit Switch Affiliate link
This D-Link switch provides 16 Gigabit Ethernet ports for high-speed connectivity. It features a fanless metal design for silent operation and includes QoS, port isolation, and storm control for better network management. The unit supports desktop, rack, or wall mounting. It is an unmanaged plug-and-play device, making it suitable for users who want reliable performance without configuration.
Pros
- 16 Gigabit Ethernet ports for fast data transfer
- Fanless metal chassis for silent, heat-efficient operation
- Includes QoS, port isolation, and storm control features
- Supports desktop, rack, and wall mounting options
- Energy-efficient with auto-port shutdown for unused links
Cons
- Only 16 ports, fewer than the 28-port WAVLINK alternative
- Unmanaged interface requires no configuration but offers no remote control
- No PoE support for powering connected devices
Good fit if
- You need a silent, fanless switch for a quiet office
- You want port isolation and storm control for network security
- You prefer a sturdy metal build over plastic casings
Skip if
- You require Power over Ethernet (PoE) for cameras or phones
- You need more than 16 wired connections
- You want to manage the switch remotely via an app
Verdict: D-Link 16-Port Gigabit Unmanaged Switch fits small offices needing silent operation and basic traffic management without the complexity of a managed switch. It is a solid choice for users who prioritize build quality and security features over port count or PoE capabilities.
TP-Link 8-Port Gigabit Switch with 4 PoE+ Ports
Best for: Small offices with few PoE devices
- Port Count
- 8
- Port Speed
- 10/100/1000 Mbps
- Management Type
- Unmanaged
- PoE Support
- PoE+ (802.3at/af)
- PoE Power Budget
- 64 W
- Mounting Type
- Desktop, Wall-Mount
View on Amazon: TP-Link 8-Port Gigabit Switch with 4 PoE+ Ports Affiliate link
This TP-Link switch offers eight Gigabit ports with four supporting PoE+ power delivery. It provides a 64W total budget, allowing you to connect and power devices like access points or cameras without extra outlets. The unmanaged design requires no configuration, and the metal case supports desktop or wall mounting. It is a compact solution for small networks needing basic PoE capabilities.
Pros
- Four PoE+ ports deliver up to 30W per port
- 64W total power budget for connected devices
- Fanless design ensures quiet operation
- Sturdy metal casing supports wall or desktop mounting
- Includes QoS and IGMP Snooping for traffic management
Cons
- Only four of the eight ports support PoE
- Limited 64W power budget restricts high-power devices
- Unmanaged interface lacks remote monitoring features
Good fit if
- You need a compact switch for a small office
- You want to power a few PoE devices without complexity
- You prefer a fanless device for quiet environments
Skip if
- You require all ports to provide PoE power
- You need to connect more than eight devices
- You require high-power budget for multiple cameras
Verdict: TP-Link 8-Port Gigabit PoE Switch fits small setups needing basic PoE for a few devices. It is ideal for users who value quiet operation and simple installation over high power capacity.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | WAVLINK 28-Port Gigabit PoE Switch | TP-Link 24-Port Fanless Gigabit Switch | YuanLey 16-Port PoE+ Switch with 2 Uplinks | NICGIGA 48-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch with 2 SFP | MokerLink 5-Port 10G Unmanaged Switch | D-Link 16-Port Fanless Gigabit Switch | TP-Link 8-Port Gigabit Switch with 4 PoE+ Ports |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Port Count | 28 | 24 | 18 | 50 | 5 | 16 | 8 |
| Port Speed | not stated | 10/100/1000 Mbps | 1000Mbps | 10/100/1000 Mbps | 10 Gbps | Gigabit | 10/100/1000 Mbps |
| Management Type | Unmanaged | Unmanaged | Unmanaged | Unmanaged | Unmanaged | Unmanaged | Unmanaged |
| PoE Support | PoE+ (802.3af/at) | not stated | IEEE802.3af/at | PoE+ (IEEE 802.3af/at) | not stated | not stated | PoE+ (802.3at/af) |
| PoE Power Budget | 250W | not stated | 250W | 400W | not stated | not stated | 64 W |
| Uplink Ports | 2 x SFP, 2 x Gigabit Ethernet | not stated | 2 Gigabit UpLink | 2 x 1G SFP | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Switching Capacity | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 160Gbps | not stated | not stated |
| Mounting Type | Desktop, Rackmount | Desktop, Rackmount | Desktop/Rackmount | Desktop, Rackmount | Desktop, Wall, Rackmount | Desktop, Rackmount, Wall-Mount | Desktop, Wall-Mount |
| Number of Ports | not stated | 24 Ports | 16 Ports | 48 Ports | 5 Ports | 16 Ports | 8 Ports |
| Uplink Port Type | not stated | not stated | Gigabit Uplink | SFP | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Dimensions | not stated | 11.6 × 7.09 × 1.73 inches | 10.6 × 7.1 × 1.7 inches | not stated | not stated | 11 × 4.95 × 1.73 inches | 3.9 × 6.7 × 1.1 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 3.44 pounds | 4.43 pounds | 9.81 pounds | 3.31 pounds | 2.4 pounds | 2.7 pounds |
| Size | 28 Port | 24 Port, 1 Gigabit | 18 Port | 16*PoE+(1000Mbps) (250w) | not stated | not stated | 16-Port Gigabit | 8 Port w/ 4-Port PoE+ |
| Color | PoE | Black | Blue | Black | not stated | Red | Black |
| Model | NW2422GP | TL-SG1024S | 18 Port | 16*PoE+ (1000Mbps) (250w) | 50 Port | 48xPoE+ 400W+2xSFP | 5x10G | DGS-1016D/B | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
Which switch offers the highest port density for large installations?
The NICGIGA 48-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch provides the highest capacity with 48 PoE+ ports and two SFP uplinks. This unmanaged unit is designed for high-density deployments where raw connectivity matters more than advanced configuration. It supports a 400W power budget, making it suitable for powering numerous devices in a single rack.
Is there a silent option for office environments?
Yes, the D-Link 16-Port Fanless Gigabit Switch operates without a fan, ensuring silent performance. This model is ideal for small offices where noise is a concern. It provides 16 Gigabit ports in a compact, fanless design, prioritizing quiet operation and basic traffic management over high port counts or PoE capabilities.
Can I find a switch with 10G uplinks for faster data transfer?
The MokerLink 5-Port 10G Unmanaged Switch supports speeds up to 10Gbps. It is designed for small setups requiring high-speed connectivity between devices. This unmanaged unit delivers fast throughput without complex management software, making it a practical choice for users who need rapid data transfer for a limited cluster of devices.
Which alternative supports VLANs for network segmentation?
The YuanLey 16-Port PoE+ Switch includes VLAN support for moderate-sized deployments. This fan-cooled metal unit offers 16 PoE+ ports and two Gigabit uplinks. It is suitable for users who need basic network segmentation capabilities alongside robust power delivery, fitting environments that require structured traffic management without full managed switch complexity.
What is the best choice for expanding connectivity without PoE?
The TP-Link 24-Port Fanless Gigabit Switch is ideal for bulk data connectivity without power delivery. It offers 24 Gigabit ports in a fanless, silent design. This unit fits users who need to connect computers and storage devices without the added weight or complexity of PoE components, making it suitable for standard rack or desk setups.
Is there a compact option for small offices with PoE needs?
The TP-Link 8-Port Gigabit Switch with 4 PoE+ Ports is designed for small setups. It provides four PoE+ ports for devices like access points or cameras. This unmanaged unit is quiet and simple to install, prioritizing ease of use and basic power delivery over high port counts or extensive power budgets.