Linksys LGS105
Score: 80/100
Netgear 5-Port Managed Switch
Score: 76/100Rankings
The Linksys LGS105 is a compact 5-port unmanaged Gigabit switch with metal fanless construction, energy-efficient Ethernet and a long 5-year warranty, delivering reliable line-rate performance. Its lack of managed features such as VLANs and PoE, plus occasional hardware-revision quirks, limit its suitability for more advanced networking needs. Ideal for home theater or small-office desk expansions where simplicity and low power draw are priorities.
The Netgear GS305E is a compact, fanless 5-port Gigabit switch offering solid performance and energy-efficient operation. Its main drawback is the lack of any managed features like VLAN or QoS. Ideal for home users and small offices needing simple, silent port expansion.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
10 Gbpsbest | 10 Gbpsbest | |
1.488 Mpps | 7.4 Mppsbest | |
5best | 5best | |
1 Gbpsbest | 1 Gbpsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 2.22 Wbest | 12 W |
| ↓ lower better | 0.245 kgbest | 0.249 kg |
5 yearsbest | 3 years |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(1) | ||
Forwarding Rate (Mpps) | 1.488 Mpps | 7.4 Mpps |
Power(1) | ||
Maximum Power Consumption (W) | 2.22 W | 12 W |
Design(3) | ||
Mounting Options | Wall mount | Desktop, Wall, Rack |
Weight (kg) | 0.245 kg | 0.249 kg |
Dimensions (HxWxD) (mm) | 4.72 x 0.98 x 2.95 inches mm | 28x99x94 mm |
General(2) | ||
Operating Temperature (°C) | 0 to 40 °C | 0-40 °C |
Warranty (years) | 5 years | 3 years |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the LGS105 for its line-rate, non-blocking 10 Gbps throughput, low idle power draw, silent fanless design, and robust metal construction.
Home and small-office users praise the switch for its plug-and-play simplicity, reliable wired performance for media and VOIP devices, while recurring complaints focus on confusion with routers, occasional LED anomalies, and version-specific power or mounting differences.
“Works with Cat6 cables for internet access”
“Confusion mistaking it for a router (it's a switch/splitter)”
“added 4 more Ethernet ports... all fast connections”
Professional reviewers and editors commend the GS105 for its solid metal construction, fanless silent operation, and excellent cost-to-quality ratio, positioning it as a reliable entry-level switch for basic network expansion. While its performance meets Gigabit expectations, the lack of any management features is noted as a drawback for more advanced deployments.
Everyday users overwhelmingly appreciate the GS105's plug-and-play ease, fast Gigabit speeds, and compact, sturdy design. Common praise centers on quick setup, reliable connectivity for gaming and streaming, and the solid feel of the metal case, while recurring complaints involve bright LEDs, occasional warmth, and the absence of advanced management options.
