Netgear 5-Port Managed Switch
Score: 76/100
TP-Link TL-SG105S-M2
Score: 72/100Rankings
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.
The TP-Link TL-SG105S-M2 is a compact 5-port unmanaged 2.5 GbE switch offering 25 Gbps total capacity, fanless silent operation and QoS/IGMP features. Its unmanaged nature, lack of PoE and reliance on an external power adapter limit its suitability for more advanced or power-hungry deployments. It is ideal for home users, gamers or small offices needing multi-gigabit connectivity without new cabling.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
10 Gbps | 25 Gbpsbest | |
7.4 Mpps | 18.6 Mppsbest | |
5best | 5best | |
1 Gbps | 2.5 Gbpsbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 12 W | 5.81 Wbest |
| ↓ lower better | 0.249 kgbest | 0.472 kg |
3 yearsbest | 3 yearsbest |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Performance(2) | ||
Switching Capacity (Gbps) | 10 Gbps | 25 Gbps |
Forwarding Rate (Mpps) | 7.4 Mpps | 18.6 Mpps |
Ports(1) | ||
Port Speed (Gbps) | 1 Gbps | 2.5 Gbps |
Power(1) | ||
Maximum Power Consumption (W) | 12 W | 5.81 W |
Design(3) | ||
Mounting Options | Desktop, Wall, Rack | Desktop, Wall-mount |
Weight (kg) | 0.249 kg | 0.472 kg |
Dimensions (HxWxD) (mm) | 28x99x94 mm | 101x126x138 mm mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
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.
“added 4 more Ethernet ports... all fast connections”
“900+ down... grandson loves new speed”
“much smaller than expected, solid feel”
Choose TP-Link if cost and size are primary concerns; choose Netgear for a sturdier metal build and silent operation.
Professional reviewers, notably ServeTheHome, commend the TL-SG105S-M2 for its sturdy metal enclosure, silent fanless design, and native 2.5 GbE ports that provide true multi-gigabit throughput without requiring new cabling. The switch's 25 Gbps fabric and QoS features are highlighted as delivering reliable performance for home and small-office environments, though its unmanaged nature and lack of PoE are noted as limitations for more advanced deployments.
The research did not uncover any direct consumer reviews or forum discussions, indicating that user feedback is scarce in the available sources. Consequently, no specific praise or criticism from everyday users can be reported.
