We compared two 5-port gigabit ethernet switches: the unmanaged TP-Link TL-SG105S and the Netgear GS305E.
What we looked at
Port count and speed, management features, mounting, noise and power, warranty, and price.
The verdict
If you just want more wired ports with no setup, a fanless metal switch that is plug-and-play and unmanaged, the TP-Link TL-SG105S is the value pick, at £12.99. If you would rather pay £9 more for Netgear Plus software that offers basic managed capabilities to configure, secure and monitor your network, plus a 3-year limited hardware warranty, the GS305E is the more capable option, at £21.99.
A £12.99 unmanaged plug-and-play switch that is silent and power-saving.
A £21.99 switch with Plus software for basic management and a 3-year hardware warranty.
TP-Link TL-SG105S 5-Port Gigabit Network Switch, Metal Ethernet Splitter | Power-Saving Ethernet Switch, Desktop & Wall-Mounting, Silent Operation, Plug & Play, Home/Office/Surveillance — Best Value
Intended for: Marketed as an unmanaged, plug-and-play 5-port gigabit ethernet switch in a metal casing, with a fanless silent design and power-saving operation, for desktop or wall mounting at home, in the office or for surveillance.
What we liked
- Cheaper than the Netgear GS305E on these listings, at £12.99
- Five gigabit RJ45 ethernet ports
- Unmanaged plug-and-play design with no configuration required
- Fanless, silent operation
- Adjusts power consumption automatically based on link status and cable length
- Limited lifetime warranty and 24-hour live chat support, per the listing
Worth knowing
- Unmanaged, so no configuration or monitoring options
- Warranty terms differ from the Netgear
Best for
- Adding wired ports to a router with no setup
- Home, office and surveillance setups that need a simple switch
- Budget-conscious buyers
Not ideal for
- Anyone who wants to configure or monitor their network
- Buyers who want managed features
NETGEAR 5 Port Gigabit Switch (GS305E) | Managed Network Switch | Ethernet Splitter | Ethernet Hub | Desktop or Wall Mount — Basic Management
Intended for: Marketed as a 5-port gigabit ethernet switch with Plus software that offers basic managed capabilities to configure, secure and monitor a network, for desktop or wall mounting, with silent operation and an energy-efficient design.
What we liked
- Five gigabit ethernet ports
- Plus software with an easy-to-use interface for basic managed capabilities to configure, secure and monitor your network
- Industry-leading 3-year limited hardware warranty, per the listing
- Energy-efficient design compliant with IEEE 802.3az
- Silent operation, for desktop or wall mount placement
Worth knowing
- Costs £9.00 more than the TP-Link TL-SG105S on these listings
- The management features are described as basic
Best for
- Anyone who wants to configure, secure or monitor their network
- Buyers who want a longer stated hardware warranty
- Small offices and home labs
Not ideal for
- Budget-conscious buyers
- Anyone who wants a switch with no setup at all
