For most security-camera systems, I’d start with the TP-Link TL-SG1428PE: its 24 PoE+ ports suit larger installations, while smart management offers more control than a basic plug-and-play switch. The REOLINK RLA-PS1 is a simpler match for an eight-camera setup, and the NETGEAR GS308EP adds smart management in a smaller eight-port format. The main tradeoffs are camera capacity, total PoE power, management features, and uplink speed—a high port count alone does not guarantee enough power for every camera. I compare all 15 options below so you can match the switch to your camera count, network, and room to grow.
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Key Takeaways
- Port count separates the main choices: The TL-SG1428PE and TL-SG1218MP suit larger camera groups, while five-port models are better for compact systems with limited expansion needs.
- Eight PoE ports do not mean eight identical installations: Compare the total PoE power budget with the combined draw of your cameras, especially if models include heaters, lights, or other power-hungry features.
- Management is a meaningful dividing line: Smart or managed models such as the NETGEAR GS308EP and STEAMEMO switches offer more network control than unmanaged options, but add setup decisions.
- Gigabit connections matter beyond the camera ports: Uplink capacity affects how camera traffic reaches the router or recorder; the REOLINK RLA-PS1’s two Gigabit uplinks give its eight-camera design a clear connection advantage over a Fast Ethernet model.
- The best fit depends on installation scale, not just brand: A compact TP-Link or NETGEAR switch can be enough for a small system, while larger TP-Link and STEAMEMO models make more sense when camera count or expansion plans justify their footprint.
| STEAMEMO 16-Port Managed PoE+ Ethernet Switch with 2 Gigabit Uplinks and 1 SFP Port |  | Best for Expanding Managed Camera Systems | PoE ports: 16 | PoE standard: IEEE 802.3at | Maximum power per PoE port: 30W | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UGREEN 10-Port Gigabit PoE+ Ethernet Switch |  | Best for Long Camera Cable Runs | Total ports: 10 | PoE+ ports: 8; IEEE 802.3at/af | Maximum power per PoE port: 30W | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TP-Link TL-SG1428PE 24-Port Gigabit Easy Smart PoE+ Switch |  | Best for Large Camera Installations | PoE+ ports: 24 Gigabit RJ45 | Additional ports: 2 Gigabit non-PoE and 2 SFP | PoE standard: IEEE 802.3at/af | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| REOLINK RLA-PS1 10-Port PoE Switch with 8 PoE Ports and 2 Gigabit Uplink Ports |  | Best for Straightforward Reolink Camera Setups | Total ports: 10 | PoE ports: 8; 10/100/1000 Mbps | Uplink ports: 2 Gigabit Ethernet | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| STEAMEMO 8-Port Gigabit Managed PoE+ Switch with 2 Uplink Ports |  | Best Compact Managed Pick | Ports: 8 PoE ports and 2 Gigabit uplinks | PoE standard: IEEE 802.3af/at | Maximum power per PoE port: 30W | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TP-Link LS108GP 8-Port Gigabit PoE+ Ethernet Switch |  | Best for Long Camera Runs | Ports: 8 Gigabit RJ45 PoE+ ports | PoE standards: IEEE 802.3at/af | Maximum PoE per port: 30 W | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TP-Link TL-SG1218MP 18-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch |  | Best for Large Camera Systems | Total ports: 18 | PoE+ ports: 16 | PoE standards: IEEE 802.3at/af | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| NETGEAR GS308PP 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged PoE+ Switch |  | Best Balanced 8-Port Pick | Ports: 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports | PoE+ power budget: 83 W | Data transfer rate: 1000 Mbps | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| NETGEAR GS305P 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet PoE+ Unmanaged Switch |  | Best for Small Camera Setups | Total ports: 5 Gigabit Ethernet ports | PoE+ ports: 4 | Total PoE budget: 63 W | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SICSOLINK 8-Port PoE+ Unmanaged Switch with 2 Uplink Ports, 120W |  | Best for Extended Runs with Separate Uplinks | Ports: 10 total: 8 PoE+ ports and 2 uplink ports | PoE standard: IEEE 802.3af/at | Maximum PoE per port: 30 W | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Goalake 5-Port Easy Smart Managed PoE Ethernet Switch |  | Best for Camera VLAN Controls | Total ports: 5 | PoE ports: 4: 2 × 1000 Mbps and 2 × 100 Mbps | Uplink: 1 × 1000 Mbps | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TP-Link TL-SG1005P 5-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch |  | Best Small Gigabit Pick | Ports: 5 Gigabit RJ45 | PoE+ ports: 4, IEEE 802.3af/at | Non-PoE ports: 1 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TP-Link TL-SG116P 16-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch |  | Best for Larger Camera Systems | Ports: 16 Gigabit RJ45 PoE+ | PoE standards: IEEE 802.3af/at | PoE output: Up to 30 W per port; 120 W total budget | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TP-Link TL-SF1005P 5-Port Fast Ethernet PoE Switch |  | Best for Basic 100 Mbps Cameras | Ports: 5 × 10/100 Mbps RJ45 | PoE ports: 4 PoE+ ports and 1 non-PoE port | PoE standard: IEEE 802.3af/at | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| NETGEAR GS308EP 8-Port Gigabit PoE+ Smart Managed Switch |  | Best for Mid-Size Managed Setups | Ports: 8 × 1 Gbps RJ45 | PoE+ ports: 8 | PoE power budget: 62 W total | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| poe switch for security camera | Dimensions | Ports |
|---|---|---|
| STEAMEMO 16-Port Managed PoE+ | — | — |
| UGREEN 10-Port Gigabit PoE+ Et | — | — |
| TP-Link TL-SG1428PE 24-Port Gi | 17.3 × 8.7 × 1.73 in | — |
| REOLINK RLA-PS1 10-Port PoE Sw | — | — |
| STEAMEMO 8-Port Gigabit Manage | 7.5 × 5.5 × 1.7 in | 8 PoE ports and 2 Gigabit uplinks |
| TP-Link LS108GP 8-Port Gigabit | — | 8 Gigabit RJ45 PoE+ ports |
| TP-Link TL-SG1218MP 18-Port Gi | 17.3 × 7.1 × 1.73 in | — |
| NETGEAR GS308PP 8-Port Gigabit | 9.3 × 4 × 1.1 in | 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports |
| NETGEAR GS305P 5-Port Gigabit | 9.5 × 6.7 × 3.4 in | — |
| SICSOLINK 8-Port PoE+ Unmanage | — | 10 total: 8 PoE+ ports and 2 uplink ports |
| Goalake 5-Port Easy Smart Mana | — | — |
| TP-Link TL-SG1005P 5-Port Giga | 3.94 × 3.86 × 0.98 in | 5 Gigabit RJ45 |
| TP-Link TL-SG116P 16-Port Giga | 11.26 × 4.4 × 1.16 in | 16 Gigabit RJ45 PoE+ |
| TP-Link TL-SF1005P 5-Port Fast | 3.9 × 3.9 × 1 in | 5 × 10/100 Mbps RJ45 |
| NETGEAR GS308EP 8-Port Gigabit | 10.2 × 10.2 × 2.2 in | 8 × 1 Gbps RJ45 |
More Details on Our Top Picks
STEAMEMO 16-Port Managed PoE+ Ethernet Switch with 2 Gigabit Uplinks and 1 SFP Port
For a camera installation that needs room to grow, the 16 PoE+ ports, 240W stated PoE budget, and VLAN and QoS controls give this STEAMEMO more headroom than the 8-port models in this group. Its fanless metal case suits a quiet office or utility area, while the uplinks and SFP port leave options for connecting it to a wider network. Unlike the TP-Link TL-SG1428PE, it has fewer camera ports and less extensive listed switching capacity, but it may suit a medium setup that does not need 24 PoE connections. I would verify its power figures before planning a full load: the supplied specifications also list 200W maximum power, and the stated 100 Mbps transfer rate conflicts with the Gigabit uplinks. Those inconsistencies make it a less straightforward choice for buyers who need confirmed performance figures.
Pros:- Sixteen PoE+ ports accommodate more cameras than the 8-port switches in this roundup.
- VLAN, QoS, DHCP snooping, and port mirroring provide useful network-management controls.
- Fanless metal construction avoids fan noise in quiet indoor installations.
- Desktop, wall, and rack mounting provide several placement options.
Cons:- The listed 240W PoE budget conflicts with a separate 200W maximum-power figure.
- The listed 100 Mbps transfer rate is inconsistent with the Gigabit uplinks and needs verification.
- The one-year replacement warranty is shorter than the limited lifetime warranty listed for the TP-Link TL-SG1428PE.
Best for: Installers building a medium-sized camera system who want VLAN controls, quiet operation, and extra PoE ports beyond an 8-port switch.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need clearly documented throughput and power figures before sizing a camera system, or who need more than 16 PoE connections.
- PoE ports:16
- PoE standard:IEEE 802.3at
- Maximum power per PoE port:30W
- Stated total PoE budget:240W
- Uplink ports:2 Gigabit
- SFP port:1 x 1.25G
- Management features:VLAN, QoS, DHCP snooping, port mirroring
- Cooling and case:Fanless; metal
- Mounting options:Desktop, wall, or rack
Our verdict“Choose it for a quiet, managed camera network with up to 16 PoE devices, but confirm the power and transfer-rate specifications before buying.”
UGREEN 10-Port Gigabit PoE+ Ethernet Switch
The UGREEN’s standout feature for camera installs is Extend mode, which lists support for runs up to 820 feet—useful when a camera sits far from the network cabinet. Eight Gigabit PoE+ ports and two uplinks make the layout simple, while automatic PoE recovery can restart devices on ports 1–6 if they stop responding. Compared with the REOLINK RLA-PS1, it offers a long-run mode and recovery feature, but its 60W total PoE budget is half the REOLINK’s 120W. That can limit how many power-hungry cameras it can run together, even though each port is rated up to 30W. Its unmanaged design keeps setup approachable, but buyers who need tailored VLANs or detailed traffic controls should look at the managed STEAMEMO switches instead.
Pros:- Extend mode supports listed cable runs up to 820 feet.
- Automatic PoE recovery can restart devices on ports 1–6 in Extend mode.
- Eight Gigabit PoE+ ports are paired with two Gigabit uplinks.
- Simple mode selection and plug-and-play operation reduce setup work.
Cons:- The 60W total PoE budget is limited for eight ports and can restrict simultaneous camera loads.
- Unmanaged operation provides less control than the VLAN-capable STEAMEMO models.
- PoE recovery is limited to ports 1–6 and is specified for Extend mode.
Best for: Homeowners and small-site installers with a modest number of cameras, including cameras that need extended cable runs.
Not ideal for: Users planning several high-draw cameras or requiring configurable network management, since the shared budget is 60W and the switch is unmanaged.
- Total ports:10
- PoE+ ports:8; IEEE 802.3at/af
- Maximum power per PoE port:30W
- Total PoE budget:60W
- Uplink ports:2 Gigabit
- Data transfer rate:1000 Mbps
- Modes:Standard, Port Isolation (VLAN), Extend
- Extend mode range:Up to 820 ft
- PoE auto recovery:Ports 1–6 in Extend mode
Our verdict“Pick the UGREEN for a small camera layout where long cable reach matters more than high shared PoE capacity or advanced management.”
TP-Link TL-SG1428PE 24-Port Gigabit Easy Smart PoE+ Switch
When a camera system needs many powered connections in one switch, the 24 Gigabit PoE+ ports make the TL-SG1428PE the most expandable choice among these five. Its 250W PoE budget, two additional non-PoE Gigabit ports, and two SFP slots give an installer room for cameras, a recorder connection, and network expansion. Compared with the 16-port STEAMEMO, it adds eight PoE ports and lists a clear Easy Smart management interface; that extra capacity makes more sense for a larger site than a small home system. VLAN, QoS, IGMP, and link aggregation support more deliberate network setup, while PoE Auto Recovery can restore an unresponsive powered device once configured. The tradeoff is a larger, heavier switch, and recovery is not simply ready without configuration.
Pros:- Twenty-four Gigabit PoE+ ports provide the highest camera-port count in this group.
- A 250W total PoE budget supports a larger collection of powered devices than the UGREEN’s 60W budget.
- VLAN, QoS, IGMP, and link aggregation allow more structured network configuration.
- Two SFP slots and PoE Auto Recovery add expansion and device-recovery options.
Cons:- The 17.3-inch-wide, 3.1 kg chassis needs more mounting space than the compact 8-port options.
- PoE Auto Recovery requires configuration before it can help with unresponsive cameras.
- Its 250W shared budget is below the combined theoretical maximum of 24 ports at 30W each.
Best for: Installers wiring a larger property or small commercial site with many PoE cameras and a need for managed network features.
Not ideal for: Small home-camera systems with only a few devices, where 24 PoE ports and the larger chassis add unnecessary capacity.
- PoE+ ports:24 Gigabit RJ45
- Additional ports:2 Gigabit non-PoE and 2 SFP
- PoE standard:IEEE 802.3at/af
- Maximum power per PoE port:30W
- Total PoE budget:250W
- Management:Easy Smart web-based management
- Features:VLAN, QoS, IGMP, link aggregation, PoE Auto Recovery
- Dimensions:17.3 × 8.7 × 1.73 in
- Warranty:Limited lifetime warranty
Our verdict“Choose the TL-SG1428PE when camera count and managed expansion matter more than a compact, simple installation.”
REOLINK RLA-PS1 10-Port PoE Switch with 8 PoE Ports and 2 Gigabit Uplink Ports
The RLA-PS1 is a practical fit for an eight-camera system that needs 120W of shared PoE power without managed-switch setup. Its eight Gigabit PoE ports and two Gigabit uplinks make it easy to connect cameras separately from the upstream network, while automatic PoE detection avoids sending power to non-PoE devices. Port-priority power management can help allocate power when total demand approaches the budget. Compared with the UGREEN 10-port switch, the REOLINK offers twice the stated PoE budget, but it does not list the UGREEN’s extended-range mode or automatic port recovery. It is also less flexible than the managed TP-Link TL-SG1428PE for VLANs and larger systems. Desktop and wall mounting help with placement, though the 120W ceiling still requires checking the combined camera load.
Pros:- Eight Gigabit PoE ports and two Gigabit uplinks suit a compact camera network.
- The 120W shared budget is double the UGREEN 10-Port switch’s listed capacity.
- Automatic PoE detection helps avoid powering non-PoE equipment.
- Port-priority power management and desktop or wall mounting support practical installation.
Cons:- The 120W total budget can limit a system with multiple high-draw cameras.
- No managed VLAN or QoS features are listed, unlike the STEAMEMO switches.
- No extended-range mode or PoE recovery feature is specified.
Best for: Reolink camera owners or small-site installers who want eight Gigabit PoE connections with automatic device detection and no advanced configuration.
Not ideal for: Large installations, users needing VLAN or other managed controls, or systems whose cameras collectively draw more than the 120W budget.
- Total ports:10
- PoE ports:8; 10/100/1000 Mbps
- Uplink ports:2 Gigabit Ethernet
- PoE standard:IEEE 802.3af/at
- Maximum power per PoE port:30W
- Total power budget:120W
- Power management:Automatic PoE detection and port priority
- Mounting:Desktop or wall
- Case material:Metal
Our verdict“Choose the RLA-PS1 for a straightforward eight-camera Gigabit setup when its 120W power ceiling fits the combined device load.”
STEAMEMO 8-Port Gigabit Managed PoE+ Switch with 2 Uplink Ports
This eight-port STEAMEMO packs VLAN, QoS, DHCP snooping, and port mirroring into a fanless unit sized for a small camera network. Its 120W PoE budget gives it more shared power than the UGREEN’s 60W, while the UGREEN offers Extend mode for long cable runs instead of this model’s management features. The switch can operate in managed or unmanaged modes, so buyers can start with a simpler setup and add network controls when needed. That flexibility comes with a documentation caveat: the product is also described as unmanaged, making the management claims less clear than the TP-Link TL-SG1428PE’s Easy Smart specification. The listing also does not clarify how much PoE power remains available when several cameras are connected. I would confirm both points before relying on it for a fully loaded installation.
Pros:- Eight PoE+ ports and two Gigabit uplinks suit a compact surveillance network.
- The stated 120W budget is higher than the UGREEN 10-Port switch’s 60W.
- VLAN, QoS, DHCP snooping, and port mirroring offer useful network controls.
- Fanless metal construction and desktop or wall mounting support discreet placement.
Cons:- The product is labeled unmanaged in one specification despite listing managed features and modes.
- The listing does not clarify available shared PoE power when several devices are connected.
- It has fewer PoE ports than the 16-port STEAMEMO and 24-port TP-Link options.
Best for: Home or small-office installers who want a quiet, compact eight-camera switch with VLAN and traffic-management features available.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need unambiguous management documentation or a clearly stated load plan for multiple PoE cameras.
- Ports:8 PoE ports and 2 Gigabit uplinks
- PoE standard:IEEE 802.3af/at
- Maximum power per PoE port:30W
- Total PoE budget:120W
- Data transfer rate:1000 Mbps
- Management features:VLAN, QoS, DHCP snooping, port mirroring
- Operating modes:Managed and unmanaged, per product description
- Cooling and case:Fanless; metal
- Dimensions:7.5 × 5.5 × 1.7 in
Our verdict“Pick this compact STEAMEMO if quiet operation and management features matter, but verify its control mode and PoE capacity before installation.”
TP-Link LS108GP 8-Port Gigabit PoE+ Ethernet Switch
The LS108GP stands out for camera layouts where cable distance matters more than software controls. Its extended PoE mode reaches up to 820 ft, which can help connect cameras in detached areas or along long building runs without placing another powered switch nearby. Like the NETGEAR GS308PP, it has eight Gigabit PoE+ ports and quiet fanless cooling; unlike that model, its listed power budget is lower at 65 W. PoE auto recovery can restart a connected device if it stops responding, reducing the need to manually reset a remote camera. Setup is simple, but the unmanaged design leaves no way to configure network settings or inspect traffic. I’d choose it for a modest camera system with long runs, not a heavily loaded installation where several high-draw devices share the power budget.
Pros:- Extended PoE mode supports transmission distances up to 820 ft.
- PoE auto recovery can restart an unresponsive connected device.
- Eight Gigabit PoE+ ports support compatible cameras and other devices.
- Fanless metal case supports quiet desktop or wall-mounted placement.
Cons:- The 65 W total budget can constrain the number of cameras powered at once.
- Unmanaged operation provides no network configuration options.
Best for: Homeowners or small-site installers connecting a handful of cameras over long cable runs who want silent, simple operation.
Not ideal for: Buyers powering many high-draw cameras or needing VLANs, port monitoring, or other configurable network controls.
- Ports:8 Gigabit RJ45 PoE+ ports
- PoE standards:IEEE 802.3at/af
- Maximum PoE per port:30 W
- Total PoE budget:65 W
- Switching capacity:16 Gbps
- Extended transmission distance:Up to 820 ft
- Management:Unmanaged
- Cooling and case:Fanless metal
Our verdict“Choose the LS108GP when long camera runs and quiet plug-and-play operation matter more than a large shared PoE budget or management features.”
TP-Link TL-SG1218MP 18-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch
For a camera deployment that needs room to grow, the TL-SG1218MP offers a notable step up from eight-port models such as the NETGEAR GS308PP: it has 16 PoE+ ports and a 250 W shared budget, plus two non-PoE Gigabit ports for network links or other equipment. That capacity makes it a stronger fit for a business site with cameras across several areas, while the rack-mount hardware suits a wiring cabinet better than a compact desktop setup. QoS and IGMP snooping are included, but this is still an unmanaged switch, so those features do not provide the broad configuration control available from a managed model. Power is shared across the PoE ports, meaning the full per-port maximum is not available to every device at once. I’d favor it over smaller switches for port capacity, not for fine-grained network administration.
Pros:- Sixteen PoE+ ports and a 250 W total budget support larger camera deployments.
- Two additional non-PoE Gigabit ports provide connections for network equipment.
- Two combo SFP slots offer additional fiber-link options.
- Metal case and included rack-mounting hardware suit a wiring cabinet.
Cons:- PoE power is shared across ports, so total available wattage limits simultaneous device loads.
- Unmanaged design does not provide general software configuration.
Best for: Small businesses, warehouses, or multi-building sites that need to power many cameras from a rack-mounted switch.
Not ideal for: Home users with only a few cameras, or administrators who need configurable VLANs and detailed port management.
- Total ports:18
- PoE+ ports:16
- PoE standards:IEEE 802.3at/af
- Maximum PoE per port:30 W
- Total PoE budget:250 W
- Additional connections:2 non-PoE Gigabit RJ45 ports and 2 combo SFP slots
- Management:Unmanaged, plug and play
- Features:802.1p/DSCP QoS and IGMP snooping
- Dimensions:17.3 × 7.1 × 1.73 in
Our verdict“Pick the TL-SG1218MP for a growing camera system that needs many PoE ports and rack installation, provided unmanaged networking is sufficient.”
NETGEAR GS308PP 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged PoE+ Switch
The GS308PP is a balanced choice for buyers who want eight camera connections without moving up to a large rack switch. Its 83 W PoE+ budget gives it more shared power headroom than the TP-Link LS108GP’s 65 W, while keeping the same basic plug-and-play, unmanaged approach. That difference can matter when cameras have higher power demands or when the system may gain another device later. The tradeoff is that the LS108GP lists extended PoE transmission and auto recovery, features that make it more appealing for long or unattended camera runs. The GS308PP instead focuses on straightforward placement: it is fanless and supports desktop or wall mounting. It offers no software configuration, so it’s a cleaner fit for a self-contained camera network than for an installation that needs network segmentation or hands-on traffic controls.
Pros:- Eight Gigabit Ethernet ports support a multi-camera setup.
- 83 W PoE+ budget exceeds the TP-Link LS108GP’s listed 65 W budget.
- Fanless operation suits quiet indoor spaces.
- Desktop and wall-mount options simplify placement.
Cons:- Unmanaged operation provides no software configuration.
- No extended PoE transmission distance is specified in the supplied product details.
Best for: Home and small-office owners who need eight Gigabit PoE+ connections and more power headroom than a basic 65 W switch.
Not ideal for: Installers with very long cable runs who want a specified extended-distance mode, or network managers who need configurable controls.
- Ports:8 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- PoE+ power budget:83 W
- Data transfer rate:1000 Mbps
- Interface:RJ45
- Mounting:Desktop or wall mount
- Case material:Metal
- Cooling:Fanless
- Dimensions:9.3 × 4 × 1.1 in
Our verdict“Choose the GS308PP for a straightforward eight-camera-scale network where added PoE headroom matters more than extended-distance features.”
NETGEAR GS305P 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet PoE+ Unmanaged Switch
When a system needs only a few powered connections, the GS305P keeps the switch compact in scope: it has four PoE+ ports and one additional Gigabit port. That makes it a better match for a small home camera setup than the TP-Link TL-SG1218MP, whose 16 PoE+ ports and rack-oriented design would be unnecessary for many households. Its 63 W total budget is close to the LS108GP’s 65 W, but the GS305P has half as many PoE+ ports, so buyers should check both camera count and combined power demand before choosing. Plug-and-play setup and fanless cooling keep installation simple and quiet. The main limitation is fixed capability: there is no software configuration, and adding more cameras may mean replacing the switch rather than expanding a managed network.
Pros:- Four PoE+ ports suit a small camera system.
- 63 W total PoE budget supports compatible powered devices.
- Plug-and-play setup avoids network configuration.
- Fanless metal design supports quiet desktop or wall-mounted use.
Cons:- Only four ports provide PoE+, limiting camera expansion.
- Unmanaged design has no configuration options.
- The 63 W shared budget requires checking the combined power needs of connected devices.
Best for: Homeowners or small offices powering up to four compatible cameras from a quiet, simple Gigabit switch.
Not ideal for: Sites planning more than four PoE cameras, or buyers who want network management and expansion options in the same switch.
- Total ports:5 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- PoE+ ports:4
- Total PoE budget:63 W
- Data transfer rate:1000 Mbps
- Switch type:Unmanaged
- Case material:Metal
- Mounting options:Desktop or wall mount
- Dimensions:9.5 × 6.7 × 3.4 in
Our verdict“Pick the GS305P for a small, fixed camera setup where four PoE+ ports are enough and silent, easy installation is the priority.”
SICSOLINK 8-Port PoE+ Unmanaged Switch with 2 Uplink Ports, 120W
The SICSOLINK combines eight PoE+ ports, two uplink ports, and a 120 W budget, giving camera installers a distinct layout from the eight-port NETGEAR GS308PP. Its two uplinks leave the PoE ports available for devices, while its listed 250 m extended mode can suit cameras placed far from the network cabinet. PoE watchdog auto-reboot adds a practical recovery feature for cameras that stop responding. The extended mode has a tradeoff: the product details say data rate is reduced on extended connections, so it is not a free substitute for standard-length Gigabit runs. The 120 W budget also needs to be treated as shared capacity, and the one-year warranty is shorter than the three-year coverage listed for the TP-Link LS108GP and NETGEAR GS308PP. This is a feature-focused fit for remote cameras, not the safest choice for buyers prioritizing longer stated warranty coverage.
Pros:- Eight PoE+ ports provide camera power from the switch.
- Two uplink ports keep separate network connections available.
- PoE watchdog can restart a connected device that goes offline.
- Extended mode supports distances up to 250 m.
Cons:- Extended mode reduces data rate on extended connections.
- Unmanaged design has no network configuration features.
- One-year warranty is shorter than the three-year warranties listed for the TP-Link LS108GP and NETGEAR GS308PP.
Best for: Installers connecting cameras over long runs who want dedicated uplink ports, automatic device recovery, and more PoE capacity than a 65 W switch.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need managed network controls, full data rates on extended connections, or longer stated warranty coverage.
- Ports:10 total: 8 PoE+ ports and 2 uplink ports
- PoE standard:IEEE 802.3af/at
- Maximum PoE per port:30 W
- Total power budget:120 W
- Extended transmission distance:Up to 250 m (820 ft)
- Data transfer rate:20 Gbps
- Management:Unmanaged
- Cooling and housing:Fanless metal
- Operating temperature:-10°C to 55°C (14°F to 131°F)
Our verdict“Choose the SICSOLINK for remote camera runs and separate uplinks, but skip it if extended links must retain full data rates or warranty length is a priority.”
Goalake 5-Port Easy Smart Managed PoE Ethernet Switch
The Goalake is a compact fit for a small camera setup where basic network controls matter as much as power. Its app and web management, VLAN, QoS, and port mirroring give it more ways to separate or inspect camera traffic than the plug-and-play TP-Link TL-SG1005P. The tradeoff is a mixed-speed PoE layout: two powered ports are Gigabit, while the other two top out at 100 Mbps. That can suit many individual cameras, but it offers less headroom for faster cameras or expanding traffic than the all-Gigabit TP-Link. The 52 W shared budget also calls for checking the combined draw of all connected devices. Fanless cooling, a metal case, and desktop or wall mounting make it easier to place near a recorder without adding fan noise.
Pros:- App and web management with VLAN, QoS, port mirroring, and storm control
- Up to 30 W available per PoE port
- Fanless metal housing supports quiet operation
- Desktop or wall mounting offers flexible placement
Cons:- The 52 W total PoE budget is shared across four powered ports
- Two PoE ports are limited to 100 Mbps
- Passive PoE and non-PoE devices do not receive power from the switch
Best for: Small camera installations that need VLAN or QoS controls and can work within two Gigabit PoE ports and a 52 W shared budget.
Not ideal for: Buyers connecting several high-bandwidth cameras or devices with a combined power draw above 52 W; two PoE ports are limited to 100 Mbps.
- Total ports:5
- PoE ports:4: 2 × 1000 Mbps and 2 × 100 Mbps
- Uplink:1 × 1000 Mbps
- PoE standard:IEEE 802.3af/at
- PoE output:Up to 30 W per port; 52 W total budget
- Management:App and web interface; VLAN, QoS, static MAC addressing, storm control, port mirroring
- Maximum PoE distance:Up to 250 m
- Housing and cooling:Metal; fanless
- Mounting:Desktop or wall mount
Our verdict“Choose the Goalake for a small camera network that needs basic management controls, but pick the TP-Link TL-SG1005P for Gigabit on every port.”
TP-Link TL-SG1005P 5-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch
For a compact camera installation, the TL-SG1005P keeps setup simple while giving all five ports Gigabit connectivity. Four ports supply PoE+, and the fifth is non-PoE, a straightforward arrangement for cameras plus a recorder or router that has its own power. Compared with the Goalake 5-Port Easy Smart, this TP-Link trades VLAN and other management controls for plug-and-play operation, but avoids the Goalake’s two 100 Mbps PoE ports. Its 65 W power budget also exceeds the Goalake’s 52 W, though it remains a small-switch option rather than a choice for a larger camera bank like the 16-port TP-Link TL-SG116P. Fanless cooling and a metal case suit a quiet desktop or wall-mounted location. Buyers should remember that only four ports provide PoE power.
Pros:- Four PoE+ ports with a 65 W shared budget
- All five Ethernet ports support Gigabit speeds
- Plug-and-play setup needs no switch configuration
- Fanless metal case supports quiet desktop or wall placement
Cons:- Only four of the five ports supply PoE power
- Unmanaged design lacks VLAN and per-port network controls
Best for: Homeowners or small-site installers connecting up to four Gigabit PoE cameras who want a quiet switch with no network configuration.
Not ideal for: People who need more than four powered camera ports, managed VLAN controls, or capacity for a larger surveillance installation.
- Ports:5 Gigabit RJ45
- PoE+ ports:4, IEEE 802.3af/at
- Non-PoE ports:1
- PoE power budget:65 W total; up to 30 W per port
- Switch type:Unmanaged
- Features:QoS, IGMP Snooping, IEEE 802.3X flow control
- Case and cooling:Metal; fanless
- Dimensions:3.94 × 3.86 × 0.98 in
- Mounting:Desktop or wall mount
Our verdict“Pick the TL-SG1005P for a quiet, uncomplicated Gigabit switch serving up to four PoE cameras.”
TP-Link TL-SG116P 16-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch
The TL-SG116P is the clear scale-up choice in this group: 16 Gigabit PoE+ ports let a growing camera system connect directly without relying on several small switches. Its 120 W total budget is substantial for this size, but still shared, so buyers should add up camera draw rather than assume every port can supply 30 W at once. Surveillance-focused features help set it apart from the simpler TP-Link TL-SG1005P: Priority and Isolation modes, plus PoE Auto Recovery, provide useful controls without requiring a managed-switch setup. Extend Mode reaches up to 250 m, but drops the link speed to 10 Mbps, making it a reach option rather than a general-purpose high-speed link. Its fanless metal design is suited to quiet installations, though its larger footprint is less convenient than the five-port models.
Pros:- Sixteen Gigabit PoE+ ports support a larger camera installation
- 120 W total PoE budget with up to 30 W per port
- Priority, Isolation, and PoE Auto Recovery features suit surveillance use
- Fanless metal case avoids fan noise
Cons:- The 120 W PoE budget is shared across all ports
- Extend Mode reduces link speed to 10 Mbps
- Larger footprint than the five-port switches in this roundup
Best for: Installers building or expanding a multi-camera system who need up to 16 Gigabit PoE connections and surveillance-oriented port modes.
Not ideal for: Owners of only a few cameras who want a compact switch, or installations whose long-distance camera links need more than 10 Mbps.
- Ports:16 Gigabit RJ45 PoE+
- PoE standards:IEEE 802.3af/at
- PoE output:Up to 30 W per port; 120 W total budget
- Extend Mode:Up to 250 m at 10 Mbps
- Surveillance modes:Priority Mode on ports 1–4; Isolation Mode; PoE Auto Recovery
- Data rate:1 Gbps
- Dimensions:11.26 × 4.4 × 1.16 in
- Case and cooling:Metal; fanless
- Warranty:Limited lifetime
Our verdict“Choose the TL-SG116P when camera count and Gigabit PoE capacity matter more than compact size or managed network configuration.”
TP-Link TL-SF1005P 5-Port Fast Ethernet PoE Switch
The TL-SF1005P makes the most sense when the connected cameras need only Fast Ethernet speeds and straightforward PoE power. It has four PoE+ ports, one non-PoE port, and a 67 W shared budget—slightly more total power than the Gigabit TP-Link TL-SG1005P, but without that model’s 1 Gbps links. That speed difference is the defining compromise: suitable for basic camera connections, it leaves less headroom for higher-bandwidth devices or network growth. Unmanaged operation keeps setup simple, while PoE Auto Recovery can help restore power to an unresponsive connected device. Extend Mode reaches up to 250 m, but at a reduced 10 Mbps, so it is intended for distance rather than fast data transfer. The fanless metal enclosure is quiet and compact for desktop or wall placement.
Pros:- Four PoE+ ports with a 67 W shared power budget
- Plug-and-play unmanaged setup
- PoE Auto Recovery can restart an unresponsive powered device
- Quiet fanless metal housing supports desktop or wall mounting
Cons:- All ports are limited to 10/100 Mbps
- Extend Mode reduces speed to 10 Mbps
- Unmanaged design provides no VLAN or per-port network controls
Best for: Owners of basic 10/100 Mbps PoE cameras who want a simple four-camera switch and do not need Gigabit links.
Not ideal for: Buyers with Gigabit cameras, higher-bandwidth network equipment, or plans to expand beyond the speed limits of Fast Ethernet.
- Ports:5 × 10/100 Mbps RJ45
- PoE ports:4 PoE+ ports and 1 non-PoE port
- PoE standard:IEEE 802.3af/at
- PoE output:Up to 30 W per port; 67 W total budget
- Extend Mode:Up to 250 m at 10 Mbps
- Switch type:Unmanaged
- Case and cooling:Metal; fanless
- Dimensions:3.9 × 3.9 × 1 in
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“Choose the TL-SF1005P only for basic 10/100 Mbps cameras; the TL-SG1005P is a better fit when Gigabit speed matters.”
NETGEAR GS308EP 8-Port Gigabit PoE+ Smart Managed Switch
The GS308EP suits buyers who have outgrown a four-camera switch but still want a compact installation. It provides eight Gigabit PoE+ ports and smart management features, including VLANs, QoS, port monitoring, and per-port PoE controls. That gives it more powered connections than the five-port Goalake Easy Smart, while offering Gigabit on every port rather than the Goalake’s mixed-speed PoE layout. The main limit is the 62 W shared PoE budget: eight powered ports do not mean eight devices can draw maximum power at once, so check the camera load before choosing it. Unlike the unmanaged TL-SG1005P, this model gives the buyer ways to manage camera traffic and power, but it remains smaller than the 16-port TL-SG116P for a larger system. Fanless cooling and desktop or wall mounting aid flexible placement.
Pros:- Eight Gigabit PoE+ ports
- Smart management includes VLAN, QoS, and port monitoring
- Per-port PoE controls help manage connected camera power
- Fanless design supports desktop or wall mounting
Cons:- The 62 W PoE budget is shared across eight ports
- More limited camera capacity than the 16-port TP-Link TL-SG116P
Best for: Small offices and homeowners with five to eight Gigabit PoE cameras who want VLAN, traffic, and per-port power controls.
Not ideal for: Installations with high combined camera power draw or more than eight cameras; the 62 W shared budget and port count may constrain expansion.
- Ports:8 × 1 Gbps RJ45
- PoE+ ports:8
- PoE power budget:62 W total
- Data transfer capacity:16 Gbps
- Management:Smart managed; VLAN, QoS, port monitoring, per-port PoE controls
- Mounting:Desktop or wall mount
- Cooling:Fanless
- Dimensions:10.2 × 10.2 × 2.2 in
- Warranty:3-year limited hardware warranty
Our verdict“Pick the GS308EP for a mid-size Gigabit camera network that needs management controls but not 16 ports.”
How We Picked
I ranked these switches around the needs of a security-camera installation: usable PoE port count, total power capacity, uplink speed, and management options. Those factors affect how many cameras a switch can power, whether traffic can reach the recorder efficiently, and how much control an installer has over the network. I also considered practical fit, including whether a product is an uncomplicated choice for a small system or provides room and features for a larger one.
The order reflects the balance of capacity, flexibility, and ease of use rather than port count alone. Larger smart-managed models rank well for installations that can use their added control, while compact unmanaged switches are better suited to straightforward camera groups. Models with fewer ports, Fast Ethernet connections, or less management flexibility have narrower roles; they can still be sensible picks when their limits match the installation. Before choosing, buyers should confirm each camera’s PoE standard and power draw against the switch specifications.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Poe Switch For Security Cameras
I’d size a camera switch from the installation outward: count the devices, total their power needs, check where traffic will go, then decide how much management control is useful. This avoids paying for unused capacity—or finding that a switch cannot support a camera’s power requirements.
Count PoE Devices, Not Just Cameras
Start with every device that will draw power from the switch, including access points or other compatible equipment, rather than counting cameras alone. Leave room for a future camera if you expect the system to grow; filling every PoE port on day one can make a small expansion require a second switch. Also check whether the listed port count includes uplink-only connections, since those may not power cameras. A larger switch can simplify cabling, but it may take more space and make sense only if you will use its capacity. For a fixed, small system, a compact model can be a better fit than buying ports you are unlikely to need.
Match the Power Budget to Real Camera Loads
A switch’s total PoE budget is shared across its powered ports, so a port count does not tell you how much power all connected devices can receive at once. Add the expected draw of the cameras and compare that sum with the switch’s stated budget; check individual port limits as well. Cameras with features such as infrared lighting, pan-and-tilt motors, heaters, or auxiliary accessories may draw more power than a basic fixed camera. Avoid relying only on the power rating of a single port, since that does not describe the system-wide limit. If your camera specifications are unclear, confirm their PoE class and maximum draw before buying.
Check the Whole Network Path for Speed
Gigabit camera ports are only part of the connection: traffic also has to travel through the switch uplink to a recorder, router, or another network switch. A Fast Ethernet link can constrain the path even when the camera ports themselves appear adequate, particularly as camera count and video quality increase. Check how many uplinks are available and whether they are Gigabit, and plan which devices will connect to them. A second uplink can offer more connection options, but it does not automatically combine bandwidth; that depends on supported features and configuration. For a basic isolated system, modest network demands may be acceptable, but buyers should avoid assuming every switch connection runs at the same speed.
Choose Management Features for Your Skill and Network
Unmanaged switches suit buyers who want cameras to connect with little network configuration. Smart or managed options can provide more control over network behavior, which may help when separating camera traffic or diagnosing connection issues. That control also adds configuration choices, so it is useful only if you know which features your network needs. A common mistake is paying for management without a plan to use it, or choosing a basic switch when the installation calls for traffic separation or monitoring. Decide whether you need a simple power-and-data connection or want the switch to take part in a more structured network.
Plan for Placement, Cooling, and Expansion
Think about where the switch will live before focusing on its specifications. A larger unit may suit a rack or equipment cabinet, while a compact model can be easier to place near a small recorder setup; check dimensions and mounting details against the intended location. PoE switches can produce heat as they power connected devices, so avoid putting one in an enclosed space without suitable airflow. Leave access to the ports and power connection for troubleshooting, rather than hiding the switch behind fixed equipment. If you expect the system to grow, compare the cost and complexity of buying spare ports now with adding another switch later.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tell whether a PoE switch can power all my security cameras at once?
Add the maximum stated power draw of each camera and compare the total with the switch’s overall PoE budget. Then confirm that each camera’s required PoE standard and per-port draw fit the switch’s port limits. Do not treat the number of PoE ports as proof that every port can deliver maximum power simultaneously. Include higher-draw features such as heaters, pan-and-tilt movement, or built-in lighting in your estimate. If a camera maker lists different typical and maximum figures, use the maximum when planning capacity.
Should I buy a managed switch for a home camera system?
A basic unmanaged switch is often sufficient when you only need to connect compatible cameras and a recorder or router. Smart or managed features can be useful when you want more control over camera traffic, network segmentation, or troubleshooting. They also add configuration tasks, so they may not help if you have no specific need for those controls. Consider how your existing router and recorder handle network separation before paying for switch features that could go unused. For a small system with straightforward wiring, simplicity can be the better choice.
Is a Fast Ethernet PoE switch adequate for security cameras?
It can work for a modest system if the cameras and recorder support the connection and the network load remains within the link’s capacity. The risk is that a Fast Ethernet connection can limit traffic between the switch and the rest of the network, even if camera ports connect reliably. Higher-resolution streams, more cameras, or simultaneous viewing and recording can increase the demand on that path. Check the speed of both the camera ports and uplinks rather than relying on a single headline specification. When choosing for a system that may grow, Gigabit connections offer more headroom.
How many spare PoE ports should I leave for future cameras?
There is no fixed number that suits every installation; base the reserve on how likely you are to add cameras and where they will go. Leaving one or two ports free can make a small expansion easier, but unused ports do not help if the switch’s total power budget is already fully allocated. Account for both available ports and remaining power when planning growth. Also check whether adding another switch later would be practical given the equipment location and uplink layout. If the camera plan is settled and space is tight, a smaller switch may be a sensible match.
Can I connect a PoE switch directly to my NVR and router?
In many setups, the switch connects cameras and then links to a router, an NVR, or both, but the right wiring depends on how those devices handle camera networking. Some NVRs have built-in PoE ports and create a separate camera network, while others expect cameras to connect through an external switch. Check the recorder’s instructions and network diagram before connecting everything, especially if you want remote viewing through the router. Confirm which switch ports are PoE-powered and which are intended for uplinks. This can prevent wiring devices into the wrong network or expecting an uplink port to power a camera.
Conclusion
For a larger camera installation that needs port capacity and more control, I’d choose the TP-Link TL-SG1428PE as the best overall pick; its scale makes more sense when you will use its 24 PoE+ ports. The TP-Link TL-SG1218MP is a strong alternative for buyers who need a sizeable system but do not require the same port count, while the STEAMEMO 16-port managed switch is worth a look when its uplink and SFP options suit the network plan. For best value in a straightforward small setup, compare compact unmanaged models such as the TP-Link TL-SG1005P and NETGEAR GS305P against your actual camera and power needs. Beginners who want a simple eight-camera arrangement should consider the REOLINK RLA-PS1, while buyers who want smart management in an eight-port format can look to the NETGEAR GS308EP. For a compact managed installation, the Goalake five-port Easy Smart model has a more specific role; whichever option you choose, match the power budget, port speeds, and camera count before placing it at the center of your system.
