Head-to-Head · Gateways / Routers

MikroTik hEX S (2025) E60iUGS vs MikroTik RouterBORD 5009UG+S+ (ARMv8 CPU)

MikroTik hEX S (2025) E60iUGS
$66.40 65 reviews analyzed
MikroTik RouterBORD 5009UG+S+ (ARMv8 CPU)
$210.26 98 reviews analyzed
Scored Dimensions
6.0 Reliability & Endurance 7.5
8.5 Throughput & Performance 9.0
7.5 Connectivity & Ports 6.0
8.0 Features & Capabilities 9.0
8.5 Value for Money 8.8
MikroTik hEX S (2025) E60iUGS

The Good

  • Excellent routing throughput and overall performance
  • Extensive customization options and advanced features via RouterOS
  • Solid connectivity with Gigabit Ethernet, PoE out, USB, and a 2.5G SFP port
  • Exceptional value for its capabilities, often compared to high-end alternatives
  • Compact, fanless design that runs quietly

The Bad

  • Inconsistent reliability, with some units failing or experiencing boot issues
  • Steep learning curve and complex configuration for those new to advanced networking
  • Confusion among some buyers due to misleading product descriptions implying Wi-Fi capabilities
  • Specific setup challenges, such as configuring the 2.5G SFP port or managing advanced features like containers
  • Reported software quirks, including issues with changing IP addresses or default configurations
MikroTik RouterBORD 5009UG+S+ (ARMv8 CPU)

The Good

  • Delivers exceptional throughput and performance, easily handling gigabit+ internet speeds and complex network tasks.
  • Offers a comprehensive suite of advanced networking features, providing granular control over network security and traffic.
  • Built with robust hardware and backed by long-term software support, ensuring years of reliable operation.
  • Provides outstanding value, delivering enterprise-grade capabilities at a price point significantly below comparable commercial solutions.

The Bad

  • Features a very steep learning curve, making it unsuitable for average home users or those without advanced networking expertise.
  • Multiple owners reported inconsistent or buggy performance with the 2.5G Ethernet and SFP+ ports, limiting their utility for some.
  • Several users experienced hardware failures or received faulty units, impacting the product's overall reliability for a minority of buyers.
The MikroTik hEX S (2025) E60iUGS Verdict

This router is an excellent choice for tech-savvy users or small businesses seeking powerful, flexible wired networking at a competitive price, provided they are prepared for a significant learning curve and potential, though infrequent, reliability issues.

Read the full MikroTik hEX S (2025) E60iUGS consensus →
The MikroTik RouterBORD 5009UG+S+ (ARMv8 CPU) Verdict

This router is an excellent choice for network professionals and power users seeking deep control and high performance for home labs or small businesses, provided they are prepared for a challenging setup and configuration process.

Read the full MikroTik RouterBORD 5009UG+S+ (ARMv8 CPU) consensus →
The Bottom Line

Our pick: MikroTik RouterBORD 5009UG+S+ (ARMv8 CPU) · 8.1/10

The MikroTik RouterBORD 5009UG+S+ (ARMv8 CPU) wins on points (8.1 vs 7.7), but the MikroTik hEX S (2025) E60iUGS costs $144 less for a near-identical owner consensus. Pay for the edge, or pocket the difference.

MikroTik hEX S (2025) E60iUGS
$66.40 Best price the consensus found
Check Price →
MikroTik RouterBORD 5009UG+S+ (ARMv8 CPU)
$210.26 Best price the consensus found
Check Price →

ORA Metrics may earn a commission on qualifying purchases made through our links, at no extra cost to you.

How ORA built this: We read recent reviews, remove suspected bot or incentivized entries, off-topic complaints, and reviews describing the buyer's own setup problems rather than the product, then synthesize the remainder into a single unbiased verdict. Read our full methodology →