MikroTik CRS309-1G-8S+in (8-Port 10G SFP+ Switch): The Consensus
The ORA Consensus Score
The MikroTik CRS309-1G-8S+in is a highly-regarded 8-port 10G SFP+ switch offering exceptional value for building or upgrading high-speed networks. While its powerful features and robust connectivity are praised, users should prepare for a learning curve during initial setup and configuration.
How it stacks up
All Switches rankings →Ranked #17 of 26 scored. Category leader: Ubiquiti Networks USW-Ultra-60W (60W PoE+ Switch) at 9.7/10 — read that consensus →
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Score Breakdown
Product Overview
The MikroTik CRS309-1G-8S+in is an 8-port 10G SFP+ switch designed to bring high-speed networking capabilities to home labs and small office environments without a prohibitive cost. This managed switch, housed in a durable metal casing, features a single RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port in addition to its eight SFP+ slots, and can be powered by either the included 24V 1.2A power adapter or Power over Ethernet (PoE). Owners frequently highlight its dual operating system capability, allowing users to choose between the feature-rich RouterOS for advanced routing and Layer 3 functions, or the simpler SwitchOS (SwOS) for streamlined Layer 2 switching.
The Good
Owners consistently praise the MikroTik CRS309-1G-8S+in for its exceptional value for money, frequently calling it the “best bang for bucks” and an “unbeatable” deal for an 8-port 10G SFP+ switch. Many found it to be a prosumer device at a consumer-friendly price, performing better than some more expensive enterprise equipment. The switch’s connectivity and ports are also solid, with users reporting excellent 10G speeds and broad compatibility with a variety of SFP+ modules, including fiber, copper, and DAC cables from different brands, often without requiring specific MikroTik transceivers. Its passive cooling design is a significant advantage, ensuring silent operation, which is highly appreciated in noise-sensitive environments. This contributes to the product’s solid stability, with many users experiencing consistent, high-speed data transfers and reliable performance over extended periods.
Connectivity and Performance
The CRS309-1G-8S+in offers solid connectivity, supporting a range of SFP+ interfaces for both fiber and copper connections, providing flexibility for diverse network setups. Owners have successfully used it for LAGG, VLANs, and SNMP, with the switch capably handling multiple 10G links simultaneously. The option to power the switch via PoE on its 1G management port is a convenient feature for some setups, reducing cable clutter. When configured as a pure Layer 2 switch using SwOS, the device delivers impressive throughput, with many reporting near line-speed performance across all ports, making it an excellent core switch for high-bandwidth applications like NAS, servers, and workstations.
The Bad
While the switch offers immense value, its ease of assembly and initial configuration present a middling experience for many. The default RouterOS is powerful but complex, with a steep learning curve and an interface that some describe as “kludgy” or “terrible,” making basic setup challenging for those unfamiliar with MikroTik’s ecosystem. Simple changes, such as switching to SwOS, can require command-line interaction and specific power cycles, often without clear documentation. Some owners reported issues with the switch not responding to DHCP or having cryptic error messages, necessitating manual IP configuration or the use of specific tools like WinBox. Furthermore, the use of copper SFP+ (RJ45) modules can lead to significant heat generation due to the switch’s fanless design, potentially causing port drops or instability. There are also reports of the switch being noisy when powered via PoE, and some owners experienced hardware reliability issues, including ports failing or the unit becoming unresponsive after several months of use, impacting its overall endurance.
Conclusion
The MikroTik CRS309-1G-8S+in stands out as an exceptionally valuable and capable 10G SFP+ switch, particularly for those looking to build a high-speed network on a budget. Its robust performance, broad SFP+ compatibility, and silent operation are significant draws. However, prospective buyers should be aware of the initial configuration challenges, especially with RouterOS, and be prepared to invest time in understanding its nuances. While generally stable, some users have encountered issues related to heat from copper SFP+ modules and occasional hardware failures. For network enthusiasts willing to navigate a learning curve, this switch offers powerful features and excellent performance, making it a compelling choice for a high-speed network core.
The Good
- Exceptional value for money, offering enterprise-grade 10G SFP+ switching at a consumer-friendly price point.
- Provides robust 10G SFP+ connectivity, compatible with a wide range of fiber, copper, and DAC modules from various brands.
- Operates silently due to passive cooling, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments like home labs or offices.
- Delivers solid and stable Layer 2 switching performance, with many owners reporting near line-speed throughput.
The Bad
- Initial setup and configuration can be challenging, particularly with the default RouterOS, which has a complex interface and requires networking expertise.
- Copper SFP+ (RJ45) modules can generate significant heat, potentially leading to performance issues or port instability if not adequately managed or if the switch is PoE powered.
- Some owners experienced hardware reliability issues over time, including ports failing or the unit becoming unresponsive after several months of use.
What owners actually said
“Purchased the 5 port version and decided to upgrade to the 9 port. Getting really good speed from m.2 Samsung Evo to Raid box via exiting cat 6. Connected to the unit via mac address/Winbox (also upgraded firmware to the latest version). Very happy with my purchase.”
“Works just like the higher end SFP28 Mikrotik switches. Easy to setup, works with any transceiver I've plugged into it, and provides full 10gb per port (verified with Iperf3). Talks to my other switches (both el cheapo Realtek switches) at 10gb.”
“Absolute best 10Gbe switching you will find for under $300. Just make sure you change to the SwitchOS if you are just using this at Layer2. Running as a pure switch it is awesome, but the RouterOS (default load) is a little challenging to work with.”
Quoted verbatim from the verified owner reviews this report was synthesized from.
MikroTik CRS309-1G-8S+in (8-Port 10G SFP+ Switch) · 7.5/10
For network enthusiasts or small businesses seeking an affordable and powerful 10G SFP+ switch, the MikroTik CRS309-1G-8S+in delivers outstanding performance and flexibility. Be prepared to invest time in its initial configuration, especially if leveraging its advanced features, but the reward is a highly capable and silent network core.
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Specifications
Manufacturer-published specs. Not part of the review analysis.
Features & Specs
| Number of Ports | 9 |
|---|---|
| Compatible Devices | Desktop |
| Voltage | 12 volts |
| Upper Temperature Rating | 70 °C |
| Interface | RJ45 |
| Data Transfer Rate | 1000 megabits_per_second |
| Switch Type | Managed |
| Number of Layers | 1 |
Additional details
| Color | White |
|---|---|
| Case Material Type | Metal |
Measurements
| Item Dimensions L x W x H | 5.55"L x 4.53"W x 1.1"H |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 1.1 pounds |
Item details
| Brand | MikroTik |
|---|---|
| Built-In Media | Power adapter 24 V 1.2 A, Rack ears, Screw kit |
| Manufacturer | MIKROTIK |
| Model Number | CRS309-1G-8S+IN |
| Mfr Part Number | CRS309-1G-8S+IN |
| Unit Count | 1 Count |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the MikroTik CRS309-1G-8S+in a good value for money?
Yes, owners consistently praise it for its exceptional value, calling it 'best bang for bucks' and an 'unbeatable' deal for an 8-port 10G SFP+ switch, often performing better than some more expensive enterprise equipment.
Is the MikroTik CRS309-1G-8S+in easy to set up and configure?
Initial setup and configuration can be challenging, particularly with the default RouterOS, which has a complex interface and a steep learning curve. Basic setup or switching to SwOS might require command-line interaction and specific power cycles.
Does the MikroTik CRS309-1G-8S+in support various SFP+ modules?
Yes, it offers broad compatibility with a variety of SFP+ modules, including fiber, copper, and DAC cables from different brands, often without requiring specific MikroTik transceivers.
Does the MikroTik CRS309-1G-8S+in operate silently?
The switch operates silently due to its passive cooling design, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments. However, some owners reported it being noisy when powered via PoE.
Are there any known issues with using copper SFP+ modules with this switch?
Yes, copper SFP+ (RJ45) modules can generate significant heat due to the switch's fanless design, potentially leading to port drops or instability if not adequately managed.