Head-to-Head · Switches

Mikrotik CRS326-24G-2S+RM (24-Port Gigabit Switch) vs Ubiquiti UniFi Switch (USW-Lite-16-PoE)

Mikrotik CRS326-24G-2S+RM (24-Port Gigabit Switch)
$194.80 40 reviews analyzed
Ubiquiti UniFi Switch (USW-Lite-16-PoE)
$227.12 71 reviews analyzed
Scored Dimensions
9.0 Value for Money 7.5
6.5 Reliability & Endurance 7.0
7.0 Stability 8.5
4.0 Ease of Assembly 9.0
7.0 Connectivity & Ports 6.0
Mikrotik CRS326-24G-2S+RM (24-Port Gigabit Switch)

The Good

  • Offers exceptional value for its extensive feature set.
  • Performs reliably and effectively as a managed switch.
  • Provides robust routing capabilities for network-savvy users.
  • Includes versatile 10 Gigabit SFP+ ports for network expansion.

The Bad

  • Configuration is complex and challenging, requiring advanced networking expertise.
  • Routing performance can be limited, with throughput issues when advanced rules are applied.
  • Some users reported hardware reliability concerns, including unit failures and buggy firmware.
Ubiquiti UniFi Switch (USW-Lite-16-PoE)

The Good

  • Easy setup and seamless integration with UniFi networks
  • Compact design and quiet, fanless operation
  • Reliable performance for data transfer and basic network stability
  • Managed features and UniFi Controller integration offer excellent network visibility and control

The Bad

  • Limited PoE power budget quickly reached by multiple devices
  • Concerns about product longevity and failure after warranty
  • Perceived as expensive for its feature set, especially given PoE limitations
  • Lack of rack-mounting options despite suitable dimensions
The Mikrotik CRS326-24G-2S+RM (24-Port Gigabit Switch) Verdict

This device is an outstanding choice for seasoned network administrators seeking a cost-effective and highly flexible switch or router, provided they are prepared for a steep learning curve and potential performance limitations in complex routing scenarios. Those new to advanced networking may find its configuration daunting.

Read the full Mikrotik CRS326-24G-2S+RM (24-Port Gigabit Switch) consensus →
The Ubiquiti UniFi Switch (USW-Lite-16-PoE) Verdict

The Ubiquiti UniFi Switch (USW-Lite-16-PoE) is a strong choice for users already invested in the UniFi ecosystem, offering excellent ease of use and management, but buyers should carefully consider its modest PoE power budget and potential long-term reliability concerns.

Read the full Ubiquiti UniFi Switch (USW-Lite-16-PoE) consensus →
The Bottom Line

Our pick: Ubiquiti UniFi Switch (USW-Lite-16-PoE) · 7.6/10

Owners rate the Ubiquiti UniFi Switch (USW-Lite-16-PoE) meaningfully higher — 7.6/10 against 6.7/10 for the Mikrotik CRS326-24G-2S+RM (24-Port Gigabit Switch). It wins where it counts: Ease of Assembly and Stability.

Mikrotik CRS326-24G-2S+RM (24-Port Gigabit Switch)
$194.80 Best price the consensus found
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Ubiquiti UniFi Switch (USW-Lite-16-PoE)
$227.12 Best price the consensus found
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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 →