Head-to-Head · Switches
MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM (24x 10GbE SFP+ / 2x 40GbE QSFP+) vs Ubiquiti UniFi Switch (USW-Lite-16-PoE)
Scored Dimensions
9.3
Value for Money
7.5
8.0
Reliability & Endurance
7.0
8.5
Stability
8.5
5.5
Ease of Assembly
9.0
6.0
Connectivity & Ports
6.0
MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM (24x 10GbE SFP+ / 2x 40GbE QSFP+)
The Good
- Offers exceptional value for money, providing high-speed 10GbE and 40GbE connectivity at an accessible price point.
- Delivers rock-solid, reliable performance with many owners reporting continuous uptime without reboots.
- Features a rich and powerful software suite, particularly RouterOS, which offers extensive capabilities for advanced users.
- Includes a redundant power supply, enhancing operational resilience.
The Bad
- Exhibits significant module compatibility issues, often requiring specific or certified transceivers and DAC cables.
- Software, particularly SwOS, has limitations including non-functional fan control and difficulties recognizing certain modules.
- Some units experienced hardware defects, such as a dead power supply or misassembled fan connectors.
- Operating temperatures can run high, with some users observing chassis temperatures above the manufacturer's specified upper limit.
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 CRS326-24S+2Q+RM (24x 10GbE SFP+ / 2x 40GbE QSFP+) Verdict
This switch offers unparalleled value for its high-speed port density and robust feature set, making it an excellent choice for advanced users willing to navigate its software complexity and potential hardware compatibility quirks.
Read the full MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM (24x 10GbE SFP+ / 2x 40GbE QSFP+) 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
It's close. The Ubiquiti UniFi Switch (USW-Lite-16-PoE) edges it, 7.6/10 to 7.5/10, on the strength of Ease of Assembly.
MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM (24x 10GbE SFP+ / 2x 40GbE QSFP+)
$533.90
Best price the consensus found
Check Price →
Ubiquiti UniFi Switch (USW-Lite-16-PoE)
$227.12
Best price the consensus found
Check Price →
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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 →