Head-to-Head · Switches

MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM (24x 10GbE SFP+ / 2x 40GbE QSFP+) vs Ubiquiti US-8-60W UniFi (8-Port Gigabit PoE Switch)

Scored Dimensions
9.3 Value for Money 8.8
8.0 Reliability & Endurance 8.2
8.5 Stability 6.5
5.5 Ease of Assembly 9.2
6.0 Connectivity & Ports 6.2
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 US-8-60W UniFi (8-Port Gigabit PoE Switch)

The Good

  • Exceptional ease of setup and plug-and-play functionality, often requiring zero configuration.
  • Seamless integration and centralized management within the UniFi ecosystem via the UniFi controller.
  • Reliable performance for powering standard PoE devices such as cameras and access points.
  • Solid value for money, especially for expanding existing UniFi networks in small packages.

The Bad

  • A notable tendency to run very hot, requiring careful placement and adequate ventilation.
  • Limited PoE capabilities, specifically lacking support for newer PoE+ or PoE++ standards on all ports.
  • Some users reported significant internet speed reductions or connectivity issues, with a few units being dead on arrival or having pairing problems.
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 US-8-60W UniFi (8-Port Gigabit PoE Switch) Verdict

This managed switch is an excellent choice for users already invested in the UniFi ecosystem who need to expand their network with basic PoE functionality, provided they account for its heat output and limited advanced power requirements.

Read the full Ubiquiti US-8-60W UniFi (8-Port Gigabit PoE Switch) consensus →
The Bottom Line

Our pick: Ubiquiti US-8-60W UniFi (8-Port Gigabit PoE Switch) · 7.8/10

It's close. The Ubiquiti US-8-60W UniFi (8-Port Gigabit PoE Switch) edges it, 7.8/10 to 7.5/10, on the strength of Ease of Assembly and Connectivity & Ports.

MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM (24x 10GbE SFP+ / 2x 40GbE QSFP+)
$533.90 Best price the consensus found
Check Price →
Ubiquiti US-8-60W UniFi (8-Port Gigabit PoE Switch)
$174.99 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 →