Head-to-Head · Switches
MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM (24x 10GbE SFP+ / 2x 40GbE QSFP+) vs Ubiquiti USW-Flex-2.5G-5 (5-Port 2.5GbE)
Scored Dimensions
9.3
Value for Money
9.0
8.0
Reliability & Endurance
7.5
8.5
Stability
8.0
5.5
Ease of Assembly
8.2
6.0
Connectivity & Ports
9.2
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 USW-Flex-2.5G-5 (5-Port 2.5GbE)
The Good
- Seamless integration into the UniFi ecosystem, simplifying network management for existing users.
- Exceptional 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet performance across all five ports, significantly boosting network speeds.
- Compact, robust, and fanless design, making it ideal for various placements without noise.
- Flexible power options, including Power over Ethernet (PoE) and USB-C, reduce cable clutter and simplify installation.
The Bad
- Some owners reported reliability issues, with one device failing and continuously resetting after a few months.
- Requires familiarity with the UniFi ecosystem and a running controller for full management, which can present a learning curve for new users.
- Lacks advanced features like PoE-out to power other devices, SNMP support, or integrated wall-mounting options.
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 USW-Flex-2.5G-5 (5-Port 2.5GbE) Verdict
This switch is an excellent choice for users already invested in the UniFi ecosystem looking to upgrade their network to 2.5GbE with a compact, flexible, and high-performing device, provided they are comfortable with the UniFi management approach.
Read the full Ubiquiti USW-Flex-2.5G-5 (5-Port 2.5GbE) consensus →
The Bottom Line
Our pick: Ubiquiti USW-Flex-2.5G-5 (5-Port 2.5GbE) · 8.4/10
Owners rate the Ubiquiti USW-Flex-2.5G-5 (5-Port 2.5GbE) meaningfully higher — 8.4/10 against 7.5/10 for the MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM (24x 10GbE SFP+ / 2x 40GbE QSFP+). It wins where it counts: Connectivity & Ports and Ease of Assembly.
MikroTik CRS326-24S+2Q+RM (24x 10GbE SFP+ / 2x 40GbE QSFP+)
$533.90
Best price the consensus found
Check Price →
Ubiquiti USW-Flex-2.5G-5 (5-Port 2.5GbE)
$79.99
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 →