Head-to-Head · Switches

MikroTik CSS318-16G-2S+in (16-Port Gigabit, 2 SFP+) vs Ubiquiti Networks USW-24-POE (Gigabit Layer 2 Ethernet Switch)

Scored Dimensions
9.5 Value for Money 8.0
9.0 Reliability & Endurance 9.5
9.5 Stability 9.0
8.0 Ease of Assembly 6.5
8.0 Connectivity & Ports 5.5
MikroTik CSS318-16G-2S+in (16-Port Gigabit, 2 SFP+)

The Good

  • Offers exceptional value for its feature set
  • Delivers reliable and stable performance over time
  • Easy to install and manage for basic L2 functions
  • Compact design with versatile 10-inch and 19-inch rack mounting options

The Bad

  • Lacks Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities
  • SwOS operating system has fewer features compared to RouterOS
  • Power connector placement can be problematic in shallow rack environments
Ubiquiti Networks USW-24-POE (Gigabit Layer 2 Ethernet Switch)

The Good

  • Exceptional reliability and consistent, long-term performance
  • Fanless design ensures silent operation, ideal for various environments
  • Seamless integration and centralized management within the UniFi ecosystem
  • Solid build quality and high-quality hardware

The Bad

  • Limited 1 Gigabit SFP uplinks with no 10 Gigabit SFP+ support
  • Management requires a UniFi controller, posing challenges for standalone use or remote troubleshooting
  • Can run warm under heavy PoE loads, requiring adequate ventilation
  • PoE budget and port count (16 out of 24) may be insufficient for some demanding setups
The MikroTik CSS318-16G-2S+in (16-Port Gigabit, 2 SFP+) Verdict

An excellent choice for home or small office environments needing a cost-effective, managed gigabit switch with 10 Gigabit SFP+ connectivity, provided PoE is not a requirement.

Read the full MikroTik CSS318-16G-2S+in (16-Port Gigabit, 2 SFP+) consensus →
The Ubiquiti Networks USW-24-POE (Gigabit Layer 2 Ethernet Switch) Verdict

This switch is an excellent choice for users deeply embedded in the UniFi ecosystem who prioritize silent operation and robust reliability for their Gigabit networks. Potential buyers should consider its 1 Gigabit uplink limitation and UniFi-centric management before purchase.

Read the full Ubiquiti Networks USW-24-POE (Gigabit Layer 2 Ethernet Switch) consensus →
The Bottom Line

Our pick: MikroTik CSS318-16G-2S+in (16-Port Gigabit, 2 SFP+) · 8.8/10

Owners rate the MikroTik CSS318-16G-2S+in (16-Port Gigabit, 2 SFP+) meaningfully higher — 8.8/10 against 7.7/10 for the Ubiquiti Networks USW-24-POE (Gigabit Layer 2 Ethernet Switch). It wins where it counts: Connectivity & Ports and Value for Money.

MikroTik CSS318-16G-2S+in (16-Port Gigabit, 2 SFP+)
$148.00 Best price the consensus found
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Ubiquiti Networks USW-24-POE (Gigabit Layer 2 Ethernet Switch)
$399.99 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 →