Head-to-Head · Switches

MikroTik CSS610-8G-2S+in (Cloud Smart Switch) vs Ubiquiti Networks USW-24-POE (Gigabit Layer 2 Ethernet Switch)

Scored Dimensions
9.2 Value for Money 8.0
6.5 Reliability & Endurance 9.5
6.0 Stability 9.0
9.7 Ease of Assembly 6.5
7.0 Connectivity & Ports 5.5
MikroTik CSS610-8G-2S+in (Cloud Smart Switch)

The Good

  • Exceptional value for money for a managed switch with 10G SFP+ ports.
  • Remarkably easy to set up and use, even for basic plug-and-play needs.
  • Good build quality and a compact, passively cooled, silent design.
  • Capable of sustaining high data transfer rates on 10G SFP+ ports when working correctly.

The Bad

  • Firmware (SwitchOS Lite) is described as buggy and unstable, with known issues.
  • Recurring problems reported with SFP+ ports, including connectivity failures and inconsistent performance with certain transceivers or DACs.
  • Some users experienced login failures and loss of management capabilities after a few months.
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 CSS610-8G-2S+in (Cloud Smart Switch) Verdict

This switch offers compelling value and ease of use for basic networking, but potential buyers should be aware of reported firmware instability and SFP+ port issues that may require troubleshooting or workarounds.

Read the full MikroTik CSS610-8G-2S+in (Cloud Smart Switch) 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 CSS610-8G-2S+in (Cloud Smart Switch) · 7.7/10

Dead even on the headline score, but the MikroTik CSS610-8G-2S+in (Cloud Smart Switch) takes more of the scored dimensions — including Ease of Assembly and Connectivity & Ports.

MikroTik CSS610-8G-2S+in (Cloud Smart Switch)
$119.89 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 →