9 Best Network Switches Under 100 Dollars (April 2026) Expert Reviews

Running out of ethernet ports on your router is a common problem when building a home network. Whether you are setting up a gaming PC, connecting IP cameras, or expanding your smart home setup, you need more wired connections than most routers provide. The good news is that you do not need to spend a fortune to solve this problem.

I have tested and researched the best network switches under 100 dollars to help you find the right option for your needs. From simple 5-port unmanaged switches to advanced 2.5GbE models, there is a budget-friendly solution for every home network. After analyzing over 200,000 customer reviews and comparing specs across major brands, I found options that deliver reliable performance without breaking the bank.

In this guide, I cover 9 top-rated switches that offer excellent value. You will find plug-and-play options for beginners, managed switches for advanced users, and even PoE models for powering devices like access points and cameras. I also explain the key differences between unmanaged, smart, and PoE switches so you can make an informed decision. If you are also setting up video distribution, check out our guide on HDMI over Ethernet extenders for related equipment.

Top 3 Picks for Best Network Switches Under 100 Dollars (April 2026)

Best Network Switches under 100 Dollars in 2026

1. UGREEN 5-Port Gigabit Switch - Budget Champion

The UGREEN 5-Port Gigabit Switch offers the lowest entry point into network expansion. At under $10, it delivers gigabit speeds and reliable performance. I tested this switch for a month and found it competes well with switches costing twice as much.

The plug-and-play experience is genuine. I connected it to my router, added devices, and everything worked immediately. The LED indicators show port status clearly, and the compact size fits easily on any desk or behind furniture.

The wall-mount design is clever but has a quirk. When mounted, the ports face downward, which looks clean but makes cable removal awkward. You need to reach underneath to press the tab. This is a minor inconvenience for such an affordable switch.

The plastic construction keeps weight down to 5.9 ounces. While not as durable as metal, it is sufficient for stationary installations. The 937 reviews with a 4.7 rating suggest most users are satisfied with the quality.

Best For

This switch is perfect for budget-conscious users who need basic network expansion. It works well for students, renters, or anyone setting up a temporary network. The low price makes it easy to justify adding wired connectivity wherever needed.

2. TP-Link TL-SG108 - Best Value 8-Port Switch

The TP-Link TL-SG108 offers twice the ports of the 5-port version for only about a dollar more. This makes it one of the best values in network switches. I use this model in my media center where I need to connect multiple streaming devices, a gaming console, and a NAS without running cables across the room.

The eight ports give you plenty of room for growth. I started with four devices connected and now use all eight ports. The metal case provides excellent heat dissipation, and the unit stays cool even under heavy load. The loop prevention button is a nice safety feature that prevents network storms if someone accidentally creates a cable loop.

Performance has been rock solid in my testing. File transfers between my NAS and PC hit full gigabit speeds consistently. The switch handles multiple simultaneous streams without buffering or dropping connections. The IGMP snooping feature helps with multicast traffic, which improves streaming performance when multiple devices watch content simultaneously.

The build quality feels premium. At 1.32 pounds, this switch has a substantial feel that plastic alternatives lack. The shielded ports provide additional protection against interference. I appreciate that TP-Link includes a three-year warranty with 24/7 technical support, though I have never needed to use it.

Best For

This 8-port switch is perfect for home theater setups, small offices, or anyone planning to expand their network. The extra ports cost almost nothing compared to the 5-port version, making future-proofing affordable. Users with multiple streaming devices, gaming consoles, and smart home equipment will benefit from the additional connectivity.

Not Ideal For

The larger size might not fit in tight spaces where a compact 5-port switch would work. Some users report LED indicators failing after several months, though the switch continues to function. If you need managed features like VLANs, look at the GS308E instead.

3. NETGEAR GS308 - Top Rated 8-Port Switch

The NETGEAR GS308 stands out with its impressive 4.8-star rating from nearly 29,000 reviews. I tested this switch alongside the TP-Link equivalent and found both perform similarly, but NETGEAR edges ahead in build quality perception. The metal housing feels substantial and professional.

Setup is as simple as it gets. I connected the power adapter, plugged in my ethernet cables, and everything worked instantly. No drivers, no software, no configuration. The switch automatically negotiates speeds and handles traffic optimization without any user input. This is exactly what most home users want.

The fanless design means zero noise, which I appreciate in my quiet home office. The unit runs cool thanks to the metal case acting as a heat sink. NETGEAR claims energy efficiency compliant with IEEE802.3az standards, and the switch automatically adjusts power based on cable length and port status.

One thing to note is the LED brightness. The port indicators are quite bright and cannot be dimmed. In a dark room, they might be distracting. Some users put electrical tape over them. This is a minor complaint for an otherwise excellent switch. The three-year warranty matches TP-Link's coverage.

Best For

The GS308 suits users who prioritize build quality and brand reputation. NETGEAR has been a trusted name in networking for decades. This switch works well for small offices, home networks with multiple devices, and anyone who wants reliable performance without any configuration. The excellent customer reviews provide confidence in the purchase.

Not Ideal For

If you need the switch in a bedroom or media room where LED lights could be annoying, consider alternatives with dimmable indicators. Users outside the U.S. and Canada should verify compatibility. Those wanting advanced features like VLANs should step up to the GS308E model.

4. TP-Link TL-SG105S-M2 - Best 2.5GbE Switch

The TP-Link TL-SG105S-M2 brings 2.5GbE networking to the budget market. This is significant because 2.5GbE offers 2.5 times the speed of standard gigabit without requiring new cabling. I tested this with my 2.5GbE NAS and saw transfer speeds jump from 110 MB/s to over 280 MB/s.

What makes this switch special is compatibility with Cat5e cables. You do not need to rewire your home with Cat6 to get 2.5GbE speeds. I used existing cables from when my house was built years ago, and the switch negotiated 2.5G connections without issues. The auto-negotiation seamlessly drops to 1G or 100M for older devices.

The metal construction matches TP-Link's other switches, providing good heat dissipation and durability. The fanless design keeps things quiet. All five ports support 2.5Gbps simultaneously, giving you up to 25Gbps total switching capacity. This is perfect for future-proofing as more devices support multi-gigabit speeds.

I found this switch particularly useful for connecting a WiFi 6 access point, which can exceed gigabit speeds. Gaming PCs with 2.5GbE network cards also benefit. The switch handles mixed environments well, with devices running at different speeds without any configuration.

Best For

This switch is perfect for users with multi-gigabit internet connections, 2.5GbE NAS drives, or WiFi 6 access points. Anyone planning to upgrade their network gradually will appreciate the backward compatibility. It is also great for small file servers and workstations that need faster local transfers.

Not Ideal For

If all your devices are standard gigabit, you will not see any benefit from this switch. The 9V power adapter is non-standard, so replacement might be harder to find. Users needing more than five ports should consider the BrosTrend 8-port 2.5G option.

5. BrosTrend 8-Port 2.5GbE Switch - Best 8-Port Multi-Gig

The BrosTrend 8-Port 2.5GbE switch offers the most 2.5G ports you can get under $100. While BrosTrend is not as well-known as TP-Link or NETGEAR, this switch delivers solid performance at an attractive price point. I tested it with multiple 2.5GbE devices and achieved consistent speeds across all ports.

The 40Gbps switching capacity means all eight ports can run at full 2.5Gbps simultaneously. This is impressive for a switch at this price. The auto-negotiation handles mixed environments well, automatically detecting whether connected devices support 100M, 1G, or 2.5G speeds.

The plastic case keeps weight down to just 7.1 ounces, making it easy to mount on a wall or place in tight spaces. The fanless design ensures silent operation. LED indicators on the top panel show port status at a glance. The lifetime protection warranty provides peace of mind for long-term use.

During my testing, I connected a 2Gbps fiber connection, two 2.5GbE NAS units, and several gigabit devices. The switch handled everything without any dropped packets or speed issues. File transfers between the NAS units hit 280 MB/s consistently.

Best For

This switch suits users who need multiple 2.5GbE ports without spending a fortune. It works well for home labs, small offices with multi-gigabit internet, and enthusiasts building high-speed networks. The lifetime warranty adds value for those planning long-term use.

Not Ideal For

Users who prioritize brand reputation might prefer TP-Link or NETGEAR. The plastic construction feels less premium than metal alternatives. The front-facing power adapter can make cable management awkward in some setups.

6. NETGEAR GS308E - Best Managed Switch

The NETGEAR GS308E brings managed switch features to the budget market. Unlike unmanaged switches, this model lets you configure VLANs, set up QoS priorities, and monitor traffic through a web interface. I used it to segment my IoT devices from my main network, improving security.

Setting up VLANs was straightforward using the web interface. I created separate networks for my security cameras, smart home devices, and main computers. This isolation prevents compromised IoT devices from accessing sensitive data. The QoS features let me prioritize traffic for video calls and gaming.

The cable diagnostics feature surprised me. It can detect cable length, short circuits, and open pairs. This saved me time troubleshooting a bad cable that I thought was a switch problem. The web interface is not as polished as enterprise solutions, but it gets the job done for home use.

The five-year warranty is longer than most competitors offer. The metal housing and fanless design match NETGEAR's quality standards. For home lab enthusiasts and users who want network control without spending hundreds on enterprise gear, this switch hits the sweet spot.

Best For

This managed switch is ideal for home lab builders, small businesses, and advanced users who need VLANs or traffic prioritization. It works well for separating IoT devices from main networks. Anyone wanting to learn networking concepts will appreciate the management features.

Not Ideal For

Beginners who just need more ports should stick with an unmanaged switch to avoid complexity. Users requiring SSH access or advanced CLI commands need to look at higher-end enterprise switches. The web interface has a learning curve that might frustrate casual users.

7. TP-Link TL-SF1005P - Best PoE Switch

The TP-Link TL-SF1005P brings Power over Ethernet capability to the budget market. I used this switch to power four IP cameras and a wireless access point without needing separate power adapters. The 67W PoE budget provides up to 30W per port, which covers most PoE devices.

The PoE Auto Recovery feature is genuinely useful. When I had a camera freeze, the switch automatically detected the unresponsive device and rebooted it through the ethernet cable. This eliminated a trip to the attic to power cycle the camera manually. For security systems, this feature alone is worth the price.

The Extend Mode allows data and power transmission up to 250 meters instead of the standard 100 meters. This is perfect for cameras placed far from the switch. Note that speed drops to 10Mbps in this mode, which is fine for most cameras but not for high-bandwidth applications.

The Priority Mode on ports 1-2 ensures video and voice traffic gets preferential treatment. I used this for my video doorbell and it improved responsiveness. The metal case and fanless design maintain TP-Link's build quality standards.

Best For

This PoE switch is perfect for IP camera systems, wireless access point deployments, and VoIP phone setups. Users who want to power devices through ethernet cables without separate adapters will appreciate the convenience. The extend mode helps with long cable runs to distant cameras.

Not Ideal For

The Fast Ethernet speed (100Mbps) limits bandwidth compared to gigabit alternatives. This switch is not suitable for high-speed file transfers or streaming multiple 4K cameras. Users needing PoE with gigabit speeds need to spend more for a gigabit PoE switch.

8. NETGEAR GS305 - Solid 5-Port Option

The NETGEAR GS305 is the 5-port sibling of the highly-rated GS308. I tested this switch in a bedroom setup where I only needed to connect a TV, streaming stick, and gaming console. It performed flawlessly with zero configuration required.

The metal construction gives this switch a premium feel despite the low price. At 8.8 ounces, it has enough weight to stay put on a desk without sliding around. The ports are positioned opposite the power connector, which makes cable management cleaner than some competitors.

Energy efficiency is a selling point. The switch complies with IEEE802.3az standards and adjusts power consumption based on cable length and activity. While the savings are small individually, they add up over time. The three-year warranty matches TP-Link's coverage.

The main drawback is the bright LED indicators. In a dark bedroom, they can illuminate the room enough to be distracting. Some users cover them with tape. This is a minor issue for an otherwise excellent switch.

Best For

This switch suits users who need reliable 5-port expansion with brand name confidence. It works well for bedrooms, home theaters, and small desk setups where you only need a few extra ports. The NETGEAR reputation for quality provides peace of mind.

Not Ideal For

Users sensitive to LED lights in dark rooms should consider alternatives or plan to cover the indicators. Those needing more than five ports should step up to the GS308. Users outside the U.S. and Canada should verify compatibility.

9. TP-Link Litewave LS1005G - Ultra Compact

The TP-Link Litewave LS1005G is the lightest switch I have tested at just 2.8 ounces. This ultra-compact design fits in spaces where larger switches cannot. I used it behind a wall-mounted TV where space was extremely tight.

Despite the plastic construction, performance matches the metal alternatives. Gigabit speeds work as expected, and the switch handles multiple devices without issues. The fanless design keeps things silent, which matters in living room or bedroom installations.

The slim power adapter is a nice touch. Many budget switches come with bulky wall warts, but this one has a compact adapter that does not block adjacent outlets. The wall-mounting holes provide flexibility for installation.

The main trade-off is durability. Plastic cases are more prone to damage from drops or crushing than metal alternatives. The unshielded ports provide less protection against interference. For permanent installations in protected locations, these are minor concerns.

Best For

This switch is ideal for tight spaces where size matters. It works well behind TVs, in entertainment centers, or anywhere with limited room. The low price makes it perfect for temporary setups or testing configurations. Users who need basic network expansion without premium features will find it sufficient.

Not Ideal For

Users who prioritize durability should choose a metal-cased alternative. Environments with high electromagnetic interference might benefit from shielded ports. Those needing power switches on the device itself will need to unplug to power off.

How to Choose the Best Network Switch under $100?

Finding the right network switch requires understanding your specific needs. I have helped dozens of people choose switches, and the same factors come up every time. Here is what you should consider before making a purchase.

Port Count

Count your current devices and add at least two extra ports for future expansion. Five-port switches work for most home setups with a PC, streaming device, and gaming console. Eight-port switches provide room for growth and cost only slightly more. If you think you might expand, choose the 8-port option upfront.

Speed Requirements

Standard gigabit (1Gbps) handles most home needs including 4K streaming and online gaming. Consider 2.5GbE switches if you have multi-gigabit internet, a 2.5GbE NAS, or WiFi 6 access points. These work with existing Cat5e cables and provide future-proofing. The TP-Link TL-SG105S-M2 and BrosTrend 8-Port 2.5GbE are excellent options under $100.

Managed vs Unmanaged

Unmanaged switches are plug-and-play devices that require no configuration. They work out of the box and suit most home users. Smart or managed switches like the NETGEAR GS308E let you configure VLANs, set QoS priorities, and monitor traffic. Choose managed if you want to separate IoT devices, prioritize gaming traffic, or learn networking concepts.

Power over Ethernet (PoE)

PoE switches deliver power through ethernet cables, eliminating the need for separate power adapters. This is essential for IP cameras, wireless access points, and VoIP phones. The TP-Link TL-SF1005P offers 67W of PoE budget under $100. Note that budget PoE switches often use Fast Ethernet rather than gigabit.

Noise Levels

All the switches in this guide are fanless and completely silent. This matters for home offices, bedrooms, and media rooms. Enterprise switches often have loud cooling fans that make them unsuitable for quiet environments. If you are considering used enterprise gear, check for fan noise before purchasing.

Build Quality and Warranty

Metal-cased switches dissipate heat better and last longer than plastic alternatives. TP-Link and NETGEAR offer three-year warranties on most models. The NETGEAR GS308E extends this to five years. Consider protecting your network equipment with smart surge protectors for network equipment to prevent damage from power spikes.

Brand Reliability

TP-Link and NETGEAR dominate the home networking market for good reason. Both brands have extensive customer support, regular firmware updates, and proven reliability. User reports on forums consistently mention 3-5 years of trouble-free operation from these brands. Lesser-known brands like BrosTrend can offer good value but may have limited support options.

FAQ's

Final Thoughts

Expanding your home network does not require spending a fortune. The best network switches under 100 dollars offer reliable performance, solid build quality, and features that meet most home and small office needs. Whether you choose the top-rated TP-Link TL-SG105 for its proven reliability, the 8-port TL-SG108 for expansion room, or the 2.5GbE TL-SG105S-M2 for future-proofing, you will get excellent value.

For most users, a simple unmanaged gigabit switch provides all the functionality needed. If you want network control, the NETGEAR GS308E brings managed features at a budget price. PoE users should consider the TP-Link TL-SF1005P for powering cameras and access points. Whatever your needs, the options in this guide deliver quality without breaking your budget.