Best Unmanaged Network Switches of 2026
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Unmanaged network switches are devices that allow for the easy expansion of network connectivity. They are typically plug-and-play, meaning they require no configuration or management software to operate. Unmanaged switches are ideal for small offices or home networks that do not require advanced features such as VLANs or Quality of Service (QoS). They are also budget-friendly and easy to install, making them a popular choice for consumers looking to expand their network without investing in expensive equipment or hiring an IT professional.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
#TOP 1
9.9
#TOP 2
9.8
#TOP 3
9.6
Top 3 Unmanaged Network Switches
Zyxel 16-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch
The Zyxel GS1100-16 is an excellent choice for enhancing your network. With non-blocking, wire-speed transmission, you can enjoy fast and efficient data transfer without interruptions. Its Auto MDI/MDI-X support simplifies the connection process, making it easy for you to set up your devices. Additionally, the Green Ethernet feature helps save energy, which is beneficial for reducing costs. The fanless design ensures a quiet operation, making it perfect for small or peaceful office environments.
BrosTrend 5 Port 2.5Gb Network Switch
The BrosTrend 2.5Gb Switch offers blazing-fast speeds of 2.5 Gbps across all five ports, making it perfect for multiple high-speed devices. This means you can enhance your gaming experience or home entertainment without lag. With five 2.5 Gbps ports, you can easily connect various devices like gaming consoles and smart TVs. The plug-and-play feature allows for a hassle-free setup, requiring no software installation. Plus, its fanless design ensures silent operation, so you can work or relax without any noise interruptions.
BrosTrend 8-Port 2.5Gbps Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Switch
The BrosTrend 2.5G Switch offers blazing-fast speeds of 2.5 Gbps on all eight ports, making it 2.5 times quicker than standard gigabit switches. This allows you to smoothly handle multiple devices at once, perfect for gaming, work, or streaming. With eight ports available, you can easily connect various devices like PCs, NAS, smart TVs, and gaming consoles, enhancing your home or office network. The plug and play design means you can set it up quickly without any software, simply by connecting it to your router and devices. This makes upgrading your network hassle-free and efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is difference between managed and unmanaged network switch?
A managed switch enables better control of networks and the data frames moving through them. Unmanaged switches, on the other hand, enable connected devices to communicate with one another in their most basic form.
2. Is an unmanaged switch Safe?
Unmanaged switches, on the whole, have very basic security. They're secured by ensuring you have no vulnerabilities from system to system, which accessories like a lockable port cover can ensure no-one is tampering with the device directly.
3. Is unmanaged switch better?
The short answer is no. There is no fundamental difference in speed between managed and unmanaged switches. However, it is important to note that a managed switch provides significantly better overall network performance, which tends to enhance speed in the long run.
4. What is the difference between a smart switch and unmanaged switch?
In general, managed switches are capable of comprehensive network management and monitoring, support QoS, Web GUI, VLAN, etc. On the contrary, unmanaged switches offer no management capability at all and are very cheap. Smart switches fill a middle ground.
During our unmanaged network switch research, we found 150 unmanaged network switch products and shortlisted 3 quality products. We collected and analyzed 6,320 customer reviews through our big data system to write the unmanaged network switches list. We found that most customers choose unmanaged network switches with an average price of £27.15.
The unmanaged network switches are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of unmanaged network switches, including Zyxel, BrosTrend.
Harvey Wall was born and raised in Norwich. He mastered the art of tool production and finished at the prestigious Norwich University. His area of interest include cutting tools, abrasive finishing and power tools. Harvey is always looking for ways to improve the finesse of industrial tools via his myriads of researches. He also shares some of his experiences on many platforms while writing on tool products.