Searching for the best 24-port managed switch can be overwhelming, with options ranging from basic models to feature-rich solutions. The NETGEAR GS724TP stands out as the best overall choice for its balanced performance, PoE support, and ease of management. The Linksys LGS328C offers high-speed uplinks with 10G ports, making it ideal for demanding setups. Meanwhile, the Omada SG3428X-M2 targets multi-gigabit speeds for larger networks. Each option involves tradeoffs around price, features, and complexity. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown to help you find the perfect switch for your needs.
Key Takeaways
- The best switches combine reliable performance with scalable features like PoE, SFP ports, and multi-gigabit speeds.
- Top-ranking models balance user-friendly management with advanced network controls suitable for both small and enterprise environments.
- Price varies significantly based on features: PoE support and multi-gigabit ports often come at a premium.
- Build quality and cooling matter for long-term durability, especially in rack-mounted or hot environments.
- More advanced switches often include SDN support and VLAN capabilities, which are critical for larger, segmented networks.
| NETGEAR 26-Port PoE Gigabit Ethernet Smart Managed Network Switch (GS724TP) |  | Best Overall for Scalability and Cloud Management | Number of Ports: 26 | PoE+ Ports: 24 | PoE Power Budget: 190W | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Omada ES224G 24 Port Gigabit Managed Switch |  | Best for Beginners Seeking Cloud Management and Silent Operation | Ports: 24 Gigabit | Management: Cloud via Omada | Design: Fanless, metal | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Linksys LGS328C 24 Port Gigabit Managed Network Switch with 4 x 10G SFP+ Uplink Ports |  | Best for High-Speed Uplinks and Advanced Security | Number of Ports: 24 Gigabit Ethernet | Uplink Ports: 4 x 10G SFP+ | Housing: Metal | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Omada SG3428X-M2 24-Port Multi-Gigabit L2+ Managed Switch |  | Best for High-Bandwidth and Security with Cloud Management | Number of Ports: 24 x 2.5 Gig Ethernet | Uplink Ports: 4 x 10G SFP+ | Security Features: VLAN, ACL, 802.1X, Radius | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TP-Link TL-SG1428PE 24-Port Gigabit Easy Smart Managed PoE+ Switch |  | Best for PoE Power and Easy Management for Small to Medium Deployments | Number of Ports: 24 PoE+ ports | PoE Power Budget: 250W | SFP Slots: 2 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TP-Link TL-SG1024DE 24-Port Gigabit Easy Smart Managed Ethernet Switch |  | Best Overall for Simplicity and Reliability | Number of Ports: 24 | Port Type: Gigabit Ethernet | Management: Smart Managed | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Omada SG3428 24 Port Gigabit L2+ Smart Managed Switch with SFP Slots and SDN Support |  | Best for Advanced Networks with Centralized Control | Number of Ports: 24 | SFP Slots: 4 | Management: Web, CLI, SNMP, RMON, Dual Image | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| NETGEAR 24-Port Gigabit Ethernet Smart Managed Network Switch (GS724T) with 2 SFP Ports |  | Best for Cloud-Managed, Flexible Deployment | Number of Ports: 24 | SFP Ports: 2 | Management: Insight Cloud | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| NETGEAR 26-Port Gigabit Ethernet Smart Switch (GS724Tv4) |  | Best for PoE and Professional Deployments | Number of Ports: 26 | Gigabit Ports: 24 | SFP Ports: 2 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| STEAMEMO 24-Port Managed Gigabit PoE+ Switch with 360W Power, VLAN, QoS, and Metal Casing |  | Best for Power-Intensive PoE Deployments | Number of PoE+ ports: 24 | Total power budget: 360W | Uplink ports: 2 Gigabit | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 24-port managed switch | Number of Ports | Management |
|---|---|---|
| NETGEAR 26-Port PoE Gigabit Et | 26 | Insight Cloud, SNMP |
| Omada ES224G 24 Port Gigabit M | — | Cloud via Omada |
| Linksys LGS328C 24 Port Gigabi | 24 Gigabit Ethernet | Omada SDN, Cloud |
| Omada SG3428X-M2 24-Port Multi | 24 x 2.5 Gig Ethernet | — |
| TP-Link TL-SG1428PE 24-Port Gi | 24 PoE+ ports | Web-based |
| TP-Link TL-SG1024DE 24-Port Gi | 24 | Smart Managed |
| Omada SG3428 24 Port Gigabit L | 24 | Web, CLI, SNMP, RMON, Dual Image |
| NETGEAR 24-Port Gigabit Ethern | 24 | Insight Cloud |
| NETGEAR 26-Port Gigabit Ethern | 26 | SNMP, IPv6 |
| STEAMEMO 24-Port Managed Gigab | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
NETGEAR 26-Port PoE Gigabit Ethernet Smart Managed Network Switch (GS724TP)
The NETGEAR GS724TP stands out for its combination of high port count, PoE+ support, and cloud-based management, making it ideal for growing networks that demand remote control. Compared with the TP-Link TL-SG1428PE, it offers a higher total PoE power budget, but sacrifices some of the ease of setup for more advanced features. Its 24 PoE+ ports with 190W total power are suitable for powering multiple access points or cameras, though the power budget might be tight for larger deployments. The inclusion of 2 SFP ports adds fiber connectivity options. However, the device’s reliance on network expertise for optimal configuration and limited PoE power could be drawbacks for smaller or less tech-savvy setups.
Pros:- High port density with 24 PoE+ ports and fiber uplinks
- Remote management via NETGEAR Insight for easy control
- Flexible mounting options for various environments
Cons:- Limited to 190W total PoE power, which may be insufficient for power-hungry devices
- Requires some network knowledge for optimal setup
Best for: IT professionals managing medium to large enterprise networks needing flexible PoE and remote management
Not ideal for: Small offices or home users seeking simple plug-and-play solutions without extensive network configuration
- Number of Ports:26
- PoE+ Ports:24
- PoE Power Budget:190W
- SFP Ports:2
- Management:Insight Cloud, SNMP
- Mounting Options:Desktop or Rack Mount
Our verdict“This switch is best suited for network administrators needing scalable PoE solutions with cloud-based management.”
Omada ES224G 24 Port Gigabit Managed Switch
The Omada ES224G offers a straightforward, fanless design with plug-and-play connectivity, making it a solid choice for users new to managed switches. While it lacks the high-speed uplinks or PoE support of the Linksys LGS328C, its silent operation and durable metal construction stand out for office environments where noise matters. Its management via Omada’s cloud platform simplifies setup, but advanced features like VLAN and IGMP snooping require some familiarity with network concepts. Compared to more feature-rich models, it trades off high-speed uplinks for quiet, easy deployment, making it less suited for large, high-bandwidth networks.
Pros:- Plug-and-play setup simplifies deployment
- Fanless design ensures silent operation
- Durable metal casing for long-term use
Cons:- Limited to gigabit speeds, no 10G support
- Requires basic network management knowledge for advanced features
Best for: Small business owners or home offices wanting a managed switch with minimal fuss and quiet operation
Not ideal for: Large enterprise deployments requiring 10G uplinks or PoE support
- Ports:24 Gigabit
- Management:Cloud via Omada
- Design:Fanless, metal
- Features:VLAN, auto loop prevention, IGMP snooping
- Mounting:Desktop or rack
Our verdict“Ideal for small-scale setups where ease of use and quiet operation are priorities over high-speed uplinks.”
Linksys LGS328C 24 Port Gigabit Managed Network Switch with 4 x 10G SFP+ Uplink Ports
The Linksys LGS328C excels with its 4 high-speed 10G SFP+ uplinks, making it a top choice for networks that require high-capacity backhaul. Its 24 gigabit ports and support for advanced security, QoS, and static routing make it suitable for expanding enterprise environments. Compared to the Omada SG3428X-M2, it offers better security and management features, though it demands a higher level of network knowledge to configure effectively. Its metal housing and flexible mounting options support diverse deployment scenarios. The lack of PoE support limits its use for device powering, but its high-speed uplinks make it ideal for bandwidth-intensive applications.
Pros:- Includes four 10G SFP+ uplink ports for high-bandwidth backhaul
- Supports advanced security, QoS, and static routing
- Flexible mounting options for various environments
Cons:- Complex to configure for users without network experience
- No PoE support limits powering options
Best for: Businesses needing high-speed uplinks and robust security features for expanding networks
Not ideal for: Small offices or setups requiring PoE or simple plug-and-play management
- Number of Ports:24 Gigabit Ethernet
- Uplink Ports:4 x 10G SFP+
- Housing:Metal
- Features:Security, QoS, Static Routing
- Mounting Options:Desktop / Wall Mount
- Management:Omada SDN, Cloud
Our verdict“Best suited for advanced users managing high-capacity, security-focused networks with high-speed uplinks.”
Omada SG3428X-M2 24-Port Multi-Gigabit L2+ Managed Switch
The Omada SG3428X-M2 is designed for demanding networks, offering 24 2.5-Gigabit ports and 4 10G SFP+ uplinks, supporting high-bandwidth data transfer. Its advanced security features, including VLAN, ACL, and 802.1X radius authentication, make it suitable for enterprise environments. Compared with the NETGEAR GS724TP, it provides higher port speeds and more comprehensive security. Its cloud management and Omada SDN support streamline remote control, but setup may be complex for non-technical users. The device’s high price reflects its professional-grade features and 5-year warranty, making it a premium choice for large, secure, and high-speed networks.
Pros:- High-speed 2.5-Gigabit ports for fast local connections
- Supports 10G uplinks for high throughput
- Advanced security and cloud management with SDN support
Cons:- Setup complexity may require advanced networking knowledge
- Premium price point limits accessibility for smaller budgets
Best for: Large enterprises or data centers requiring multi-gigabit speeds and extensive security features
Not ideal for: Small offices or users seeking simple, plug-and-play solutions without complex setup
- Number of Ports:24 x 2.5 Gig Ethernet
- Uplink Ports:4 x 10G SFP+
- Security Features:VLAN, ACL, 802.1X, Radius
- Support:Omada SDN, Cloud
- Warranty:5 Years
Our verdict“Designed for high-performance, security-conscious networks that demand advanced management and multi-gigabit speeds.”
TP-Link TL-SG1428PE 24-Port Gigabit Easy Smart Managed PoE+ Switch
The TP-Link TL-SG1428PE is a versatile switch that combines PoE+ support with user-friendly management, making it suitable for deploying cameras, access points, or VoIP devices. Its 250W power budget supports up to 30W per port, ideal for small to medium setups. Compared to the NETGEAR GS724TP, it offers a higher PoE budget, but lacks the advanced cloud management features. Its web-based interface simplifies configuration, yet it requires some manual setup for PoE auto recovery and VLAN segmentation. This switch’s balance of power and ease of use makes it a strong candidate for expanding networks that need PoE support without complex enterprise features.
Pros:- Supports PoE+ with a 250W power budget for powering multiple devices
- Easy to set up with web-based management interface
- VLAN support enhances network security
Cons:- Requires manual configuration for PoE auto recovery
- Limited warranty period of 3 years
Best for: Small to medium-sized businesses needing PoE+ and straightforward management
Not ideal for: Large networks or environments requiring advanced security and management features
- Number of Ports:24 PoE+ ports
- PoE Power Budget:250W
- SFP Slots:2
- PoE Standard:802.3at/af
- Maximum Power per Port:30W
- Management:Web-based
Our verdict“Perfect for expanding small networks that need reliable PoE power and simple management without enterprise complexity.”
TP-Link TL-SG1024DE 24-Port Gigabit Easy Smart Managed Ethernet Switch
This switch stands out for its straightforward setup and robust management features like VLAN, QoS, and network monitoring, making it ideal for small to medium-sized networks that need reliable performance without complexity. Compared with the Omada SG3428, it offers fewer advanced features but excels in ease of use and durability, thanks to a sturdy metal case. Its plug-and-play nature means less time configuring, though it doesn’t support PoE, limiting its use with power-dependent devices. It’s perfect for users who prioritize simplicity but want a durable, managed switch for basic network segmentation and traffic control.
Pros:- Easy plug-and-play setup minimizes configuration time
- Supports advanced features like VLAN and QoS for traffic management
- Sturdy metal build enhances durability and longevity
- Includes industry-leading 3-year warranty and free support
Cons:- No PoE support limits device powering capabilities
- Limited to desktop or rackmount installation, no wall-mount option available
Best for: Small business owners or IT teams seeking a reliable, easy-to-manage switch for standard network segmentation
Not ideal for: Large enterprises or environments requiring PoE support for devices like VoIP phones or IP cameras
- Number of Ports:24
- Port Type:Gigabit Ethernet
- Management:Smart Managed
- Form Factor:Desktop/Rackmount
- Material:Sturdy Metal
- Support Features:QoS, VLAN, IGMP, LAG
- Jumbo Frame:9K
Our verdict“This switch is best suited for users who need a dependable, straightforward managed switch without PoE or complex features.”
Omada SG3428 24 Port Gigabit L2+ Smart Managed Switch with SFP Slots and SDN Support
The Omada SG3428 offers high-speed gigabit connections with four SFP slots, supporting SDN and IPv6, making it suitable for larger, more complex networks. Compared to the TP-Link TL-SG1024DE, it provides greater flexibility via SDN and cloud management, though managing SDN features can be daunting for newcomers. Its security features like ACLs and port security appeal for sensitive environments, but the need for SDN firmware and a steeper learning curve could be hurdles. This model makes sense for IT teams aiming for centralized control and future-proofing in a growing network.
Pros:- High-speed gigabit connectivity with 4 SFP slots for fiber uplinks
- Supports SDN and cloud management for centralized control
- Robust security with ACLs and port security
- 5-year warranty offers long-term peace of mind
Cons:- Full SDN features require specific firmware, adding complexity
- May be too complex for users unfamiliar with SDN or advanced network management
Best for: IT professionals managing medium to large networks needing centralized control and SDN capabilities
Not ideal for: Small offices or home users who prefer plug-and-play simplicity without SDN complexity
- Number of Ports:24
- SFP Slots:4
- Management:Web, CLI, SNMP, RMON, Dual Image
- Warranty:5 years
- Supported Protocols:IPv6, Static Routing, QoS
- Security Features:802.1Q VLAN, ACL, Port Security
Our verdict“Ideal for organizations seeking a scalable, centrally managed switch with advanced security and SDN support, despite a learning curve.”
NETGEAR 24-Port Gigabit Ethernet Smart Managed Network Switch (GS724T) with 2 SFP Ports
The NETGEAR GS724T combines 24 gigabit ports with 2 SFP ports, offering flexible management via Insight Cloud. Compared with the Omada SG3428, it simplifies remote management with cloud support, which is a major advantage for distributed networks. Its fanless, silent operation and energy efficiency make it suitable for quiet office environments. However, it lacks detailed power supply info and requires some network expertise to leverage its advanced features fully. This switch suits small to medium-sized offices needing cloud control and versatile mounting options, especially where silent operation matters.
Pros:- Easy remote management via cloud service
- Flexible installation with desktop or rackmount options
- Silent, energy-efficient operation
- Includes 2 SFP ports for fiber connectivity
Cons:- No detailed info about power supply included
- Requires some network knowledge for advanced management features
Best for: Small to medium businesses looking for easy remote management and flexible installation options
Not ideal for: Large-scale enterprise networks or users needing PoE support on all ports
- Number of Ports:24
- SFP Ports:2
- Management:Insight Cloud
- Mounting Options:Desktop or Rack
- Energy Efficiency:IEEE 802.3az
- Operation:Fanless, Silent
Our verdict“Best for organizations prioritizing cloud management and flexible deployment in a quiet, energy-efficient package.”
NETGEAR 26-Port Gigabit Ethernet Smart Switch (GS724Tv4)
The GS724Tv4 provides 24 gigabit ports plus 2 SFP ports, with PoE+ support on all ports, making it ideal for powering IP phones, cameras, and access points. Compared to the non-PoE NETGEAR GS724T, it offers PoE+ on every port, which is essential for many professional setups. Its management via SNMP and IPv6 adds to its flexibility for enterprise environments. However, with only 26 ports, it might not suit very large networks, and it lacks wireless capabilities. This switch is perfect for professional environments needing PoE+ in a compact, manageable form.
Pros:- Supports PoE+ on all ports for powering multiple devices
- Advanced management features including IPv6 and SNMP
- Flexible installation with desktop or rackmount options
Cons:- Limited to 26 ports, not suitable for very large networks
- No built-in wireless capabilities
Best for: IT managers deploying PoE-powered devices in office or security networks
Not ideal for: Home users or small networks without PoE device requirements
- Number of Ports:26
- Gigabit Ports:24
- SFP Ports:2
- PoE+ Support:Yes, on all ports
- Management:SNMP, IPv6
- Form Factor:Desktop or Rackmount
Our verdict“A solid choice for PoE-centric environments needing reliable, managed gigabit switches with flexible installation.”
STEAMEMO 24-Port Managed Gigabit PoE+ Switch with 360W Power, VLAN, QoS, and Metal Casing
The STEAMEMO switch offers 24 PoE+ ports with a 360W total power budget, ideal for high-power devices like IP cameras and Wi-Fi 6 access points. Compared with the NETGEAR GS724Tv4, it provides more PoE power, supporting devices up to 30W per port, which is a key advantage for bandwidth-intensive deployments. Its surge protection and durable metal case add reliability in challenging environments. However, it lacks integrated Wi-Fi and requires some network expertise to manage advanced features like VLAN and storm control. This switch fits well for offices or surveillance setups where power and robustness are priorities.
Pros:- Supports high-power PoE+ devices with 360W total power
- Advanced management including VLAN and QoS
- Durable metal casing with lightning and surge protection
- Versatile installation options including wall-mount
Cons:- Passive 24V PoE not supported, limiting compatibility
- Requires network knowledge to fully utilize advanced features
- Limited after-sales support with only one-year warranty
Best for: Offices or security setups needing high-power PoE+ on multiple devices with surge protection
Not ideal for: Home networks or setups without high-power PoE device needs
- Number of PoE+ ports:24
- Total power budget:360W
- Uplink ports:2 Gigabit
- SFP slots:2
- Max power per port:30W
- Management features:VLAN, QoS, port mirroring
Our verdict“This switch is best suited for high-power PoE deployments demanding durability and advanced network controls.”
How We Picked
The products in this roundup were selected based on a combination of performance, feature set, build quality, and value. Priority was given to switches that provide reliable gigabit performance across all ports, with particular attention to PoE capabilities, uplink options, and management ease. We also considered factors like future-proofing through multi-gigabit support and network security features. Each switch was evaluated against these criteria and ranked by how well they balance these factors for different types of users, from small offices to larger enterprise deployments.Factors to Consider When Choosing Best 24-port Managed Switch
Choosing the best 24-port managed switch involves assessing your current network needs and future growth plans. To make an informed decision, consider key factors that influence performance, scalability, and management complexity. The right switch should fit your budget while providing the features necessary to support your network’s size and traffic demands. Avoid common pitfalls like overpaying for features you won’t use or underestimating your future expansion needs.Performance and Speed Capabilities
When selecting a managed switch, consider the speed requirements of your network. Gigabit ports are standard, but multi-gigabit or 10G uplinks can significantly enhance throughput for demanding tasks. If your network handles large data transfers or streaming, look for models that support multi-gigabit speeds to prevent bottlenecks. Conversely, for small office setups, basic gigabit switches may suffice, allowing you to save costs without sacrificing essential performance.
PoE Support and Power Budget
Power over Ethernet (PoE) can simplify your setup by powering devices like cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points directly through the switch. However, PoE switches come with a power budget limit, so ensure it matches your device requirements. If you plan to deploy multiple PoE devices, prioritize switches with higher wattage capacities, even if it means paying a bit more. Conversely, if PoE isn’t necessary, you can opt for models without this feature to save money.
Management Features and Usability
Intuitive management interfaces make configuring and monitoring your network easier, especially for non-technical users. Features like VLAN support, QoS, and SNMP are vital for larger or segmented networks. Look for switches with web-based management, CLI access, and firmware update options to ensure flexibility. Keep in mind that more advanced management features can increase complexity—choose a model that matches your comfort level and technical expertise.
Build Quality and Physical Design
The durability of your switch is often overlooked but critical for long-term reliability. Metal casings tend to endure more physical stress and heat, making them suitable for rack mounting or hot environments. Compact or plastic models may be easier to deploy in small spaces but could lack the robustness needed for heavy use. Consider your environment and choose a model that balances durability with form factor preferences.
Future-Proofing and Expandability
Networks evolve, so selecting a switch with expandable features can save money down the line. Multi-gigabit ports, SFP/SFP+ slots, and SDN support are valuable for scaling your network without replacing hardware. Think about your anticipated growth and whether features like stacking or modular options will be beneficial. Investing in a more capable switch now can prevent costly upgrades later, especially in dynamic or expanding environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many PoE ports do I need in a 24-port switch?
The number of PoE ports depends on how many devices you plan to power directly through the switch. If you have multiple PoE-enabled cameras, phones, or access points, aim for a switch with at least half of the ports supporting PoE. Additionally, consider the total power budget to ensure all devices receive sufficient power without overloading the switch. For smaller setups, fewer PoE ports may suffice, but larger deployments benefit from higher capacity models.
Is multi-gigabit support worth it in a 24-port switch?
Multi-gigabit ports can significantly improve data transfer speeds, especially if you have high-bandwidth devices or plan to upgrade your network infrastructure. For typical small to medium businesses, the added cost may be justified if you require faster uplinks or server connections. However, if your network primarily handles basic internet access and file sharing, standard gigabit ports should be adequate. Evaluate your current and future bandwidth needs before investing in multi-gigabit support.
Should I prioritize managed or unmanaged switches?
Managed switches provide greater control over your network through features like VLANs, QoS, and detailed monitoring, making them suitable for larger or more complex environments. Unmanaged switches are easier to deploy and are often less expensive but lack configuration options. For a small office or home setup where simplicity is key, unmanaged models can be sufficient. However, for scalability, security, and future-proofing, managed switches are generally the better choice.
How important is the brand when choosing a managed switch?
Brand reputation can reflect build quality, support, and firmware stability, which are vital for network reliability. Established brands like NETGEAR, Linksys, and TP-Link tend to offer better firmware updates and customer service. Less known brands may be cheaper but could lack long-term support or have inconsistent performance. Consider your support needs and whether the brand’s ecosystem aligns with your existing network equipment before making a decision.
What is the typical lifespan of a managed switch?
Most managed switches are designed to last between 5 to 10 years, depending on usage and environmental conditions. Regular firmware updates and proper cooling can extend their lifespan, ensuring continued performance and security. Investing in a high-quality switch with good support can also mitigate risks of early failure or security vulnerabilities. Planning for future upgrades and maintenance is essential to maximize your investment.
