Best 24-Port Gigabit Switch: Tested and Reviewed

In today’s fast-paced, digitally connected world, having a reliable and high-performing network is more important than ever. Whether you’re a business owner managing a busy office, a gamer seeking uninterrupted connectivity, or a tech enthusiast upgrading your home setup, the right 24-port gigabit switch can make all the difference. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the one that’s best for your needs?

In this guide, we’ve tested and reviewed the best 24-port gigabit switches, evaluating their features, performance, ease of use, and value for money. From plug-and-play options to feature-packed managed switches, you’ll find everything you need to make an informed choice.

List of the Best 24-Port Gigabit Switch:

Check out the thorough review of the best 24-port Gigabit switch below.

1. TP-Link TL-SG1428PE 24 Port Gigabit PoE Switch

The TP-Link TL-SG1428PE 24-Port Gigabit PoE Switch delivers exceptional performance, making it a solid choice for small businesses, home labs, and demanding network environments. Equipped with 24 PoE+ (802.3at/af) ports, this switch supports up to 30W per port, providing a total PoE power budget of 250W—ideal for powering devices like IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points. Additionally, two non-PoE Gigabit ports and two SFP slots allow for high-speed uplink connections, ensuring seamless scalability and flexibility.

Its Easy Smart Management interface enables simple setup and monitoring through a web-based system, perfect for users who need intuitive control. Advanced VLAN and QoS features enhance traffic segmentation and prioritize essential data, boosting both performance and security. The PoE Auto Recovery feature adds reliability by automatically rebooting unresponsive devices without manual intervention. Built with a sturdy steel case, the switch runs efficiently without overheating, even in demanding conditions.

Key Features

1. 24 PoE+ Ports: Supports up to 30W per port with a 250W total budget.
2. Smart Management: Simple web-based interface with VLAN and QoS capabilities.
3. Auto PoE Recovery: Automatically reboots unresponsive PoE devices.
4. Scalability: Two uplink Gigabit ports and two SFP slots for future expansion.
5. Sturdy Design: Steel case ensures durability and efficient heat management.

Pros

• High PoE power capacity for versatile device support.
• Easy to set up and manage, even for non-experts.
• Reliable auto-recovery for minimized downtime.
• Flexible uplink options with non-PoE and SFP ports.
• Excellent value with a 3-year warranty and free technical support.

Cons

• Requires configuration for advanced features like PoE Auto Recovery.

2. NETGEAR 24-Port Gigabit Ethernet PoE+ Switch

The NETGEAR 24-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged PoE+ Switch (GS324P) offers an excellent balance of performance and ease of use, making it an ideal solution for small businesses, home offices, and light industrial applications. With 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports, including 16 PoE+ ports delivering a total power budget of 190W, this switch is designed to support a range of devices such as IP cameras, VoIP phones, wireless access points, and more. Its unmanaged design ensures a hassle-free plug-and-play setup, requiring no software installation or configuration—perfect for users who need reliable connectivity without the complexity of advanced settings.

The GS324P is versatile, supporting both desktop and rackmount placement with all necessary mounting hardware included. Its energy-efficient design, compliant with IEEE802.3az standards, reduces power consumption while maintaining top-tier performance. Backed by an industry-leading 3-year limited hardware warranty, this switch provides peace of mind and excellent value for its price.

Key Features

1. 24 Gigabit Ports: High-speed connectivity for multiple devices.
2. 16 PoE+ Ports: 190W total power budget supports power-hungry devices.
3. Unmanaged Design: Simple plug-and-play setup, no configuration required.
4. Energy Efficient: IEEE802.3az compliance reduces power usage.
5. Flexible Placement: Supports desktop or rackmount setups.

Pros

• High PoE power capacity for multiple connected devices.
• Straightforward installation with no setup hassle.
• Energy-efficient operation saves power.
• Versatile placement options with included hardware.
• Strong 3-year limited hardware warranty.

Cons

• Cooling fan can be noisy under heavy loads.

3. Cisco Business CBS110-24T 24 Port GE Switch

The Cisco Business CBS110-24T Unmanaged Switch is an excellent entry-level solution for small businesses and organizations requiring high-speed connectivity without the complexity of advanced configurations. With 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 2 shared 1GE SFP uplink ports, it ensures seamless data transmission for desktops, printers, and other essential devices. The unmanaged design supports a plug-and-play setup, making it perfect for users with little to no IT expertise.

Designed with quality-of-service (QoS) intelligence, the CBS110-24T optimizes delay-sensitive applications such as VoIP and video streaming, improving overall network performance. Its fanless and compact design ensures silent operation, making it ideal for retail stores, classrooms, or offices where noise is a concern. The switch also adheres to IEEE802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet standards, reducing power consumption and operational costs.

Key Features

1. 24 Gigabit Ports: High-speed connectivity for multiple devices.
2. 2 Shared SFP Ports: Supports uplink connections for scalability.
3. Plug-and-Play Design: Easy to use without IT knowledge.
4. Energy Efficient: Compliant with IEEE802.3az standards.
5. Compact and Fanless: Quiet and space-saving design.

Pros

• Easy installation with plug-and-play setup.
• Reliable performance with QoS for sensitive applications.
• Silent fanless design suitable for noise-sensitive environments.
• Energy-efficient operation reduces power usage.
• Backed by Cisco’s limited lifetime warranty.

Cons

• Limited to small business and basic networking needs.

4. NETGEAR 24-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch

The NETGEAR JGS524 24-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch is a high-performance, cost-effective solution designed for small businesses, workgroups, and growing offices. With 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports, this switch delivers speeds of up to 1000 Mbps per port and a total switching capacity of 48 Gbps, making it ideal for bandwidth-intensive applications such as multimedia streaming, large file transfers, and graphics processing. Its plug-and-play setup eliminates the need for software installation or configuration, ensuring hassle-free deployment for users of all skill levels.

The JGS524 features a fanless design, providing silent operation that is perfect for noise-sensitive environments such as offices and labs. It is energy-efficient, adhering to IEEE802.3az standards to optimize power usage and reduce operational costs. The switch supports both desktop and rackmount placements, offering flexibility for different setups. Backed by a lifetime limited hardware warranty, next business day replacement, and 24/7 support, it provides excellent reliability and peace of mind for long-term use.

Key Features

1. 24 Gigabit Ethernet Ports: Offers fast, reliable connections for multiple devices.
2. 48 Gbps Switching Capacity: Handles bandwidth-heavy applications with ease.
3. Silent Operation: Fanless design ideal for quiet environments.
4. Energy Efficient: Compliant with IEEE802.3az standards to reduce power usage.
5. Flexible Placement: Supports desktop and rackmount installations.

Pros

• Easy plug-and-play setup with no configuration required.
• Silent fanless design for noise-sensitive environments.
• Energy-efficient operation reduces operational costs.
• Durable construction with a lifetime hardware warranty.
• Affordable price point for excellent value.

Cons

• Lacks advanced management features (unmanaged design).
• No PoE support for powering devices like IP cameras or access points.

5. TP-Link 24 Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch

The TP-Link TL-SG1024S 24-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch is a reliable and cost-effective choice for small to medium-sized networks. With 24 Gigabit RJ45 ports that support auto-negotiation and Auto MDI/MDIX, this switch offers seamless connectivity for desktops, printers, and other essential devices. Its plug-and-play setup requires no software installation or configuration, making it incredibly easy to use for both beginners and professionals.

Built with an innovative energy-efficient design, the TL-SG1024S reduces power consumption while maintaining excellent performance, adhering to IEEE 802.3x standards. Its fanless operation ensures silent functionality, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments such as offices, classrooms, or home setups. The sturdy metal casing adds durability, ensuring the switch can withstand extended use. Backed by a 3-year warranty and free technical support, users can rely on long-term support and assistance.

Key Features

1. 24 Gigabit Ports: High-speed connectivity for multiple devices.
2. Energy-Efficient Design: Reduces power consumption while maintaining performance.
3. Fanless Operation: Ensures quiet performance ideal for sensitive environments.
4. Plug-and-Play Setup: No software configuration required for quick deployment.
5. Durable Metal Casing: Provides robust, long-lasting protection.

Pros

• Easy to set up with plug-and-play functionality.
• Silent fanless design suitable for office and home use.
• Energy-efficient design saves power and reduces costs.
• Durable construction with a 3-year warranty.
• Affordable price for excellent value.

Cons

• Lacks advanced features like VLAN or QoS (unmanaged design).
• No PoE support for powering external devices.

How to Choose the Best 24-Port Gigabit Switch?

When building a robust and efficient network, a 24-port gigabit switch is a cornerstone for connecting multiple devices with lightning-fast speeds. Whether you’re setting up a home office, upgrading a business network, or enhancing your gaming experience, choosing the right switch can feel overwhelming.

Understand Your Networking Needs

Before diving into specifications and features, ask yourself: What am I trying to achieve with my network?

• For Home Users: Are you connecting multiple smart devices, gaming consoles, or home automation systems?
• For Small Businesses: Do you need a reliable switch for managing VoIP systems, video conferencing, and shared resources?
• For Large-Scale Networks: Are you scaling up for high traffic, server connections, and security monitoring?

By defining your needs, you can narrow down your options and focus on features that truly matter.

Managed vs. Unmanaged Switch: What’s Right for You?

One of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to go for a managed or unmanaged switch.

• Unmanaged Switches are straightforward and plug-and-play. Perfect for small setups where simplicity is key.
• Managed Switches offer advanced features like VLANs, QoS (Quality of Service), and network monitoring, making them ideal for businesses and tech-savvy users.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re setting up a network for a growing business or require customization, a managed switch is worth the investment.

Key Specifications to Look For

To ensure you’re getting the best value, look out for these essential specifications:

1. Gigabit Ethernet

The switch should support gigabit speeds (1000 Mbps) for seamless data transfer, especially if you work with large files or stream high-quality video.

2. Power over Ethernet (PoE)

If you’re powering devices like IP cameras, phones, or wireless access points, opt for a switch with PoE. This eliminates the need for separate power adapters, simplifying your setup.

3. Ports and Expandability

While you’re considering a 24-port switch now, think ahead. Does the switch offer uplink ports or stacking options to support future expansion?

4. Switching Capacity and Bandwidth

A high-quality switch should have a non-blocking architecture, ensuring all ports can operate at maximum speed simultaneously without bottlenecks.

5. Cooling and Noise Levels

For home or office environments, look for fanless designs or low-noise switches. This ensures a quieter operation, perfect for workspaces.

6. Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient switches with features like Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE) help reduce power consumption without sacrificing performance.

Scalability: Prepare for Future Growth

Even if your current needs seem modest, it’s wise to choose a switch that can scale with you. Ask yourself:

• Will I need more ports in the next 2-3 years?
• Are there features (like PoE or advanced security) that could be useful down the line?

Investing in a scalable switch now can save you money and headaches in the future.

Why Brand and Reliability Matter?

Not all switches are created equal. Trusted brands like Cisco, Netgear, TP-Link, and Ubiquiti are known for their quality and reliability. A reputable brand often means better customer support, firmware updates, and longer lifespan.

💡 Personal Recommendation: Netgear’s ProSAFE series and TP-Link’s JetStream switches strike an excellent balance between affordability and features for most users.

Budgeting: Finding the Sweet Spot

While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that a network switch is an investment in your connectivity. Cheaper switches may lack advanced features or durability. On the other hand, overpaying for enterprise-grade switches you won’t fully utilize isn’t ideal either.

Set a realistic budget based on your needs and compare products in the same price range. Don’t forget to factor in warranty and customer reviews!

Don’t Forget Security

If you’re managing sensitive data, security features like Access Control Lists (ACLs), port security, and firewall integration are critical. Managed switches usually come equipped with these features, giving you peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions When Selecting the Best 24-Port Gigabit Switch

1. What is a 24-port gigabit switch?

A 24-port gigabit switch is a network device that connects multiple devices, such as computers, servers, and printers, within a network. It offers 24 gigabit Ethernet ports, which allow for high-speed data transfer (up to 1 Gbps per port). These switches are commonly used in offices, data centers, and homes where multiple devices require seamless connectivity.

2. Why should I choose a 24-port gigabit switch over smaller options?

A 24-port gigabit switch is ideal if you have a medium to large network or plan to expand in the future. It provides enough ports to connect multiple devices simultaneously, without the need for additional switches. Compared to smaller switches, it also reduces clutter and ensures better network management.

3. What’s the difference between managed and unmanaged 24-port gigabit switches?

• Managed Switches: Offer advanced features like VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks), QoS (Quality of Service), port mirroring, and network monitoring. They are perfect for businesses that need control over traffic, enhanced security, and scalability.
• Unmanaged Switches: These are plug-and-play devices that don’t require configuration. They are best for simple setups, like home networks, where ease of use is the priority.

4. Do I need Power over Ethernet (PoE) in my 24-port switch?

PoE allows the switch to power devices like IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points directly through the Ethernet cable. You need PoE if your network includes such devices, as it eliminates the need for separate power supplies. If you don’t require this functionality, a non-PoE switch may be more cost-effective.

5. What specifications should I look for in the best 24-port gigabit switch?

Key features to consider include:

• Gigabit speeds for fast data transfer.
• PoE support if you’re powering connected devices.
• VLAN support for separating traffic in managed networks.
• Switching capacity to handle simultaneous connections.
• Stackability or uplink ports for future expansion.
• Energy efficiency to reduce power consumption.

6. Which brands offer the best 24-port gigabit switches?

Some of the most trusted brands include:

• Netgear: Known for reliability and ease of use.
• Cisco: Ideal for advanced, enterprise-grade solutions.
• TP-Link: Budget-friendly options with excellent features.
• Ubiquiti: High-performance switches for modern networking needs.

7. How do I ensure a 24-port gigabit switch is future-proof?

To future-proof your switch:

• Choose a model with PoE if you plan to add devices like security cameras.
• Look for managed switches with advanced features, even if you don’t need them now.
• Opt for switches with stacking or uplink options to expand your network without replacing the entire switch.

8. Are all 24-port gigabit switches noisy?

Not all switches are noisy. Some come with fanless designs, making them silent and suitable for home or office use. If noise is a concern, check the product specifications for cooling mechanisms and reviews for real-world feedback.

9. What is the switching capacity of a 24-port gigabit switch, and why does it matter?

Switching capacity is the maximum amount of data a switch can handle at once, measured in Gbps. For a 24-port gigabit switch, the switching capacity should be at least 48 Gbps (2 Gbps per port: 1 Gbps each for sending and receiving data). A higher switching capacity ensures no bottlenecks during heavy traffic.

10. How much should I spend on a 24-port gigabit switch?

Prices can vary based on features:

• Unmanaged switches: $100–$200.
• Managed switches: $300–$800, depending on advanced functionality like PoE, VLANs, and security features.

Choose based on your needs and budget, but avoid overly cheap options, as they might compromise quality and durability.

11. Can I use a 24-port gigabit switch for gaming?

Yes, a 24-port gigabit switch can improve gaming setups, especially in multi-device environments. Look for features like low latency, QoS (Quality of Service) to prioritize gaming traffic, and fanless design for quieter operation. Gaming networks also benefit from reliable switches like Ubiquiti UniFi or Netgear’s gaming-optimized models.

12. How do I set up a 24-port gigabit switch?

For unmanaged switches, setup is simple:

1. Connect the switch to your router or modem via an Ethernet cable.
2. Plug devices into the switch ports using Ethernet cables.
3. Power it on, and your devices should connect automatically.

For managed switches, you may need to configure settings like VLANs, IP addresses, or QoS using the switch’s web interface.

13. Are 24-port gigabit switches energy efficient?

Many modern switches come with Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE), which reduces power consumption when network traffic is low. Check for energy-saving certifications or features in the product description if energy efficiency is a priority.

14. What is the warranty for most 24-port gigabit switches?

Reputable brands often offer warranties ranging from 3 years to a lifetime, depending on the product line. Always verify the warranty terms and choose a switch with strong customer support.

15. How can I choose the best 24-port gigabit switch for my business?

For businesses, prioritize:

• Managed switches for advanced control.
• PoE for powering office devices.
• High switching capacity for heavy data usage.
• Reliable brand with excellent support and warranty.

If your business plans to grow, invest in a switch with scalability features like uplink ports or stackability.

16. What are uplink ports, and do I need them?

Uplink ports allow you to connect your switch to other switches, routers, or modems. They’re essential if you’re creating a larger network or need to connect to higher-speed backbone connections.

17. Can I mount a 24-port gigabit switch on a rack?

Yes, many 24-port gigabit switches are designed for rack-mount setups. Ensure the switch includes rack-mounting hardware or accessories if this is a requirement for your setup.

18. How do I compare switches when shopping?

When comparing switches, consider:

• The price-to-feature ratio: Does it offer everything you need within your budget?
• Customer reviews: Look for real-world performance feedback.
• Brand reputation: Stick to trusted manufacturers for quality and support.

19. How long does a 24-port gigabit switch last?

With proper use, a high-quality switch can last 5 to 10 years or more. Regular firmware updates and good maintenance can extend its lifespan.

20. Can I use a 24-port gigabit switch without a router?

A 24-port gigabit switch connects devices within a local network but doesn’t provide internet access. You’ll need a router to connect your network to the internet. However, for internal file sharing or LAN gaming, the switch can work independently.

Conclusion

Choosing the best 24-port gigabit switch doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Our thorough testing and reviews have highlighted the top switches on the market, catering to different needs and budgets. Whether you prioritize simplicity, advanced features, or scalability, there’s a perfect match for you among the options we’ve covered.

Enjoyed this guide of the best 24-port Gigabit switch? Then be sured to check out our other network guides.

• Best Wi-Fi 7 Router
• Best 10Gb Router
• Best Router for OpenWrt
• Best 5G Router with SIM Card Slot
• Best 8-Port Gigabit Network Switch
• Best Wireless Access Point for Small Business
• Best 48-Port Gigabit Switch
• Best Layer 2 Switch
• Best 16-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch