Best network switches (2026)

Ethernet switches from simple 8-port gigabit boxes to managed 10GbE. Ranked on port speeds, management features, PoE and noise. Compare all network switches side by side

Researched, not hands-on tested.How we review ›

updated 24 Oct 2026 · ranked by score, value and age

New to network switches? What they are and what to look for

A network switch adds more wired Ethernet sockets to your home network, like a power strip does for plugs. You connect it to your router with one cable.

Do you need a network switch? Useful if your router has run out of Ethernet ports, or you want wired connections for a TV, games console, desk or NAS.

What to look for

Enough ports, with a couple spare
Gigabit is fine for most homes; 2.5GbE helps with a fast NAS
Fanless designs are silent; managed switches add features most homes don't need

Unsure about a word? Jargon explained

This list is still filling up

We won't call a list "the best" until at least 2 of them are ones we'd buy. None of the 10 network switches we've reviewed so far are.

Questions

Do I need a managed switch?

Only if you want VLANs (for example to separate IoT devices), link aggregation or monitoring. For simply adding ports, unmanaged is fine.

Is 2.5GbE worth it?

If your NAS, PC or router has a 2.5GbE port, yes: file transfers roughly double for little extra cost.