4.4Editor score
In this guide
Finding the right 25GbE switch with SFP28 ports is crucial for modern data centers requiring high bandwidth and low latency. These switches support advanced protocols and ensure seamless connectivity for demanding workloads like AI clustering and virtualization.
We evaluated ten top models based on port configurations, management features, and overall reliability. Each product offers unique strengths whether you need Layer 3 routing or cost-effective multi-gigabit access for your growing network infrastructure needs.
Each review highlights key specs, pros, and cons to help you decide. Note that prices fluctuate frequently, so always check current listings before purchasing to ensure you get the best value for your specific networking requirements today.
Top 3 Picks for Best 25GbE Switches with SFP28 Ports
5.0Editor score
4.6Editor score
Top 10 Best 25GbE Switches with SFP28 Ports in 2026 Compared
This side-by-side comparison outlines the core specifications of every model featured in this guide. Use this table to quickly identify port counts, switching capacities, and unique features that differentiate each option for your specific deployment scenario.
1. Cisco N9K-C93180YC-EX – Best Overall 25GbE Switches with SFP28 Ports
This Cisco Nexus switch stands out with a perfect 5.0 rating and unmatched connectivity for data centers. It offers 48 fixed 10/25-Gbps SFP+ ports and 6 fixed 100-Gbps QSFP28 ports providing maximum flexibility.
Pros
- Exceptional 5.0 rating
- High bandwidth connectivity
- Cut-through switching
- Hot-swappable components
- ACI support
Cons
- Renewed condition uncertainty
- Higher power needs
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Its cut-through switching architecture minimizes latency to less than 1 microsecond which is vital for high-performance computing. Support for VXLAN and Cisco ACI simplifies network virtualization and automation significantly.
While the renewed status means it was inspected by vendors the design ensures reliability with hot-swappable power supplies and fans. This modularity allows easy upgrades and maintenance ensuring your network stays up and running.
Ideal for large-scale data center deployments and high-performance computing environments this model maximizes network availability. The consistent and reliable NX-OS platform offers comprehensive management and monitoring capabilities for administrators.
Ultra-Low Latency Performance
The cut-through switching architecture ensures data packets are forwarded immediately without waiting for the entire frame to arrive reducing latency significantly for real-time applications.
Advanced Network Virtualization
VXLAN support allows for efficient network virtualization enabling you to create scalable and highly available networks that are easy to manage and maintain across physical boundaries.
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2. D-Link DGS-1210-28 – Best Budget 25GbE Switches with SFP28 Ports
For budget-conscious buyers this D-Link switch offers solid Layer 2+ features at a very accessible price point. It includes 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports and 4 Gigabit optical SFP ports for long-distance fiber connectivity.
Pros
- Very affordable pricing
- Fanless silent operation
- NDAA compliant
- Lifetime warranty
- Web UI management
Cons
- Limited to Gigabit speed
- No SFP28 native support
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Its fanless design ensures silent operation and energy efficiency making it perfect for office environments where noise is a concern. The NDAA compliance makes it suitable for government and high-security enterprise projects.
Though it does not natively support SFP28 speeds like the higher-end models it remains a strong option for standard Gigabit needs. The lifetime warranty provides long-term confidence in the quality and reliability of your network infrastructure.
If you need a reliable switch for expanding your network with high-speed access without breaking the bank this model is a top choice. It features advanced traffic management including QoS and VLAN support to optimize performance.
Silent Operation Design
The fanless design allows for silent running which is essential in quiet office spaces while also reducing power consumption and extending the lifespan of internal components.
Surveillance Mode
Streamlines the deployment and management of IP surveillance networks by automatically detecting ONVIF-compliant devices and optimizing video traffic for smooth streaming.
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3. Mikrotik CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM – Best Premium 25GbE Switches with SFP28 Ports
This Mikrotik switch is an ultra-fast enterprise solution designed for heavy workloads requiring massive port density. It features 28 Gigabit SFP28 ports and 100 Gigabit QSFP28 ports supported by a powerful quad-core ARM CPU.
Pros
- High port density
- Massive RAM
- Powerful CPU
- Ultra-fast enterprise grade
- Flexible port types
Cons
- Steep learning curve
- High price point
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The inclusion of 4 GB of DDR4 RAM allows for complex routing tables and extensive buffering which is critical for high-performance networks. This extra processing power ensures smooth handling of large data streams.
While it offers incredible flexibility with mixed port types including 10 Gigabit Ethernet ports it requires advanced networking knowledge to configure effectively. The high price reflects its capability for serious enterprise infrastructure needs.
If you need a switch capable of handling mixed speeds and high throughput for data center backbones this model is unmatched. Its CCR series CPU ensures extra processing power for advanced routing and switching tasks.
Massive Memory Capacity
With 4 GB of DDR4 RAM this switch can handle extensive routing tables and buffering requirements that smaller switches simply cannot support during peak traffic times.
Enterprise Processing Power
The quad-core ARM CPU running at 2 GHz provides the necessary compute power to manage complex network policies and high-speed forwarding simultaneously without latency spikes.
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4. QNAP QSW-M7230-2X4F24T-US – Reliable AI Clustering Switch
This QNAP switch delivers ultra-high-speed non-blocking throughput making it purpose-built for AI clustering workloads and large-scale NAS deployments. It includes 4 x 25GbE SFP28 ports alongside 2 x 100GbE QSFP28 ports for uplinks.
Pros
- Ultra-fast connectivity
- Designed for AI clusters
- Lossless network perf
- Layer 3 Lite features
- ToR data center design
Cons
- Limited SFP28 count
- High cost
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Built-in advanced technologies including Priority Flow Control and Explicit Congestion Notification minimize packet loss and bottlenecking. This makes it ideal for optimizing RoCEv2 and high-speed data transmission in virtualized environments.
The Top-Of-Rack design is engineered for server rooms requiring low-latency connectivity which is essential for high-res media production workflows. It bridges modern 100G fiber backbones with existing 10G copper setups effectively.
While the number of SFP28 ports is lower than some competitors the focus on lossless performance ensures stability for sensitive data. This switch provides flexible multi-gigabit integration for cost-effective migration and scalable upgrades.
Lossless Performance
Priority Flow Control and Explicit Congestion Notification ensure that critical traffic does not get dropped during congestion which is vital for storage and AI training workloads.
Scalable Integration
Seamlessly bridge modern fiber backbones with existing copper setups ensuring a cost-effective migration path for businesses that need to upgrade gradually without replacing all hardware.
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5. UBIQUITI UniFi Aggregation Switch Pro – Best Aggregation Solution
The UniFi Pro Aggregation Switch is designed to enhance your network's switching capacity and performance by creating high-bandwidth aggregation links. It offers 28x 10G SFP+ ports and 4x 25G SFP28 ports for uplinks.
Pros
- High switching capacity
- Layer 3 support
- Touchscreen interface
- Managed by UniFi
- Aggregation focused
Cons
- Requires UniFi ecosystem
- Limited 25G ports
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It includes a 1.3' LCM color touchscreen that concisely displays key system and connection insights locally. The powerful UniFi Network web application and mobile app allow you to monitor or configure from anywhere.
With 760Gbps switching capacity this device handles large traffic loads efficiently without bottlenecks. The enhanced power supply failure protection when connected to the SmartPower Redundant Power System adds reliability.
This switch is best for those already invested in the UniFi ecosystem needing robust Layer 3 aggregation features. The touchscreen simplifies basic diagnostics making it user-friendly for network administrators.
High Bandwidth Aggregation
Designed specifically to create high-bandwidth aggregation links this switch ensures that your core network can handle the aggregated traffic from multiple access switches smoothly.
Intuitive Touchscreen
The 1.3' LCM color touchscreen allows for local AR switch management and provides key system insights without needing to log into the web interface.
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6. MikroTik CRS518-16XS-2XQ-RM – Compact High Speed Switch
The Cloud Router Switch offers QSFP28 support which allows for 100Gbps connectivity in a relatively compact unit. It is built for users who need high throughput without the full chassis of a larger switch.
Pros
- Supports QSFP28
- Compact form factor
- Cloud Router Switch OS
- Good for small setups
- High throughput
Cons
- Low RAM specification
- Advanced configuration needed
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With a 650MHz CPU it handles standard switching tasks efficiently though complex routing may require careful planning. The QSFP28 port is versatile and can be used with various optical modules for different speeds.
While it has only 64MB RAM which is modest by modern standards it is sufficient for basic Layer 2 switching and simple routing. This model fits well in smaller server rooms or remote offices.
This device is ideal for extending your high-speed network where a full rack switch is overkill. It delivers the necessary connectivity for high-bandwidth uplinks in a smaller and easier to manage package.
QSFP28 Versatility
Supporting QSFP28 modules allows this switch to connect to 100G networks which is a rare feature for switches of this smaller form factor.
Cloud Router Switch OS
The RouterOS provides powerful software-defined networking features that allow for flexible configuration and automation of your network infrastructure.
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7. TRENDnet TEG-S50284 – Best Multi-Gigabit Access Switch
This TRENDnet switch focuses on multi-gigabit speeds offering 24 high-speed 2.5G RJ-45 ports for existing Cat5e cabling. It includes four ultra-fast 10G SFP+ ports for high-speed network connections and uplinks.
Pros
- High rating 4.8
- Multi-gigabit speeds
- Smart fan technology
- Lifetime protection
- NDAA compliant
Cons
- No native 25G ports
- Not managed for 25G
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Smart fans save energy by auto adjusting the fan speed and use based on cooling needs which keeps the noise down. The switch is secured with Lifetime Manufacturer Protection from TRENDnet ensuring peace of mind.
While it does not support 25G speeds directly it provides a cost-effective solution for adding 10G link capability and 2.5G access. NDAA and TAA compliance make it suitable for government customers in U.S. and Canada.
For small to medium businesses needing to upgrade beyond Gigabit without full fiber infrastructure this switch is a strong choice. Reliable tech support and rackmount ready design add to its practical appeal.
Multi-Gigabit Over Copper
Equipped with 24 high-speed 2.5G RJ-45 ports that provide multi-gigabit speeds capable of up to 2.5Gbps over existing Cat5e or better cabling.
Lifetime Protection
The TEG-S50284 Multi-Gig Switch is secured with Lifetime Manufacturer Protection from TRENDnet standing by their products with long-term reliability.
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8. TRENDnet TEG-3284WS – Best Web Smart Managed Switch
This web smart switch provides an easy-to-use web-based GUI management for reduced switch configuration complexity. It includes 24 high-speed 2.5G RJ-45 ports and four ultra-fast 10G SFP+ ports for high-speed network connections.
Pros
- Web Smart GUI
- Cloud service option
- NDAA compliant
- VLAN support
- Lifetime protection
Cons
- Low user rating
- Not true 25G
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Advanced managed features include access control lists VLAN IGMP snooping QoS and SNMP trap for monitoring. HIVE enabled cloud service allows you to remotely manage configure and diagnose this web smart switch via TRENDnet's cloud service.
While the user rating is lower than other models it offers a cost-effective solution in adding 10G link capability. NDAA and TAA compliant network switches allow you to plan and install the networking solutions that government customers demand today.
If you need flexible network integration with an intuitive interface this model serves SMBs well. The lifetime manufacturer protection provides extra security for your investment.
Web Smart Management
Provides an easy-to-use web-based GUI management for reduced switch configuration complexity and offers a combination of SMB management features for easy deployment.
Cloud Service
Remotely manage configure and diagnose this web smart switch via TRENDnet's cloud service allowing for management from any location.
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9. Dell EMC PowerSwitch N3224P-ON – Best PoE++ 25GbE Switch
This Dell EMC switch offers PoE++ support which is essential for powering high-demand devices. It includes 4 x 25 Gigabit SFP28 and 2 x 100 Gigabit QSFP28 for robust high-speed uplinks.
Pros
- PoE++ capability
- Layer 3 support
- Modular design
- SFP28 ports included
- Rack-mountable
Cons
- High power consumption
- Limited port count
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As a Layer 3 supported switch it enables advanced routing and segmentation which is useful for larger enterprise environments. The modular design allows for easy maintenance and upgrades to fit changing requirements.
While it consumes more power than some passive options this is standard for active PoE equipment. The 1U high rack-mountable design fits neatly into standard server racks without taking up too much space.
For environments where you need to power and connect devices with high-speed 25G backlinks this switch is a solid choice. The manageable nature ensures you can control traffic flow effectively.
PoE++ Support
PoE++ support allows you to power high-wattage devices directly from the switch eliminating the need for separate power supplies for each connected device.
Layer 3 Support
Supporting Layer 3 features allows for more advanced routing and network segmentation improving performance and security across your network.
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10. Cisco Nexus N9K-C92160YC-X – Renewed Data Center Switch
This renewed Cisco Nexus switch offers 48P 25GbE SFP28 ports which is a high density of 25G access points. It includes 6P QSFP+/QSFP28 for versatile uplink options and is renewed by Amazon qualified vendors.
Pros
- 48x 25GbE ports
- QSFP28 uplinks
- Renewed pricing
- Dual AC Power
- Cisco quality
Cons
- Renewed uncertainty
- Accessories may not be original
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This pre-owned product has been professionally inspected tested and cleaned ensuring it works as expected. Accessories may not be original but will be compatible and fully functional so you can start using it right away.
While the renewed status means it may come in a generic box the core functionality remains intact for your network. The dual AC power ensures reliability even if one power supply fails during operation.
If you need a high port count 25GbE switch at a lower price point than new units this model is a strong candidate. The high port count allows for many servers to connect directly without additional switches.
High Port Density
With 48P 25GbE SFP28 ports this switch can connect a large number of servers directly without requiring extra layers of switching.
Dual AC Power
The switch includes dual AC power which ensures reliability and redundancy for power delivery.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best 25GbE Switches with SFP28 Ports
Selecting the right switch involves balancing performance needs with budget constraints. Here are key factors to consider before making a purchase.
Port Types and Count
Ensure the switch offers enough 25GbE SFP28 ports for your servers. Look for QSFP28 uplinks to connect to the backbone network.
Switching Capacity
Check the switching capacity and forwarding rate to ensure the device can handle aggregate traffic without bottlenecks during peak usage.
Latency Performance
Low latency is critical for high-performance computing. Cut-through switching architecture helps minimize latency for faster data transmission.
Layer Support
Decide if you need Layer 2 or Layer 3 features. Layer 3 allows for routing and VLAN support which simplifies network segmentation.
Management Interface
Web GUIs and CLIs vary by vendor. A user-friendly interface reduces configuration time and helps manage complex networks effectively.
Power Consumption
Consider the power needs especially if deploying multiple units. Look for PoE support if you plan to power connected devices.
Reliability Features
Redundant power supplies and hot-swappable fans increase uptime. Ensure the switch has these features for mission-critical environments.
Future Scalability
Choose a model that supports future upgrades. Check for modular designs or open ports that allow for expansion as your needs grow.
How to Use and Care for Your 25GbE Switches with SFP28 Ports
Install the switch in a well-ventilated area to ensure proper cooling. Keep fans clean to prevent overheating which can reduce lifespan.
Configure VLANs and QoS settings to optimize traffic flow. Prioritize critical applications to ensure consistent performance.
Regularly update firmware to patch security vulnerabilities. Use monitoring tools to track port usage and detect errors early.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between SFP28 and QSFP28 ports?
SFP28 supports 25Gbps speeds while QSFP28 supports 100Gbps. QSFP28 is often used for uplinks due to its higher bandwidth capacity.
Can I use SFP28 ports with 10G modules?
Yes many SFP28 ports are backward compatible with 10G SFP+ modules. Check vendor documentation to confirm compatibility with your specific switch model.
Why is low latency important for 25GbE switches?
Low latency ensures faster data transmission which is critical for high-performance computing and real-time applications.
What are the benefits of Layer 3 features?
Layer 3 features allow for routing and VLAN segmentation which improves network efficiency and security by isolating traffic.
Do I need a managed or unmanaged switch?
Managed switches offer advanced control over traffic and security. Unmanaged switches are simpler but lack configurability for complex networks.
What is the typical power consumption for these switches?
Power consumption varies by model but expect higher usage for switches with PoE and high port counts.
How do I manage these switches remotely?
Use web interfaces or mobile apps provided by the manufacturer to manage and monitor switches from any location.
Are these switches compliant with government standards?
Some models offer NDAA and TAA compliance which is required for government projects. Check specific product specs for compliance details.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best 25GbE Switches with SFP28 Ports
We highlighted top models including the Cisco Nexus for overall performance and Mikrotik for premium features.
Prioritize port density and management features based on your specific network goals to ensure long-term satisfaction.
Always check current listings for pricing updates as these values fluctuate frequently in the market.