Top 7 Best PoE Switch For IP Cameras (Review & Buying Guide) USA In 2022

Thinking of installing IP cameras in your home or office? If yes then finding the best PoE switch for IP cameras will make your job a lot easier. Because you don’t want all the hassle of installing a different power outlet and cable for each of your IP cameras. It is both costly and impractical. So, what’s the solution? 

PoE switches. PoE stands for Power over Ethernet. PoE switches help to transfer power and ethernet over the same cable. It is both cost-effective and practical for PoE-enabled IP cameras. 

But if you are using one or two IP cameras and do not have a plan to upgrade then PoE switches can be overkill. Otherwise, PoE switches are the best available option for installing IP cameras. 

To make your task a lot easier, we are providing a list of 7 best PoE switches for IP cameras with their user experience, expert opinion, and a detailed buying guide for you. So, stay tuned. 

First, let’s have a look at our products and a short comparison between them. 

Best PoE Switch For IP Cameras

Comparison Chart 

IMAGE	PRODUCT	DETAILS
TP-Link 5 Port Gigabit PoE Switch	TP-Link 5 Port Gigabit PoE Switch	4 PoE+ Ports @65W | Desktop | Plug & Play | Sturdy Metal w/ Shielded Ports | Fanless | Limited Lifetime Protection | QoS & IGMP Snooping | Unmanaged	Rating:4.8 out of 5 Total Power:56W Each Port Power:15.4W Type:Unmanaged	Check On Amazon
NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit PoE Switch (GS108LP)	NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit PoE Switch (GS108LP)	8 x PoE+ @ 60W Upgradeable, Desktop, Wall Mount or Rackmount, and Limited Lifetime Protection	Rating:4.7 out of 5 Total Power:60W Each Port Power:25.5W Type:Unmanaged	Check On Amazon
NETGEAR 16-Port Gigabit PoE Switch (GS116PP)	NETGEAR 16-Port Gigabit PoE Switch (GS116PP)	16 x PoE+ @ 183W, Desktop, Wall Mount or Rackmount, and Limited Lifetime Protection	Rating:4.7 out of 5 Total Power:183W Type:Unmanaged	Check On Amazon
Cisco SG350-10P Managed Switch	Cisco SG350-10P Managed Switch	8 Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 Ports and 2 Gigabit Ethernet Combo SFP plus 62W PoE, Limited Lifetime Protection	Rating:4.6 out of 5 Total Power:62W Type:Managed	Check On Amazon
TP-Link 48 port gigabit PoE switch	TP-Link 48 port gigabit PoE switch	48 PoE+ Port @384W, w/ 4 SFP Slots | Smart Managed | Limited Lifetime Protection | Support L2/L3/L4 QoS, IGMP and LAG | IPv6 and Static Routing (T1600G-52PS)	Rating:4.7 out of 5 Total Power:384W Each Port Power:30W Type:Smart Managed	Check On Amazon
NETGEAR 26-Port PoE Gigabit (GS324TP)	NETGEAR 26-Port PoE Gigabit (GS324TP)	24 x PoE+ @ 190W, 2 x 1G SFP, Desktop or Rackmount, S350 series	Rating:4.8 out of 5 Total Power:190W Type:Smart Managed	Check On Amazon
IPCamPower 24 Port POE Network Switch	IPCamPower 24 Port POE Network Switch	Designed for IP Cameras | POE+ Capable of Pushing 30 Watts per Port | 250 Watts Total Budget	Rating:4.5 out of 5 Total Power:250W Each Port Power:30W Type:Unmanaged	Check On Amazon

Now, let’s discuss our products in detail. 

7 Best PoE Switch For IP Cameras In 2022

Choosing a few PoE switches from thousands of options is really a difficult task. But we can ensure that we have tested hundreds of  PoE switches in our studio and among them, these 7 seemed best. 

All of the products have been chosen based on their performance, reliability, features, and user experience.  

1. 4 Port PoE Switch For IP Cameras: TP-Link 5 Port Gigabit PoE Switch

Unique Features 

1. TP-Link 5 Port Gigabit PoE Switch’s smart cooling system is designed without a fan. So, you never have to worry about fan noise.  
2. It’s an easy setup process that needs no configuration. So, plug it and you are good to go. 
3. It is equipped with 4 PoE ports and 1 uplink port. Each PoE(802.3af) port can provide up to 15.4W of power. 
4. TP-Link 5 Port Gigabit PoE Switch has an auto-negotiate PoE power feature. So, it can connect to any non-PoE device without causing any damage. 

Specifications

Product Dimension(LxWxH)	3.94 x 3.86 x 0.98 inches
Material	Metal
Mounting Type	Wall Mount
Actuator Type	Push Button

User Experience

We have intensely tested TP-Link 5 Port Gigabit PoE Switch on our studio’s IP cameras. The results were amazing. Easy and hassle-free setup, reliable connection without disruptions, works with our non-PoE camera too. Moreover, because of its noise-free design and easy wall mounting system, we just plugged it and forgot it ever excited! 

That’s how good this switch works. We have also looked over its review on several forums and found out most IP camera users are satisfied with  TP-Link 5 Port Gigabit PoE Switch’s service. It’s even an amazon’s choice with a rating of  4.8 out of 5!

Editors Suggestion

So, the question is should you buy it? 

Yes, if you are using it for a small home or office security and no plan to buy more IP cameras. Because this product has only 4 ports. So, if you have a permanent home or office that can be covered with only 4 cameras then this would be the best choice.   

Moreover, consider the PoE power output and try to use all the IP cameras from the same manufacturer with this PoE switch. 

Price: Amazon

2. Best 8-port poe switch for ip cameras: NETGEAR 8-Port PoE Switch (GS108LP)

Unique Features

1. NETGEAR(GS108LP) has an energy-efficient design compliant with IEEE802.3az and a silent operation feature. So, it’s suitable for any environment. 
2. It has 8 PoE+ ports which consume 60W of power. Power can be expendable to 123W if needed. 
3. It has an easy setup process. So, no need to install any software or configure anything. Just plug and play. 
4. NETGEAR(GS108LP) has a lifetime hardware warranty and all the mounting equipment comes in the box.  

Specifications

Product Dimension(LxWxH)	9.8 x 1.7 x 17.3 inches
Material	Polycarbonate
Mounting Type	Wall or rackmount placement
Actuator Type	Push Button

User Experience

We have used this switch for quite some time. The results were satisfactory. The setup process needs no work. Typical power and play setup! Comes with good mounting material. The built quality seems good. But  Polycarbonate built made us question about its durability. 

However, the performance was up to mark. We have tested 8 IP cameras. All the connections were reliable. One thing to mention, although the website says all the ports were supplying 25.5W of power. But we have got only 15.4 W power output. Other than that it’s fine. 

We also looked on some of the forums about this product. Most IP camera users were satisfied with the PoE results. Moreover, it’s amazon’s choice product with a rating of 4.7! 

Editors Suggestion

Now, is this the product you have been looking for?

Well, it depends.  Apart from the durability question, everything seemed fine to us. So, if you need 5-6 PoE ports then this product might be for you. The power output and connection reliability seemed fine. Just use Netgear (GS108LP) with a little care. 

Price: amazon

3. 16 Port PoE Switch For IP Cameras: NETGEAR 16-Port(GS116PP)

Unique Features

1. Smart silent operation mode allows  NETGEAR 16-Port(GS116PP) to be noise-free with efficient cooling.   
2. 16 PoE+(IEEE802.3az) energy-efficient port with 183W power budget. 
3. It has an easy setup process and all 16 ports support Gigabit ethernet. 
4. Lifetime hardware warranty with free mounting gears in the box! 

Specifications

Product Dimension(LxWxH)	4.02 x 1.06 x 11.26 inches
Product Weight	1.94 pounds
Mounting Type	Wall mount or rack mount.
Actuator Type	Push Button

User Experience

The testing process of this switch was quite interesting for us. Because Netgear (GS116PP)  and Netgear (GS108LP) are almost similar products. The only difference we found was the number of ports and power input. 

So, the build quality and setup was usual. But it can be mounted with a desktop too. That’s a plus point. The silent working mechanism, not a gimmick. 

However, the performance was quite ok. It worked with all our PoE+ compatible cameras. But there might be some issues with basic cameras not supporting PoE+. Because we experienced some drop in connection after 180W. Other than that it worked fine. 

We also looked its user experience in some forums. Most of the Netgear (GS116PP) users were satisfied with its performance. It’s rated 4.7 on amazon.

Editors Suggestion

If you have more than 10 IP cameras then Netgear (GS116PP) might be a good choice for you. 

However, You should also consider the total power input of all your IP cameras. Because if it accedes 180W then this switch might not work properly. 

Other than that Netgear (GS116PP) is a good choice for medium-size office or home security IP cameras. 

Price: amazon

4. Best 24 port poe switch for ip cameras: IPCamPower 24 Port POE Network Switch

Unique Features

1. IPCamPower 24 Port POE Network Switch is a 26 port switch. It has 24 PoE ports and 2 additional uplink Gigabit ports. 
2. Each port is capable of  PoE+. So, it can push up to 30W(POE+ IEEE802.3af/at)  from each port. However, its smart mechanism can detect the amount of power a device needs and push power accordingly. 
3. It has a fanless quiet design and a small body. So no need to worry about noise or size. 
4. IPCamPower 24 Port POE Network Switch is easy to install and compatible with  PoE, PoE+, or basic cameras. So, it can connect to 24 different types of cameras without any hassle. 

Specifications

Product Dimension(LxWxH)	8 x 13 x 1.75 inches
Product Weight	5.24 pounds
Mounting Type	Rack mount.
Total Ports	26

User Experience

IPCamPower 24 Port POE Network Switch is one of the most impressive switches we have ever tested. 

It has a plug-and-play installation. The build quality is fine. Its size is surprisingly small considering the number of ports. So, you can either place it on a desk or mount it on a rack.  But it’s quite heavy. Considering the features, that’s ok.

Now, let’s talk about performance. IPCamPower 24 Port POE Network Switch is designed for IP cameras. So, the performance with our IP camera was amazing. We have connected different types of cameras to test it. It has given surprisingly good input every time. Even with non-PoE cameras! 

So, we found it to be a satisfactory product. Moreover, most of its users in different forums agree with our result. However, it has got a 4.5 rating on Amazon. 

Editors Suggestion

IPCamPower 24 Port POE Network Switch is one of the best switches for IP cameras. Considering the features and reliability this product is a lot cheaper. 

So, if you need a switch for more than 20 cameras, then this can be the perfect product. It’s good for a medium-sized office complex or apartment complex or even homes. 

also you may check my another article regarding unmanaged 24 port poe switch Best Unmanaged 24 Port PoE Gigabit Switch USA 2022

Price: amazon

5. Best managed poe switch: NETGEAR 26-Port PoE Smart Switch (GS324TP)

Unique Features

1. NETGEAR (GS324TP) Is equipped with 24 PoE+ ports and 2 uplinks 1G SFP ports. 
2. It has an advanced easy to use control and configuration GUI interface with refined control for secure setup, access, and SNMP (NMS 300) management.
3. It has  2 internal fans for cooling. But its whisper-free design makes the fan noises go away. 
4. NETGEAR (GS324TP) comes with all the mounting hardware and has a 5-year hardware warranty! 

Specifications

Product Dimension(LxWxH)	8.1 x 13 x 1.7 inches
Product Weight	5.93 pounds
Mounting Type	Rack mount.
Actuator Type	Push Button

User Experience

NETGEAR (GS324TP) is one of the few managed switches we have tested on our studio and the results were fine. 

NETGEAR (GS324TP) is big in size considering its competitors and it’s heavy too. But it is common considering its advanced features. The setup process was easy because of its easy GUI interfaces. But it made a loud noise when functional. However, the noise problem was solved after a firmware update. 

Now, Let’s talk about performance. We have connected 20 cameras including non-PoE and tested all of its features. All the ports worked fine and the connection was reliable. Moreover, its control features gave an extra security layer. So, plus point to that. 

We have talked to many of its users. Most of them were satisfied with its performance. But some users complained about fan noise.  If you have a large house you need a good quality router with Netgear (gs324TP) will be your best option.

Editors Suggestion

So, is it the right product for you? 

Yes, if you need a managed PoE switch for your IP cameras. NETGEAR (GS324TP) can be both used in a house or office. Its advanced management features make it suitable for any advanced security setup. 

Price: amazon

6.Cisco PoE switch for IP cameras: Cisco SG350-10P Managed Switch

Unique Features

1. 8 PoE ports with 2x1G uplinks (SFP) ports. All 8 ports support PoE, PoE+, PoE PD with a total 62W power budget. 
2. Easy configuration and control options with smart WebUI, CLI, SNMP, Cisco FindIT Network Manager, PnP, Auto Smartports, auto-discovery, zero-touch deployment features. 
3. Cisco SG350-10P Managed Switch supports advanced L2+/L3 features like Static routing, QoS, voice/guest VLAN, MSTP, IGMP snooping, time-based access control lists, 802.1x, Web-based Authentication, IPv6 First Hop-Security, IP Source Guard. 
4. It has a Limited lifetime  Hardware warranty with software support. 

Specifications

Product Dimension(LxWxH)	17.72 x 11.73 x 3.23 inches
Product Weight	4.80 pounds
International Protection Rating	IP00
Actuator Type	Push Button

User Experience

We have tested a variety of PoE switches. But never found anything as featureful as  Cisco SG350-10P Managed Switch. 

Cisco SG350-10P Managed Switch is quite a big sized switch and heavy too. But the build quality seemed solid to us. But we have not found any mounting equipment with it. The installation process was quite easy. Moreover, Cisco SG350-10P is awfully quiet considering the features it has. 

Cisco SG350-10P is one of the most advanced PoR switches for IP cameras. We connected all of it’s 8 ports to our cameras. The result was satisfactory. But we have experienced it buggy after crossing 55W. However, we tested all the advanced features and surprisingly they all work. 

We have also found contented users of this product on many forums. It’s an amazon’s choice product with a 4.6 rating.  

Editors Suggestion

Though Cisco SG350-10P is an advanced product. But it will be an overkill for most normal IP camera users. 

But if you are an advanced user and can use all these complex features then this might be the perfect 8 port PoE switch for your IP cameras. However, keep the low power budget in mind before purchasing this product.

Price: amazon

7. Best 48 port poe switch: TP-Link 48 port gigabit PoE switch

Unique Features

1. TP-Link 48 port gigabit PoE switch has 48 PoE+(802.3at/af) ports with up to 30W power from each port. In the PoE off mode, it consumes 46.5W only. 
2. It has smart security features like IP MAC Port Binding, Port Security, DoS Defend, Storm control, DHCP Snooping, 802.1X, and Radius Authentication. 
3. Supports advanced L2/L2+/L3/L4 features like Static Routing, QoS and IGMP snooping optimize voice and video applications.IPv6 support with dual IPv4/IPv6 stack, MLD snooping, IPv6 neighbor discovery. 
4. TP-Link 48 port gigabit PoE switch has 3 fans with a smart noise reduction design. 

Specifications

Product Dimension(LxWxH)	17.32 x 12.99 x 1.73 inches
Product Weight	13.5 pounds
Mounting Type	Rack Mount
Actuator Type	Push Button

User Experience

TP-Link 48 port gigabit PoE switch is one of the most magnificent switches we have ever tested. It is a smart-managed switch with top-notch performance. 

TP-Link 48 port gigabit PoE switch is quite a heavy and big switch. It’s quite normal. The build quality is quite robust. However, for a smart-managed switch, the setup process was just plugged and play!  But we didn’t get any mounting gears with it. 

No complaint about the performance. We left no stone unturned to test this product. Every time TP-Link 48 port gigabit PoE switch gave satisfactory results. We tested 4 types of  IP cameras and the connection was reliable with each of it. Moreover, we are really amazed about how quiet this was with 3 fans. 

We had looked at this product on many forums and seen no complaints from any users. TP-Link 48 port gigabit PoE switch has a 4.6 rating on Amazon. 

Editors Suggestion

TP-Link 48 port gigabit PoE switch is one of the most notable switches we have ever tested. But this product is not for every user. 

Because most home users do not need 48 IP cameras. Moreover, it’s expensive too. 

However, this product might be the best choice for big office and big apartment complexes. Its smart features make it more secure against cyber threats. 

Price: amazon

These are 7 of the best PoE switches for your IP cameras. We chose these switches with our years of experience in networking. Some of these products are still in use with us. Moreover, we suggest and use these switches while building our client’s network/security structure. So, you can buy any of these products without worrying. 

However, you still need to consider a few things before buying a PoE switch for your IP cameras. But what are they? 

How To Choose The Best PoE Switch for Security Cameras- Buying Guide

Before purchasing a PoE switch for security cameras, please consider the below factors 

1. Security Camera Power Consumption 

The power consumption of your security camera or IP camera depends on its type and manufacturer. However,  most IP cameras consume 15 Watts of power. But it can be as high as 20 Watts or as low as 3-4 Watts. 

So, before choosing any PoE switch find out how much power each of your camera consumes. Then multiply it with the number of cameras you are using. You will find the total power budget. 

Now find a PoE switch that has a higher power budget than your security cameras consume. Because if the power budget of your cameras are higher than your PoE switch then your connection will not work properly. You will experience losing video feed issues or overheating issues.  So, it’s wise to find out the power consumption first. 

2. PoE or PoE+ 

Whether to choose PoE or PoE+ is another important factor. 

Because PoE can push up to 15Watts of power while PoE+ can push up to 30Watts of power from each port. Moreover, PoE+ provides a faster and more stable connection than PoE. 

So,  find out the consumption of power of your camera and choose accordingly. But I would suggest PoE+. Because it’s more convenient and futureproof. 

3. Switch Power Supply Voltage 

PoE switch power supply voltage varies from switch to switch. Moreover, if you use different types of  IP cameras or use cameras from different manufacturers then your camera can have different voltage too.

Most IP cameras have either 12V or 24V of power. So, if you use more voltage than your camera can consume then your camera will either not work or can get fried. So, you need to find out your camera voltage and connect it to the same voltage power supply switch. 

If you use different types of camera then choose a PoE switch compliant with IEEE802.3af. Because it can both detect and adjust voltage according to your camera’s needs. 

4. Managed or Unmanaged Switch For IP Camera

The answer totally depends on your usage and preferences. 

Unmanaged switches are not configurable and lack security features sometimes. But they are cheap and reliable for most small homes or users. If you don’t want to play with the settings of your switch or don’t have any use for advanced features then you can choose unmanaged. 

However, managed switches offer a variety of configurable options and advanced features. So, it’s good for security. Managed switches are most compatible for big offices or advanced users. 

5. Number Of  Ports

The number of ports of a PoE switch is another important feature to consider. 

First, decide how many cameras you need. Then think if you have any plan for upgrading your security or not. After that, you will find out how many ports you need.

It’s wise to choose 4-5 extra port switches. Because it’s both futureproof and if any of the ports gets damaged then you can use another one. Moreover, try to buy a PoE switch with at least one Uplink port. 

6. Gigabit Ports or Not

Most switches come with Gigabit ports nowadays. But there are still many products that have 10/100 ports.   

You can choose either of them depending on your camera. But my suggestion would be to choose a Gigabit port. Because a 10/100 port PoE switch might cause bottleneck problems for your IP camera. As a result, your camera will not give output properly.  

These are the factors you must consider before buying a PoE switch for your IP cameras. But are PoE switches worth the price? 

Well, let’s find out.

Advantages of Using A PoE Switch For IP Cameras

Now let’s have a look at why you should choose a PoE switch over a normal switch for your IP cameras. 

1. More Convenient

PoE switches are more convenient for IP cameras. Because if you choose a normal switch then you have to give ethernet from one cable and use another power source cable for your IP cameras. So, 2 cables for each camera. Not to mention a separate power socket for each of your cameras.

But if you use a PoE switch then one cable will work as both. Meaning, less cable lying around your home and less power socket to look at. It will be both good for aesthetics for your home and convenient option.   

2. Easy and Cheap Installation

If you choose a normal switch then the cost for the switch might be lesser than a PoE switch. But keep in mind that you have to buy additional power connector cable for each camera, ethernet cable and install a different socket for each camera. So, the total cost will be much higher than a PoE switch. 

One the other hand, a PoE switch can save you a lot of money for additional power cable and sockets. Moreover, you do not need the hassle of setting up power sockets and cable work. So, easy installation as well. 

3. PoE switches are Safer

Most PoE switches use IEEE802.3af  technology. So, there is little or no chance of harming your camera if you use a PoE switch. 

On the other hand, a normal Voltage up or down in your power grid can fry your cameras. Moreover, it is not a good idea to install a socket for your IP cameras outside your house. Because in the time of natural disasters these sockets can cause accidents.

So, a PoE switch is a lot safer than other options. 

4. Uninterrupted Connection

If you use a UPS with your PoE switch then you can have uninterrupted conception. Because they will still work in case of a power shortage or blackout. 

One the other hand, non PoE switches can not power your camera with even an UPS. So, your security system might break in the time of a blackout. 

5. More Reliable Than Wireless IP Camera System

If you don’t want to use any switch then you might set up a wireless IP camera system. But there is a catch. 

Because no matter how expensive your wireless IP camera is. It will still cause latency and a lot of disruptions in the video feed. As a wired connection is always more reliable and stronger than a wireless one. So, using a wired system and a PoE switch is always a wise idea. 

Here are some related questions and their answers on PoE switch for home

FAQs

1. Q-Which is the best home PoE switch? 

Ans: It completely depends on your needs. But it is suggested to buy a switch with IEEE802.3af  technology, more number of ports and Power consumption than you need qand gigabit ports. 

2. Q- Do I need a gigabit switch for IP cameras?

Ans: Though most IP cameras use 100 Mbps and do not need a gigabit switch to be operational. But If you choose a PoE switch then a gigabit switch will be good to avoid your system from bottleneck problem. 

3. Q-Do I need a managed switch for IP cameras?

Ans: Though a managed PoE switch is better for connecting a different range of products and controlling them. But for normal home uses and only IP cameras a managed PoE switch can be an overkill. So, if you use the switch for different ranges of devices and like to configure your network then go for it. Otherwise, you don’t need a managed switch.  

4. Q- How do I use a PoE switch for IP cameras?

Ans: Most PoE switches have plug and play setup. So,

• Connect the switch with your LAN via ethernet cable.
• Plug all your IP cameras with ethernet PoE cables.
• Power it up 
• Add them to a NVR to view and record. Then you are good to go. 

5. Q- Which is the best cheap PoE switch for IP cameras? 

Ans: PoE switches are one vital part of your IP camera network. So, I would not suggest a cheap PoE switch. Because they might be good for the short term. But they will make you suffer in the long term. 

Editors Pick 

All the PoE switches in this article are good for any home or office. But as a network professional myself I would choose IPCamPower 24 Port POE Network Switch for IP cameras. The reasons are 

IPCamPower 24 Port POE Network Switch

• This PoE switch is designed for IP cameras and it has proved that on our testing. 
•  IPCamPower 24 Port POE Network Switch has a surprisingly short footprint. So, you can put it anywhere you like and use it on both home and office. 
• This product is cheaper than most of its competitors. But offers the same value. So, it is one value-for-money product. 

Conclusion

These are 7 of the best PoE switches for IP Cameras In 2022. This article is written to help you guys understand PoE switches and choose the best one for yourself. So, we have added a lot of additional information for your betterment. 

All of the PoE switches are best in their category. So, choose one for your IP cameras according to your need. Just remember to purchase the product from a valid source.

Last of all, stay connected to our blog for more informative articles like this.  

Also, don’t forget to check our article about best wireless router for two story house and will wireless router work without internet.