6 Best Network Switch for Gaming in 2021 (Reviews and Guide)

There is a huge array of network switches on the market today, and this review will give you an idea of the best network switches for gaming.

Imagine having a lag-free, smooth, and interference-free gaming experience, every time you launch yourself into the gaming world, wouldn’t that be the best experience ever? Well, you get to experience that with the right network switch for gaming.

One of the best investments that you will ever make as a gamer is to invest in the best network switch designed for gaming. Basically, as long as you have a busy wireless network, you have to get network switches for the fastest and the most reliable network speeds. But with an expanding market and each brand of network switches trying to win you over, which are some of the best gaming network switches for you?

In this review, we will take a look at some of the best options of network switches on the market – these switches are future-proof, and the best part is that they will help boost the performance of your network by ensuring that you enjoy the smoothest, most uninterrupted gaming sessions.

Comparison Table of the Best Network Switch for Gaming

Best Network Switch for Gaming
Best For
Number of Ports
Port Type
Switch Type
Price
Netgear Nighthawk S8000
Best Overall Gaming Network Switch
8
Gigabit
Smart
TRENDnet TEG-S24DG
Best for the most reasonable multiple number of ports
24
Gigabit
Unmanaged
NETGEAR GS108
Most Robust Network Switch for Gaming
8
Gigabit
Unmanaged
TP-Link TL-SG108 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch
Excellent traffic optimization
8
Gigabit
Unmanaged
NETGEAR 24-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (JGS524
Best 24-Port Network Switch
24
Gigabit
Unmanaged
Ubiquiti UniFi Switch – 24 Ports Managed (US-24-250W)
Best Managed Switch
24
Gigabit + 2SFP ports
Managed

 

Reviews of6 Best Network Switches for Gaming

  1. Netgear Nighthawk S8000 – Best Overall Network Switch

NETGEAR Nighthawk S8000 Gaming & Streaming Advanced 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch (GS808E)
  • ETHERNET PORT CONFIGURATION: 8 Gigabit ports
  • CONFIGURATION & CONTROL: Management software with easy-to-use GUI interface offers basic capabilities to...

With a sleek, stealth-like design, this Netgear Nighthawk S8000 is one of the best network switches in the gaming world, and though you may not have expected sleek and stealth designs from Netgear, the features of this switch will assure you that you have absolutely nothing to worry about.

One of the features that stands out from the switch is the RGB LED controls, which are customizable, and meant the best level of performance.

It’s built-to-last, thanks to the zinc-alloy external housing, and it feels super-cool to touch while keeping the internal components very safe.

The 8 Gigabit ports meant that you have access to dedicated gaming ports, and you will have many more devices connected.

Regarding noise levels, you won’t have to worry about keeping the switch close because it offers a super-quiet fan-less operation. So, even in noise-sensitive environments, you can still use the switch with ease.

The most impressive feature, however, is the switch’s ability to lower the network’s latency. It operates at speeds below 3.2 microseconds at 1Gbps, which means faster and more stable gaming sessions.

Something else to note is that this switch is a smart network switch, and this means that it comes with a number of features missing from the managed and unmanaged network switches, for example, Quality of Service, and basic VPN capabilities, which offer device prioritization and advanced security features.

The best feature of this switch, however,  has to be the dashboard, which has been designed specifically for use by gamers. With the dashboard,  you will have real-time access to network statistics and insights, auto-diagnostics, and the best part – almost zero latency.

You might also like the 3-year warranty which gives you peace of mind.

Pros

  • Low latency, less than 3.2Gbps at 1gGbps
  • Responsive streaming and gaming
  • Zinc-alloy durable desktop housing
  • Fan-less, super-quiet operation
  • Smart managed plus gaming network switch
  • Easy configuration and control
  • 3-year warranty
  • Built to last
  • 2 LAGs, maximum of 4 users/ members per LAG
  • 1Gbps data transfer speed

Cons

  • No advanced security features
  • Expensive

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  1. TRENDnet TEG-S24DG – Best for the most reasonable multiple number of ports

TRENDnet 24-Port Unmanaged Gigabit GREENnet Desktop Switch, Ethernet Network Switch, 24 x 10-100-1000 Gigabit Ethernet RJ-45 Ports, 48Gbps Switching Capacity, Lifetime Protection, Black, TEG-S24DG
  • ETHERNET PORT CONFIGURATION: 24 Gigabit RJ 45 ports provide high speed network connections to devices and...
  • DESKTOP DESIGN: Sturdy metal Ethernet desktop switch with built in power supply is well suited for...

If you are looking for a network switch that offers the best level of connectivity for your gaming devices, as well as all the other devices in your home, then this 24-port switch would be a good option for you.

All the ports on this switch are Gigabit ports offering super high-speed network connections across your devices as long as they are plugged in. It boasts a switching capacity of 48Gbps, allowing for the smoothest data flow while reducing bottlenecks.

Then you have the fan-less design, which means quieter operation, and energy efficiency.  Its energy efficiency is further enhanced by TRENDnet’s embedded GREENnet technology, a technology that saves on cost and lowers power consumption by as much as 70%. This level of energy efficiency is made possible by the fact that you get to limit the ports’ power consumption during low-link utilization periods. It further allows you to keep the consumption of power low by keeping connected devices in stand-by mode, hence less power usage. And since the switch is capable of detecting the length of every Ethernet cable connected to the switch, energy efficiency is further improved by the use of shorter Ethernet cables.

As an unmanaged network switch, the plug-and-play setup is straightforward. And this full-duplex switch boasts a maximum data transfer speed of 2000Mbps.

You might also like the lightweight and compact housing for the switch, along with the LED light indicating activity, link, and power.

Pros

  • High level of energy efficiency
  • 24 RJ-45 Ethernet ports
  • 10/100/1000Mbps ports capacity
  • 48Gbps switching power
  • Great desktop design
  • Excellent bandwidth performance
  • Low-noise operation
  • Smart energy conservation technologies, including cable length detection
  • An unmanaged system with the easiest plug and play operation
  • 2Gbps maximum data rate

Cons

  • No brackets for network rack installation

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  1. NETGEAR GS108 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch – Most Robust Network Switch for Gaming

NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS108) - Desktop or Wall Mount, and Limited Lifetime Protection
  • 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports
  • Simple plug-and-play setup with no software to install or configuration needed

The best network switches for gaming are tough, high-performance switches designed to last a while, making sure that you enjoy the best gaming experiences at all times. This NETGEAR GS108 network switch matches that description perfectly, and it is one of the best network switches in the gaming world.

It boasts a sturdy design, and it’s quite capable of handling heavy gaming traffic with ease – this sturdy design comes from the rugged metal chassis, along with the Kensington lock port. The 8 RJ-45 ports are all positioned at the back, which means that you wouldn’t have to worry about clutter from cables on the desk’s front side. This switch is built to last.

This switch is also quite easy to use thanks to the plug-and-play design, as well as the internet splitter, which boasts its performance.

According to Netgear, this network switch offers 16Gbps switching from different designs, and it has its own management software for enhanced overall performance. It might be exactly what you need if you are looking for a utility to help you find network switches for advanced gaming.

You may also like this network switch because of ProSAFE lifetime network protection, designed to keep your network and traffic safety at all times.

The other impressive features of this router include its versatile setup – either mount it on the wall or place it on the desktop, as well as the silent operation thanks to its fan-less design that means zero added noise. It’s quite energy-efficient, too, as it’s designed for optimized power usage and compliant with the energy-efficient IEEE802.3az Ethernet modes.

Pros

  • Durable network switch built to last
  • Wall or desktop mounting
  • Eight reliable gigabit Ethernet ports
  • Power saving
  • Whisper-quiet operation
  • Plug-and-play operation
  • Smart cloud integration
  • High switch speeds from 10/100M to 10G
  • Data transfer rate of 100Mbps

Cons

  • No Auto DoS or Storm control network security features
  • Lacks GUI web management
  • Limited warranty

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  1. TP-Link TL-SG108 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Network Switch – Excellent traffic optimization

TP-Link TL-SG108 | 8 Port Gigabit Unmanaged Ethernet Network Switch, Ethernet Splitter | Plug & Play | Fanless Metal Design | Shielded Ports | Traffic Optimization | Limited Lifetime Protection
  • One Switch Made to Expand Network 8× 10/100/1000Mbps RJ45 Ports supporting Auto Negotiation and Auto...
  • Gigabit that Saves Energy Latest innovative energy-efficient technology greatly expands your network...

This unmanaged plug-and-play network switch might be exactly what you need for the best gaming experience, especially because it boasts the best features for traffic optimization. Some of the technologies incorporated into this network switch include 802.1p and the DSCP QoS functions. Both these technological elements are designed to offer the smoothest latency-sensitive traffic for gaming (audio and video). It further sports a reliable IEEE 802.3x flow control that ensures the most reliable data transfers.

Its plug-and-play operation makes it easy to use, and the 8 gigabit Ethernet ports plus the auto-negotiation RJ45 ports will ensure easy network capacity expansion. Note that the auto-negotiation function supports the auto MDI/MDIX functions, which means that it eliminates the need for cross-over cables.

And for durability, you have the sturdy metallic casing, which provides the best level of whisper-quiet, fan-less operation. The metal casing withstands temperature extremes at 0 degrees Celsius and 40 degrees Celsius. It offers wall and desktop-mounting options.

Regarding energy efficiency, you will be happy to know that this network switch boasts a large power-saving capacity of up to 80%. It will automatically adjust the power consumption based on the cable length and the link status.

Pros

  • Shielded ports
  • Lifetime protection
  • Sturdy metal design
  • Traffic optimization
  • Eight ports
  • Energy efficient
  • Excellent performance and network expansion
  • Reliable gigabit speeds
  • 8X the non-blocking gigabit ports for instant data/ large file transfers
  • QoS for gaming traffic prioritization
  • Plug-and-play operation
  • IGMP snooping for optimized experiences
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Runs a little too loud
  • No SNMP support
  • Could use foam filters for vents

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  1. NETGEAR 24-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (JGS524) – Best 24-Port Network Switch

NETGEAR 24-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (JGS524) - Desktop or Rackmount, and Limited Lifetime Protection
  • 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports
  • Simple plug-and-play setup with no software to install or configuration needed

With support for 24 Ethernet ports, this network switch is one of the most versatile gaming network switches on the market today, and the best part is that it runs very silently.

Its plug-and-play operation means easy setup. The silent operation means zero-added noise. And you can mount it on the desktop or the rackmount placement that comes with the switch.

Something else to note is that this switch is built to last thanks to the sturdy and high-quality casing. It’s also energy efficient with an IEEE802.11az rating.

Pros

  • Quiet operation
  • Energy efficient
  • Ease of use
  • Simple plug-and-play operation
  • Easy PoE model selection
  • High-speed operation up to 1Gbps
  • Flexible ports for varying speeds ranging from 10Mbps, 100Mbps, and 1000Mbps
  • The switches can blast high speeds up to 2Gbps
  • Reliable switches

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Speed isn’t consistently high at 1Gbps

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  1. Ubiquiti UniFi Switch – 24 Ports Managed (US-24-250W – Best Managed Switch

Ubiquiti UniFi Switch - 24 Ports Managed (US-24-250W),White
  • The UniFi Switch delivers the forwarding capacity to simultaneously process traffic on all ports at line...
  • Product dimensions – 19.09” L x 11.24” W x 1.72” H | Ports quantity – 24 | Background noise...

This 24-port managed Ubiquiti Switch might be one of the more expensive network switches on the market today, but it offers excellent features that make the switch totally worth the extra bucks.

It boasts a simple and super-sleek design that boosts its performance. There are 24 ports for you to play around with and two extra SFP ports that will come in handy if you need extra ports, just because you need to connect your devices using Ethernet cables or fiber optics. All the ports on this switch are capable of pushing through POE+/ 802.1af plus 802.1, at the high (expected) POE standards. So, if you need to push more power, this switch will get it done.

The UniFi controller software is easy to work with, boasts a simple setup, and it allows for the best management system for your whole network.

Pros

  • Great UniFi controller software for ease of management
  • Simple and sleek design
  • 24-ports capacity
  • 2 SFP ports
  • Excellent performance
  • 52Gbps switching capacity
  • Auto-sensing POE+
  • 250W power

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Runs hot and noisy

View Price on Amazon


Ultimate Buying Guide for the Best Network Switch for Gaming

What do you need to look out for when buying a network switch for gaming?

A network switch refers to the communication device used to distribute data over the cable networks. It comes as a box with a number of Ethernet ports or, in other cases, fiber optics ports that look like hubs.

But be careful not to confuse the network switch with the light switch or the Nintendo switch because unlike these two, the network switch is a systemic box that allows you to connect directly to your home router for access to more Ethernet ports. It works like a high-functioning USB hub for networking.

While most routers for home and office use often come with three or even four built-in Ethernet ports for wired connections to game consoles, streaming boxes, laptops, etc., WiFi is almost always enough for most of these households and the need for a network switch non-existent.

However, if your router doesn’t have enough Ethernet ports or if you need more gaming devices connected, you will need the best Network Switch. This switch will also come in handy if you need more ports added to avoid network restriction on your gaming devices.

So, which is the best network switch for you?

Number of ports

The primary consideration for you to keep in mind in the search for the best gaming network switches is the number of ports, or rather, the total number of devices that can connect to the switch.

For the most part, you need a network switch with the largest possible device capacity, even though you may end up having only one or two gaming PCs connected.

By buying a network switch with more ports, you get to connect more devices over the Ethernet ports for a higher level of performance. So, you have to choose carefully – some network switches have four ports, and others will have as many as 48 ports. The 48 ports would be overkill, though! Opt for a network switch with 8-24 ports.

Types of Network Switches

  • Managed

Network switches are either managed or unmanaged. The unmanaged network switches sport a plug-and-play functionality, and their switch operation can’t be modified.

Such network switches come pre-configured by the manufacturer, but you wouldn’t have to worry about its setup – just plug and play. Since these switches allow for a maximum of two connected devices communicating with each other, they are a good gaming option for gaming PCs because that is pretty much what you need for an unbridled gaming experience.

  • Unmanaged

On the other hand, you have the managed network switches which offer better management options, and they also allow for network prioritization, plus LAN traffic monitoring. These managed switches also come with at least one way of modifying the switch operation, and the best part is that you get to connect the switch to your home network with ease, thanks to protocols such as SNMP.

Network management is easy, and it allows you to give priority to specific devices; in terms of the bandwidth, they can access your network from which you can access the switch remotely via a GUI or a command line. What this means is that these managed network switches allow for remote access and control.

  • Intelligent Network Switches

In between the managed and the unmanaged switches, you have the intelligent switches. These tend to be inexpensive, and they offer more control than the unmanaged switches. These intelligent/ smart switches provide an excellent balance between features and the cost, and they work well for most people.

Switch’s Performance

You shouldn’t buy a network switch before you review the features it offers, and speed is the primary factor for you to keep under consideration.

Since you will use the switch as a connector between your gaming PC and the router, make sure that the switch you choose to settle on allows for the transfer of large data packets at a very high rate. Otherwise, you will have to struggle with a lag during the online sessions, and we all know that a gaming session with lags is an obvious recipe for a loss.

With this in mind, opt for a switch that comes with Gigabit ports because these allow for gigabit speeds, which translate to the best gaming performance.


FAQs

Should you connect multiple network Switches?

This isn’t always the norm, but if you need to, then you should look out for network switch models that feature SFP uplink ports for SFP modules to ensure optimal connectivity and performance.

How many devices can you connect to your network?

At the end of the day, the total number of devices that you can comfortably connect to the switch depends on the number of devices you have. If you anticipate adding more devices in the future, buy a network switch with more ports.

Why are the 10-gigabit Network switches so damn expensive?

Well, these switches will be used primarily with high-powered equipment via fiber optics, and because of the 10-gigabit networks over copper design, they are pricey.


Conclusion

The network switches reviewed above are some of the best gaming network switches on the market. They come with just the right number of ports, run quietly, are durable, offer high data transfer speeds and switching capacity, and they have more than enough power to drive excellent performance for extended periods.

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