NETGEAR GS108 vs. GS308 – Which is the better unmanaged Ethernet switch?

Some of the high performing and top quality unmanaged switches that are preferred by home owners, gaming enthusiasts, and business owners alike, are the NETGEAR GS108 and the NETGEAR GS308. But, how do they compare against each other?

A strong, stable, and reliable internet connection is an utmost necessity in this day and age. If you want to achieve this, one of the devices you may need is an unmanaged switch. NETGEAR is one of the most reputable brands in the network & telecommunication industry that provides and operates trustable unmanaged network switches. But there are two contested models- the GS108 and the GS308. Now, which of the two seamlessly meets your respective needs? Read on to find out from our detailed analysis of the similarities and differences of the two unmanaged switches.

What are the differences between NETGEAR GS108 and NETGEAR GS308?

NETGEAR GS108 vs. GS308 – How do they differ?

Speed and Performance

The NETGEAR GS308 gives you the chance to choose between fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet connectivity depending on the network connection and your respective internet needs. The NETGEAR GS108, on the other hand, is strictly limited to Gigabit Ethernet only. In addition to that, with the NETGEAR GS308 you will not get switched down or have your internet speeds limited because you have a switch option to counter this effect. This means that the NETGEAR GS308 is the better option for a stable, faster, and more reliable Ethernet connection than the GS108.

Energy Efficiency Features

Generally, the NETGEAR GS308 is a more energy efficient unmanaged switch than the NETGEAR GS108. The technology used in building the GS308, that is the Energy Efficient Ethernet, actively reduces power consumption by 50% during periods of low data activity. This simply means that the GS308 can help you get so much more done with very little power, hence the best choice when it comes to power consumption and performance.

Range Coverage and Technical Support

When it comes to range coverage and technical support, the GS308 has a competitive advantage over the GS108. It offers great Wi-Fi coverage and attempts to eliminate Wi-Fi dead zones around your home. Also, you get full time access to 24/7 technical support from NETGEAR whenever any issue arises. However, you may not get 24/7 support with the GS108 because it has been discontinued.

NETEGAR GS108 vs. GS308 – A Comprehensive Overview

NETGEAR GS108 Review

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

Check Price

If you are trying to boost your daily internet productivity, then you would be impressed with everything the GS108 has to offer. This 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet unmanaged switch is the most ideal option for heavy internet users who want to break a particular connection between various network devices. It simply provides better connectivity to your gaming router or modem, allowing for extra wired connections.

One of its most notable features is the plug-and-play feature which makes the setup and installation process very easy. Another aspect that you can consider is the power saving mode on this switch that significantly reduces the power consumption when the network cable isn’t connected. Unfortunately, it only supports a 1KB buffer, meaning that it isn’t an idea device for use in offices and company structures. When it comes to performance, you will get a Gigabit connection on each port connected to the switch to ensure seamless and fast internet connectivity to all the connected devices. Further, you can plug in smart TVs, gaming consoles, Wi-Fi routers, laptops, and even PCs to enjoy super-fast networking speeds.

Pros

• Quick and easy installation
• Fast and reliable internet connection
• Durable and sturdy build
• Convenient
• Fanless design, hence smooth and quiet operation

Cons

• Older model
• Firmware issues

Check Price on Amazon

NETGEAR GS308 Review

NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch (GS308) - Home Network Hub, Office Ethernet Splitter, Plug-and-Play, Silent Operation, Desktop or Wall Mount

• 8 Gigabit Ethernet ports
• Simple plug-and-play setup with no software to install or configuration needed

Check Price

The new GS308 Ethernet switch is one of NETGEAR’s SOHO family of 8-port Gigabit Ethernet switches and it is the only network switch in this category that is housed in a metal chassis. When it comes to the design structure, the NETGEAR GS308 isn’t too big so installation shouldn’t be a problem, even in the tightest of places around your home. To ensure proper grip when placed on a surface, the switch comes with 4 sticky rubber feet attached to the unit’s underside. Using the two notches on the lower part of the metallic housing, you can also mount the switch to a wall vertically. Along with that, there are status LEDs on the front panel that allow you to keep track of the connection and system power status.

Among its most notable features include a mean time between failures of 365,500 hours, an 8000-entry MAC table, and a 192KB memory buffer. Compared to all other network switches in its category, it has the largest memory buffer meaning that this switch can store so much more information before it is passed to the anticipated destination. Because of this feature, large workloads can be processed seamlessly through this network switch all at once.

Pros

• Durable and aesthetically pleasing design
• Easy to set up and install
• No overheating issues
• Fanless design, hence smooth and quiet operation
• Excellent performance

Cons

• Doesn’t feature a reset button
• Quite bulky

Check Price on Amazon

Conclusion

The NETGEAR GS108 and the NETGEAR GS308 are both high-performing 8-Gigabit Ethernet unmanaged switches. They are designed to accommodate anyone who is invested in high bandwidth applications and in multiple smart devices around their home and are looking to expand their network.

Verdict: So, which is better – the NETGEAR GS108 or the NETGEAR GS308?

With all factors considered, the NETGEAR GS308 is a better-unmanaged switch than the NETGEAR GS108. It provides a more stable and extremely reliable network to meet all your anticipated network needs. Besides that, it offers maximum energy efficiency and it is a more affordable option compared to the GS108.

FAQs

1. Where does the input go on the GS308 unmanaged switch by NETGEAR?

Feel free to use any one of the 8 ports for the input.

2. Does the NETGEAR GS108 support POE?

No, the NETGEAR GS108 does not support POE.

3. Do these unmanaged switches give off Wi-Fi?

No, they do not. They only give off ‘Ethernet’ connections. If you want Wi-Fi, you can consider purchasing a Wi-Fi router or modem.