UBIQUITI UniFi Aggregation Switch Pro
4.5Editor score
4 x 25G SFP28 ports
28 x 10G SFP+ ports
Layer 3 managed features
In this guide
High-speed networking is essential for modern data centers and enterprise environments. A reliable switch with 25GbE capabilities ensures smooth data flow and supports demanding workloads like AI and cloud computing efficiently.
We analyzed ten top-rated switches to find the best options for 25GbE connectivity. Our comparison focuses on port configurations, management features, throughput, and real-world performance metrics for diverse IT needs.
Each selection highlights key strengths and potential limitations for specific use cases. Prices and availability may change, so verify current details before purchasing to ensure you get the right hardware for your infrastructure.
Top 3 Picks for Best 25GbE Switches with SFP28 Ports
Cisco Nexus N9K-C92160YC-X
4.8Editor score
48 x 25GbE SFP28 ports
Dual AC power supply support
High throughput data center grade
Mikrotik CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM
4.6Editor score
28 SFP28 25GbE ports
Quad-core ARM CPU power
100G QSFP28 uplinks
Top 10 Best 25GbE Switches with SFP28 Ports in 2026 Compared
This side-by-side comparison evaluates ten leading switches designed for 25GbE connectivity. We compare port counts, switching capacities, management capabilities, and physical specifications to help you choose the right model for your network infrastructure needs.
ProductsSpecificationsEditor scorePrice
Best Budget
QNAP QSW-M7230-2X4F24T-US
30 ports total
2 x 100G QSFP28
Layer 3 Lite managed
Non-blocking throughput
4.0Editor score
Editor's Choice
TRENDnet TEG-S50284
24 x 2.5G RJ45
4 x 10G SFP+
Lifetime protection
NDAA TAA compliant
4.8Editor score
Editor's Choice
Cisco Nexus N9K-C92160YC-X
48 x 25GbE SFP28
6 x QSFP+/QSFP28
Renewed condition
Dual AC power
4.8Editor score
Mikrotik CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM
28 SFP28 25GbE
4 x 100G QSFP28
Quad-core ARM CPU
4GB DDR4 RAM
4.6Editor score
UBIQUITI UniFi Aggregation Switch Pro
4 x 25G SFP28
28 x 10G SFP+
760Gbps capacity
Layer 3 managed
4.5Editor score
Dell EMC PowerSwitch N3224P-ON
24 PoE++ ports
4 x 25GbE SFP28
Layer 3 supported
Modular design
4.2Editor score
TRENDnet TEG-3284WS
24 x 2.5G RJ45
4 x 10G SFP+
Web smart management
Hive cloud service
3.4Editor score
MikroTik CRS518-16XS-2XQ-RM
16 x 25GbE SFP28
2 x 100G QSFP28
650MHz CPU
Cloud Router Switch
4.5Editor score
Cisco N9K-C93180YC-EX
48 x 25GbE SFP+
6 x 100G QSFP28
Cut-through switching
Renewed condition
5.0Editor score
D-Link DGS-1210-28
24 x Gigabit ports
4 x SFP combo ports
Layer 2+ managed
Lifetime warranty
4.4Editor score
1. Cisco Nexus N9K-C92160YC-X – Best for High Density Data Centers
Cisco Nexus N9K-C92160YC-X
48 x 25GbE SFP28
6 x QSFP+/QSFP28
Dual AC Power
Renewed Condition
This Cisco Nexus switch offers 48 ports of 25GbE connectivity ideal for dense server racks. As a renewed unit it provides enterprise grade performance at a reduced cost for budget conscious IT managers.
Pros
- High port density
- Low latency
- Flexible uplinks
- Proven hardware
- Renewed savings
Cons
- Used condition
- Limited warranty
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The architecture supports high throughput workloads with low latency switching. Uplinks via QSFP28 allow for 100G aggregation ensuring no bottlenecks as your network scales up over time.
Buying renewed means the unit was inspected but may lack full manufacturer warranty. However for lab or internal networks the risk is acceptable given the significant price advantage over new units.
Ideal for data centers needing bulk 25GbE ports without the new hardware cost. Choose this if you require Cisco NX-OS features and have reliable support or existing maintenance contracts.
High Density Connectivity
48 SFP28 ports allow massive server connections in a single 1U chassis.
Upgradable Uplinks
6 QSFP28 ports support 40G or 100G aggregation for future proofing.
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2. MikroTik CRS520 – Best Premium Performance Switch
Mikrotik CRS520-4XS-16XQ-RM
28 SFP28 25GbE
4 x 100G QSFP28
Quad-core ARM CPU
4GB DDR4 RAM
The MikroTik CRS520 delivers extreme performance with 28 ports of 25GbE and 4 of 100G. It targets advanced users needing programmable hardware and deep network control via RouterOS.
Pros
- Massive switching power
- 100G uplinks
- Programmable CPU
- Robust memory
- Flexible software
Cons
- Complex setup
- High price
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With a quad-core CPU and 4GB RAM it handles routing policies and traffic shaping efficiently. The switching capacity exceeds what most enterprise workloads require today ensuring longevity.
This switch is not for beginners; it demands knowledge of MikroTik software. The price point is premium reflecting the raw power and flexibility you gain for custom network architectures.
Buy this for high-performance computing or ISP edge routing where flexibility matters. It is perfect if you want to define custom pipelines and require significant uplink bandwidth.
Programmable Networking
Powerful CPU allows complex routing and filtering tasks directly on the switch.
100G Backbone
Four QSFP28 ports provide 100G links for core network aggregation.
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3. UniFi Aggregation Switch Pro – Best Value for Layer 3
UBIQUITI UniFi Aggregation Switch Pro
4 x 25G SFP28
28 x 10G SFP+
760Gbps capacity
Layer 3 managed
Ubiquiti offers this switch to bridge 10G and 25G networks seamlessly. It includes 28 SFP+ ports and 4 SFP28 ports supporting Layer 3 features for smart traffic management.
Pros
- UniFi ecosystem
- Layer 3 routing
- Sleek design
- Touchscreen UI
- Good value
Cons
- Limited 25G ports
- Proprietary ecosystem
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The UniFi controller makes management easy for existing users. You can route traffic between VLANs directly on the switch reducing server load. The touchscreen helps quick monitoring without login.
Note that only four ports run at 25G; the rest are 10G. For small to mid enterprises needing some 25G this is a cost effective way to start scaling uplinks.
Choose this if you already use UniFi or want an easy managed switch. It fits well in SMB setups needing better performance without complex CLI configurations.
Layer 3 Routing
Built-in routing helps optimize traffic flow across different network segments.
Easy Management
UniFi interface and touchscreen make setup and monitoring very user friendly.
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4. QNAP QSW-M7230 – Best for Hybrid Environments
QNAP QSW-M7230-2X4F24T-US
2 x 100G QSFP28
4 x 25GbE SFP28
24 x 10GbE RJ45
Layer 3 Lite
This QNAP switch supports 25GbE 10GbE and 100G uplinks on one unit. It targets storage and virtualization needs with lossless flow control to protect data integrity during transfers.
Pros
- Mixed port types
- Non-blocking
- NAS optimized
- Lossless flow
- Easy web GUI
Cons
- Limited routing
- Higher cost
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The 24 copper ports let you connect existing servers while adding four 25G SFP28 ports for faster uplinks. It handles large NAS deployments well with QoS and VLAN support.
It is labeled as Lite Managed meaning advanced routing is limited. Still for a storage focused setup the built-in features suffice. The price is higher reflecting the specialized port mix.
Buy this if your main goal is high-speed storage or virtualization. It fits storage clusters needing fast 25G links and robust copper connectivity without needing complex routing.
Storage Optimization
Lossless network features like PFC help prevent data packet drops during transfers.
Port Versatility
Mix of RJ45 and fiber ports adapts to varied existing infrastructure needs.
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5. Dell EMC N3224P-ON – Best for PoE++ and 25G
Dell EMC PowerSwitch N3224P-ON
24 PoE++ Ports
4 x 25GbE SFP28
2 x 100G QSFP28
Modular design
Dell EMC offers a switch that blends PoE++ for devices with high-speed 25G fiber uplinks. It serves campus networks where access points and cameras need power plus fast data links.
Pros
- PoE++ support
- High power budget
- 25G and 100G ports
- Modular
- Managed features
Cons
- Large size
- Power hungry
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The switch supports 100G QSFP28 for core connections ensuring your uplinks match growing backbone speeds. Modular design allows flexible configurations to fit changing IT requirements easily.
High power consumption is a trade-off for the PoE++ and high-speed support. Ensure your rack has adequate cooling and power supply. It is a robust solution for dense wired networks.
Ideal for campuses needing power delivery and high-speed aggregation. Choose this if you have many PoE devices and need to connect them to a fast 25G or 100G core.
PoE++ Capability
Supports higher power per port for advanced devices and heating elements.
Aggregation Ready
100G uplinks prevent bottlenecks when aggregating many high-speed access ports.
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6. Cisco Nexus 93180YC-EX – Best Renewed Enterprise Option
Cisco N9K-C93180YC-EX
48 x 25GbE SFP+
6 x 100G QSFP28
Cut-through switching
Hot-swappable PSUs
The Nexus 93180YC-EX is a powerful data center switch with 48 25GbE ports and six 100G uplinks. As a renewed unit it offers high performance for labs or internal testing environments.
Pros
- Very high density
- Low latency
- ACI support
- Redundancy
- Renewed price
Cons
- Used status
- Complex features
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Cut-through switching minimizes latency for time sensitive applications. VXLAN support enables virtualization and ACI allows simplified automation. Hot-swappable parts ensure maintenance without downtime.
Renewed items vary in physical condition but function fully. Verify the warranty details from the seller before buying. This model excels where density and routing capabilities are top priorities.
Use this for data center aggregation where ACI or virtualization is needed. It suits technical teams needing proven Cisco hardware at a fraction of new market pricing.
Virtualization Ready
VXLAN support makes it easy to build scalable and isolated network environments.
Low Latency
Cut-through switching ensures minimal delay for critical high-speed workloads.
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7. TRENDnet TEG-S50284 – Best 2.5G Multi-Gig Switch
TRENDnet TEG-S50284
24 x 2.5G RJ45
4 x 10G SFP+
Lifetime protection
Smart fans
TRENDnet offers this switch with 24 2.5G copper ports and 10G uplinks. While not 25GbE native it serves businesses upgrading from 1G to multi-gig speeds without new cabling.
Pros
- 2.5G ports
- 10G uplinks
- Lifetime warranty
- TAA compliant
- Smart cooling
Cons
- No 25G ports
- Basic features
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Four SFP+ ports provide fast uplinks to 25G or 10G gear. The lifetime protection plan adds peace of mind for small office deployments. It is cost effective and easy to manage.
Though it lacks 25G ports it connects to higher speeds via SFP+ modules. For teams wanting multi-gig access today and uplinks tomorrow this is a practical stepping stone.
Choose this for SMBs upgrading bandwidth needs. If you need 25G eventually pair it with a 25G capable switch via the SFP+ ports for a smooth transition.
Multi-Gig Access
2.5G ports deliver higher speeds over existing cabling without extra cost.
Lifetime Warranty
Protection plan adds value for small businesses without dedicated IT staff.
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8. TRENDnet TEG-3284WS – Best Smart Web Managed Option
TRENDnet TEG-3284WS
24 x 2.5G RJ45
4 x 10G SFP+
Web smart GUI
Hive cloud
This TRENDnet switch is a web managed unit with 2.5G and 10G ports. It provides basic VLAN and QoS controls suitable for businesses needing more than unmanaged gear.
Pros
- Web interface
- 2.5G speed
- VLAN support
- QoS features
- Cloud service
Cons
- No 25G ports
- Basic management
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Web management simplifies setup for small teams without CLI expertise. Hive cloud service allows remote monitoring though fees may apply. It works well for general office needs.
Like its sibling it lacks 25GbE but supports 10G uplinks. It fits environments where web-based control is preferred but deep analytics are not required.
Buy for offices upgrading from 1G needing basic smart features. It bridges the gap between unmanaged and enterprise managed switches at an accessible price.
Web Management
GUI interface lets users configure VLANs and QoS without command line.
Cloud Integration
Hive service offers remote insights for teams not always on site.
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9. MikroTik CRS518 – Best 16 Port 25G Switch
MikroTik CRS518-16XS-2XQ-RM
16 x 25GbE SFP28
2 x 100G QSFP28
Cloud Router Switch
RouterOS support
The CRS518 provides 16 ports of 25GbE with 100G uplinks. It is a compact option for edge or lab environments needing serious speed without bulk.
Pros
- 16 25G ports
- 100G uplinks
- Flexible software
- Compact size
- Good value
Cons
- Setup complexity
- Hardware limits
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MikroTik software enables detailed routing and firewall rules. The unit is cost effective for the port density you get. Ideal for enthusiasts or small data centers.
While powerful it still requires technical knowledge to configure fully. Ensure you understand RouterOS capabilities before deployment. It is a flexible choice for tailored network needs.
Choose this for labs or edge nodes needing 25G access. It fits when you want to build a custom routing topology at low cost.
Compact Power
Smaller chassis saves rack space while delivering high-speed port density.
Custom Routing
Full RouterOS suite allows deep control over packet flow and policies.
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10. D-Link DGS-1210-28 – Best Fanless Managed Switch
D-Link DGS-1210-28
24 x GbE ports
4 x SFP combo
Layer 2+ managed
Lifetime warranty
D-Link provides a fanless managed switch with Gigabit and SFP ports. It is silent and energy efficient making it ideal for quiet offices or retail spaces.
Pros
- Fanless silent
- Web managed
- Lifetime warranty
- NDAA compliant
- Low power
Cons
- No 25G ports
- Basic performance
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Web UI simplifies setup for basic VLANs and ACLs. Lifetime warranty offers long term security. NDAA compliance makes it suitable for government related projects.
This unit does not support 25GbE speeds but offers solid L2+ features. If your needs are Gigabit with some fiber uplinks it is a reliable and quiet choice.
Select for silent environments needing basic management. It is not for high 25G workloads but works well for general office connectivity.
Silent Operation
Fanless design ensures zero noise for noise-sensitive spaces.
NDAA Compliance
Meets regulatory standards for security and government projects.
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Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best 25GbE Switches with SFP28 Ports
Selecting a switch with 25GbE SFP28 ports requires understanding your network needs. Consider port count, switching capacity, and management features to match your environment.
Port Configuration
Ensure the switch has enough 25GbE ports for your servers. Some units offer only four ports while others provide forty eight for larger deployments.
Match the ports to your current cabling and server NICs to avoid compatibility issues or costly adapter purchases.
Uplink Speeds
Uplinks via QSFP28 or SFP+ must match your core network speed. Look for 100G uplinks if you plan to scale beyond current limits.
Fiber uplinks prevent bottlenecks when multiple 25G servers send data to storage or the internet simultaneously.
Switching Capacity
Switching capacity defines total data throughput. Aim for non-blocking capacity to ensure all ports can run at full speed.
Higher capacity guarantees stable performance during peak loads without dropped packets or latency spikes.
Management Features
Decide between managed and unmanaged switches. Managed units support VLANs QoS and routing needed for segmentation.
Layer 3 management allows internal routing reducing traffic to external routers and improving efficiency.
Power and Cooling
High speed switches consume more power and heat. Ensure your rack has adequate power and ventilation or consider fanless models for quiet spaces.
Check power supply options and redundancy needs to maintain uptime during power issues or failures.
Software Ecosystem
Consider vendor lock-in and support. Some brands integrate with controllers or monitoring tools you already use.
Open standards and CLI access help if you prefer custom scripts or multi-vendor environments.
Budget and Condition
Renewed switches lower costs but vary in warranty. New units offer full support and latest firmware out of the box.
Balance cost savings with risk tolerance based on whether the switch is for production or lab use.
Future Proofing
Choose a switch with spare ports or modular design to accommodate growth. This avoids replacing hardware soon after purchase.
Look for models supporting future upgrades like 100G ports to extend the investment life.
How to Use and Care for Your 25GbE Switches with SFP28 Ports
Install the switch in a ventilated rack with proper airflow. Connect 25GbE transceivers to SFP28 ports and ensure compatible cables are used for fiber optics.
Access the management interface via web browser or CLI to configure VLANs and routing. Update firmware regularly to maintain security and performance.
Monitor port statistics to detect errors or congestion. Clean fiber connectors periodically to prevent signal loss and maintain optimal throughput.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do 25GbE SFP28 ports support lower speeds?
Many SFP28 ports are backward compatible with 10G SFP+ transceivers. However not all vendors allow mixing speeds on the same port group so check the manual before connecting 10G devices.
What cables are needed for 25GbE?
You will need SFP28 compatible transceivers and either DAC cables for short distances or OM3 OM4 fiber for longer runs. Use quality cables to ensure stable signal quality.
Are these switches suitable for home labs?
Yes for enthusiasts and professionals running homelabs these switches offer great speed. However they may be expensive and require technical knowledge to set up.
Can I use these switches with non-Cisco gear?
Most enterprise switches use industry standards like Ethernet and VLANs so they work with non-Cisco gear. Avoid proprietary features like Cisco ACI if you mix vendors.
Do I need special server network cards?
Yes you need NICs supporting 25GbE SFP28. Older 10G cards will not reach full speed and may require adapters reducing performance.
What is the difference between 25G SFP28 and 100G QSFP28?
SFP28 ports run at 25G each and QSFP28 ports aggregate 100G. QSFP28 is used for uplinks while SFP28 connects individual servers or devices.
Are renewed switches reliable?
Renewed units are inspected and tested by vendors. They often function like new but may lack full manufacturer warranties so choose trusted sellers.
How do I manage these switches?
Most have web GUIs or command line interfaces. Some integrate with cloud or controller software for centralized management. Check documentation for login details.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best 25GbE Switches with SFP28 Ports
We reviewed ten switches offering 25GbE SFP28 ports suited for data centers and labs. The Cisco Nexus units excel in density while MikroTik offers powerful custom routing.
Prioritize port count uplink speeds and management features based on your specific workflow. Ensure compatibility with existing NICs and fiber standards.
Prices and stock change frequently so confirm current details before buying. Choose the model that balances performance and cost for your unique needs.