Finding the best network switch means choosing one that keeps your business fast, secure, and ready to grow. From high-performance ethernet switches to more cost-effective options, the right choice depends on your needs. Meter delivers fully managed network switches, so you get enterprise-grade performance without the issues.

What you'll get from our article:

• The top 12 network switch brands for different use cases
• Key features to consider when choosing a switch
• The different types of switches and when to use them
• How Meter is your business's best choice

The best network switch brands at a glance

How we picked the best network switch brands

A good network switch does more than shuffle packets from one port to another. It keeps your network fast, secure, and ready for whatever you throw at it. Some brands focus on brute-force speed, while others lean into automation, security, or scalability. We dug into what matters most—so you don’t have to.

Performance and reliability

A switch that buckles under heavy traffic isn’t worth its rack space. The best models handle high-speed data transfers without slowing down, whether it’s gigabit, multi-gigabit, or even 100G speeds. Enterprise switches need consistent uptime, so low failure rates and smart traffic management were key factors in our selection.

Scalability

Networks evolve, and nobody wants to rip out hardware just to add more users. Stackable switches, modular designs, and flexible port configurations make it easier to expand without headaches. Some brands excel at scaling, while others work best for fixed, smaller networks. Enterprise switches often support stacking or modular designs, making it easier to expand without downtime.

Management features

Managed switches let you control traffic, create VLANs, and optimize performance. Some models take it further with cloud-based dashboards, remote troubleshooting, and AI-driven analytics. If your network needs fine-tuned control, certain brands stand out for their management tools.

Security capabilities

Open ports and weak encryption are an invitation for trouble. Strong security features—like access control lists (ACLs), 802.1X authentication, and intrusion detection—help keep unauthorized users out. Some switches even come with built-in threat intelligence, automatically blocking suspicious activity before it causes damage.

Other factors considered

Power over Ethernet (PoE)

If you’re running security cameras, Wi-Fi access points, or VoIP phones, PoE support is worth a look. It delivers power and data over the same cable, cutting down on extra wiring and adapters. Some brands go all-in on PoE, offering higher wattage and smarter power distribution.

High port density

More ports mean more connected devices—without needing extra switches. For growing networks, models with 24, 48, or even higher port counts make expansion easier. Some brands also include multi-gigabit ports for devices that need more than standard gigabit speeds. A server switch links multiple servers in a data center, providing plenty of ports and fast connections to keep data moving without delays.

Easy setup and configuration

Not every network admin wants to dig through a command-line interface just to configure a VLAN. Some brands prioritize user-friendly dashboards, auto-configuration, and smart defaults that make setup painless. Others cater to networking pros who prefer deep customization. We included both.

Energy efficiency

Networking hardware runs 24/7, which means energy consumption adds up. Some switches include intelligent power management, automatically adjusting power usage based on traffic. This keeps energy bills down and reduces heat output—good for both budgets and server rooms.

Vendor support

Firmware updates and customer support can make or break a brand’s reputation. Some vendors provide long-term software updates and 24/7 support, while others leave users scrambling for community forums. We factored in how well brands support their products over time.

Cost vs. value

A $50 switch might work fine for a home office, but a data center needs serious hardware. We looked at pricing across different tiers—budget-friendly, mid-range, and enterprise-grade—to highlight the best options at every level. Value matters more than just cost, so we weighed features against price to find the best picks.

The 12 best network switch brands

Not all network switches are built the same. Some focus on speed, others on security, and a few try to balance everything. We rounded up the top 12 brands that offer reliable, scalable, and efficient networking solutions.

1. Meter switches — Best for fully managed networking

Meter takes networking off your plate. Instead of juggling hardware, configurations, and troubleshooting, businesses get a fully managed system that’s built, installed, and maintained by us. Our switches integrate with our access points and security appliances, creating a seamless experience with built-in monitoring, optimization, and security.

Features:

• Cloud-based analytics for real-time network insights
• AI-driven optimizations for speed, stability, and security
• Built-in DNS filtering and advanced access control

Ideal users:

Businesses that want enterprise-level networking without the hassle of managing it. IT-heavy companies that prefer hands-on control might opt for Cisco or Juniper, but those who want a fully managed experience won’t find a better option.

Pricing:

Meter uses a unified, vertically integrated network that bundles hardware, software, and management. Contact us for a tailored quote.

The bottom line:

If you want a powerful network that runs flawlessly without requiring constant attention, Meter is the best choice.

2. Cisco — Best for large-scale enterprise networks

Cisco has been a dominant force in networking for decades. Their switches power everything from Fortune 500 offices to university campuses. Known for reliability and deep feature sets, Cisco is built for businesses that need full control over their networks.

Features:

• High-speed switching, from gigabit to 100G+
• Enterprise-grade security with built-in threat detection
• AI-driven traffic optimization and network monitoring

Ideal users:

Large businesses, data centers, and organizations that need high-performance, customizable networking. Cisco’s complexity and cost may not suit smaller companies without dedicated IT teams.

Pricing:

Varies widely, from a few hundred dollars for small-office models to tens of thousands for enterprise setups.

The bottom line:

A Cisco network switch is ideal for companies that need powerful, scalable networking and have the expertise to manage it.

3. Arista Networks — Best for high-performance data centers

Arista focuses on ultra-fast networking with low-latency switching, making it a favorite for cloud providers and financial institutions where every millisecond matters. Their EOS (Extensible Operating System) is highly programmable, making automation and scaling easier.

Features:

• High-speed 100G and 400G switching
• Open, programmable networking for automation-heavy environments
• Real-time telemetry for performance monitoring

Ideal users:

Data centers and businesses that rely on high-bandwidth, low-latency networking. Most small-to-mid-sized businesses won’t need this level of performance.

Pricing:

Premium pricing, designed for enterprises and cloud-scale deployments.

The bottom line:

If you need networking that can handle massive data loads at lightning speed, Arista is a top-tier option.

4. Juniper Networks — Best for security and automation

Juniper offers high-performance networking with a strong focus on security and automation. Their Mist AI platform helps IT teams optimize network performance, making troubleshooting and scaling easier.

Features:

• AI-powered insights to detect and prevent issues
• Enterprise-grade security, including built-in firewalls
• Scalable switching for cloud and enterprise networks

Ideal users:

Enterprises that want automation-driven networking with strong security controls. Smaller businesses may find Juniper’s solutions more than they need.

Pricing:

Mid-to-high-end pricing, depending on the model.

The bottom line:

For businesses that prioritize security and AI-powered automation, Juniper offers a compelling option.

5. Ubiquiti — Best for budget-conscious business networking

Ubiquiti makes networking accessible with affordable, cloud-managed switches that integrate with their UniFi ecosystem. Their gear delivers solid performance without the high price tag of traditional enterprise brands.

Features:

• Managed and unmanaged options at a lower cost
• PoE support for cameras and access points
• Cloud-based control via UniFi Controller

Ideal users:

Small-to-mid-sized businesses looking for a balance of affordability and capability. Enterprises needing advanced automation or security may want a higher-end brand.

Pricing:

More budget-friendly than Cisco or Juniper, making it appealing to small businesses.

The bottom line:

If you need affordable, cloud-managed networking without breaking the bank, Ubiquiti delivers.

6. Netgear — Best for simple, plug-and-play networking

Netgear is the go-to brand for businesses that just want their network to work without a PhD in IT. Their switches are designed for quick setup, making them a great choice for small businesses, home offices, and anyone who doesn’t want to mess with complicated configurations.

Features:

• Many models are plug-and-play, so setup is a breeze.
• Powers security cameras, access points, and VoIP phones without extra adapters.
• Some models offer basic VLAN and QoS settings for those who want a little more control.

Ideal users:

If you’re running a small office, café, or home business and don’t need enterprise-grade features, Netgear is a solid pick. However, if you plan to scale up with advanced security and automation, you might outgrow it quickly.

Pricing:

Affordable, with entry-level unmanaged switches starting under $50. Fully managed models climb into the hundreds, but they’re still cheaper than enterprise-focused brands.

The bottom line:

If you need a simple, affordable switch that just works, Netgear delivers. Just don’t expect deep customization or fancy enterprise tools.

7. TP-Link — Best for budget-friendly networking

TP-Link is the brand you go to when you need a basic network that won’t drain your budget. They offer a mix of unmanaged, smart-managed, and managed switches that do the job without a lot of frills.

Features:

• No setup needed for most models.
• Reduces power usage based on network activity.
• Helps keep small office networks organized.

Ideal users:

Great for home offices, small businesses, and anyone looking for a reliable network without spending a fortune. If you need more advanced features, look elsewhere.

Pricing:

Some of the most affordable switches on the market, with unmanaged models starting under $50 and smart-managed ones in the $100–$300 range.

The bottom line:

If you’re on a tight budget and need a basic, functional switch, TP-Link is a solid choice. Just don’t expect enterprise-level performance.

8. Dell Networking — Best for scalable enterprise switching

Dell isn’t just about laptops and servers—they’ve got serious networking hardware too. Their switches integrate well with Dell’s server and storage solutions, making them a great choice for businesses already invested in Dell’s ecosystem.

Features:

• Options from multi-gig to 100G networking.
• Designed to integrate seamlessly.
• OpenManage software simplifies IT management.

Ideal users:

Perfect for enterprises running Dell-based IT infrastructure. If you’re mixing and matching vendors, other brands might offer more flexibility.

Pricing:

Mid-to-high range, depending on the model and features.

The bottom line:

If your business is already using Dell servers and storage, their switches make sense. If not, you might want to check out Cisco or Juniper.

9. HPE Aruba — Best for cloud-managed networking

Aruba (owned by HPE) has made a name for itself in cloud-based networking. Their switches use AI-powered automation to keep things running smoothly while reducing the need for manual intervention.

Features:

• Helps optimize performance and fix issues automatically.
• Flexibility for IT teams.
• Helps control access and prevent threats.

Ideal users:

Enterprises that want cloud-first networking and AI-powered automation. Aruba is particularly useful for businesses managing multiple locations.

Pricing:

Mid-to-high-end, with pricing based on deployment scale.

The bottom line:

If you want a network that practically manages itself, Aruba is a great option—though it’s priced higher than traditional networking gear.

10. Ruckus Networks — Best for fiber networking and high-density environments

Ruckus (part of CommScope) is built for places where a ton of devices need reliable connections—think stadiums, universities, and city-wide Wi-Fi. Their switches are designed to handle high-density environments without choking under pressure.

Features:

• Handles high-bandwidth traffic with ease.
• Prioritizes important applications automatically.
• Includes encryption and advanced access controls.

Ideal users:

Perfect for businesses running large-scale networks where reliability is a must. Overkill for small offices or home setups.

Pricing:

High-end pricing, aimed at enterprise and public infrastructure use.

The bottom line:

If you’re managing a massive network with thousands of users, Ruckus is a strong contender. If not, you can probably get away with something simpler.

11. MikroTik — Best for power users and custom networking

MikroTik isn’t for the faint of heart. Their switches are highly customizable, making them a favorite among network engineers who like to tweak every setting possible. If you love deep customization and don’t mind a bit of a learning curve, MikroTik is for you.

Features:

• Perfect for power users.
• Feature-rich without breaking the bank.
• Powers access points, cameras, and more.

Ideal users:

Tech-savvy users, network engineers, and businesses that need precise control over their network. If you’re looking for plug-and-play simplicity, look elsewhere.

Pricing:

One of the most affordable managed switch brands, with many models under $200.

The bottom line:

For IT pros who love fine-tuning network settings, MikroTik offers powerful features at a fraction of the cost of enterprise brands.

12. Extreme Networks — Best for large-scale enterprise deployments

Extreme Networks specializes in high-performance switching solutions designed for big networks—think smart cities, massive enterprise campuses, and cloud providers. They focus on automation, security, and scalability.

Features:

• Built for enterprise and service providers.
• Helps IT teams optimize performance.
• Keeps networks locked down.

Ideal users:

Large enterprises, government agencies, and organizations running complex, high-density networks.

Pricing:

Premium pricing, aimed at large-scale deployments.

The bottom line:

If you’re managing a network that spans multiple buildings, campuses, or even cities, Extreme Networks has the infrastructure to support it.

Why choosing the right network switch brand matters

A network switch does more than pass data between devices. It controls speed, security, and scalability, shaping how efficiently a business operates. A weak switch can bottleneck performance, open security gaps, and make future upgrades a nightmare. The right one keeps everything running fast, secure, and ready to scale.

Performance affects everything

A slow switch drags down the entire network. Video calls freeze, file transfers crawl, and cloud applications struggle to keep up. Businesses with high-bandwidth needs—like data-heavy workloads, VoIP systems, and cloud-based software—need a switch that can handle constant traffic without delays.

Security starts at the switch

Hackers love unsecured networks. A switch with strong security features acts as a gatekeeper, blocking unauthorized access and preventing data breaches. Features like access control lists (ACLs), 802.1X authentication, and encrypted management interfaces help keep sensitive data protected.

Scalability prevents future issues

Networks grow as businesses expand. A switch with stackable or modular capabilities allows easy upgrades instead of forcing a complete replacement. Choosing a brand with scalable options makes it easier to add ports, increase bandwidth, or manage new locations without reworking the entire infrastructure.

Downtime costs more than you think

When a switch fails, employees can’t work, transactions stall, and IT scrambles to fix the problem. Some businesses lose thousands of dollars per hour during network outages. Reliable switches with strong vendor support reduce the risk of unexpected failures and keep operations running.

Types of network switches and their use cases

Not all network switches work the same way. Some are basic and hands-off, while others come with advanced controls for security, performance, and traffic management. Choosing the right type depends on how much control you need, the size of your network, and whether you're planning to expand.

Unmanaged switches

An unmanaged switch is the most basic type—plug it in, and it starts working. No setup, no configurations, just instant connectivity. These switches are best for home networks, small offices, or businesses that only need a few extra ports for wired connections.

Best for:

• Home networks with multiple wired devices (gaming consoles, smart TVs, desktops)
• Small offices that only need a few extra ethernet connections
• Businesses that don’t need advanced security or traffic controls

When to avoid:

If your network has a lot of traffic, needs VLAN support, or requires security features like access control lists (ACLs), an unmanaged switch won’t cut it.

Managed switches

A managed switch puts you in the driver’s seat. IT teams can adjust bandwidth, control access, and set up VLANs to segment traffic. These switches are essential for businesses handling sensitive data, running multiple departments, or supporting high-demand applications.

Best for:

• Mid-sized to large businesses needing full control over network traffic
• Companies handling sensitive data that require strict security policies
• IT teams that need remote management, monitoring, and troubleshooting

When to avoid:

For small networks with basic needs, a managed switch is overkill. They require configuration and ongoing maintenance, making them unnecessary for businesses without IT support.

PoE switches

A PoE (Power over Ethernet) switch simplifies cabling by delivering power and data through the same ethernet cable. This is useful for devices that need to be placed where power outlets aren’t convenient, like security cameras and Wi-Fi access points.

Best for:

• Businesses installing IP cameras, VoIP phones, or access points
• Offices looking to reduce cable clutter and avoid extra power adapters
• Industrial or smart-building setups needing powered devices in remote locations

When to avoid:

If none of your devices require PoE, you’re paying for a feature you won’t use. A standard switch will be more cost-effective.

Stackable switches

Stackable switches let businesses grow their network without adding complexity. Instead of managing multiple standalone switches, IT teams can link them together into a single logical unit. This makes expansion easier while reducing administrative overhead.

Best for:

• Growing businesses that anticipate needing more ports in the future
• Enterprises that need scalable network infrastructure
• IT teams that want centralized management of multiple switches

When to avoid:

For smaller setups with minimal devices, stackable switches add unnecessary complexity. A standalone managed switch is usually enough for networks that aren’t expanding rapidly.

Layer 3 switches

Layer 3 switches handle both switching and basic routing. Unlike traditional switches, which only move data within a network, Layer 3 switches can route traffic between different networks (subnets). This makes them useful for large enterprises that need efficient internal traffic management.

Best for:

• Large businesses that need to route internal traffic efficiently
• Data centers and enterprise networks handling large amounts of traffic
• Organizations needing advanced traffic segmentation and security policies

When to avoid:

If you don’t need inter-VLAN routing or advanced traffic management, a standard managed switch will do the job without the extra cost.

Key considerations when buying a network switch

Picking the right network switch isn’t just about grabbing the first one with enough ports. The wrong choice can slow down your network, limit future upgrades, or force you to replace hardware switches sooner than expected. Here’s what to consider before making a decision.

More devices need more capacity

A small office with a handful of wired connections won’t need the same switch as a data center handling thousands of devices. The number of ports is key—smaller businesses may only need an 8-port switch, while larger networks often require 24, 48, or even more. Beyond port count, higher-end switches include features like VLAN support and bandwidth management to keep traffic organized.

What to ask yourself:

• How many wired devices do you have now?
• Will you be adding more in the near future?
• Do you need advanced traffic control, or is basic connectivity enough?

Avoid network growing pains

Expanding a network is easier when the right switch is in place from the start. Some switches support stacking, where multiple units act as one, making it simple to add capacity without reconfiguring the entire network. Others have modular upgrades, allowing businesses to expand without replacing hardware.

What to ask yourself:

• Will your business need more network capacity in the next few years?
• Does your switch support stacking or easy expansion?
• Are you buying for your current needs or future growth?

Not all switches support the same hardware

Switches aren’t just for computers. Businesses often connect servers, Wi-Fi access points, IP cameras, VoIP phones, and IoT devices, all of which have different bandwidth and power needs. Power over Ethernet (PoE) switches are essential for devices like security cameras and access points that need both power and data over a single cable.

What to ask yourself:

• Are you connecting standard computers or power-hungry devices?
• Do you need PoE for access points, cameras, or VoIP phones?
• Will your network support newer, high-speed devices in the future?

Bandwidth matters

A basic switch works fine for handling emails and file sharing, but if your business relies on video conferencing, cloud applications, or large data transfers, bandwidth becomes a major concern. Multi-gigabit and 10G switches provide the throughput needed for high-demand applications, keeping video streams smooth and data moving quickly.

What to ask yourself:

• Does your business rely on video calls, large file transfers, or cloud applications?
• Would faster ports (such as 2.5G, 5G, or 10G) improve performance?
• Are you experiencing slowdowns with your current network?

Not all switches live in air-conditioned offices

Most office networks run on standard switches designed for climate-controlled spaces, but some industries need rugged, industrial-grade hardware that can handle extreme temperatures, dust, and humidity. Warehouses, manufacturing plants, and outdoor installations often require switches with extra durability.

What to ask yourself:

• Will the switch be in a server room, warehouse, or outdoor cabinet?
• Does it need to withstand extreme temperatures or dust?
• Do you need a fan-less design for silent operation in office environments?

Optimize your network with Meter

Meter provides the best network switch for businesses that want high-performance networking. Our enterprise switches are fully managed, meaning we handle everything—from installation to maintenance—so your team can focus on what matters. 

With built-in security, cloud-based monitoring, and automated optimizations, our network solutions keep your business humming.

Key features of Meter Network include:

• Vertically integrated: Meter-built access points, switches, and security appliances work together to create a cohesive, stress-free network management experience.
• Managed experience: Meter provides user support and done-with-you network management to reduce the burden on in-house networking teams.
• Hassle-free installation: Simply provide a floor plan, and Meter’s team will plan, install, and maintain your network.
• Software: Use Meter’s purpose-built dashboard for deep visibility and granular control of your network, or create custom dashboards with a prompt using Meter Command.
• OpEx pricing: Instead of investing upfront in equipment, Meter charges a simple monthly subscription fee based on your square footage. When it’s time to upgrade your network, Meter provides complimentary new equipment and installation.
• Easy migration and expansion: As you grow, Meter will expand your network with new hardware or entirely relocate your network to a new location free of charge.

To learn more, schedule a demo with Meter.