If you’re aiming to boost your network speed in 2026, I recommend checking out top SFP28 switches like Ubiquiti’s USW-Pro-XG-48 and Ruckus ICX8200-24ZP, which support high port density and future growth. High-quality transceivers and cables, such as TP-Link’s 25G SFP28 transceiver or Gtek’s SR transceiver, guarantee reliable transmission over varying distances. Considering physical size, power efficiency, management features, and budget helps you pick the best fit. Learn more to optimize your network for tomorrow.
Key Takeaways
Top switches support high port density with 25G SFP28 uplinks for future network scalability.Compatibility with various transceivers and fiber types ensures reliable long-distance data transfer.Management features like SNMP, CLI, and DDM facilitate easy monitoring and maintenance.Power-efficient models reduce operational costs and thermal management in data centers.Size and form factor considerations optimize deployment in space-constrained environments.
Our Top SFP28 Switch Picks
25G SFP28 DAC Cable for Cisco Ubiquiti SupermicroBest CompatibilityPort Type: 25G SFP28 DAC (passive copper twinax)Data Rate Support: 25GbpsCompatibility: Cisco, Ubiquiti, Supermicro, MikroTik, NetgearVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full BreakdownTP-Link Omada 25G SFP28 TransceiverBest VersatilityPort Type: 25G SFP28 transceiver (multi-mode LC fiber)Data Rate Support: 25GbpsCompatibility: Multi-manufacturer switches and fiber typesVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full Breakdown10Gtek 25G SFP28 SR Transceiver for CiscoBest High-PerformancePort Type: 25G SFP28 SR transceiver (multimode fiber)Data Rate Support: 25GbpsCompatibility: Cisco SFP-25G-SR modules, multimode fiberVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full BreakdownUbiquiti USW-Pro-XG-48Enterprise PowerhousePort Type: 25G SFP28 SFP28 ports (switch with fiber uplinks)Data Rate Support: 25GbpsCompatibility: Ubiquiti, compatible with UniFi networkVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full Breakdown10Gtek 25G SFP28 DAC Cable 3mBest Long-Distance CablePort Type: 25G SFP28 DAC (passive copper twinax)Data Rate Support: 25GbpsCompatibility: Cisco, Ubiquiti, MikroTik, Supermicro, NetgearVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full BreakdownRuckus ICX8200-24ZP Managed 24-Port PoE+ SwitchBest Managed SwitchPort Type: 25G SFP28 SFP28 ports (fiber uplinks)Data Rate Support: 25GbpsCompatibility: Cisco, Ubiquiti, MikroTik, Supermicro, NetgearVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full BreakdownNETGEAR M4350-24F4V 28-Port Managed SwitchBest ScalabilityPort Type: 10G/25G SFP28 ports (switch with fiber uplinks)Data Rate Support: 25GbpsCompatibility: Various enterprise switches (implied compatibility)VIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full BreakdownQNAP 12-Port 100GbE Managed Switch (QSW-M7308R-4X)Future-Ready NetworkPort Type: 100GbE QSFP28 and 25GbE SFP28 portsData Rate Support: 25Gbps (for SFP28 ports)Compatibility: QNAP NAS, high-performance serversVIEW LATEST PRICESee Our Full Breakdown
More Details on Our Top Picks
25G SFP28 DAC Cable for Cisco Ubiquiti Supermicro
Looking for a reliable, high-performance DAC cable compatible with top networking brands like Cisco, Ubiquiti, and Supermicro? The 25G SFP28 DAC Cable from 10Gtek is an excellent choice. It’s a passive, 0.5-meter cable designed for 25GBASE-CR SFP28 connections, offering 2.5 times the bandwidth of 10G cables. Fully compatible with Cisco, Ubiquiti, MikroTik, and more, it’s perfect for data centers, enterprise networks, and wireless backhaul. Each cable undergoes rigorous testing, including TDR and VNA tests, to ensure quality and compatibility. Plus, with a 3-year warranty and lifetime support, it’s a cost-effective upgrade for high-speed network performance.
Port Type:25G SFP28 DAC (passive copper twinax)Data Rate Support:25GbpsCompatibility:Cisco, Ubiquiti, Supermicro, MikroTik, NetgearTesting & Quality Assurance:Individual testing, TDR & VNA testsApplication Area:Data center, wireless backhaul, enterprisePower & Management Features:No mention of power, basic compatibilityAdditional Feature:Fully tested on switchesAdditional Feature:Cost-effective bandwidth upgradeAdditional Feature:Customization services available
TP-Link Omada 25G SFP28 Transceiver
The TP-Link Omada 25G SFP28 Transceiver stands out for its versatile compatibility and high-speed performance, making it an excellent choice for network professionals seeking flexible fiber optic solutions. It supports a 25Gbps data rate over SFP28 ports and works with OM3 and OM4 fiber types using 850nm wavelength. Its multi-mode LC transceiver is compatible with switches from various manufacturers, offering broad flexibility. The hot-pluggable design simplifies installation and replacement, while power save technology reduces energy consumption to just 1.2W. Additionally, real-time diagnostic monitoring guarantees proactive maintenance, making it ideal for dynamic, high-performance network environments.
Port Type:25G SFP28 transceiver (multi-mode LC fiber)Data Rate Support:25GbpsCompatibility:Multi-manufacturer switches and fiber typesTesting & Quality Assurance:Compatibility testing, diagnostics (DDM)Application Area:Fiber optic networks, enterprisePower & Management Features:Diagnostic monitoring, energy-efficientAdditional Feature:Supports DDM monitoringAdditional Feature:Power save technologyAdditional Feature:Multi-fiber compatibility
10Gtek 25G SFP28 SR Transceiver for Cisco
For network professionals seeking reliable high-speed connectivity, the Gtek 25G SFP28 SR Transceiver for Cisco stands out as an excellent choice. It supports a 25Gb/s data rate with duplex LC connectors, making it ideal for high-performance enterprise networks. Designed for multimode fiber, it can transmit up to 100 meters over OM4 and 70 meters over OM3, perfect for data centers and campus deployments. Featuring DDM for diagnostics and compatibility with Cisco SFP-25G-SR modules, it offers a straightforward, cost-effective way to boost network speeds. Its compact size and solid performance make it a dependable solution for demanding networking environments.
Port Type:25G SFP28 SR transceiver (multimode fiber)Data Rate Support:25GbpsCompatibility:Cisco SFP-25G-SR modules, multimode fiberTesting & Quality Assurance:Signal integrity tested, diagnostics includedApplication Area:High-speed data, enterprise, data centerPower & Management Features:DDM, diagnostics, fiber managementAdditional Feature:Supports OM4/OM3 fiberAdditional Feature:Compact package sizeAdditional Feature:Rated #67 in transceivers
Ubiquiti USW-Pro-XG-48
Ubiquiti USW-Pro-XG-48 stands out as an ideal choice for enterprise networks requiring high bandwidth and flexible port options. It offers 48 ports, including 32 10 GbE, 16 2.5 GbE, and 4 25G SFP28 ports, supporting data transfer rates up to 460 Gbps. With a switching capacity of 920 Gbps and non-blocking throughput, it handles heavy traffic effortlessly. The switch features a 1U rack-mount design, a durable SGCC steel enclosure, and a 1.3-inch touchscreen for management. Its dual power inputs and advanced protection make it reliable for demanding environments, making it perfect for boosting network speeds in 2026.
Port Type:25G SFP28 SFP28 ports (switch with fiber uplinks)Data Rate Support:25GbpsCompatibility:Ubiquiti, compatible with UniFi networkTesting & Quality Assurance:Compatibility confirmed, management featuresApplication Area:Enterprise, high-density, data centerPower & Management Features:Advanced management, PoE supportAdditional Feature:Touchscreen management interfaceAdditional Feature:Supports PoE+ on all portsAdditional Feature:920 Gbps switching capacity
10Gtek 25G SFP28 DAC Cable 3m
If you’re looking to upgrade your data center’s interconnects with reliable, high-speed cables, the Gtek 25G SFP28 DAC Cable is an excellent choice. This 3-meter passive copper twinax cable supports 25GBASE-CR SFP28 connections, ensuring fast and stable data transfer. Compatible with various devices like Cisco, Ubiquiti, MikroTik, and more, it’s perfect for switch-to-switch, server, and network device links. Designed for high-performance environments, it’s individually tested for signal integrity and built with durable 30AWG copper. With a 30-day return policy, 3-year warranty, and lifetime support, it’s a cost-effective, reliable solution for boosting network speeds across your infrastructure.
Port Type:25G SFP28 DAC (passive copper twinax)Data Rate Support:25GbpsCompatibility:Cisco, Ubiquiti, MikroTik, Supermicro, NetgearTesting & Quality Assurance:Rigorous testing, individual switch testingApplication Area:Data center, NAS, SAN, HPCPower & Management Features:No specific power info, tested cablesAdditional Feature:Individually tested on switchesAdditional Feature:30AWG copper designAdditional Feature:Suitable for high-performance computing
Ruckus ICX8200-24ZP Managed 24-Port PoE+ Switch
The Ruckus ICX8200-24ZP Managed 24-Port PoE+ Switch stands out as an ideal choice for enterprise networks requiring high-density, high-speed connectivity with simplified management. It features 24 ports supporting 25GbE speeds and four 25G SFP28 uplinks, ideal for data centers, campus, or edge deployments. PoE+ on all RJ-45 ports powers WiFi 6 access points, cameras, and VoIP devices, reducing cabling complexity. Its advanced Layer 3 routing, hitless stacking, and cloud-ready deployment enable scalable, resilient networks. Designed for ease of use and future growth, this switch offers enterprise reliability and TAA compliance, making it a versatile solution for demanding network environments.
Port Type:25G SFP28 SFP28 ports (fiber uplinks)Data Rate Support:25GbpsCompatibility:Cisco, Ubiquiti, MikroTik, Supermicro, NetgearTesting & Quality Assurance:Tested, customized options availableApplication Area:Data center, enterprise, high-speed interconnectsPower & Management Features:PoE support (on ports), enterprise managementAdditional Feature:Supports PoE+ on all portsAdditional Feature:Hitless stacking architectureAdditional Feature:Enterprise-grade reliability
NETGEAR M4350-24F4V 28-Port Managed Switch
For enterprise networks demanding high performance and scalability, the NETGEAR M4350-24F4V 28-Port Managed Switch stands out due to its advanced routing capabilities and flexible port options. It features 24x10G SFP+ and 8x25G SFP28 ports, offering seamless, adaptable connectivity. Designed for scalability, it supports stacking and advanced routing protocols like OSPF, RIP, and VRRP, ensuring robust network performance. With ultra-low latency under 0.67 microseconds and high throughput, it efficiently handles data-intensive tasks. Its modular, rack-mountable design, combined with security features like DoS prevention, makes it ideal for expanding enterprise core and edge networks.
Port Type:10G/25G SFP28 ports (switch with fiber uplinks)Data Rate Support:25GbpsCompatibility:Various enterprise switches (implied compatibility)Testing & Quality Assurance:Enterprise-grade, extensive testing impliedApplication Area:Enterprise backbone, data center, network aggregationPower & Management Features:Stackable, enterprise management, security featuresAdditional Feature:Ultra-low latency performanceAdditional Feature:Supports Jumbo FramesAdditional Feature:Supports network security features
QNAP 12-Port 100GbE Managed Switch (QSW-M7308R-4X)
Designed for high-performance data centers and enterprise environments, the QNAP 12-Port 100GbE Managed Switch (QSW-M7308R-4X) stands out with its powerful backbone capacity of 1200Gbps. It features four 100GbE QSFP28 ports and eight 25GbE SFP28 ports, ideal for server room uplinks. The switch offers a non-blocking throughput of 600Gbps and a total switching capacity of 12,000Gbps. Running on QNAP’s user-friendly QSS OS, it supports Layer 2 management, VLANs, ACLs, and network security. Its compatibility with QNAP NAS devices guarantees high-speed, low-latency connectivity for demanding network environments.
Port Type:100GbE QSFP28 and 25GbE SFP28 portsData Rate Support:25Gbps (for SFP28 ports)Compatibility:QNAP NAS, high-performance serversTesting & Quality Assurance:Performance testing, compatibility with high-end hardwareApplication Area:Data centers, high-performance computing, enterprisePower & Management Features:Layer 2 management, FEC, VLAN, ACLAdditional Feature:Supports Layer 2 managementAdditional Feature:FEC and auto-negotiationAdditional Feature:High backbone switching capacity
Factors to Consider When Choosing an SFP28 Switch 25G
When choosing an SFP28 switch, I consider key factors like compatibility with existing equipment and the number of ports I need. I also look at transmission distance limits and power efficiency to guarantee reliable performance and energy savings. Finally, management features are essential for easy setup and ongoing network control.
Compatibility With Equipment
Ensuring compatibility between your SFP28 switch and existing network equipment is crucial for a smooth and reliable setup. I recommend verifying that the switch’s SFP28 ports work seamlessly with your current transceivers and cables. It’s important to confirm that the transceivers and DAC cables you plan to use are supported and tested for compatibility with your specific switch model. Additionally, checking for multi-vendor interoperability helps prevent connection issues when mixing equipment from different manufacturers. Be sure to review firmware or software requirements that could improve compatibility and guarantee smooth integration. Finally, consulting compatibility lists and testing reports provides reassurance that your network components will work harmoniously, delivering the performance and reliability you need for a robust 25G infrastructure.
Port Density Needs
Choosing the right SFP28 switch requires carefully evaluating your port density needs to support both current devices and future growth. I start by determining how many 25G ports are necessary now and what might be needed down the line, guaranteeing the switch can handle expansion without immediate upgrades. Uplink ports are equally important—they must support aggregation and backbone connections to prevent bottlenecks. I also consider physical constraints, such as rack space and available slots, to ensure seamless integration into my data center. Balancing port density with these factors helps me avoid over-investing or under-provisioning, aligning the switch’s configuration with my planned network topology and device deployment strategy. This approach ensures scalability and efficiency as my network evolves.
Transmission Distance Limits
Transmission distance is a critical factor when selecting an SFP28 switch, as it determines how far data can travel without degradation. The maximum distance depends heavily on the fiber type used. For multimode fiber, transceivers typically support up to 70 to 100 meters, constrained by modal dispersion. Single-mode fiber transceivers, however, can transmit data over several kilometers—often exceeding 10 km—depending on the transceiver’s specifications. The choice between OM3, OM4, OS1, or OS2 fiber impacts achievable distances substantially. Ensuring compatibility between the transceiver’s maximum supported distance and your existing fiber infrastructure is essential. Proper matching guarantees reliable data transfer and prevents signal loss, making distance considerations a key part of your switch selection process.
Power Consumption Efficiency
Power consumption efficiency is a key consideration when selecting an SFP28 switch for 25G networks. I look for models with advanced power-saving features, like technology that keeps power use below 1.2W per transceiver. Using passive copper DAC cables, such as 25GBASE-CR twinax, helps reduce power compared to active optical modules. Choosing switches with low idle power draw and optimized hardware design can cut operational energy costs markedly. Additionally, switches supporting digital diagnostic monitoring (DDM) allow for proactive energy management and troubleshooting. High-efficiency switches also produce less heat, which means less cooling is needed in data centers. Overall, prioritizing power consumption efficiency ensures better energy management, cost savings, and a greener network infrastructure.
Management Features Availability
Effective management features are essential when selecting an SFP28 switch for 25G networks, as they enable smooth control and monitoring of network operations. I look for switches that support thorough protocols like SNMP, CLI, or web interfaces, making management straightforward. Real-time digital diagnostic monitoring (DDM) is a must, helping me detect issues early and perform proactive maintenance. Advanced features such as VLAN configuration, traffic monitoring, and port management streamline network optimization. Redundancy options like link aggregation and spanning tree protocols ensure reliable operation, even during failures. Additionally, user-friendly management tools simplify ongoing administration, saving time and reducing errors. Prioritizing these management capabilities ensures I can keep my network running efficiently, securely, and with minimal downtime.
Physical Switch Size
Choosing the right SFP28 switch involves more than just features and performance; its physical size plays a significant role in deployment. Smaller switches, like compact 1U rack-mount units, are perfect for space-limited setups such as server racks or edge locations. They’re lightweight, easy to install, and conserve space. Larger models, on the other hand, offer more ports and expansion options, but require more room and robust mounting solutions. The dimensions and weight influence not only installation requirements but also mobility within data centers and enterprise environments. Rack-mount switches typically measure around 1.75 inches in height per rack unit and about 17.5 inches wide, conforming to standard rack sizes. Considering physical size helps optimize airflow, cooling, and cable management, ensuring efficient infrastructure planning.
Budget Constraints
Budget constraints play a crucial role in selecting an SFP28 switch, as the overall cost varies greatly depending on features, port count, and brand. I’ve learned that choosing a basic model with fewer ports or fewer advanced management options can help stay within financial limits. However, investing in higher-quality switches that are compatible and reliable can save money long-term by reducing repairs, replacements, and network downtime. It’s important to contemplate not just the switch itself but also the cost of compatible SFP28 transceivers and cables needed for deployment. Clearly defining your budget allows you to prioritize essential features like port speed, scalability, and network management, ensuring you get the best value without overspending. Balancing cost and functionality is key to making a smart purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does SFP28 Compatibility Vary Across Different Switch Brands?
SFP28 compatibility varies quite a bit across brands, so I always check each switch’s specifications first. Some brands like Cisco and Juniper tend to have strict compatibility standards, requiring specific modules. Others, like Ubiquiti or MikroTik, might be more flexible but still recommend verified SFP28 modules to guarantee peak performance. I recommend verifying compatibility before purchasing to avoid potential issues down the line.
What Is the Typical Lifespan of SFP28 Transceivers and Cables?
SFP28 transceivers typically last around 5 to 10 years, depending on usage and environmental conditions. Cables usually have a similar lifespan, often around 10 years if properly maintained. I recommend regularly inspecting both for signs of wear or damage and replacing them as needed to guarantee peak network performance. Proper handling and keeping them clean can extend their life and help prevent connectivity issues.
Are There Energy Efficiency Considerations for 25G SFP28 Switches?
Yes, energy efficiency definitely matters for 25G SFP28 switches. I look for models with features like low-power transceivers, energy-efficient Ethernet standards, and power management capabilities. These help reduce overall power consumption, save on operational costs, and minimize environmental impact. When choosing a switch, I prioritize those with certifications or specifications highlighting energy efficiency, ensuring my network runs smoothly without unnecessary energy waste.
How Do Firmware Updates Affect SFP28 Switch Performance?
Firmware updates are like fresh paint on a canvas—bringing new life and clarity. They directly improve my SFP28 switch’s performance by fixing bugs, enhancing stability, and sometimes enabling new features. Regular updates ensure my network runs smoothly, efficiently, and securely, much like maintaining a well-tuned engine. Skipping updates risks slowdowns or vulnerabilities, so I stay current to keep my switch operating at its best, ready for future demands.
Can Existing Network Infrastructure Seamlessly Upgrade to 25G SFP28 Switches?
Upgrading to 25G SFP28 switches can usually be seamless if your current infrastructure supports compatible fiber or copper cabling and your devices are compatible with the new switches. I recommend checking existing hardware specifications and compatibility before upgrading. Most modern switches are backward compatible, making integration straightforward. However, you might need to update firmware or adjust network configurations to guarantee everything runs smoothly and maximizes performance.
Conclusion
After exploring these top SFP28 switches, I believe upgrading your network isn’t just about speed—it’s about future-proofing. Think of it like investing in quality gear; the more reliable your equipment, the better your network performs. I’ve investigated the theory that faster connections always improve productivity, and honestly, it’s true. So, choosing the right switch now can make a real difference down the line, ensuring your network stays ahead of the curve.