When evaluating network switches for small to medium-sized businesses, understanding performance differences is crucial. Two popular options are the Tp-Link TL-SG1008P and the Mikrotik CSS138-24G-2S+RM. This article compares their performance features to help you make an informed decision.

Overview of the Devices

The Tp-Link TL-SG1008P is an 8-port Gigabit Ethernet switch with Power over Ethernet (PoE) support. It is designed for easy deployment in office environments, providing reliable connectivity and PoE for compatible devices.

The Mikrotik CSS138-24G-2S+RM is a 24-port Gigabit Ethernet switch with two SFP+ ports for fiber connections. It is aimed at more demanding network setups requiring higher port density and flexible uplink options.

Performance Features

The performance of a switch depends on factors such as throughput, latency, port speed, and features like PoE or fiber uplinks. Here's how the two compare in these areas.

Throughput and Speed

The Tp-Link TL-SG1008P offers non-blocking switching with a total throughput of up to 16 Gbps across all ports. It supports 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds on all ports, suitable for typical office tasks.

The Mikrotik CSS138-24G-2S+RM provides a total switching capacity of up to 128 Gbps, with 24 Gigabit ports and two 10-Gigabit SFP+ uplinks. This allows for higher aggregate throughput and faster uplink speeds.

Latency and Response Time

Both switches are designed for low latency. The Tp-Link switch is optimized for typical office environments, offering minimal delay for standard data transfers.

The Mikrotik switch, with its advanced hardware, provides even lower latency for high-volume data transfers, especially when utilizing the fiber uplinks.

The Tp-Link TL-SG1008P supports PoE on all ports, delivering up to 15.4W per port, which is ideal for powering IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points.

The Mikrotik CSS138-24G-2S+RM does not support PoE but offers two 10-Gigabit SFP+ ports for high-speed fiber uplinks, making it suitable for backbone connections in larger networks.

Performance Summary

  • Tp-Link TL-SG1008P: Ideal for small offices, basic PoE needs, and straightforward network setups.
  • Mikrotik CSS138-24G-2S+RM: Suited for larger networks requiring high throughput, fiber uplinks, and advanced management features.

Conclusion

The choice between the Tp-Link TL-SG1008P and Mikrotik CSS138-24G-2S+RM depends on your network requirements. For simple, PoE-enabled setups, the Tp-Link offers a reliable, cost-effective solution. For high-performance, scalable networks with fiber uplinks, the Mikrotik switch provides superior throughput and flexibility.