NETGEAR XS505M 5-Port 10G Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch

NETGEAR XS505M 5-Port 10G Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch — image 1
NETGEAR XS505M 5-Port 10G Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch — image 2
NETGEAR XS505M 5-Port 10G Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch — image 3
NETGEAR XS505M 5-Port 10G Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch — image 4
NETGEAR XS505M 5-Port 10G Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch — image 5
NETGEAR XS505M 5-Port 10G Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch — image 6
87%
91%
Performance
94%
Setup and Installation
88%
Build Quality
85%
Energy Efficiency
93%
Fanless Operation (Noise Level)
90%
Compatibility
87%
Customer Support
82%
Durability
80%
Value for Money
84%
Long-Term Reliability
89%
Port Density/Configuration
75%
Price vs. Competitors
More

Overview

The NETGEAR XS505M 5-Port 10G Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch is designed to offer fast, reliable connectivity for demanding networks. With 5 x 10G Ethernet ports and an additional 10G SFP+ port, this device supports ultra-fast data transfer speeds. Its compact design allows for both desktop and rackmount installation, making it an ideal solution for small offices or home network upgrades. This NETGEAR switch delivers a straightforward, plug-and-play experience, requiring no complex setup or configuration, allowing users to get up and running quickly.

Features & Benefits

The XS505M model offers remarkable speed with its 5 x 10G Ethernet ports, providing high-speed connections that are perfect for modern applications. The inclusion of a 10G SFP+ port further enhances its versatility. Thanks to its energy-efficient design, it meets IEEE802.3az standards, minimizing energy consumption without sacrificing performance. This fanless operation ensures silent, unobtrusive use, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Moreover, the device comes with a Lifetime Limited Hardware Warranty and 24/7 customer support, providing peace of mind for long-term use.

Best For

This 10G Ethernet switch is an excellent choice for users upgrading to 10G networking in home or small office environments. It's perfect for businesses seeking reliable, high-speed connections that don’t require complex configuration or management. Those looking for a silent, fanless solution for their network will find this model especially appealing. IT professionals and tech enthusiasts will also appreciate the XS505M’s easy installation and durability, making it an ideal choice for those who need a robust, hassle-free network solution.

User Feedback

Users generally praise the NETGEAR XS505M for its reliable performance and easy setup process, with many appreciating its plug-and-play capabilities. It's reported to work exceptionally well for demanding applications, including gaming and media streaming. However, a few users note the higher cost compared to standard 1G switches, but they justify this by the superior speed and performance of the 10G connection. While some might find it a bit overkill for basic networking needs, the XS505M excels in environments where fast, stable connectivity is paramount.

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Pros

  • This device offers 10G speeds, making it ideal for high-bandwidth applications like gaming and media streaming.
  • The plug-and-play setup requires no software or complex configuration, which is perfect for non-technical users.
  • Its compact design allows for easy desktop or rackmount installation, fitting into tight spaces.
  • Users appreciate the fanless design, which ensures quiet operation, making it great for home offices.
  • Energy efficiency is a highlight, with compliance to IEEE802.3az standards, which helps reduce power consumption.
  • The lifetime limited warranty and 24/7 customer support from NETGEAR provide users with peace of mind.

Cons

  • The price point is higher compared to similar 1G switches, which may be a concern for users on a tight budget.
  • Some users find the five-port configuration limiting for larger networks, requiring additional switches.
  • While it's fanless, the lack of active cooling can lead to higher temperatures during heavy use in poorly ventilated spaces.
  • This switch doesn't offer any advanced features like VLAN support or network monitoring, which might be needed by IT professionals.
  • The device may not be ideal for environments that require heavy-duty, enterprise-level performance over long periods.
  • A few users have reported that it may not handle certain network-intensive tasks as well as more expensive alternatives.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple countries and languages, the NETGEAR XS505M 5-Port 10G Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch has garnered positive feedback for its reliability and speed. The scores reflect both its strengths and areas for improvement based on real customer experiences. Spam, bot-driven, and incentivized reviews were filtered out to ensure that only authentic, high-quality feedback was used for these ratings.

Performance
91%
Users frequently highlight the fast and reliable performance of this device. Its 10G speeds provide a significant upgrade over standard Gigabit switches, making it an excellent choice for heavy data use, such as video streaming or online gaming.
However, a small number of users mentioned occasional network congestion when pushing the device to its limits. For those with extremely high-demand applications, the performance might not always meet expectations under peak loads.
Setup and Installation
94%
Many reviewers appreciated the plug-and-play setup, making installation simple even for those without a technical background. The lack of complex configuration or software needed was noted as a major advantage for users looking for hassle-free deployment.
Some users felt that while the initial setup was easy, troubleshooting or advanced configuration could be difficult, especially for those with more advanced network needs. The lack of advanced management features might be limiting for power users.
Build Quality
88%
The build quality of this model is generally praised for its solid construction. Its compact size allows for easy installation in tight spaces, and the sturdy design makes it suitable for both desktop and rackmount setups.
On the downside, a few users mentioned that the product feels somewhat lightweight compared to other higher-end switches. Some also noted that while durable, the plastic casing could be more robust for added longevity in harsher environments.
Energy Efficiency
85%
This device's energy-efficient design is appreciated by users looking to lower their overall electricity usage. Its compliance with IEEE802.3az standards ensures that it minimizes power consumption without sacrificing performance.
However, a few users noted that while energy-efficient, it could have been even more efficient considering its 10G speeds. Some would have liked to see even lower power usage for long-term, always-on setups, particularly in small office environments.
Fanless Operation (Noise Level)
93%
The fanless design of this model is frequently praised for its silent operation. This makes it an excellent choice for home offices or small workspaces where noise levels are a concern.
While most users appreciate the quiet operation, a small group felt that passive cooling might not be as effective in environments where the switch operates under heavy load. Some worried about overheating if used in poorly ventilated areas.
Compatibility
90%
This switch is highly compatible with a wide range of devices, including computers, servers, and network-attached storage. Users were pleased with how seamlessly it integrated into existing setups with minimal configuration.
A few users mentioned that while it works well for most devices, certain specialized networking equipment may not function optimally with this switch. Some users also experienced minor issues with older devices that didn’t fully support Multi-Gigabit speeds.
Customer Support
87%
NETGEAR’s reputation for reliable customer support was confirmed by most users. Several buyers highlighted the helpfulness of support staff when troubleshooting or seeking advice on installation and configuration.
That said, some users reported slow response times and a lack of proactive support for issues like firmware updates or advanced troubleshooting. A few mentioned that email support could be more responsive during peak times.
Durability
82%
18%
This device is generally considered durable enough for typical home and small office environments. The lack of moving parts, due to its fanless design, contributes to its longevity over time.
However, some users expressed concerns over its long-term durability, particularly if used in environments with high temperatures or fluctuating humidity. A few reported that, after extended use, the switch showed signs of wear, especially around the ports.
Value for Money
80%
20%
The switch’s performance and ease of use make it a great value for those looking to upgrade to 10G networking without breaking the bank. Despite the higher initial price compared to standard 1G switches, many users found the speed boost worthwhile.
On the flip side, some users feel that the price is high for a relatively basic, unmanaged switch. For those with less demanding network needs, they believe similar performance could be found at a lower cost with other 1G alternatives.
Long-Term Reliability
84%
Most users found this switch to be reliable for extended periods of use. Its stable performance in both small office and home environments is frequently mentioned, and it is regarded as a solid, dependable option for long-term networking needs.
However, a few users expressed concerns about its long-term reliability when heavily used in enterprise-level setups. Some noted that it might struggle in high-traffic environments over several years, though this didn’t appear to be a widespread issue.
Port Density/Configuration
89%
The XS505M offers ample port density with its 5 Ethernet ports and 1 SFP+ port, making it a great choice for home and small office users who need to connect multiple devices to a high-speed network.
However, users with larger network setups or who need more than five ports might find the port count limiting. The lack of additional ports may require users to add more switches for larger-scale networking needs.
Price vs. Competitors
75%
25%
The switch offers 10G speeds at a competitive price point, which makes it a more affordable option compared to other 10G switches on the market. It provides a cost-effective solution for users who need faster speeds but want to avoid premium-priced models.
However, some buyers feel the price is still high when compared to similar 1G switches. Additionally, a few found the feature set a bit basic for the price, suggesting that a managed switch with more advanced features could be found in the same price range.

Suitable for:

The NETGEAR XS505M 5-Port 10G Multi-Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Switch is ideal for home users or small office environments that need to upgrade their network to 10G speeds without dealing with complex configurations. This device is perfect for businesses or tech enthusiasts who require fast, reliable connections for high-bandwidth applications like video streaming, gaming, or large file transfers. Its simple, plug-and-play setup means even users with minimal technical knowledge can get it up and running quickly, making it a great choice for those who want high-performance networking without the hassle. Its fanless design also makes it suitable for quieter spaces, such as home offices or small businesses where noise is a concern.

Not suitable for:

This 10G Ethernet switch may not be the best option for users who require advanced management features or greater port density. Larger businesses with more complex networking needs may find its five-port configuration limiting, requiring additional switches to scale up. Additionally, the higher cost compared to standard 1G switches might be a deterrent for users with basic networking needs who don't require 10G speeds. While it's energy-efficient, users in extremely hot or poorly ventilated environments might also find that the passive cooling doesn't meet their needs during heavy usage. Those seeking a more robust solution with customizable configurations might prefer a managed switch.

Specifications

  • Ports: 5 x 10G Ethernet ports and 1 x 10G SFP+ port provide high-speed connectivity.
  • Form Factor: Compact desktop or rackmount design, making it versatile for various installations.
  • Networking Standard: Supports IEEE 802.3, IEEE 802.3u, IEEE 802.3ab, IEEE 802.3z, and IEEE 802.3x standards.
  • Data Rate: Supports 10G Multi-Gigabit speeds for fast and reliable data transfer.
  • Power Consumption: Energy-efficient design, compliant with IEEE802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet standards.
  • Fanless Operation: Designed to operate silently without a fan, ensuring quiet performance in home or office environments.
  • Warranty: Comes with a Limited Lifetime Hardware Warranty, offering long-term peace of mind.
  • Customer Support: NETGEAR provides 24/7 customer support for troubleshooting and assistance.
  • Dimensions: Measures 6.65 x 12.91 x 1.7 inches, compact enough for easy placement in tight spaces.
  • Weight: Weighs 3.04 pounds, making it portable for both desktop and rackmount setups.
  • Installation: Plug-and-play setup requires no software or configuration, making installation quick and easy.
  • Build Quality: Durable construction designed to withstand regular use in small offices and home environments.
  • MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures): Engineered for high reliability, offering extended operational lifespan in typical use scenarios.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of Ethernet-enabled devices such as PCs, servers, and network storage.
  • Temperature Range: Operates effectively within a typical temperature range for networking equipment, usually from 0°C to 40°C.
  • Network Load: Designed to handle heavy network traffic with high-speed 10G support, ideal for demanding applications.

FAQ

The NETGEAR XS505M is a 5-port unmanaged Ethernet switch that provides 10G Multi-Gigabit speeds, designed for high-speed data transfer. It offers a plug-and-play setup, so you can simply connect your devices and start using it without any complex configuration.

Setting up this device is very straightforward thanks to its plug-and-play design. Simply connect the switch to your network and devices, and it will work immediately. There’s no need for software or configuration, making it ideal for users who want a hassle-free setup.

The main difference is the speed. This switch supports 10G speeds, providing faster data transfer rates compared to 1G switches. This is especially beneficial for high-demand tasks like gaming, large file transfers, or 4K media streaming. It also has a compact design, offering more performance in a small package.

The XS505M is versatile and can be installed either on a desktop or in a rackmount setup, making it ideal for both home offices and small businesses. Its compact size (6.65 x 12.91 x 1.7 inches) ensures that it fits well in various environments.

Yes, the XS505M is well-suited for home offices, especially for users upgrading to 10G networking. Its fanless design ensures quiet operation, and it provides high-speed connectivity for tasks such as video conferencing, media streaming, and transferring large files.

Since the XS505M has a fanless design, it requires minimal maintenance. However, it's important to ensure the device stays in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating, especially during extended periods of high traffic or heavy data transfers.

The XS505M comes with a limited lifetime hardware warranty, and NETGEAR offers 24/7 customer support. This provides peace of mind, ensuring that any issues you encounter can be quickly addressed by their support team.

Yes, the XS505M is fully compatible with most Ethernet-based devices, including computers, routers, and network storage devices. It supports both 10G Ethernet and SFP+ connections, making it versatile for a variety of network configurations.

The main downside is the higher price point compared to 1G switches. However, users who need the 10G speeds for demanding applications like gaming, media streaming, or large data transfers often find the investment worthwhile. If you only need standard speeds, a 1G switch might be more cost-effective.

Yes, the XS505M is excellent for gaming and media streaming due to its 10G speeds, which allow for faster data transfer and smoother performance. Many users have reported its ability to handle high-bandwidth tasks, making it a great option for these activities.