Overview

The TRENDnet TPE-S50 6-Port PoE+ Switch is a compact network switch designed for small-scale setups requiring Power over Ethernet (PoE) functionality. With 6 total ports, including 4 PoE+ ports, this switch can provide up to 60W of power to devices like IP cameras and access points. Its fanless design ensures silent operation, making it an excellent choice for quiet environments such as home offices or surveillance systems. Additionally, it meets NDAA compliance standards, ensuring its suitability for secure government networks. This PoE+ switch comes with a lifetime protection guarantee and a 90-day renewed guarantee for added peace of mind.

Features & Benefits

This network switch offers versatile functionality with 4 Fast Ethernet PoE+ ports that deliver both data and power through a single cable. Additionally, the 2 remaining ports can connect non-PoE devices, offering flexibility for different network setups. The switch has a switching capacity of 1.2 Gbps, ensuring reliable performance for edge networking tasks. Built with a durable metal housing, it’s designed to last while maintaining silent operation due to its fanless construction. Supporting both IEEE 802.3af and 802.3at PoE+ standards, it can easily accommodate a range of devices, from VoIP phones to wireless access points.

Best For

This PoE+ switch is ideal for home offices or small businesses that need a reliable, low-power network switch with PoE capabilities. It is particularly well-suited for setups that rely on devices such as IP cameras, VoIP phones, and access points. The compact size makes it perfect for users with limited space or those requiring quiet operation in sensitive environments. Additionally, businesses looking for a cost-effective solution for networking without compromising on reliability will find this switch a practical option, as it provides essential PoE+ support and solid performance.

User Feedback

The TRENDnet TPE-S50 6-Port PoE+ Switch has earned a solid 4.1 out of 5 stars from 259 users, with many praising its reliability and ease of setup. Users particularly appreciate the silent operation, a significant plus for environments where noise is a concern. However, some have mentioned the absence of Gigabit support as a limitation, especially for those needing faster speeds. The 60W PoE budget is another point of contention, as a few users found it insufficient for higher-power devices. Overall, though, most customers find it well-suited for basic networking needs.

Pros

  • The fanless design ensures silent operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments like home offices.
  • Its compact size fits easily into small spaces, perfect for home or small office setups.
  • Supports IEEE 802.3af/at PoE+ standards, providing versatility for a range of devices like IP cameras and access points.
  • The 60W PoE power budget is sufficient for most small surveillance systems and low-power devices.
  • Easy setup with plug-and-play functionality, great for users without advanced technical knowledge.
  • Durable metal housing ensures long-lasting performance and stability, even in slightly harsh conditions.

Cons

  • The 100Mbps speed may be too slow for users needing higher data transfer rates or handling multiple high-demand devices.
  • Some users reported that the 60W PoE power budget may not support devices with higher power needs, such as larger cameras.
  • Not suitable for large network setups or users requiring Gigabit speeds for faster data transfer.
  • Lack of advanced features like VLAN support or managed network options makes it less ideal for more complex network configurations.
  • Limited PoE ports (4 PoE+ and 2 non-PoE) may not be enough for setups with multiple PoE devices.
  • The lack of fan-based cooling could result in thermal issues if placed in a very warm or enclosed environment.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user feedback from multiple platforms and languages, including Amazon and other global sources, we’ve compiled the scores for the TRENDnet TPE-S50 6-Port PoE+ Switch. Only authentic, high-quality reviews were considered, and both strengths and pain points have been reflected in the following ratings. This product has received a diverse range of feedback from users across various environments, with some common themes emerging around its reliability and ease of use, as well as some limitations in performance for more demanding tasks.

Performance
79%
21%
Many users appreciate the stable and consistent performance of this device for basic network tasks. The 1.2 Gbps switching capacity handles everyday applications like IP cameras and access points with ease, especially in smaller setups.
However, some users have noted that the device may struggle with more demanding tasks or environments that require faster network speeds, particularly in scenarios where Gigabit speeds are expected.
Build Quality
85%
The solid metal housing and durable design have received praise for their sturdiness and long-lasting nature. Reviewers feel confident that the switch can withstand everyday use in both home and small office environments.
Some buyers expressed concerns about the relatively compact design, feeling that it might not be as robust as larger, enterprise-grade options for heavier, long-term usage.
Ease of Setup
91%
Users consistently highlight how easy and quick it is to set up. The plug-and-play nature of the switch allows both novice and experienced users to get it up and running without requiring advanced technical knowledge.
On the downside, a few users noted that the lack of a detailed setup guide might pose a challenge for absolute beginners, although the switch is relatively intuitive for those familiar with networking.
Reliability
82%
18%
The switch's reliability has earned solid praise from buyers, with many reporting uninterrupted performance over extended periods of use. Users found it to be dependable for both home office and small business applications.
Some reviews mention occasional connectivity issues, particularly when multiple PoE devices are connected simultaneously. However, these seem to be isolated incidents, not widespread problems.
Fanless Operation
94%
The fanless design is a standout feature, with many users appreciating the quiet operation, making it ideal for home offices or other environments where noise could be a distraction. It operates silently even under load, which is a significant advantage for noise-sensitive setups.
A small group of users mentioned that while the fanless design ensures quiet operation, it could result in heat buildup over extended periods of high usage. However, this issue is less common.
PoE Power Budget
75%
25%
The 60W PoE power budget is sufficient for powering most PoE-enabled devices like IP cameras, making this switch a good fit for basic surveillance setups. Users appreciate this functionality in a compact, cost-effective package.
Some users noted that the 60W PoE power budget may not be enough for more power-hungry devices. This becomes especially relevant in setups where multiple high-power cameras or access points are in use.
Connectivity Options
78%
22%
With four PoE+ ports and two additional Ethernet ports, the device offers ample connectivity for small-scale setups. This flexibility allows users to mix PoE and non-PoE devices seamlessly.
However, users wishing for additional high-speed ports (such as Gigabit Ethernet) may be disappointed, as this model is limited to 100Mbps on non-PoE ports, which may not meet the needs of larger networks.
Size and Portability
88%
The compact size is frequently mentioned as an advantage, especially for users with limited space. It fits easily into small home offices or server racks without taking up much room.
A few users mentioned that while the size is convenient, it might not be the best choice for more extensive networks that require more ports or faster data transfer speeds.
Compatibility
81%
19%
This PoE+ switch is highly compatible with a wide range of PoE devices, from IP cameras to access points. Its support for IEEE 802.3af/at PoE+ standards ensures it can integrate smoothly with existing networks.
There were some concerns about compatibility with more specialized devices or certain advanced network configurations, though these issues were not widespread and generally involved more niche use cases.
Customer Support
76%
24%
Several users mentioned that customer support responded promptly to inquiries, offering useful troubleshooting steps and warranty assistance when needed.
However, there were occasional reports of delayed responses or a lack of in-depth solutions, especially for more technical issues. This suggests that support may not always meet the expectations of more experienced users.
Noise Level
92%
The fanless design ensures that this device operates quietly, which is often highlighted as a key selling point. Users in noise-sensitive environments, such as home offices, greatly appreciate this feature.
The only downside reported by a few users is that the fanless design can cause the device to heat up in high-traffic environments, but this seems to be an issue only under specific conditions.
Value for Money
85%
Many buyers believe the switch offers excellent value for the price, providing essential PoE+ functionality and reliable performance at a competitive price point. It’s a great option for small setups that need cost-effective PoE solutions.
Some users feel that while the value is strong, they would have preferred faster speeds (Gigabit) or a higher PoE power budget for more demanding applications, which could limit its appeal for larger setups.

Suitable for:

The TRENDnet TPE-S50 6-Port PoE+ Switch is well-suited for small businesses, home offices, and users who require a compact, low-power network switch with PoE capabilities. It’s especially ideal for surveillance systems, where devices like IP cameras and access points can be powered directly through the Ethernet cable. The fanless design makes it a perfect choice for noise-sensitive environments, such as quiet offices or home setups. Those looking for a simple, cost-effective solution for powering and connecting PoE+ devices will appreciate its plug-and-play setup and reliable performance, particularly in smaller networks where 100Mbps speeds are sufficient for everyday use.

Not suitable for:

This switch may not be the best choice for larger networks or environments that require Gigabit speeds for data-heavy tasks. Users looking for high-speed performance, especially in setups with multiple high-demand devices, might find the 100Mbps ports limiting. Additionally, while the 60W PoE power budget works for most PoE+ devices, it might fall short for setups with several power-hungry cameras or access points. If you need advanced features or more scalability for enterprise-level installations, this product's compact design and power limitations may be a drawback.

Specifications

  • Ports: 6 total ports: 4 PoE+ ports for power and data, 2 additional non-PoE Ethernet ports.
  • PoE Power Budget: Supports a 60W PoE power budget, suitable for powering up to four PoE+ devices simultaneously.
  • Switching Capacity: 1.2 Gbps switching capacity for reliable performance in typical network environments.
  • PoE Standards: Compliant with IEEE 802.3af and IEEE 802.3at PoE+ standards for powering compatible devices.
  • Form Factor: Compact desktop form factor, ideal for home or small office network setups.
  • Fanless Design: Designed without a fan, ensuring silent operation for noise-sensitive environments.
  • Housing: Constructed with durable metal housing for long-lasting reliability and durability.
  • NDAA Compliance: NDAA compliant, ensuring suitability for use in secure government and federal networks.
  • Dimensions: Dimensions: 9 x 4 x 7 inches (W x H x D), compact enough for tight spaces.
  • Weight: Weighs approximately 12 ounces, making it lightweight and easy to install.
  • Voltage: Operates at 48V, providing stable power for PoE devices.
  • Temperature Range: Operating temperature range: 104°F to 40°C, suitable for typical indoor environments.
  • Warranty: Comes with a lifetime warranty and a 90-day renewed product guarantee for peace of mind.
  • Power Consumption: Low power consumption, making it an energy-efficient solution for small network setups.
  • Network Speeds: Supports Fast Ethernet speeds (100Mbps), suitable for many basic networking applications.
  • Compliance: Compliant with global safety standards, ensuring safe and reliable operation.
  • Port Type: Features 6 Fast Ethernet ports, 4 of which are PoE+ capable, suitable for most basic network setups.
  • Data Transfer: Provides reliable data transfer, ensuring stable connections for PoE and non-PoE devices.

FAQ

Setting up the TRENDnet TPE-S50 is simple: connect your devices to the ports using Ethernet cables, plug the switch into a power outlet, and it will automatically power up. The PoE+ ports will supply both power and data to PoE-enabled devices like cameras or access points.

The TRENDnet TPE-S50 offers a 60W PoE power budget, which can efficiently power up to four PoE+ devices simultaneously, like IP cameras or wireless access points.

Yes, this switch has two non-PoE Fast Ethernet ports that can connect to regular network devices like computers, printers, or servers, without requiring PoE power.

The fanless design ensures quiet operation, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments like home offices or surveillance rooms. The lack of a fan may slightly limit cooling in extremely warm environments, but it generally operates effectively in typical conditions.

No, the TRENDnet TPE-S50 supports only Fast Ethernet (100Mbps) speeds, not Gigabit Ethernet. It's ideal for smaller networks or low-bandwidth applications but may not be the best choice for high-demand setups requiring faster data transfer.

Yes, the TRENDnet TPE-S50 is NDAA compliant, making it suitable for secure government networks and other environments that require certified equipment.

The TRENDnet TPE-S50 has a switching capacity of 1.2 Gbps, providing reliable performance for typical edge networking tasks such as connecting IP cameras, VoIP phones, and other low- to moderate-speed devices.

This device comes with a lifetime warranty for peace of mind, as well as a 90-day renewed product guarantee, ensuring you can return or replace it if necessary within the specified time frame.

The TRENDnet TPE-S50 is great for small offices, home networks, or surveillance systems that need a reliable, quiet switch for PoE devices. It's particularly useful for businesses looking to power IP cameras, VoIP phones, and similar low-power devices while maintaining a compact footprint.

While 60W is sufficient for many small setups, it might not support power-hungry devices. For example, if you're using high-end IP cameras or other devices that require more power, you may hit the limit and need to reduce the number of powered devices.