TP-Link TL-SG105, 5 Port Gigabit Unmanaged Ethernet Switch, Network Hub, Ethernet Splitter, Plug & Play, Fanless Metal Design, Shielded Ports, Traffic Optimization
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AI Verdict
This 5-port 1000Mbps unmanaged switch expands your wired network with plug-and-play simplicity for basic device connections.
This switch is a situational fit because its 5 gigabit ports and plug-and-play nature make it easy to expand a basic wired network. However, recurring user complaints about power supply noise, potential speed throttling, and random disconnections mean it's a gamble for consistent performance, especially for demanding tasks.
If you need guaranteed 1000Mbps speeds and rock-solid stability, look for switches with a higher reliability rating and fewer reported issues, possibly from a different brand or a slightly higher price point.
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Pros
- Expands network capacity with 5x 10/100/1000Mbps RJ45 ports supporting Auto Negotiation and Auto MDI/MDIX.
- Fanless metal design ensures quiet operation and durability.
- Plug and Play setup requires no software installation or configuration.
- Utilizes energy-efficient technology to reduce power consumption.
- Supports Port-based 802.1p/DSCP QoS and IGMP Snooping for traffic prioritization.
- Compact size (3.9 x 3.9 x 1 inches) allows for flexible placement.
Cons
- Power adapter can produce a high-pitched whine.
- Some users report outbound ports throttling speeds to 100 Mbps or 90 Mbps, not reaching advertised 1000Mbps.
- Experiences random cutouts and unstable downloads for some users.
- Wall-mount holes are poorly designed and can cause internal component damage during installation.
- Power plug is on the opposite side of the Ethernet ports, complicating cable management.
Dimension Scores
Advertised 1000Mbps, but multiple user reports indicate outbound ports can get stuck at 100Mbps, limiting actual throughput for some.
Users report issues like random cutouts, unstable downloads, and device failure after a couple of years, indicating inconsistent long-term reliability.
It's a plug-and-play unmanaged switch requiring no software or configuration, making setup extremely simple.
As an unmanaged switch, it offers no configurable security features, focusing solely on basic network expansion.
Best For
- Adding 3-4 wired devices to a home network where your router lacks enough ports.
- Connecting a gaming console or PC directly to the network for reduced latency in simple setups.
- Expanding a small office network for basic internet access and file sharing.
- Users who need a simple, unmanaged solution without complex settings.
Not Recommended For
- Environments requiring consistent, high-speed 1000Mbps throughput for critical applications.
- Users sensitive to high-frequency noises from power adapters.
- Networks that demand advanced management features like extensive VLAN configuration or port security.
Watch Out For
- The power supply can emit a high-pitched whine that some users find unbearable.
- Multiple users experienced outbound ports being stuck at 100 Megabits Per Second, even when connected to gigabit devices, bottlenecking faster internet connections.
- Random cutouts and unstable downloads have been reported, with issues disappearing when devices are plugged directly into the router.
- The wall-mount holes are designed in a way that screws can contact internal components, potentially causing port failures if mounted normally.
- Some units have failed after a relatively short period, such as a little over 2 years, despite LEDs blinking.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 840460604031 845973021146 |
| ASIN | B00A128S24 |
| Brand | TP-Link |
| Color | Navy Blue |
| Voltage | 230 Volts |
| Language | English |
| Item Weight | 7.8 ounces |
| Manufacturer | TP-Link |
| Case Material | Metal |
| Current Rating | 0.6 Amps |
| Interface Type | 5 10/100/1000Mbps, Auto-Negotiation, Auto-MDI/MDIX Ports |
| Number of Ports | 5 |
| Item model number | TL-SG105 |
| Compatible Devices | Computer, Gaming Console, Printer, Television |
| Data Transfer Rate | 1000 Megabits Per Second |
| Product Dimensions | 3.94"L x 3.85"W x 0.98"H |
| Included Components | 5-Port 10/100/1000Mbps Desktop Switch Power Adapter Installation Guide |
| Upper Temperature Rating | 40 Degrees Celsius |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00845973021146, 06935364021320 |
What Buyers Say
This TP-Link switch is a bit of a mixed bag; while many users find it works perfectly for basic network expansion, a significant number report frustrating issues. The most surprising complaint is the high-pitched whine from the power adapter, which can be a dealbreaker for quiet environments. Beyond that, there are concerning reports of the switch throttling gigabit speeds down to 100Mbps for some ports and causing random network cutouts, which defeats the purpose of a wired connection for stability. Even the physical design has flaws, with wall-mount holes potentially damaging internal components.
โMan, this thing is a total gamble. Sometimes it's perfect, other times it's humming like a banshee and slowing my internet down. I just needed a simple splitter, not a headache!โ
Common Praise
- It's small and made of metal, feeling sturdy.
- Setup is just plugging it in, no fuss.
- The fanless design means it doesn't make noise from moving parts.
- Many users report it just works as expected for years, providing stable wired connections.
- LED indicators on each port provide visual status updates.
Common Complaints
- The power adapter emits a high-pitched, annoying whine.
- Some ports inexplicably cap speeds at 100Mbps instead of 1000Mbps.
- Random disconnections and unstable network performance are reported by some users.
- The power cord plugs in on the opposite side from the Ethernet ports, making cable routing messy.
- Wall-mounting can lead to internal damage due to screw placement.
- Units can fail completely after a couple of years, even with blinking lights.
Ownership Tips
- The power adapter's high-pitched noise can become very irritating over time, especially in a quiet room.
- You might find yourself troubleshooting network speed issues only to discover this switch is the bottleneck, even if it's rated for gigabit.
- The placement of the power port on the opposite side of the Ethernet ports makes clean cable management a challenge.
- Despite its metal casing, the internal components might be vulnerable if you attempt to wall-mount it.
- Even if it seems to work initially, some users report sudden failures after a year or two of use.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this switch work?
It takes one Ethernet port from your router and splits it into four additional usable ports, allowing you to connect more wired devices like PCs, consoles, or printers to your network.
Is it truly plug and play?
Yes, the TL-SG105 is designed for easy setup with no software installation or configuration needed; you just plug in the power and Ethernet cables.
Does it add latency for gaming?
A gigabit switch like this shouldn't add more than 1ms of latency in the absolute worst case, so it's generally suitable for gaming if it functions correctly.
Can it be wall-mounted?
Yes, it has a desktop/wall-mounting design, but some users have reported that the wall-mount holes are poorly designed and can cause internal damage.
Does it save energy?
Yes, it uses energy-efficient technology that automatically adjusts power consumption based on link status and cable length, potentially saving up to 84% power.
Does it support advanced features like VLANs or IGMP Snooping?
While it's an unmanaged switch, the product page lists Port-based 802.1p/DSCP QoS and IGMP Snooping for traffic optimization, which is baked into the Realtek RTL8367S chip it uses.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at a switch like this, you're basically just trying to add more Ethernet ports to your network. This isn't a router; it doesn't create Wi-Fi or assign IP addresses. It just takes one wired connection and lets you plug in more devices, like a power strip for your network cables.
Data Rate (1000 Megabits Per Second)
Ports (5)
Unmanaged
Alternatives
If you need more than 4 additional wired connections, look for switches with 8 or more ports. If you require advanced network control like VLANs or port aggregation, you'll need a 'managed' switch instead.
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