BrosTrend S3 8-port 2.5GbE Switch Management
This is an unmanaged switch, so we do not get a management interface.
BrosTrend S3 8-port 2.5GbE Switch Performance
These units were purchased and tested just as we were getting our new test suite online, but we were using the older iperf3 test suite that aligns with dozens of cheap fanless switch reviews we have done previously.
Performance was actually excellent on this simple test. We have to give credit where it is due with this solution.
BrosTrend S3 8-port 2.5GbE Switch Power Consumption and Noise
The switch itself was silent as we would expect with a fanless switch. On the power side, we get a 12V 1A power adapter.
The switch used 1.3W at idle. This was 0.3W more than the 5-port unit.
We hooked up a 2.5GbE port and got 1.6W for 0.3W incremental power.
This is really great power consumption for an 8-port 2.5GbE switch.
Final Words
When we purchased these BrosTrend switches, we did not know what to expect. Between the plastic case and the lack of brand awareness, we probably would have passed on this one if it were not so popular. Instead, it seems to have performed well. Make no mistake this feels very cheap, but that may be the point on a sub-$50 switch (with discounts.)
BrosTrend’s switches have so far exceeded our admittedly low expectations by using MaxLinear rather than Realtek switch chips. Simple, low power, and cheap are the factors driving their popularity. To us, something like the Gigaplus GP-S25-0802 8-port 2.5GbE and 2-port 10G switch would be the option that would at least make us pause here, since having two 10G ports can be handy for $10-15 more.
Where to Buy
If you want to check current pricing or pick up this switch, here is an Amazon Affiliate Link.
Would be nice if you could also test other switches with the similar chipset.
The power consumption makes them very attractive.
I have this switch, port 8 died within 2 weeks of use from overheating. At least, that’s what I think considering how hot the box was at the time of figuring it out.
Please do more testing to determine long-term use in not-ideal environments.
the BrosTrend S3 is popular because it’s cheap, silent, and reliable enough for most home users dipping into 2.5GbE. The Gigaplus model offers more future-proofing with 10GbE uplinks, but at a slightly higher cost.