The Ultimate Guide to 4 Port PoE Switches in 2026

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# The Ultimate Guide to 4 Port PoE Switches in 2026

Power over Ethernet (PoE) switches have revolutionized how we power and connect devices, and if you’re looking for a compact and efficient solution, a 4-port PoE switch might be exactly what you need. In this ultimate guide, we’ll dive deep into the world of 4-port PoE switches, exploring the best options available in 2026, understanding their applications, and helping you choose the perfect one for your needs. Whether you’re setting up a home security system, expanding your small business network, or simply looking for a cleaner and more streamlined way to power your devices, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision. Let’s get started!

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## Why You Need a 4 Port PoE Switch

Before we jump into the best 4-port PoE switches of 2026, let’s understand why you might need one. PoE technology allows you to transmit both power and data over a single Ethernet cable, simplifying installations and reducing the need for separate power outlets. This is particularly useful for devices like:

* **IP Cameras:** Security cameras can be placed anywhere there’s an Ethernet cable, without worrying about nearby power sources.
* **VoIP Phones:** PoE provides reliable power and data connectivity for your office phone system.
* **Wireless Access Points:** Extend your Wi-Fi network coverage without the hassle of running additional power lines.
* **IoT Devices:** Power a variety of smart devices, from sensors to controllers, in a convenient and efficient manner.

A 4-port PoE switch is ideal for smaller deployments, offering a cost-effective and space-saving solution. They are easy to set up and manage, making them perfect for home users, small businesses, and even larger organizations with specific needs.

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## Top Picks: 4 Port PoE Switches in 2026

Here’s a quick look at some of the top 4-port PoE switches available in 2026. We’ll delve into detailed reviews of each later in this guide.

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## Detailed Reviews: Best 4 Port PoE Switches of 2026

Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the top 4-port PoE switches you can find in 2026. We’ll examine their key features, benefits, and ideal use cases.

### Netgear GS305EP

**Best For:** Small Businesses

**Key Features:**

* **63W PoE Power Budget:** Provides ample power for multiple devices.
* **Plug-and-Play Installation:** Easy setup with no configuration required.
* **Fanless Design:** Silent operation, ideal for quiet environments.
* **Gigabit Ethernet Ports:** High-speed data transfer for demanding applications.

**Why We Like It:** The Netgear GS305EP is a reliable and versatile 4 port poe switch perfect for small businesses. Its generous power budget and plug-and-play installation make it a hassle-free solution for powering IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points. The fanless design ensures silent operation, making it suitable for office environments.

### TP-Link TL-SG1005P

**Best For:** Home Security Systems

**Key Features:**

* **65W PoE Power Budget:** Supports multiple PoE devices.
* **5 Gigabit Ports:** Includes one non-PoE port for uplink connectivity.
* **Plug and Play:** Simple setup with no configuration needed.
* **Sturdy Metal Casing:** Durable construction for long-lasting performance.

**Why We Like It:** The TP-Link TL-SG1005P is an excellent budget-friendly option for powering your home security system. Its sufficient power budget and easy setup make it ideal for connecting IP cameras and other PoE devices. The sturdy metal casing ensures durability, providing peace of mind for your security infrastructure. It’s a great 4 port poe switch that doesn’t break the bank.

### Ubiquiti UniFi Switch Flex Mini

**Best For:** Expanding Existing UniFi Networks

**Key Features:**

* **5 Gigabit Ethernet Ports:** High-speed connectivity for all devices.
* **PoE Input:** Can be powered by another PoE switch or injector.
* **Compact Design:** Small form factor for discreet installations.
* **UniFi Controller Integration:** Seamless management within the UniFi ecosystem.

**Why We Like It:** If you’re already invested in the Ubiquiti UniFi ecosystem, the UniFi Switch Flex Mini is a no-brainer. Its seamless integration with the UniFi Controller allows for centralized management and monitoring of your network. The PoE input feature is especially useful, allowing you to power the switch itself using PoE, further simplifying your setup. While it has a lower power output for connected devices, it’s perfect for smaller PoE devices and extending an existing UniFi network.

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## Buying Guide: What to Consider When Choosing a 4 Port PoE Switch

Choosing the right 4 port poe switch depends on your specific needs and requirements. Here are the key factors to consider:

### PoE Power Budget

The PoE power budget is the total amount of power the switch can provide to connected devices. Make sure the switch has enough power to support all your PoE devices simultaneously. Calculate the power requirements of each device and ensure the switch’s power budget exceeds the total. For example, an IP camera might require 15W, while a VoIP phone might need 7W. If you plan to connect four IP cameras, you’ll need a switch with at least a 60W power budget.

### PoE Standards (802.3af/at/bt)

PoE switches support different PoE standards, each providing a different power level.

* **802.3af (PoE):** Provides up to 15.4W of power per port.
* **802.3at (PoE+):** Provides up to 30W of power per port.
* **802.3bt (PoE++):** Provides up to 60W or 90W of power per port.

Ensure the switch supports the PoE standard required by your devices. Most modern devices support PoE+, but it’s always a good idea to check the specifications.

### Gigabit Ethernet Ports

Gigabit Ethernet ports provide high-speed data transfer, essential for bandwidth-intensive applications like video streaming and large file transfers. Make sure the switch has Gigabit Ethernet ports for optimal performance. While some older devices might only support Fast Ethernet (10/100 Mbps), Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbps) provides significantly faster speeds and future-proofs your network.

### Managed vs. Unmanaged Switches

* **Unmanaged Switches:** These are plug-and-play devices that require no configuration. They are easy to set up and ideal for basic networking needs.
* **Managed Switches:** These offer advanced features like VLANs, QoS, and port mirroring. They are more complex to configure but provide greater control over your network.

For most home and small business users, an unmanaged switch is sufficient. However, if you need advanced features, consider a managed switch.

### Fanless Design

A fanless design ensures silent operation, making the switch suitable for quiet environments like offices and homes. Switches with fans can be noisy, which can be distracting in certain settings.

### Brand Reputation and Warranty

Choose a reputable brand known for producing reliable networking equipment. Look for switches with a good warranty to protect your investment. Brands like Netgear, TP-Link, and Ubiquiti are well-regarded in the networking industry and offer reliable products with decent warranties.

### Budget

4 port poe switch prices can vary widely depending on features and performance. Determine your budget and choose a switch that meets your needs without breaking the bank. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, consider investing in a slightly more expensive switch from a reputable brand for better reliability and performance.

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## Alternative Options to a 4 Port PoE Switch

While a 4 port poe switch is a great solution for many, you might want to consider some alternatives depending on your specific needs:

* **PoE Injectors:** If you only need to power one or two PoE devices, a PoE injector might be a more cost-effective option. A PoE injector adds power to an Ethernet cable, allowing you to power a single device without needing a PoE switch.
* **Larger PoE Switches:** If you anticipate needing to power more than four devices in the future, consider investing in a larger PoE switch with 8, 16, or even 24 ports. This will give you more flexibility and scalability as your network grows.
* **Non-PoE Switches with Separate Power Supplies:** You can also use a non-PoE switch and power your devices with separate power supplies. However, this adds complexity and increases the number of cables you need to manage.

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## Setting Up Your 4 Port PoE Switch: A Step-by-Step Guide

Setting up your 4

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