MikroTik CRS304-4XG-IN 10 Gigabit Ethernet Switch review for seamless networking

Description

Compact Design and Silent Operation

I’ve had the chance to work with the MikroTik CRS304-4XG-IN, and the compact design immediately stands out. This switch doesn’t just fit neatly into tight spaces; it feels like it belongs there, blending functionality with aesthetics. The fanless design is a game-changer for me, especially in environments where silence is golden—like my home office. Whether perched on a desk or tucked into a network rack, its sturdy metal enclosure doubles as a heat sink, eliminating the need for noisy active cooling. This makes it an ideal choice for places like libraries or even bedrooms where noise sensitivity is a concern.

Performance and Features that Impress

This switch isn’t just about looks; its performance speaks volumes. Powered by a dual-core ARM CPU and the Marvell Prestera switch chip, it handles tasks like port-to-port forwarding, broadcast storm control, and MAC filtering effortlessly. I tested its VLAN capabilities and was impressed by how smoothly it managed traffic segmentation. The addition of Layer 3 hardware offloading is a pleasant surprise in a device at this price point, making it versatile enough for both home labs and professional setups. The data transfer rate of 10 Gigabits per second across its four Ethernet ports ensures blazing-fast connectivity, even under heavy loads.

Multiple Powering Options for Reliability

One of the favorable aspects of this product is its power redundancy. It offers four different power input options, including two DC jacks, a 2-pin terminal, and PoE-in. I really like how it automatically selects the source with the highest voltage, ensuring uninterrupted operation. This feature gives me peace of mind, knowing that even power fluctuations won’t disrupt my network. Whether you’re using it in a stationary setup or for mobile networking, this switch adapts seamlessly.

• Fanless operation makes it ideal for quiet environments.
• Multiple power options enhance reliability.
• Handles advanced networking tasks like VLANs and traffic mirroring with ease.

Upsides

• Powerful hardware for advanced networking tasks.
• Compact and portable, making it easy to carry for on-the-go use.
• Silent operation suitable for noise-sensitive locations.
• Plug-and-play setup—no additional SFP modules required.
• Versatile mounting options cater to various installation needs.

Limitations

While I’m impressed with its overall performance, there are a few less favorable aspects worth mentioning:

• The absence of active cooling means it might get warm under prolonged heavy usage, though the metal enclosure helps mitigate this.
• Setting up some of the advanced features like traffic mirroring may require a bit of technical know-how, which could intimidate beginners.
• The lack of native web-based management might be inconvenient for users who prefer GUI-based configuration tools.

Competing Products

When comparing this switch to similar offerings from brands like Ubiquiti and Netgear, a few things stand out. Ubiquiti switches often come with a more user-friendly interface, especially for those new to networking. However, they might lack the powering flexibility that the MikroTik CRS304-4XG-IN offers. Netgear, on the other hand, has some budget-friendly models, but they don’t always provide the same level of hardware performance or compact design. Where this product shines is in its ability to handle Layer 3 tasks and its fanless operation, which places it ahead of many competitors for quiet environments.

Quality for Price

Looking at the value proposition, this switch delivers impressive performance for its price range. Its ability to manage advanced networking tasks, coupled with its compact yet durable build, makes it a cost-effective solution for both professionals and tech enthusiasts. While it might not have the polished GUIs of some competitors, it compensates with raw performance and versatility. If you’re someone who values reliability and silent operation, this switch offers true value for the investment.

I can confidently say that this device has carved out a niche for itself. Despite its minor shortcomings, the combination of hardware power, compact size, and silent functionality makes it a solid choice for anyone looking to upgrade their network setup.

Additional information