The TP-Link gigabit Ethernet switch just hit $8.98 on Amazon—a nearly 50% discount that makes this unmanaged 5-port hub one of the cheapest ways to expand your home network. If your router’s ports are maxed out or you need reliable wired connections for streaming devices and gaming consoles, this deal cuts the barrier to entry dramatically.
Key Takeaways
- TP-Link TL-SG105 is a fanless, silent 5-port Gigabit Ethernet switch with 10 Gbps total switching capacity.
- Limited-time Amazon deal drops price to $8.98, down from the typical $15–17 retail price.
- Plug-and-play setup requires zero configuration—just connect cables and power.
- Metal housing and desktop or wall-mount design fit most network closets and entertainment centers.
- Energy-efficient operation uses only 2.3–3.7W max, with up to 84% power savings in idle mode.
What You Get for Under $9
The TP-Link gigabit Ethernet switch is an unmanaged switch, meaning it requires no software setup or configuration—plug it in and it works. The unit packs five 10/100/1000 Mbps ports with auto-negotiation and Auto-MDI/MDIX support, so you won’t need to hunt for crossover cables. At this price, you are essentially paying for raw port expansion, not smart features like VLANs or QoS controls.
The metal housing and compact 3.9 × 3.9 × 1 inch footprint mean it fits on a shelf, under a desk, or mounted to a wall without taking up real estate. Most importantly, it runs completely silent—no fans, no noise—which matters if your network hardware sits near your gaming setup or home theater.
TP-Link Gigabit Ethernet Switch vs. Smart Alternatives
If you just need to add ports, the TL-SG105 at $8.98 is unbeatable. But if your setup demands advanced features, TP-Link’s TL-SG105E offers easy smart management with VLAN support, QoS, and IGMP Snooping in a larger metal case—though it costs more and adds complexity you may not need. For PoE power delivery to wireless access points or IP cameras, the TL-SG1005P adds four PoE+ ports but draws significantly more power and commands a higher price. Most home networks and small offices don’t need those extras; the basic TL-SG105 handles Gigabit traffic just fine.
Performance Specs That Matter for Streaming and Gaming
The TP-Link gigabit Ethernet switch delivers 10 Gbps aggregate switching capacity and a 7.4 Mpps forwarding rate, which means it can shuffle Gigabit traffic between all five ports without bottlenecking. The 2K MAC address table and 1–1.5 MB buffer handle typical home network loads—multiple 4K streams, gaming consoles, and smart home devices pulling simultaneously. Support for 802.3x flow control and jumbo frames up to 16 KB ensures smooth video playback and gaming without packet loss.
Power consumption maxes out at 2.3–3.7W depending on port activity, making this one of the most efficient switches available. The external 5VDC/0.6A or 9VDC/0.6A adapter keeps heat low and noise nonexistent.
Why This Deal Matters Right Now
At $8.98, the TP-Link gigabit Ethernet switch breaks the psychological barrier of networking hardware—it costs less than a fast-food meal, yet solves a real problem. If you have been daisy-chaining USB hubs or running cables across rooms to reach your router, this switch eliminates that friction. The fanless design and low power draw mean you can leave it running 24/7 without guilt, and the metal construction suggests durability beyond the price tag.
The catch: this is a limited-time Amazon deal, and inventory moves fast on sub-$10 networking gear. TP-Link lists the TL-SG105 as end-of-life on its official site, so this may be your last chance to grab one at this price before stock clears.
Is the TP-Link Gigabit Ethernet Switch worth $8.98?
Yes, if you need port expansion and silence matters. At this price, even if it lasts only a few years, the cost-per-port is negligible. The trade-off is no management features—you cannot prioritize gaming traffic or isolate network segments—but for straightforward port multiplication, it is unbeatable.
Will this switch reduce lag in online gaming?
A switch itself does not reduce lag; your internet connection and router do. However, a wired connection via Ethernet eliminates WiFi interference and latency jitter, which is where a gigabit switch helps. By adding ports, you can wire more devices directly to your network, keeping WiFi bandwidth free for mobile devices.
Can you wall-mount the TP-Link TL-SG105?
Yes. The switch includes mounting brackets and can be installed on a wall or placed on a desktop. Its compact size and light weight make installation straightforward.
For under $9, the TP-Link gigabit Ethernet switch is a no-brainer if your network needs more ports and you value silence and simplicity. Grab it while the deal lasts—at this price, it is hard to justify a more expensive alternative unless you genuinely need smart switching features.
Where to Buy
This gigabit TP-Link switch is down to just $8.98 right now | TP-Link Litewave 5-Port Gigabit Ethernet Switch LS1005G: | $8.98 sale price for the TP-Link Litewave 5-port LS1005G | Ugreen 5-port switch for just $7.99
This article was written with AI assistance and editorially reviewed.
Source: Tom's Hardware
