QNAP QSW-L3208-2C6T Review: A Versatile 8-Port 10GbE Combo Switch

We discovered the QNAP QSW-L3208-2C6T while browsing for 8-port 10GbE switches online and decided to purchase one for review. Priced in the $350-450 range, it sits in the mid-tier for 10GbE switches. What makes this unit interesting is its hybrid port configuration: it can utilize up to eight 10Gbase-T ports or leverage combo ports as 10G SFP+ connections, offering significant flexibility in a compact form factor. As a web-managed or "lite" managed switch, it provides basic management features suitable for many deployment scenarios.

For this review, we're using our new Keysight XGS2 testing setup, which includes two XGS2 chassis and three line cards. We're specifically using the 16-port dual PHY NOVUS10/1GE16DP line card, which allows us to test 1GbE/10GbE gear in either 10Gbase-T or SFP+ configurations. This new testing capability enables full line-rate 64B packet testing across over 1.7Tbps of ports, providing solid latency measurements and the ability to compare actual versus theoretical throughput. This complements our existing L4-7 CyPerf testing equipment used for gateways, switches, and devices like the NVIDIA ConnectX-8.

Hardware Overview

The QNAP QSW-L3208-2C6T measures 44 x 210 x 160mm, making it compact enough to feel like a desktop switch while maintaining a 1U height for rack mounting. The first six ports are 10Gbase-T RJ45 connections. Being a relatively new switch, it supports not only 10GbE but also 2.5GbE and 5GbE speeds, making it forward-compatible with emerging multi-gigabit standards.

Ports 7 and 8 are combo ports, which is a key differentiator. Instead of being fixed as either 10Gbase-T or SFP+, these ports offer both options. You can use the 10Gbase-T side for RJ45 connections or switch to the SFP+ ports for optical transceivers or DAC cables. This flexibility is particularly valuable for uplinking to SFP+ switches without requiring additional media converters.

The ability to run 10Gbase-T on these combo ports is significant, as 10Gbase-T capability typically commands a premium over SFP+ ports alone. This design choice makes the switch more versatile for various network topologies.

Physical Design and Rack Compatibility

The switch features vents on both sides for cooling, with rack ear mounting holes available. However, the rack ears present a notable issue: they don't fit standard 19" racks. Testing with a DeskPi RackMate T0 4U 10" rack revealed that the ears are sized for non-standard rack widths, which is a common problem with budget-friendly switches but remains a significant oversight for users planning rack deployments.

On the rear, we find a console port for CLI management and a DC power input with a retention clip to secure the power cable. The bottom of the unit includes login information and four mounting points for the included rubber feet, suggesting it's designed for desktop placement when not rack-mounted.

Internal Components and Cooling

Internally, the switch features a relatively simple layout with a single four-pin fan for cooling. The fan noise levels are acceptable for most environments, though users with specific acoustic requirements might consider swapping it. The heatsink covers the main switching chip, which we believe is the Realtek RTL9303 based on the port configuration, power consumption characteristics, and performance metrics. Unfortunately, the heatsink isn't easily removable, which limits upgrade or maintenance options.

Management Features

As a web-managed switch, the QNAP QSW-L3208-2C6T provides basic management capabilities through a web interface. This typically includes VLAN configuration, port mirroring, link aggregation, and QoS settings—sufficient for most small to medium business deployments without the complexity or cost of fully managed enterprise switches.

Performance Considerations

With our Keysight XGS2 testing setup, we can conduct thorough performance analysis. The switch's ability to handle mixed 10Gbase-T and SFP+ traffic makes it suitable for environments with diverse equipment. The combo ports are particularly useful for networks transitioning from copper to fiber or requiring specific uplink configurations.

The switch's price point positions it as a cost-effective solution for users needing 10GbE connectivity without enterprise-grade features. However, the non-standard rack ears and the combo port design (which requires choosing between SFP+ or 10Gbase-T per port) are important considerations for deployment planning.

Deployment Scenarios

This switch is well-suited for:

• Small business networks requiring 10GbE connectivity
• Home lab environments with mixed copper and fiber equipment
• Workstation clusters needing high-speed interconnects
• As an edge switch in larger networks where specific port flexibility is required

The combo ports make it particularly valuable for networks with both SFP+ and 10Gbase-T equipment, eliminating the need for separate switches or media converters for different connection types.

Conclusion

The QNAP QSW-L3208-2C6T offers a compelling mix of flexibility and performance at its price point. The hybrid port configuration is its standout feature, providing versatility that's uncommon in this segment. However, potential buyers should note the non-standard rack ear sizing and the trade-off inherent in combo ports—each port can only be used as either 10Gbase-T or SFP+, not both simultaneously.

For users who need this specific port combination and can work around the rack mounting limitations, it represents good value. The switch's support for 2.5GbE and 5GbE speeds also provides some future-proofing as multi-gigabit devices become more common.

As we continue our testing with the Keysight XGS2 system, we'll provide more detailed performance metrics, including latency measurements and throughput validation under various traffic patterns.

For more information about the QNAP QSW-L3208-2C6T, visit the official QNAP product page. The Keysight XGS2 platform provides advanced testing capabilities for network equipment validation.