NETGEAR MS305 Network Switch
Where to Buy
| Retailer | Price | Last seen | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
 Best Buy 15-day returns (in store too) · free return shipping · free shipping on $35+ | $39.99 | Jun 10, 2026, may have changed | Buy Now |
 amazon 30-day returns (in store too) | $69.98 | Mar 9, 2026, may have changed | Buy Now |
Prices are collected from retailer listings; each row shows the date we last saw that price. Return and shipping terms are each store's standard policy from our retailer research (April 2026). Some products and categories have different terms, so check with the store before you buy.
Pros
- •Provides true 2.5Gbps speeds as advertised, achieving solid performance up to about 250 MB/s.
- •Simple plug-and-play setup requiring no configuration, ideal for users wanting hassle-free installation.
- •Compact and sturdy metal case with mounting holes, allowing both desktop placement and convenient wall mounting.
- •Reliable and stable network performance, consistently saturating links at 2.5 Gbps without packet loss over quality cables.
- •Runs quietly and stays reasonably cool under normal use, though it can get warm under heavy load.
- •Well-suited for home networking and small lab setups, perfect for upgrading from traditional 1 Gbps switches.
- •Compatible with common ISP-supplied routers, such as eero, and works well as a core switch in basic wired networks.
- •Good value, especially when found on sale, making it a practical choice for those wanting multi-gig speed without breaking the bank.
- •Power is conveniently located at the back while Ethernet ports are at the front, simplifying cable management.
Cons
- •Lacks any management features like VLAN or QoS, as it's an unmanaged switch, so it’s not suitable for users needing advanced control.
- •Runs hot under heavy load, which means it’s best kept in a well-ventilated area and away from direct sunlight.
- •Requires having a nearby electrical outlet for powering the device, so placement options can be limited.
- •Limited to 5 ports, which might be restrictive for users wanting to connect more devices without adding another switch.
- •No jumbo frame support or advanced network protocols given it’s unmanaged, which might be a limitation for specialized networking needs.
Bottom Line
If you want to effortlessly upgrade your home or small office network to true multi-gigabit speeds with a reliable, sturdy, and easy-to-use device, the NETGEAR MS305 is a solid choice. Its simple plug-and-play convenience and compact design make it perfect for non-technical users who just want faster wired connections without fuss. However, if you need more than 5 ports or advanced network management features, you might want to consider a managed switch instead. For instance, the NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Plus Switch (GS308E) offers more ports and some degree of smart features while maintaining good build quality and reliability.
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Discussion
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