The Best Ethernet Splitters
Though there's much confusion about what exactly an ethernet splitter is, it's relatively simple. If you're looking to turn a single ethernet port on your router into several ports, you need an ethernet splitter. Technically, the term for this device is an "ethernet switch," but because the two are so often confused, folks looking for a splitter are actually searching for a switch most of the time. By utilizing one of these switches, you can expand your ethernet network to multiple pathways, each of which will receive its own data while maintaining constant communication with the other pathways. In this article, we've ranked and reviewed a few of the best models available today, and we hope you'll benefit from our findings.
What to Look For
If you want stable and reliable internet speed, nothing beats an ethernet connection. An ethernet splitter lets you take an existing local network connection and make it accessible to multiple devices. When you set up an ethernet splitter correctly, you can save network wall outlets and use fewer cables. All ethernet splitters have the same basic design that allows you to connect multiple devices to a single network. Look for a splitter with multiple outputs, so you can connect as many devices as you need. Also, pay attention to the length of the cable. If the cable is too short, it may not reach your desk or computer. To make your life easier, it’s best to purchase an ethernet splitter that doesn’t require manual configuration. Out of all the ethernet splitters we researched, we found the TP-Link Gigabit to be best for most people thanks to its easy setup and solid performance. And for a slightly cheaper alternative, check out the Linksys Business splitter. No matter your needs, read on to discover more of our favorite options and find one that’s right for you.
TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit
The people's champion
You don’t need to be a tech savant to utilize an ethernet splitter – not when it comes to the TP-Link 5-Port Gigabit, at least. This one requires hardly any setup at all; in fact, its plug-and-play configuration is part of what makes it so appealing. When it comes to setting up an internet network, things are already tricky enough. Between drilling holes, going through walls, stretching cables, and shaking your fist at the world, you’re going to want to minimize the effort required on your end, and that’s what this one does. Ideal for home networks, its five ports are rated at 10/100/1000 Mbps, and each supports auto-MDI/MDIX, so there’s no need for you to manually configure your cables.
Pros:
- We found the plug-and-play setup to be quick and easy.
- Allows you to increase the speeds of all your devices using a wired connection, and there are plenty of ports available to plug in multiple devices.
Cons:
- You can’t turn the lights off on this ethernet splitter.
Linksys Business 5-Port LGS 105
Bandwidth on a budget
This one is similar to TP-Link’s popular 5-Port Gigabit unit in many ways, although it trumps the TP-Link in terms of performance and reliability. It too has five auto-sensing ports, and as far as connection speeds, it matches the TP-Link at a max of 1,000 Mbps (gigabit speed). It also is comparatively easy to set up with a total plug-and-play installation guaranteed. But one of its standout specs is its QoS traffic prioritization. This bundle of features allows you to customize which points in the network should be allotted a priority status when it comes to bandwidth allocation. You’ll never have to worry about your son’s Minecraft game interfering with your at-home video conference again — unless he’s clever enough to get into the settings and give himself priority status, that is.
Pros:
- We found initiating an uplink using this ethernet splitter to be very fast.
- Its heavy-duty construction gives it a solid and durable feel, and we loved its compact design.
- Setting it up is as easy. All you need to do is plug in a few cables, and you’ll be up and running.
Cons:
- The LED on the front of the ethernet splitter is exceptionally bright.
MT-Viki 2-Port
Small and simple
Unlike the other splitters and switches on our list, the MT-VIKI 2-Port allows you to plug in two devices and decide which one will receive the internet connection. You can switch between them at any time, but neither will ever receive a signal simultaneously. This is in direct opposition to the other models we’ve included, which allow multiple signal streams to flow from the switch or splitter at once.
Why would this ever come in handy? Well, rather than having to buy an expensive switch like the ones above, or have to run two ethernet cables through walls to reach your router, this inexpensive switch provides an alternative. Let’s say you’re a gamer with two consoles. How often are you playing your Xbox and your PS4 at the same time? Never, right? Well, rather than having to unplug the ethernet cable from one console to switch it into the other, you can get two ethernet cables, plug them into this switch, and plug this switch’s single out-cable into the router to save clutter and make your day-to-day experience that tiny bit more convenient.
Pros:
- We loved that this ethernet splitter doesn’t need an external power source to operate. It gets its power from the devices connected to it.
- We found it switches between its two VGA ports flawlessly without any reduction in picture clarity and no distortion.
Cons:
- It’s made from low-quality plastic, so it’s probably not very durable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an ethernet splitter/switch and a hub?
During your research, you might’ve seen the term “ethernet hub” come up a few times. The reality is that these are nearly obsolete, so it’s probably less relevant to your setup than you might have expected. Why are they nearly obsolete? Well, unlike splitters/switches, ethernet hubs function inefficiently. This is because each connection point receives all of the information that is sent from other connection points in the network. This “repeating” is unnecessary and can slow down the internet connection. A switch, on the other hand, maintains a direct stream of communication with the source by utilizing something called packet switching.
Who still uses ethernet? Isn’t that tech obsolete?
No. Though WiFi (which is short for wireless fidelity, if you didn’t know) is more convenient, ethernet is more reliable. With ethernet, you get fewer interruptions in the signal (read: none), and potentially a faster connection. To draw a parallel to another concurrent tech, look to the ubiquity of Bluetooth speakers. Yes, they’re convenient, and yes, nobody loves having an ugly tangle of wires in their home; however, have you ever dealt with that uber-annoying loss of connection that occurs with a Bluetooth speaker? Yes? Me too. What about old-school, wire-based speakers? Have they ever suddenly stopped playing for reasons directly related to the hardware? No? Then there’s your answer. Simply put, ethernet is more reliable and more efficient, even if it’s less convenient.
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.