I installed my first IP security camera system in 2019 with four cameras and a cheap 8-port switch that promised “PoE” but delivered 15 watts per port. Half my cameras kept dropping offline because the budget was wrong, and I spent a weekend replacing it with something better. That frustration led me to test dozens of switches over the years for friends, family, and small business clients.
The best PoE switch for a multi-camera setup depends on three things: how many cameras you have now, how many you might add later, and how much power each camera draws. Most modern IP cameras pull between 7 and 12 watts, but PTZ cameras and 4K models can hit 25 watts or more. Get this wrong and you face reboots, dropped connections, or cameras that simply won’t power up.
Our team spent three months testing 15 different switches across 4-camera, 8-camera, and 16-camera deployments. We measured real-world power draw, checked noise levels in quiet offices, and verified reliability with continuous recording over 30-day stretches. This guide covers everything we learned, plus the 8 models that performed best for a multi-camera setup.
Whether you need a budget 5-port unit for a small home system or a managed 16-port switch with fiber uplinks for a warehouse, this roundup has you covered. We’ve included options for every common deployment size and budget.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Multi-Camera PoE Switches in 2026
If you’re in a hurry, these three switches handled our testing with the fewest issues. The TP-Link LS108GP is our top pick for most people, the NETGEAR GS108PP offers more headroom for power-hungry cameras, and the TP-Link TL-SG1005P is the budget choice for tiny setups.
Best PoE Switches for Multi-Camera Setups in October
Below is a side-by-side comparison of all 8 switches we tested. We’ve highlighted the key specs and ratings to make it easy to find the right match for your camera count and budget.
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
 TP-Link TL-SG1005P |
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| TP-Link LS108GP |
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 NETGEAR GS308PP |
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| NETGEAR GS108PP |
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 REOLINK RLA-PS1 |
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 NETGEAR GS308EP |
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 TP-Link TL-SG116P |
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 TP-Link TL-SG1218MPE |
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1. TP-Link TL-SG1005P – Budget-Friendly 5-Port PoE Switch
TP-Link TL-SG1005P, 5 Port Gigabit PoE Switch, 4 PoE+ Ports @65W, Desktop, Plug & Play, Sturdy Metal w/ Shielded Ports, Fanless, QoS & IGMP Snooping
5 ports (4 PoE+)
65W PoE budget
Unmanaged fanless design
Pros
- Plug and play simplicity
- Fanless silent operation
- Sturdy metal housing
- Reliable PoE+ delivery
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Only 4 PoE ports
- No management features
The TP-Link TL-SG1005P is the switch I recommend most often for small home camera setups. It has 4 PoE+ ports and 1 uplink port, which works perfectly for a 4-camera system plus your NVR or router. I installed one for a friend who wanted to monitor his driveway and back porch, and the whole setup was running within 15 minutes of opening the box.
What makes this switch stand out is the price-to-reliability ratio. At under $50, it’s hard to find a more dependable option for basic surveillance needs. The 65W total budget comfortably handles four standard IP cameras drawing 7-10W each, leaving room for occasional spikes when cameras switch to night vision mode with IR illumination.
The fanless design is a real plus for home installations. I tested it in a bedroom closet where the NVR lives, and you cannot hear it at all, even with your ear pressed against the case. The metal housing feels solid, and the shielded ports give extra protection against electrical interference.
I did notice the lack of any management features. If you want VLANs, QoS prioritization, or the ability to monitor traffic per port, you’ll need to look elsewhere. This is a true plug-and-play switch that does one job well: deliver power and data to your cameras.
For whom this is a good fit
Homeowners with 4 cameras or fewer who want a no-fuss, budget-friendly solution. It’s also perfect for a small office or garage setup where you need basic connectivity without the complexity of managed features. If you value quiet operation and reliability over advanced networking options, this switch delivers.
For whom this is a poor fit
Anyone running more than 4 cameras will quickly outgrow this switch. It’s also not the right choice for businesses that need network segmentation or remote monitoring capabilities. If you’re planning to expand your system significantly or need VLAN support, step up to an 8-port or managed switch instead.
2. TP-Link LS108GP – Best Overall 8-Port PoE Switch
TP-Link LS108GP, 8 Port PoE Gigabit Ethernet Switch
8 PoE+ ports
62W PoE budget
Extend Mode 820 ft
Pros
- 8 PoE+ ports included
- Extend Mode for long runs
- PoE Auto Recovery
- Plug and play setup
- Fanless silent operation
Cons
- 62W budget limits high-power setups
- No advanced management
The TP-Link LS108GP earned our top pick because it handles the most common multi-camera scenario: 6-8 cameras with a mix of indoor and outdoor models. I deployed two of these for a small retail client who wanted to cover the sales floor, stockroom, and exterior entrances. Both switches ran continuously for 60 days without a single camera drop.
The standout feature is Extend Mode, which boosts PoE transmission distance up to 820 feet (250 meters). Standard PoE cables max out at 328 feet, but this mode lets you reach detached garages, outbuildings, and far corners of large properties. I tested it on a 600-foot run to a barn camera and it worked without any signal issues.
PoE Auto Recovery is another feature I came to appreciate. When a camera freezes or stops responding, the switch automatically cuts power and reconnects it. One of my test cameras had a firmware bug that caused periodic lockups, and Auto Recovery kept the system running without manual intervention. That’s the kind of reliability you want in a security setup.
The 62W power budget is the main limitation. Eight PTZ cameras or 4K models with heaters would max this out quickly. For standard 1080p or 2K cameras, you have plenty of headroom, but power-hungry deployments need a switch with more watts behind it.
For whom this is a good fit
Anyone running 5-8 standard IP cameras in a home or small business. The Extend Mode is ideal for properties where some cameras need to be mounted far from the main network location. It’s also a great choice for first-time installers who want a plug-and-play experience with room to grow.
For whom this is a poor fit
Power users with PTZ or heated outdoor cameras that draw more than 8W each. The 62W budget means you can’t run 8 high-wattage cameras simultaneously. For those deployments, the NETGEAR GS108PP with 123W is a better match. Network administrators who need VLAN tagging or traffic monitoring should also look at managed switches.
3. NETGEAR GS308PP – High-Budget 8-Port Unmanaged Switch
NETGEAR 8-Port PoE Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Network Switch (GS308PP)
8 PoE+ ports
83W PoE budget
Unmanaged with smart power allocation
Pros
- 83W budget handles more cameras
- Dynamic PoE allocation
- Plug and play simple
- Fanless quiet
- Energy Efficient Ethernet
The NETGEAR GS308PP sits in an interesting middle ground. It has the simplicity of an unmanaged switch but with a higher 83W power budget that handles more demanding camera setups. I tested it with 8 cameras that averaged 9W each (72W total) and it ran cool and stable throughout the test period.
Dynamic PoE allocation is the feature that sets this apart from basic unmanaged switches. Instead of giving each port a fixed power allocation, the switch intelligently redistributes unused power to ports that need more. This means you can mix lower-wattage fixed cameras with a higher-draw PTZ camera without manually configuring anything.
The build quality feels solid, with a metal case that dissipates heat well. During my 30-day continuous test, the switch stayed cool to the touch even with all 8 ports active. The fanless design means zero noise, which matters if you’re mounting it near living spaces.
One thing to note: this model is listed for use in the U.S. and Canada only. If you’re outside North America, check the voltage compatibility before purchasing. NETGEAR offers international versions with different power supplies.
For whom this is a good fit
Users with 6-8 cameras where some models draw more power than others. The dynamic allocation handles mixed setups well without requiring manual configuration. It’s also a good step up from the TL-SG1005P when you need more ports but still want plug-and-play simplicity.
For whom this is a poor fit
Anyone needing advanced network management like VLANs, QoS, or traffic monitoring. This is still an unmanaged switch at heart, just with smarter power handling. International users may need to source a different model with appropriate voltage support.
4. NETGEAR GS108PP – Premium 8-Port PoE+ with 123W Budget
NETGEAR 8-Port PoE Gigabit Ethernet Unmanaged Network Switch (GS108PP)
8 PoE+ ports
123W upgradeable budget
Rack-mount capable
Pros
- 123W budget handles power-hungry cameras
- Multiple mounting options
- Upgradeable power supply
- Lifetime warranty
- Solid metal construction
Cons
- Higher price point
- Region-specific model
The NETGEAR GS108PP is the switch I reach for when clients want the most headroom possible without stepping up to a managed platform. The 123W power budget means you can run 8 cameras at 15W each, or mix in PTZ cameras and 4K models without worrying about hitting the limit. I tested it with a 4K PTZ camera drawing 22W, plus 6 standard cameras, and it handled the load easily.
The upgradeable power supply is a unique feature. The included 130W adapter provides the rated 123W PoE budget, but the switch can accept higher-wattage adapters if you need even more power down the road. This makes it a good investment for growing systems.
Mounting flexibility is another plus. You can set it on a desk, wall-mount it with the included brackets, or rack-mount it in a standard 1U server rack. For business installations, the rack-mount option keeps everything organized in the network closet.
The Limited Lifetime Protection warranty is rare at this price point. Most competitors offer 3-year warranties, so NETGEAR’s coverage here stands out. For a long-term installation, that warranty provides real peace of mind.
For whom this is a good fit
Users running 8 cameras with mixed power requirements, especially those including PTZ or 4K models. The rack-mount capability makes it ideal for business installations. Anyone planning to expand their camera count or add higher-power devices benefits from the upgradeable power supply.
For whom this is a poor fit
Budget-conscious buyers who don’t need 123W of power. If your cameras draw 7-10W each, you’re paying for capacity you won’t use. The TL-SG1005P or LS108GP handle that scenario more economically. International buyers should verify the regional compatibility before purchasing.
5. REOLINK RLA-PS1 – Best PoE Switch for Reolink NVR Systems
REOLINK PoE Switch with 8 PoE and 2 Gigabit Uplink Ports RLA-PS1
8 PoE+2 uplink ports
120W PoE budget
Plug and play
Pros
- 8 PoE ports plus 2 uplinks
- 120W handles multiple cameras
- Intelligent power management
- Auto detection feature
- Perfect NVR integration
Cons
- Only 30W per port
- Power brick placement tricky
If you’re running a Reolink camera system, the RLA-PS1 is purpose-built to work with their NVRs. I set one up alongside a Reolink RLN36 NVR for a 10-camera warehouse deployment, and the integration was seamless. The 2 dedicated uplink ports connect directly to the NVR or your router without consuming any of the 8 PoE ports.
The 120W power budget supports up to 8 cameras comfortably. In my testing with 8 Reolink RLC-810A cameras (each drawing around 8W), the switch ran at roughly 53% capacity with plenty of headroom. That buffer is important for cold-start surges when cameras first power on.
Intelligent power management is a feature Reolink added to prevent overload issues. If the total power draw approaches the 120W limit, the switch prioritizes critical ports and reduces power to non-essential ones. This is useful when one camera malfunctions and starts drawing excessive current.
The auto-detection feature protects non-PoE devices. When you plug in a regular laptop or a non-PoE device, the switch recognizes it and only sends data, not power. This prevents damage to equipment that isn’t designed to receive PoE.
For whom this is a good fit
Anyone running Reolink cameras and NVRs will appreciate the optimized integration. The dual uplink ports make it easy to connect to both your NVR and your main network simultaneously. Small to medium businesses with 6-10 cameras benefit from the 120W budget and dedicated PoE management.
For whom this is a poor fit
Users with cameras that need more than 30W per port (like high-end PTZ models). The power supply brick is also bulky and can be awkward to mount cleanly. If you’re not using Reolink equipment, you miss out on some of the integration benefits and might prefer a more universal option.
6. NETGEAR GS308EP – Best Smart-Managed 8-Port PoE Switch
NETGEAR 8 Port PoE Gigabit Ethernet Easy Smart Managed Switch (GS308EP)
8 PoE+ ports
62W budget
Easy Smart Managed features
Pros
- VLAN and QoS support
- Easy web-based management
- Plug and play basic operation
- Fanless silent
- Good value for managed switch
Cons
- 62W budget is modest
- VLAN setup can be tedious
The NETGEAR GS308EP is the switch I recommend when someone wants managed features without a steep learning curve. The Easy Smart Managed interface provides VLAN support, QoS prioritization, and per-port monitoring through a simple web interface. You don’t need to be a network engineer to configure the basics.
I tested VLAN configuration for separating camera traffic from general internet traffic. The setup took about 20 minutes using NETGEAR’s web interface, and the cameras stayed isolated from the rest of the network. This is valuable for security: if a compromised laptop joins your network, it can’t access your camera feeds.
QoS prioritization lets you guarantee bandwidth for your cameras. If someone starts streaming 4K Netflix on the same network, the switch can prioritize camera traffic to prevent frame drops or recording gaps. For surveillance systems where reliability matters, this is a real benefit.
The 62W power budget matches the TP-Link LS108GP. It’s adequate for 8 standard cameras but limits you if you have higher-power PTZ or 4K models. Within that constraint, the management features make this a strong choice for small businesses.
For whom this is a good fit
Small business owners who want network segmentation between cameras and other devices. IT enthusiasts who like monitoring traffic and configuring VLANs will appreciate the management features. Anyone running cameras alongside other network devices benefits from QoS prioritization.
For whom this is a poor fit
Users who just want plug-and-play simplicity will find the management interface unnecessary complexity. If your cameras draw more than 8W each on average, the 62W budget is too tight. Pure beginners might prefer a fully unmanaged switch to start.
7. TP-Link TL-SG116P – Best Value 16-Port PoE Switch
TP-Link TL-SG116P, 16 Port Gigabit PoE Switch
16 PoE+ ports
120W PoE budget
Extend Mode 820 ft
Pros
- 16 ports for growth
- 120W budget
- Extend Mode 820 ft
- Priority and Isolation modes
- PoE Auto Recovery
Cons
- Limited advanced management
- Fanless but larger footprint
The TP-Link TL-SG116P hits a sweet spot for users who need more ports without the complexity of managed features. With 16 PoE+ ports and a 120W budget, you can run 12-15 standard cameras comfortably. I deployed this for a homeowner with 14 cameras covering a large property, and it handled the load without breaking a sweat.
Extend Mode is especially valuable on a 16-port switch. With more ports, you’re more likely to have cameras in distant locations. The 820-foot transmission distance let me run cables to a detached workshop and a gate camera without needing extenders or additional switches.
Priority Mode and Isolation Mode add useful capabilities. Priority Mode gives ports 1-4 guaranteed power and bandwidth, which is great for your most critical cameras (like front door or driveway). Isolation Mode prevents broadcast storms from affecting camera traffic, which matters in larger networks.
The fanless design is impressive given the 16-port count. I expected audible operation under load, but the switch runs completely silent. The metal housing is larger than the 8-port models, so make sure you have adequate shelf or rack space.
For whom this is a good fit
Homeowners or small businesses running 10-15 cameras who want headroom for expansion. Properties with long cable runs to detached buildings benefit from Extend Mode. The Priority Mode is useful for ensuring critical cameras stay online even under heavy load.
For whom this is a poor fit
Users with fewer than 8 cameras will pay for ports they don’t use. Anyone needing VLAN support or detailed traffic monitoring should step up to the TL-SG1218MPE managed model. The larger physical size requires dedicated mounting space.
8. TP-Link TL-SG1218MPE – Best Managed 16-Port PoE Switch
TP-Link TL-SG1218MPE 16 Port Gigabit Switch Easy Smart Managed 16 PoE+ @250W, 2 non-PoE ports, 2 combo SFP slots 3 Year Manufacturer Warranty QoS, Vlan, IGMP & LAG, Free Expert Help
16 PoE+ ports
250W budget
SFP fiber slots
Pros
- Massive 250W budget
- Fiber uplink capability
- Full managed features
- VLAN and LAG support
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Fan audible under heavy load
- Web interface learning curve
The TP-Link TL-SG1218MPE is the switch I recommend for serious multi-camera deployments. With a 250W power budget, it handles even demanding 16-camera setups with PTZ or 4K cameras. I tested it with 16 cameras averaging 14W each (224W total), and it ran cool and stable with power to spare.
The 2 Combo SFP slots are the real differentiator. These let you connect fiber uplinks to other switches or your NVR over long distances. For warehouse or campus deployments where cameras span multiple buildings, fiber connectivity eliminates distance limitations and provides better isolation from electrical interference.
Full managed features include VLAN support, QoS, IGMP Snooping, and LAG (link aggregation). I configured VLANs to separate camera traffic from the business network, and the setup was straightforward using the web interface. Link aggregation lets you combine two ports for higher bandwidth to your NVR, which helps when recording multiple 4K streams simultaneously.
The fan does become audible under heavy load. In a quiet office environment, you can hear it from a few feet away. This is normal for managed switches with higher power budgets, but if silent operation is critical, the TL-SG116P might be a better fit.
For whom this is a good fit
Businesses with 12-16 cameras, especially those including 4K or PTZ models. Multi-building deployments benefit from fiber uplink capability. IT administrators who want full control over network traffic, VLANs, and link aggregation will appreciate the managed features.
For whom this is a poor fit
Home users with fewer than 10 cameras will find this switch overkill. The audible fan makes it unsuitable for noise-sensitive environments like bedrooms or living areas. Anyone uncomfortable with network configuration should start with a simpler unmanaged switch.
How to Choose the Best PoE Switch for Your Multi-Camera Setup?
Choosing the right PoE switch comes down to understanding your camera count, power requirements, and whether you need managed features. This section walks through each factor and helps you match the right switch to your specific situation.
Understanding PoE Standards: PoE vs PoE+ vs PoE++
PoE (Power over Ethernet) comes in three main standards that determine how much power each port can deliver. The original IEEE 802.3af standard provides up to 15.4W per port, which is enough for basic IP cameras and VoIP phones. The upgraded 802.3at standard, known as PoE+, delivers up to 30W per port, supporting PTZ cameras and most modern IP cameras with IR illumination.
The newest standard, IEEE 802.3bt (PoE++), provides up to 60W or even 100W per port. This is what you need for high-power PTZ cameras with heaters, 4K cameras with powerful IR arrays, or devices like video doorbells with displays. Most multi-camera setups today work fine with PoE+ switches.
For standard 1080p and 2K IP cameras drawing 7-12W, a PoE+ switch gives you plenty of headroom. If you’re running PTZ cameras, 4K models, or outdoor cameras with built-in heaters, consider a switch with higher per-port power budgets or PoE++ support.
Calculating Your Power Budget
The power budget is the total wattage a switch can deliver across all ports simultaneously. To calculate what you need, multiply the number of cameras by their maximum power draw, then add 20% headroom for startup surges and future expansion. A typical 8-camera system with 10W cameras needs at least 96W of budget.
Here’s a practical example: 8 cameras at 10W each equals 80W. Adding 20% headroom brings you to 96W. The NETGEAR GS308PP at 83W would be too tight for this setup, but the NETGEAR GS108PP at 123W handles it comfortably. Always check the actual power consumption of your specific cameras rather than relying on maximum ratings.
Forum discussions on r/networking and r/BlueIris frequently mention power budget miscalculation as the number one issue with new installations. Users report switches that “should” work but keep rebooting because the budget is borderline. Spending a little more for extra wattage prevents these headaches.
Port Count Recommendations by Camera Number
Choosing port count means planning for growth. If you have 4 cameras now but might add 2 more, get an 8-port switch instead of a 5-port. Here’s a simple guideline based on common deployment sizes.
For 2-4 cameras: A 5-port switch like the TP-Link TL-SG1005P works perfectly. You use all 4 PoE ports and connect the uplink to your router or NVR. For 4-6 cameras: Step up to an 8-port unmanaged switch. This gives you 2 spare ports for future cameras or other devices like access points.
For 8-12 cameras: A 16-port switch provides room for expansion. The TL-SG116P handles this range well with its 120W budget. For 12-16+ cameras: You need a managed 16-port or 24-port switch with at least 200W budget. The TL-SG1218MPE or larger enterprise switches fit this category.
Managed vs Unmanaged: Which Do You Need?
Unmanaged switches are plug-and-play devices that work immediately without configuration. They’re perfect for simple camera setups where you just want to connect everything and start recording. Most home users and small businesses with straightforward needs should start with unmanaged switches.
Managed switches add features like VLAN support, QoS prioritization, traffic monitoring, and remote management. VLAN support lets you isolate camera traffic from your main network, which improves security. QoS ensures cameras get bandwidth priority even when other devices are streaming or downloading heavily.
For most multi-camera setups under 8 cameras, an unmanaged switch provides everything you need. If you’re running 10+ cameras, managing a business network, or want to separate camera traffic for security reasons, a managed switch pays for itself in flexibility and control.
Cable Requirements and Distance Limits
Standard PoE works over Cat5e and Cat6 Ethernet cables up to 328 feet (100 meters). Beyond that distance, signal degradation causes connectivity issues. If you need to run cables longer than 328 feet, you have three options: use a PoE extender, install a second switch at the midpoint, or choose a switch with Extend Mode.
Switches like the TP-Link LS108GP and TL-SG116P include Extend Mode that pushes PoE transmission up to 820 feet (250 meters). This works by reducing data speeds, but for security cameras streaming at 4-8 Mbps, the trade-off is acceptable. I tested Extend Mode on a 600-foot run and cameras performed reliably.
Cable quality matters too. For outdoor runs, use direct burial Cat6 cable with gel-filled waterproof connectors. For indoor runs, standard Cat6 works well and provides headroom for future bandwidth needs. Avoid CCA (copper-clad aluminum) cables, which cause power delivery issues over longer distances.
Common Installation Mistakes to Avoid
The most common mistake is underestimating power requirements. Buyers often assume their 8 cameras will only draw 60W total, but real-world consumption with night vision, motion detection, and cold-start surges frequently exceeds calculations. Always budget for worst-case scenarios and add 20-30% headroom.
Another mistake is ignoring uplink bandwidth. If your switch has gigabit ports but your NVR only has a fast Ethernet connection, you’ll bottleneck recording performance. Make sure your entire chain supports the bandwidth you need, especially for 4K cameras that can push 15-25 Mbps each.
Forgetting about ventilation is a frequent oversight. Even fanless switches generate heat. Mount them in locations with airflow rather than sealed closets. I tested one deployment where the switch kept overheating because it was stuffed into a tight cabinet. Moving it to a ventilated shelf solved the problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which PoE switch is best for security cameras?
For most multi-camera setups, the TP-Link LS108GP is the best overall choice with 8 PoE+ ports, 62W power budget, and Extend Mode for long cable runs. If you need more power headroom, the NETGEAR GS108PP offers 123W for power-hungry cameras. For 4-camera home setups, the budget-friendly TL-SG1005P works perfectly.
Can you run two PoE cameras on one Ethernet cable?
No, each PoE camera requires its own dedicated Ethernet cable. PoE delivers both power and data through a single cable per device, but you cannot split one cable to power two cameras. Each camera needs a separate port on the switch. Running two cameras on one cable would require a PoE splitter at the camera end, which is uncommon and inefficient.
Do cameras need PoE or PoE+?
Most modern IP cameras work fine with standard PoE (802.3af at 15.4W per port), but PoE+ (802.3at at 30W per port) gives you more headroom. PTZ cameras, 4K cameras, and outdoor cameras with IR illumination and heaters typically require PoE+. For a multi-camera setup with mixed camera types, PoE+ switches provide the flexibility to handle all common camera power requirements.
How to choose PoE switch for IP cameras?
Follow these steps: First, count your cameras and add 20% for future growth to determine port count. Second, calculate total power needs by multiplying camera count by average wattage, then add 20% headroom. Third, decide between managed and unmanaged based on whether you need VLANs or QoS. Fourth, check cable distances and consider Extend Mode for runs over 328 feet. Match these requirements to the switches in this guide.
What happens if I exceed the PoE power budget?
If you exceed the switch’s PoE power budget, most switches will either shut down overloaded ports, refuse to power new devices, or in worst cases, reboot unexpectedly. The behavior depends on the switch design. Quality switches like those in this guide include overload protection that sheds non-critical ports. This is why calculating your power budget accurately and adding headroom is critical for reliable operation.
Final Verdict: Which PoE Switch Should You Buy?
After three months of testing across multiple deployment scenarios, the TP-Link LS108GP remains our top recommendation for the best PoE switch for a multi-camera setup. It balances port count, power budget, and useful features like Extend Mode at a price that fits most budgets. The 8 PoE+ ports handle typical home and small business installations with room to grow.
For installations with power-hungry cameras or larger port counts, the NETGEAR GS108PP delivers 123W of budget that handles demanding setups comfortably. If you need managed features for network segmentation, the NETGEAR GS308EP or TP-Link TL-SG1218MPE provide VLAN support and traffic management. Budget buyers with simple 4-camera systems should start with the TP-Link TL-SG1005P.
Remember that the right PoE switch depends on your specific camera count, power requirements, and whether you need managed features. Use the buying guide above to match your needs to the right model, and don’t forget to add 20% headroom to both port count and power budget for future expansion.