BV-Tech 18 Ports Long Range PoE+ Switch - 16 PoE+ Ports, 2 Gigabit

In this review of the BV-Tech 18 Ports Long Range PoE+ Switch, the bottom line is straightforward: it is a practical, cost-conscious choice for small offices, multi-camera surveillance installs, and home networks that need to power many devices without extra injectors. The switch stands out for providing 16 PoE+ ports plus two gigabit uplinks in a compact desktop design that can also be rack-mounted, making it useful where space and simplicity matter. Setup is plug-and-play, and the 135W budget covers most common PoE devices, which is the single biggest reason to consider it.

Key Features

• 16 PoE+ Ports: Lets you connect and power up to 16 devices simultaneously, reducing the need for separate power supplies and simplifying installation.
• 2 Gigabit Uplinks: Dual 10/100/1000Mbps uplink ports provide higher-capacity backhaul to a router or core switch for smoother network traffic.
• 135W Power Budget: Supports up to 30W per port with Hi-PoE on ports 1 and 2 offering up to 60W single-port output for higher-draw devices.
• Long Range Extension: Built-in extend function can increase PoE transmission distance from 328ft to 656ft, useful for cameras or APs placed farther from the switch.
• Plug-and-Play Operation: No configuration required for basic use, making initial deployment fast for non-technical users.
• Compact, Rack-Ready Design: Desktop form factor with included rack extensions allows mounting in 19' racks while keeping a small footprint.

Who It's For

The BV-Tech PoE+ switch is best for small businesses, installers, or homeowners who need to power multiple IP cameras, wireless access points, or VoIP devices without running separate power. Its 16-port count and 135W budget make it a sensible centerpiece for a modest security system or a branch office network that prioritizes ease of setup.

It is less well suited to larger enterprise sites that require managed switching, advanced VLAN segmentation, or higher per-port sustained budgets. Customers demanding strict industrial durability or guaranteed thermal performance under heavy continuous loads should evaluate heavier-duty, managed models instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High port density with 16 PoE+ ports to power many devices from one unit.
• Two gigabit uplinks give better throughput to the wider network compared with fast Ethernet-only designs.
• Extend mode and Hi-PoE options add flexibility for long-run cameras and higher-watt devices.
• Plug-and-play and compact desktop form factor simplify installation and space use.

Cons

• Some customers report mixed reliability with the power supply and occasional heat concerns under heavy load, so expect variable thermal performance in demanding setups.
• Not a managed switch, so it lacks advanced configuration and monitoring features required by larger deployments.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The BV-Tech 18 Ports Long Range PoE+ Switch is a strong value for small installations that need many powered ports without complex setup. Its combination of 16 PoE+ ports, dual gigabit uplinks, and a 135W budget makes it a practical hub for camera systems and small office networks; however, those needing managed features or rock-solid high-temperature performance should consider managed or industrial alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this switch power high-draw devices like PTZ cameras?
Yes, the 135W budget and Hi-PoE support on ports 1 and 2 (up to 60W) allow it to power many higher-draw devices, but total available power is shared across ports.

Does this unit require setup or configuration?
No, it is plug-and-play for basic operation so devices should power and connect without additional software.

Can it be mounted in a rack?
Yes, the switch includes extensions to fit in a 19' rack while also working as a compact desktop unit.