UBIQUITI UniFi USW-Pro-Max-16-PoE Network Switch (2.5 GbE) | 16-port (12xPoE+, 4xPoE++), 2xSFP+

The UniFi Pro HD and Pro Max switches represent a new generation of professional networking technology that combines performance, convenience, and visual intelligence. With port configurations ranging from 16 to 48 ports, full Layer-3 functionality, and powerful PoE supply, they are the ideal choice for demanding IT environments. Noteworthy features include Etherlighting, which makes the port status visible via coloured LEDs directly on the device, and AR Commissioning, which enables commissioning via augmented reality through the UniFi app – a genuine advancement in user-friendliness and efficiency. Whether you require maximum bandwidth, flexible mounting options, or visual control: these switches provide a well-thought-out solution for modern networks that grow and impress.

The UniFi Pro HD and Pro Max switches belong to the most powerful class in the UniFi ecosystem and are aimed at professional network infrastructures with the highest demands on performance, flexibility, and management. They are designed for use in demanding environments – such as offices, studios, educational institutions, or complex smart building installations – and offer an impressive combination of Layer-3 functionality, high port density, state-of-the-art hardware, and thoughtful software integration.

All models in these series feature an integrated 1.3-inch touchscreen display that shows important status information directly on the device, such as port activity, system load, IP addresses, or warning messages. Management is carried out via the UniFi Network Controller, which enables central configuration, monitoring, and firmware management – even across multiple locations.

Common strengths of both series

Both the Pro HD and Pro Max switches are fully Layer-3 capable and support functions such as DHCP server, DHCP relay, inter-VLAN routing, and static routing. This allows them to perform tasks that normally require dedicated routers, relieving the network infrastructure. The configuration of these functions is software-based via the controller and is particularly advantageous for segmented networks with multiple VLANs.

The devices are equipped with Etherlighting™, a technology that provides visual feedback on port status and activity directly via the port LEDs. This simplifies diagnostics and ensures a modern, visually appealing representation of the network status.

All models support extensive Layer-2 functions such as LACP, STP/RSTP, QoS, IGMP snooping, port mirroring, jumbo frames, LLDP-MED, voice VLAN, and loop protection. Security features such as 802.1X, DHCP snooping, MAC- and IP-based ACLs, as well as port isolation, are also integrated to ensure secure network segmentation.

Differences between Pro HD and Pro Max

The Pro HD series consists of two models with 24 ports – one without and one with PoE++. Both devices offer a particularly high switching capacity of up to 230 Gbps and are equipped with 22 x 2.5 GbE RJ45, 2 x 10 GbE RJ45, and 4 x 10G SFP+ ports. The PoE variant delivers up to 600 watts total power and supplies all ports with PoE++ – ideal for power-hungry devices such as WiFi 6E access points or PTZ cameras. The Pro HD switches are exclusively designed as rackmount devices and offer maximum performance in a compact space.

The Pro Max series is significantly broader and includes models with 16, 24, and 48 ports – each with and without PoE. They offer a balanced mix of 1 GbE and 2.5 GbE ports as well as 2 to 4 SFP+ ports for uplinks. The PoE models deliver between 180 and 720 watts total power and support both PoE+ and PoE++ on selected ports. The exact distribution varies depending on the model size:

• The 16-port model has 12 ports with PoE+ and 4 with PoE++.
• The 24-port model has 8 ports with PoE+ and 16 with PoE++.
• The 48-port model has 32 ports with PoE+ and 16 with PoE++.

A special feature of the Pro Max series is flexible mounting: the 16-port models can be used not only in racks but also as desktop or wall-mounted devices. This makes them ideal for smaller installations or rooms with limited space. The larger models are optimised for rack installation and feature active cooling with temperature-controlled fans.

Performance and management

The switching capacity ranges from 84 Gbps in the smallest model up to 224 Gbps in the largest. Forwarding rates range between 62 and 167 Mpps. All devices support up to 1,000 VLANs, have MAC tables with up to 32,000 entries, and offer Layer-3 routing for up to 12,000 IPv4 routes. The PoE models come with internal power supplies that deliver between 210 and 870 watts depending on the model. Redundant power supply via the UniFi SmartPower RPS system is possible for all rackmount models.

Target groups and areas of application

The Pro HD switches are ideal for environments where maximum port speed and PoE power are required – for example, in AV studios, media productions, or high-density WiFi installations. The Pro Max switches offer more flexibility in port configuration and mounting and are particularly suitable for scalable networks with mixed requirements for bandwidth and power supply.

Both series are fully NDAA-compliant and suitable for use in security-critical environments. They can be logically stacked and managed together via the UniFi Controller, greatly simplifying scaling and maintenance.