Cheap switch or feature-packed Wi-Fi 6 router: which fits your network?

Display

Neither product has a display or screen, so this category is not applicable. That said, the ASUS RT-AX82U does include Aura RGB lighting, which is a visual design feature rather than a functional display. Winner: tie, because neither device offers a screen, and the ASUS lighting is cosmetic only.

Performance

The TP-Link TL-SG108S is an 8-port Gigabit unmanaged switch, so its job is simple: move data at up to 1,000 Mbps between wired devices with minimal fuss. For a NAS, Plex server, desktop PC, smart TV, or access point, it provides a reliable wired backbone with no configuration required. The ASUS RT-AX82U is much more capable in raw networking terms because it combines a dual-band Wi-Fi 6 router, gaming-oriented QoS, VPN support, AiMesh compatibility, and a dedicated gaming port. If you need to route traffic, handle wireless clients, and manage internet security in one box, the ASUS is far more powerful. Winner: ASUS RT-AX82U, because it is a complete networking platform rather than just a switch.

Build quality and design

The TP-Link TL-SG108S has a metal case, desktop or wall-mount flexibility, and a compact, fanless design that suits utility-focused installs. It is the kind of device you can tuck into a cupboard, behind a media cabinet, or near a rack shelf and forget about. The ASUS RT-AX82U has a much more elaborate gaming aesthetic, with larger antennas, RGB lighting, and a more substantial chassis designed to stand out on a desk. Build quality is strong on both, but their design priorities differ: TP-Link is practical and discreet, ASUS is feature-rich and visually aggressive. Winner: TP-Link TL-SG108S for pure simplicity and easier placement, especially in a home lab or network cupboard.

Battery life

Neither product is battery-powered, so battery life does not apply. Both are mains-powered networking devices intended for continuous operation. Winner: tie.

Price and value for money

This is where the TP-Link dominates. At £17.99, the TL-SG108S is exceptionally cheap for an 8-port gigabit switch, and its 4.8/5 rating from 4,483 reviews suggests it does the core job very well. The ASUS RT-AX82U costs £169.67, which is £151.68 more, but you are paying for an entire Wi-Fi 6 router platform, not just switching. If you only need more Ethernet ports for a NAS, console, PC, or TV, the TP-Link is outstanding value. If you need a router to provide Wi-Fi, security features, VPN, and mesh expandability, the ASUS price is justified. Winner: TP-Link TL-SG108S, because its value is hard to beat for straightforward wired expansion.

Game library/features

The TP-Link switch has no gaming-specific features, though it does support QoS and IGMP snooping, which can help with multicast traffic and certain streaming or IPTV setups. The ASUS RT-AX82U is explicitly aimed at gaming, with a gaming port, Mobile Game Mode, and PS5 compatibility, plus subscription-free network security and Instant Guard VPN. It also supports AiMesh, which is useful if you later want to extend coverage across a larger house. For gamers, the ASUS is the clear winner because it offers latency-focused features and wireless performance that a basic switch cannot. Winner: ASUS RT-AX82U.

Overall user experience

The TP-Link TL-SG108S offers the simplest possible experience: plug it in, connect your devices, and it just works. That makes it ideal for home labs, NAS setups, Plex servers, CCTV, or anywhere you want stable wired connectivity without extra complexity. The ASUS RT-AX82U is more involved but far more versatile, acting as the main router, wireless access point, security gateway, and gaming hub all in one. If your home network is currently limited by poor Wi-Fi, weak coverage, or an underpowered ISP router, the ASUS will feel like a major upgrade. If you already have a decent router and only need extra ports, the TP-Link is the smarter and much cheaper choice. Winner: depends on the use case, but for most people who only need wired expansion, TP-Link is the better experience.

Overall summary: these are not direct substitutes. The TP-Link TL-SG108S is the definitive buy for anyone who needs a low-cost, reliable gigabit switch for wired devices. The ASUS RT-AX82U is the better buy only if you need a full Wi-Fi 6 router with gaming features, VPN support, and mesh expansion. For pure value and home-lab practicality, TP-Link wins; for all-in-one wireless networking, ASUS wins.