Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series Showdown: C9200-24T-A vs C9200-24T-E

Jul 03 , 2025 118

Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series Showdown: C9200-24T-A vs C9200-24T-E

Choosing between Cisco’s Catalyst 9200 Series switches for your campus or branch network? The C9200-24T-A and C9200-24T-E share similarities but cater to distinct needs. Here’s a granular breakdown to guide your decision.

1. Performance Specifications

Why it matters: The C9200-24T-A prioritizes raw throughput for high-density data centers, while the C9200-24T-E balances cost and scalability for midsize networks.

2. Core Functionality

• C9200-24T-A:

• Modular design: Expandable with 40G QSFP+ modules for backbone connections.

• Ultra-low latency: Optimized for financial trading or real-time analytics.

• C9200-24T-E:

• PoE flexibility: Supports up to 24×802.3bt (715W max) for IoT and VoIP.

• Security-first: Integrated TrustSec and MACsec encryption for sensitive data.

Why it matters: The C9200-24T-A is built for speed, while the C9200-24T-E adds versatility for edge deployments.

3. Design & Aesthetics

• Form Factor: Both are 1RU rack-mountable and fanless for quiet operation.

• Ports:

• C9200-24T-A: 24 SFP+ slots (fiber/copper) + 4 combo ports.

• C9200-24T-E: 24 front-facing RJ-45 PoE++ ports.

• Durability: MIL-SPEC-810H certified for extreme temperatures and vibrations.

Why it matters: The C9200-24T-A suits fiber-heavy environments; the C9200-24T-E streamlines PoE deployments.

4. User Experience

• Management: Both support Cisco DNA Center, CLI, and REST APIs.

• Ease of Use:

• C9200-24T-A: Steeper learning curve for modular configurations.

• C9200-24T-E: Plug-and-play simplicity for SMBs.

• Troubleshooting: LED diagnostics and Cisco Prime Infrastructure integration.

Why it matters: The C9200-24T-E is ideal for hands-off admins; the C9200-24T-A rewards customization.

5. Pricing & ROI

• C9200-24T-A: ~6,500–8,000 (street price).

• C9200-24T-E: ~4,500–6,000.

• Value Proposition: The C9200-24T-A pays off in high-throughput scenarios; the C9200-24T-E balances cost with future PoE scalability.

Why it matters: Enterprises lean toward the C9200-24T-A; budget-conscious buyers opt for the C9200-24T-E.

6. Power Efficiency

• Idle Power: ~35W (both).

• Under Load: ~250W (C9200-24T-A) vs. ~200W (C9200-24T-E).

• Efficiency Rating: ENERGY STAR compliant, but the C9200-24T-E uses less power under mixed workloads.

Why it matters: Greener deployments may favor the C9200-24T-E.

7. Compatibility & Expansion

• C9200-24T-A:

• Supports 40G QSFP+ modules for backbone upgrades.

• Stacking with Catalyst 9200/9300 switches.

• C9200-24T-E:

• Limited to 24 PoE+ ports (no expansion slots).

• Works with Cisco ISR/ASR routers and third-party devices.

Why it matters: The C9200-24T-A future-proofs your network; the C9200-24T-E is plug-and-play.

8. Software Enablement

• Shared Features:

• SD-WAN (Viptela integration), TrustSec segmentation, Meraki cloud management.

• C9200-24T-A Exclusive:

• VXLAN/EVPN overlays with advanced licensing.

Why it matters: The C9200-24T-A is ideal for cloud-native architectures.

Final Recommendation

• Pick the C9200-24T-A if:
  You need a high-performance, modular switch for data centers or latency-sensitive apps.

• Choose the C9200-24T-E if:
  PoE density and simplicity are critical for SMBs or branch offices.

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