Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series Switch Showdown: C9200-48PB-A vs C9200-24PB-E

Jul 03 , 2025 6

Cisco Catalyst 9200 Series Switch Showdown: C9200-48PB-A vs C9200-24PB-E

When upgrading your campus or branch network, Cisco’s Catalyst 9200 Series offers rugged reliability and modern features. But choosing between the C9200-48PB-A and C9200-24PB-E requires balancing port density, performance, and future-proofing. Here’s a breakdown to guide your decision.

1. Performance Showdown

Why it matters: Both models excel in basic switching tasks, but the C9200-48PB-A wins for dense 1G deployments (e.g., IoT-heavy offices), while the C9200-24PB-E offers flexibility for future 10G upgrades.

2. Functionality Features

• C9200-48PB-A:

• Edge-centric design: Built for SMBs or branch offices needing maximum PoE+ ports (ideal for IP phones, cameras, and wireless APs).

• Basic stacking: Supports up to 8 switches in a stack for unified management.

• C9200-24PB-E:

• Flexible uplinks: Dual 10G SFP+ ports enable connectivity to core switches or routers.

• Enhanced security: Built-in TrustSec and MACsec encryption for sensitive data.

Why it matters: The C9200-24PB-E is better suited for midsize networks requiring scalability and security, while the C9200-48PB-A prioritizes simplicity and PoE+ density.

3. Design & Aesthetics

• Form Factor:

• Both are compact (1RU) and fanless, making them silent and energy-efficient.

• C9200-48PB-A: 48 front-facing RJ-45 ports for easy cable management.

• C9200-24PB-E: 24 front ports + 4 combo SFP slots for fiber flexibility.

• Durability: MIL-SPEC-810H certified for harsh environments (temperature, vibration).

Why it matters: The C9200-48PB-A is ideal for cluttered wiring closets, while the C9200-24PB-E suits deployments needing fiber connectivity.

4. User Experience

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

• Ease of Use:

• C9200-48PB-A: Simplified setup for PoE-heavy environments.

• C9200-24PB-E: Advanced features like VXLAN require deeper configuration.

• Troubleshooting: LED indicators and Cisco Prime Infrastructure integration aid rapid issue resolution.

Why it matters: The C9200-48PB-A is beginner-friendly, whereas the C9200-24PB-E caters to network pros.

5. Pricing & Value

• C9200-48PB-A: ~4,500–5,500 (street price)

• C9200-24PB-E: ~6,000–7,000

• ROI: The C9200-48PB-A offers more ports upfront, while the C9200-24PB-E balances cost with long-term scalability.

Why it matters: For tight budgets, the C9200-48PB-A delivers immediate value; enterprises may prefer the C9200-24PB-E’s upgrade path.

6. Power Consumption

• Idle Power: ~35W (both models)

• Under Load: ~150W (C9200-48PB-A) vs. ~180W (C9200-24PB-E)

• Efficiency: Both meet ENERGY STAR standards, but the C9200-48PB-A edges out slightly lower power draw.

Why it matters: Greener deployments or cost-sensitive environments may lean toward the C9200-48PB-A.

7. Compatibility & Expansion

• C9200-48PB-A:

• Works with Cisco ISR/ASR routers, UCS servers, and third-party PoE devices.

• Limited to 48 ports (no expansion slots).

• C9200-24PB-E:

• Supports 10G SFP+ modules for fiber uplinks.

• Stacking with other Catalyst 9200/9300 switches.

Why it matters: The C9200-24PB-E future-proofs your network, while the C9200-48PB-A is plug-and-play.

8. Software Support

• Common Ground: Both run Cisco IOS XE Software, supporting features like:

• SD-WAN (via Viptela integration)

• Network segmentation (TrustSec)

• Cloud-based management (Meraki integration)

• Differences:

• C9200-24PB-E: Enables advanced overlays (VXLAN/EVPN) with additional licensing.

Why it matters: The C9200-24PB-E is better for organizations adopting cloud-native architectures.

Final Verdict

• Choose the C9200-48PB-A if:
  You need a cost-effective, PoE-dense switch for SMBs or branch offices with no immediate plans for 10G upgrades.

• Choose the C9200-24PB-E if:
  Scalability, fiber connectivity, and advanced features (VXLAN, 10G uplinks) are critical for your growing network.

Need help deciding? Share your network goals, and we’ll tailor a solution!