WS-C3750X-48P vs. WS-C3560X-48PF-L: Which Cisco Switch Reigns Supreme?

May 23 , 2025 15

1. Product Overview

2. Performance Showdown

• Switching Capacity:

• WS-C3750X-48P: 176 Gbps (handles demanding networks).

• WS-C3560X-48PF-L: 160 Gbps (sufficient for small-to-medium workloads).

• Forwarding Rate:

• WS-C3750X-48P: 130.95 Mpps (ideal for real-time apps like VoIP).

• WS-C3560X-48PF-L: 101.2 Mpps (may lag under heavy traffic).

• TCAM Capacity:

• WS-C3750X-48P: 128 KB (supports complex ACLs/QoS).

• WS-C3560X-48PF-L: 64 KB (basic policy enforcement only).

3. Core Functionalities

• WS-C3750X-48P:

• StackWise Plus: Up to 9 switches stackable for centralized management.

• EnergyWise: Monitors and optimizes power consumption across devices.

• IPv6 Routing: Native dual-stack support for modern networks.

• WS-C3560X-48PF-L:

• Dynamic ARP Inspection: Mitigates ARP spoofing attacks.

• StackPower: Redundant power sharing (limited to 2 switches).

• Basic QoS: Prioritizes traffic but lacks granularity.

4. Design & Build Quality

• WS-C3750X-48P:

• 1RU form factor with fanless design (silent operation).

• Compact chassis for space-constrained environments.

• WS-C3560X-48PF-L:

• Traditional 1RU metal casing with rear exhaust cooling.

• Heavier build (ideal for stable installations).

5. User Experience

• Management:

• Both support Cisco IOS CLI and web-based GUI (Cisco Configuration Assistant).

• WS-C3750X-48P adds Cisco Prime Infrastructure integration for automation.

• Troubleshooting:

• Built-in packet capture and SPAN ports for real-time monitoring.

6. Pricing & ROI

• WS-C3750X-48P: ~$3,500–$4,500 (premium for advanced features).

• WS-C3560X-48PF-L: ~$2,500–$3,200 (cost-effective for basic PoE).

• Tip: Choose PF-L for SMB budgets; invest in P for scalability.

7. Power Efficiency

• WS-C3750X-48P: 80 PLUS Bronze certified (optimizes power usage).

• WS-C3560X-48PF-L: Standard efficiency; consumes ~10% more power under load.

8. Compatibility Matrix

• WS-C3750X-48P: Works with Cisco ISR routers, UCS servers, and third-party SANs.

• WS-C3560X-48PF-L: Limited to Cisco Catalyst 2960 switches for stacking.

9. Software Ecosystem

• WS-C3750X-48P: Runs Cisco IOS (supports limited SDN via APIs).

• WS-C3560X-48PF-L: Legacy IOS only (no SDN compatibility).

10. Real-World Use Cases

• WS-C3750X-48P: Deployed in a university campus for Wi-Fi 6 APs and IP cameras.

• WS-C3560X-48PF-L: Powers a retail store’s PoE-enabled POS terminals.

11. Final Recommendations

• Choose WS-C3750X-48P if:

• You need advanced QoS, IPv6 routing, or large-scale stacking.

• Future-proofing for hybrid workloads (e.g., cloud integration).

• Opt for WS-C3560X-48PF-L if:

• Budget is tight, and PoE suffices for basic devices.

• Simplicity and ease of setup are priorities.