WS-C3750X-48PF-S vs. WS-C3750X-48PF-E: Which Cisco Switch Fits Your Network?

May 23 , 2025 16

1. Product Overview

2. Performance Benchmarks

• Throughput: Both support 176 Gbps, suitable for mid-sized networks.

• Latency:

• WS-C3750X-48PF-S: ~1.5μs (optimized for cost-efficiency).

• WS-C3750X-48PF-E: ~1.2μs (enhanced ASIC efficiency).

• TCAM Capacity:

• WS-C3750X-48PF-S: 64 KB (basic ACLs/routing).

• WS-C3750X-48PF-E: 128 KB (advanced policy enforcement).

3. Core Functionalities

• WS-C3750X-48PF-S:

• PoE+ Flexibility: Powers up to 48 devices (e.g., VoIP phones, wireless APs).

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

• EnergyWise: Monitors and controls energy usage across the network.

• WS-C3750X-48PF-E:

• MACsec Encryption: Secures data at Layer 2 for regulated environments.

• Advanced QoS: Prioritizes voice/video traffic with granular control.

• StackPower Pro: Redundant power sharing for mission-critical deployments.

4. Design & Build Quality

• WS-C3750X-48PF-S:

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

• Compact chassis for space-constrained environments.

• WS-C3750X-48PF-E:

• Ruggedized metal casing with redundant DC power supply support.

• Hot-swappable fans and modular design for uptime.

5. User Experience

• Management:

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

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

• Troubleshooting:

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

6. Pricing & ROI

• WS-C3750X-48PF-S: ~$2,500–$3,500 (ideal for basic PoE deployments).

• WS-C3750X-48PF-E: ~$4,000–$5,500 (costlier but future-proof for high-power devices).

• Tip: Choose PF-S for SMB budgets; PF-E for enterprises scaling IoT or Wi-Fi 6.

7. Power Efficiency

• WS-C3750X-48PF-S: 80 PLUS Bronze certified (efficient for standard PoE+).

• WS-C3750X-48PF-E: Higher power draw but supports StackPower redundancy.

8. Compatibility Matrix

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

• WS-C3750X-48PF-E: Native integration with Cisco WLC controllers for Wi-Fi deployments.

9. Software Ecosystem

• WS-C3750X-48PF-S: Runs Cisco IOS (limited SDN capabilities).

• WS-C3750X-48PF-E: Supports Cisco NX-OS for advanced automation and orchestration.

10. Real-World Use Cases

• WS-C3750X-48PF-S: Deployed in a retail store for PoE-powered surveillance and POS systems.

• WS-C3750X-48PF-E: Secures a hospital’s network with MACsec encryption for patient data.

11. Final Recommendations

• Choose WS-C3750X-48PF-S if:

• You need cost-effective PoE+ for IP telephony/IP cameras.

• Budget constraints prioritize upfront savings.

• Opt for WS-C3750X-48PF-E if:

• You require advanced security features (MACsec, Flexible NetFlow).

• Scalability and future upgrades are critical.