Cisco Meraki MS120 vs MS125
Both are cloud-managed Layer 2 access switches with 4x 10G SFP+ uplinks, but the MS125 is the newer line with higher switching capacity and 48-port options. Choose the MS120 for basic branch closets; choose the MS125 for more headroom and larger port counts.
Cisco Meraki MS120
Cloud-managed Layer 2 access switch with 1G ports and 10G uplinks.
- Cloud-managed via the Meraki dashboard
- 24- and 48-port 1G models, PoE+ options
- 4x 10G SFP+ uplinks
- Up to 740W PoE budget
Cisco Meraki MS125
Newer cloud-managed Layer 2 access switch with higher capacity and 10G uplinks.
- Cloud-managed via the Meraki dashboard
- 24- and 48-port 1G models, PoE+ options
- 4x 10G SFP+ uplinks
- Higher switching capacity (128/176 Gbps)
Cisco Meraki MS120 vs Cisco Meraki MS125: spec comparison
| Spec | Cisco Meraki MS120 | Cisco Meraki MS125 |
|---|---|---|
| Layer | Layer 2 access | Layer 2 access |
| Management | Meraki cloud dashboard | Meraki cloud dashboard |
| Port speed | 1G copper | 1G copper |
| Port counts | 24- and 48-port models | 24- and 48-port models |
| Uplinks | 4x 10G SFP+ | 4x 10G SFP+ |
| Switching capacity | Lower (entry tier) | 128 Gbps (24P) / 176 Gbps (48P) |
| PoE budget | Up to 740W | Up to 740W |
| Positioning | Original branch access line | Newer, higher-capacity line |
| Licensing | Meraki Enterprise | Meraki Enterprise |
Choose Cisco Meraki MS120 if
Choose the MS120 for basic branch and small-office access where 1G ports, 10G uplinks, and cloud management are all you need at the lowest cost.
Choose Cisco Meraki MS125 if
Choose the MS125 when you want the newer line with higher switching capacity and more port-count headroom while keeping the same cloud-managed experience and 10G uplinks.
Verdict
The MS120 and MS125 are close siblings: both are cloud-managed Layer 2 access switches with 4x 10G SFP+ uplinks and up to 740W of PoE. The MS125 is the newer, higher-capacity line and is the better long-term pick for new deployments, while the MS120 remains a fit for the most basic, cost-sensitive branch closets. Check current lifecycle status before buying the MS120.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Meraki MS120 and MS125?
Both are cloud-managed Layer 2 access switches with 4x 10G SFP+ uplinks and up to 740W PoE. The MS125 is the newer line with higher switching capacity (128 Gbps on 24-port, 176 Gbps on 48-port) and is positioned above the MS120.
Do both have 10G uplinks?
Yes. Both the MS120 and MS125 provide four 10G SFP+ uplink ports.
Are these Layer 3 switches?
No. Both are Layer 2 access switches. For Layer 3 routing in the Meraki line, look at the MS210/MS225 or higher series.
Which should I buy for a new branch deployment?
For new deployments the MS125 is generally the better choice thanks to higher capacity and a longer support runway. The MS120 suits only the most basic, budget-driven closets, so verify its lifecycle status first.
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Specs are for planning and may change; Uniqcli confirms the current Cisco bill of materials and pricing on your quote. Cisco, Catalyst, Nexus, Meraki, and Firepower are trademarks of Cisco Systems, Inc.; Uniqcli LLC is an independent authorized Cisco partner.