Cisco WS-C3560X-24P-S vs WS-C3650-24PD-S
The WS-C3650-24PD-S is the next-generation upgrade from the standalone Catalyst 3560-X 24-port. You gain the UADP ASIC, 2x 10G fixed uplinks, StackWise-160 data stacking, and convergence-ready IOS XE features the fixed 3560-X never had.
Catalyst 3560-X 24-Port PoE IP Base
Standalone (non-stackable) 24-port PoE+ access switch on classic IOS, end-of-support.
- 24x GE PoE+ ports, 435W PoE budget
- 160 Gbps switching capacity
- Modular uplinks via network module slot
- Standalone only, no data stacking
Catalyst 3650 24-Port PoE 2x10G IP Base
UADP-based 24-port PoE+ switch with fixed 10G uplinks and StackWise-160 stacking, running IOS XE.
- 24x GE PoE+ ports, up to 390W PoE budget
- 2x 10G + 2x 1G fixed uplinks
- StackWise-160 data stacking up to 9 units
- UADP ASIC with IOS XE and converged access
Catalyst 3560-X 24-Port PoE IP Base vs Catalyst 3650 24-Port PoE 2x10G IP Base: spec comparison
| Spec | Catalyst 3560-X 24-Port PoE IP Base | Catalyst 3650 24-Port PoE 2x10G IP Base |
|---|---|---|
| Downlink ports | 24x 10/100/1000 PoE+ | 24x 10/100/1000 PoE+ |
| PoE budget | 435W | Up to 390W |
| Uplinks | Modular (network module) | 2x 10G SFP+ + 2x 1G fixed |
| 10G uplinks | Optional via module | 2x 10G fixed |
| Switching capacity | 160 Gbps | 88 Gbps |
| ASIC | Legacy fixed silicon | Cisco UADP |
| Data stacking | None (standalone) | StackWise-160, up to 9 units |
| Operating system | Cisco IOS | Cisco IOS XE |
| Feature license | IP Base | IP Base |
| Lifecycle status | End of support | End of sale, longer support runway |
Choose Catalyst 3560-X 24-Port PoE IP Base if
Choose the 3560-X 24P only to match an identical existing chassis or when you specifically need its higher 435W PoE budget and already have spare network-module uplinks on the shelf.
Choose Catalyst 3650 24-Port PoE 2x10G IP Base if
Choose the 3650-24PD for built-in 10G uplinks, data stacking, the UADP ASIC, and IOS XE, giving you converged wired-wireless features and a longer support horizon.
Verdict
Migrate from the standalone 3560-X to the 3650-24PD when you want stacking, fixed 10G uplinks, and IOS XE. Both are mature platforms, so if your end goal is a switch with many years of support left, treat the 3650 as a stepping stone and consider jumping straight to a Catalyst 9300L.
Frequently asked questions
Can the Catalyst 3560-X be stacked like the 3650?
No. The 3560-X is a standalone switch with no data stacking. The 3650 adds StackWise-160, letting you stack up to nine units as one managed domain.
Does the 3650-24PD have built-in 10G uplinks?
Yes. The WS-C3650-24PD-S ships with two fixed 10G SFP+ uplinks plus two 1G ports, whereas 10G on the 3560-X requires a separately purchased network module.
Why does the 3560-X show a higher switching capacity?
The 3560-X is rated at 160 Gbps versus the 3650's 88 Gbps, but the 3650's UADP ASIC and IOS XE deliver more modern features, fixed 10G uplinks, and stacking that matter more for most access-layer designs.
Is the 3560-X 24-port end of life?
Yes, the 3560-X family has reached end-of-support milestones. For a switch with remaining lifecycle, the 3650, or better the Catalyst 9300L, is the recommended path.
More Catalyst comparisons
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.