Cisco WS-C3560X-48P-S vs WS-C3650-48PD-S
The WS-C3650-48PD-S upgrades the standalone Catalyst 3560-X 48-port to a UADP-based, stackable switch with fixed 10G uplinks. You trade the 3560-X's higher raw switching number for IOS XE, StackWise-160, and converged access.
Catalyst 3560-X 48-Port PoE IP Base
Standalone 48-port PoE+ access switch on classic IOS, now end-of-support.
- 48x GE PoE+ ports, 435W PoE budget
- 160 Gbps switching capacity
- Modular uplinks via network module slot
- Standalone only, no data stacking
Catalyst 3650 48-Port PoE 2x10G IP Base
UADP-based 48-port PoE+ switch with fixed 10G uplinks and StackWise-160 stacking on IOS XE.
- 48x GE PoE+ ports
- 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 48-Port PoE IP Base vs Catalyst 3650 48-Port PoE 2x10G IP Base: spec comparison
| Spec | Catalyst 3560-X 48-Port PoE IP Base | Catalyst 3650 48-Port PoE 2x10G IP Base |
|---|---|---|
| Downlink ports | 48x 10/100/1000 PoE+ | 48x 10/100/1000 PoE+ |
| PoE budget | 435W (with 715W PSU) | Up to 390W (IP Base config) |
| 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 48-Port PoE IP Base if
Choose the 3560-X 48P only to match an existing standalone install or where you must reuse on-hand network modules and need the higher 435W PoE budget today.
Choose Catalyst 3650 48-Port PoE 2x10G IP Base if
Choose the 3650-48PD for fixed 10G uplinks, StackWise-160 data stacking, UADP, and IOS XE, which together modernize the access layer and extend support life.
Verdict
Move from the standalone 3560-X 48-port to the 3650-48PD to gain stacking, fixed 10G uplinks, and IOS XE. Because both platforms are mature, buyers planning a multi-year refresh should evaluate going straight to the Catalyst 9300L 48-port for the longest lifecycle.
Frequently asked questions
What replaces the WS-C3560X-48P-S?
The Catalyst 3650 48-port PoE (WS-C3650-48PD-S) is the closest generational upgrade; for the longest support runway, the Catalyst 9300L 48-port is the current-generation choice.
Does the 3650-48PD support stacking?
Yes, via StackWise-160, allowing up to nine 3650 switches to operate as a single logical unit, which the standalone 3560-X cannot do.
Why is the 3560-X switching capacity higher than the 3650?
The 3560-X is rated 160 Gbps vs the 3650's 88 Gbps, but the 3650 adds the UADP ASIC, fixed 10G uplinks, stacking, and IOS XE that deliver more usable modern capability at the access layer.
Can I keep using the 3560-X 48-port safely?
It still functions, but it is end-of-support, so there are no new software fixes. For security and supportability, plan a migration to the 3650 or 9300L.
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.