40G QSFP+ vs. 100G QSFP28 Transceiver: Pros and Cons

Data center engineers always face a significant challenge in choosing the suitable transceiver for their data center requirements. To make things easy, this blog has compiled a list of the pros and cons of using 40G QSFP+ transceivers and 100G QSFP28 transceivers. Now, data center engineers can easily decide which transceiver is best suited for their data center needs. However, before deciding, data center engineers need to understand the pros and cons of each transceiver type. So, read on to learn all about these transceivers!

What are the pros of using a 100G QSFP28 transceiver?

Regarding data center connectivity, there are few comparisons between 40G QSFP+ and 100G QSFP28 transceivers. The QSFP28 has a bandwidth of 100Gbps, which is 2.5 times greater than the first’s 40Gbps bandwidth. Another benefit of using the 100G QSFP28 transceiver is that it costs less per bit than the 40G QSFP+. Therefore, it’s a better choice for data center networks with high bandwidth and port density.

What are the cons of using a 100G QSFP28 transceiver?

One downside of using the 100G QSFP28 transceiver is that it’s not as widely used as the 40G QSFP+. There may be fewer vendors with this type of transceiver, and if no vendors are available, then data center engineers will have to source a new transceiver. Additionally, because the 100G QSFP28 is a unique technology, it might not be compatible with legacy devices or networks. The QSFP28 transceiver also takes higher pricing than the 40G QSFP+, so this may not be a budget-friendly option for some data center operators.

What are the pros of using a 40G QSFP+ transceiver?

Since QSFP+ transceiver is offered before 100G QSFP28 transceiver, it can be assumed that there are some Pros to using QSFP+ over 100G QSFP28. First, the 40G QSFP+ transceiver is widely supported by vendors, so data center engineers will have a broader range of options when it comes to choosing a transceiver. Second, 40G QSFP+ is an older technology than the 100G QSFP28 so it will be more compatible with legacy devices and networks. Third, the unit price is likely lower because the 40G QSFP+ transceiver offers lower bandwidth than 100G QSFP28. This makes it a more affordable option for data center networks but not as much port density.

What are the cons of using a 40G QSFP+ transceiver?

The 40G QSFP+ transceiver has a smaller bandwidth density than the 100G QSFP28 so it may be insufficient for some data center network needs. Additionally, because the 40G QSFP+ transceiver is older technology, there are likely to be more compatibility issues with legacy devices and networks. Lastly, the per-bit cost of a 40G QSFP+ transceiver is likely higher than that of 100G QSFP28.

Is QSFP+ the same as QSFP28?

The form factor is the same, but for the data rate, the 40G QSFP+ and 100G QSFP28 are different transceiver types. The 40G QSFP+ is an older technology that was released before the 100G QSFP28.

What are the critical differences between QSFP+ and QSFP28 transceivers?

The main differences between these transceivers are the data rate and distance range. QSFP+ supports 10Gbps per lane and provides 4x10Gbps, while QSFP28 transceivers support 25Gbps per lane and provide 4x25Gbps datarate. The transmit distance and power requirements of QSFP+ transceivers also differ from those of QSFP28 transceivers.

QSFP+ vs. QSFP28, who will be the winner?

There is no definitive answer as to which transceiver type will be the winner, as they both have advantages and disadvantages. However, based on the critical differences between these transceivers, it can be assumed that QSFP28 will be more prevalent in future data center networks.

Conclusion

After reading this blog, you will know something you need to know about the pros and cons of using QSFP+ or QSFP28 transceiver types for your networking needs. The 100G QSFP28 transceiver is an excellent choice for high-speed data transmission, but it has a few disadvantages. 40G QSFP+ transceiver offers lower cost and more choice, but it also has a few disadvantages. Ultimately, the choice of transceiver type depends on your specific networking requirements and needs. So, which transceiver type is right for you? Let us know in the comments below!