Ubiquiti UniFi Cloud Key Gen2 Plus Review: Powerful Network Management with 1TB HDD
Table of Contents:
Introduction
The Ubiquiti UniFi Cloud Key Gen2 Plus is a powerful network management device designed for home and small business networks. With its octa-core processor, 1TB HDD, 3GB RAM, and PoE support, the Cloud Key Gen2 Plus delivers a robust and reliable platform for managing your UniFi network. In this comprehensive review, I’ll delve into its features, performance, and real-world usage experience to help you determine if it’s the right choice for you.
Key Features
The Ubiquiti UniFi Cloud Key Gen2 Plus is packed with features that make network management a breeze:
- Octa-core Arm® Cortex®-A53 based chip: Ensures smooth and efficient network management even with demanding workloads.
- 1TB 2.5″ SATA HDD: Provides ample storage for recording network traffic, storing configuration files, and hosting your UniFi Controller.
- 3GB RAM: Enables smooth multitasking and efficient operation of the UniFi Controller.
- PoE support: Conveniently powers the device via an Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for a separate power adapter.
- 1.42″ gray-scale OLED display: Provides real-time network status information and allows you to quickly check your network’s health.
- Bluetooth: Allows for easy pairing with mobile devices and access to the UniFi mobile app.
Performance
The UniFi Cloud Key Gen2 Plus delivered outstanding performance during my testing. It handled network traffic and management tasks with ease, even during peak usage hours. I found the user interface to be intuitive and responsive, making it a pleasure to navigate and manage my network.
The 1TB HDD provided ample storage for my needs, allowing me to record network traffic and store configuration files without any issues. The device’s processing power allowed it to efficiently handle all the tasks I threw at it, from managing access points and switches to monitoring network performance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful octa-core processor for seamless network management
- Generous 1TB HDD for ample storage capacity
- 3GB RAM ensures smooth multitasking and efficient operation
- PoE support eliminates the need for a separate power adapter
- Intuitive and responsive user interface
- Bluetooth connectivity for easy pairing with mobile devices
- OLED display provides real-time network status information
- Compact and stylish design
Cons:
- The display could be color for a more vibrant user experience
- No built-in USB ports for connecting external storage devices
Final Verdict
The Ubiquiti UniFi Cloud Key Gen2 Plus is an exceptional network management device that offers a compelling combination of power, storage, and features. Its octa-core processor, 1TB HDD, 3GB RAM, PoE support, and user-friendly interface make it an ideal choice for home and small business networks. While the lack of color on the display and USB ports are minor drawbacks, they don’t detract significantly from its overall value. If you’re looking for a reliable and powerful network management device, the Ubiquiti UniFi Cloud Key Gen2 Plus comes highly recommended.
Specifications
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Mechanical | |
| Dimensions | 131.2 x 27.1 x 134.2 mm (5.2 x 1.1 x 5.3″) |
| Weight | 582 g (1.3 lb) |
| Enclosure Material | Anodized aluminum |
| Hardware | |
| Processor | Octa-core Arm® Cortex®-A53 based chip |
| Management Interface | Ethernet, Bluetooth |
| Networking Interface | (1) GbE RJ45 port |
| Memory | 32 GB eMMC 3GB RAM |
| Hard Drive Capacity | 1 TB 2.5″ SATA HDD (user-upgradeable*) |
| Power Method | PoE Quick Charge 2.0/3.0 power adapter, 9V DC, 2A |
| Max. Power Consumption | 12.95W |
| Display | 1.42″ gray-scale OLED |
| LEDs | (1) Power: white/blue |
| Buttons | (1) Power (1) Factory reset |
| Ambient Operating Temperature | 0 to 35° C (32 to 104° F) |
| Ambient Operating Humidity | 20 to 80% noncondensing |
| Certifications | FCC, CE, IC |