Power Plans
The Basics: Performance Without Compromise
A: No. All three models—the UCG Fiber, UDM SE, and UDM Pro Max—are pure wired routers. Because they are designed for power users, they do not have built-in Wi-Fi; instead, they are meant to be paired with dedicated UniFi Access Points (APs) to ensure professional-grade coverage across your entire home.
A: A Cloud Gateway is a central hub that allows for license-free and subscription-free cloud control. From a single interface, you can manage your entire Unified suite, including your internet (Network), high-definition security cameras (Protect), and physical door security (Access).
Finding the Right Fit for Your Home
A: We recommend choosing your gateway based on the size of your home and your specific needs:
- BTOs, Apartments, and Condos: The Cloud Gateway Fiber (UCG Fiber) is our top recommendation. It is a compact desktop model designed to fit easily into the smaller networking cabinets typically found in these homes. Available from 15 June.
- Landed Houses: The Dream Machine Special Edition (UDM SE) and UDM Pro Max are the best choices. These are powerful rackmount units built to handle the higher device capacity and complex wiring of larger properties.
| Feature | UCG Fiber | UDM SE | UDM Pro Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | BTOs / Apartments | Landed Houses | Landed Houses |
| Form Factor | Compact Desktop | Rackmount | Large Rackmount |
| PoE Ports | 1 port (2.5G) | 8 ports (1G) | None |
| Max Security Speed | ~6 Gbps | 3.5 Gbps | High (Quad-Core) |
Advanced Features: Security & Storage
A: All three gateways feature professional Intrusion Prevention and Detection Systems (IPS/IDS).
- The UCG Fiber offers a massive security throughput of up to 6 Gbps.
- The UDM SE supports up to 3.5 Gbps.
- The UDM Pro Max features a high-performance quad-core CPU for those who need the most processing power available.
A: Yes, both gateways support UniFi Protect for IP camera surveillance, but they use different storage methods.
- UCG Fiber: Features a slot for an optional NVMe SSD tray (sold separately). This is ideal for compact, high-speed storage, though it is currently limited to about 2TB.
- UDM SE & Pro Max: Include a built-in bay for standard mechanical hard drives, supporting from 1TB up to 24TB for extensive video history.
Ecosystem Comparison: UniFi vs. Alta Labs
A: While both are high-performance options, they serve different needs:
- UniFi Series: Offers a fully integrated ecosystem where your router, cameras, and door access are all managed in one place.
- Alta Labs Route 10: Does not currently offer integrated solutions for surveillance or door access. It is an excellent choice for users who want a powerful network-only solution outside of the UniFi ecosystem.
Setup & Essential Accessories
A: For the best performance, we recommend the Huawei 10G SFP+. Technical users prefer the ONU because it provides lower latency, which is critical for gaming and high-performance tasks.
A:
- UDM SE users have 8 built-in PoE ports to power cameras or Wi-Fi 6 APs directly. If you are moving to Wi-Fi 7, we recommend adding a 2.5 GBE PoE switch to reach full speeds.
- UDM Pro Max users must purchase a PoE switch to power any connected APs or cameras.
- UCG Fiber users will need an additional PoE switch if they plan to install more than one Access Point.
These add-ons will be available on our e-Store soon.
A:
Connectivity & Hardware Enhancements
- Huawei ONU: You can opt to choose SFP+ when you signup for our Power Plans. This is highly recommended for "prosumer" users because it offers lower latency compared to a standard ONT.
- RJ45 Transceiver (SKU: CM-RJ45-MG): This multi-gig adapter is an add-on for the UDM SE and UDM Pro Max. It allows you to convert the SFP+ fiber ports on these devices into copper ports. Note that you may not need this if you choose the Huawei ONU rental.
- Direct Access Copper (DAC) Cables: These are used to connect your gateway to an additional switch and are available in 0.5-meter or 1-meter lengths.
Wi-Fi & Switching
- UniFi Access Points (APs): Since the Ubiquiti routers are pure wired devices, you must purchase APs to have Wi-Fi. Options mentioned include:
- WiFi 6 (U6 Pro): Ideal for the UDM SE's 1 GbE ports.
- WiFi 7 (U7 Pro XG or XGS): For users wanting 10 GbE performance.
- PoE Switches: These are essential if you need to power multiple APs or cameras. They are available in 8, 10, 24, and 48-port configurations.
- UCG Fiber users need one to connect more than one AP.
- UDM Pro Max users must purchase a PoE switch to power any APs or cameras, as the device itself has no PoE ports.
- UDM SE users should consider a 2.5 GBE or 10 GBE switch if they want to use WiFi 7 APs at their full speed.
Storage for Surveillance (UniFi Protect)
- NVMe SSD Tray: An optional, separate purchase for the UCG Fiber to enable storage for security footage.
- Mechanical Hard Drives: For the UDM SE and UDM Pro Max, you can add drives ranging from 1TB up to 24TB to store recordings for cameras or door access.
Security & Ecosystem
- UniFi Protect (IP Cameras): You can add cameras to your system to take advantage of the integrated surveillance suite.
- UniFi Access (Door Security): Hardware for physical door access control can be integrated and managed through these gateways.
Items will be available in our E-Store soon. If you are interested in an accessory not listed here, the sales team is instructed to note your name and contact details to check for availability.
Can’t find an answer to your question?
Send us an email or call us and we’ll get in touch with you!
Can’t find an answer to your question?
Send us an email or call us and we’ll get in touch with you!