dream machine pro vs se

2 min read 23-11-2024

The Ubiquiti UniFi Dream Machine Pro (UDM-Pro) and the UniFi Dream Machine SE (UDM-SE) are both popular choices for home and small business networks. But which one is right for you? This comparison will break down the key differences to help you decide.

Key Differences: UDM-Pro vs. UDM-SE

Both the UDM-Pro and UDM-SE offer a combined router, switch, and security gateway in a single device. However, there are significant performance and feature differences.

Processing Power and Performance

UDM-Pro: Boasts a significantly more powerful processor, leading to better performance, especially with larger networks and demanding applications. This translates to smoother handling of many connected devices and faster speeds. It's built to handle more concurrent connections and complex network tasks.
UDM-SE: Uses a less powerful processor, making it suitable for smaller networks with fewer devices. While perfectly adequate for many home users, it may struggle under heavy load or with numerous demanding applications.

Network Capabilities

UDM-Pro: Supports more simultaneous connections and offers greater throughput. Its increased processing power translates to better handling of bandwidth-intensive tasks like 4K streaming and online gaming. It also features advanced features for network management and monitoring.
UDM-SE: Offers solid performance for basic networking needs. It's sufficient for typical home use, but its limitations become apparent when dealing with many devices or demanding applications.

Storage and Expansion

UDM-Pro: Includes a built-in 1GB NVMe SSD for recording video and storing UniFi Protect recordings. This allows for local storage of security camera footage without needing a separate NAS device.
UDM-SE: Lacks built-in storage. This means you’ll need a separate network-attached storage (NAS) device or cloud storage for UniFi Protect recordings.

Price

UDM-Pro: Priced higher than the UDM-SE, reflecting its superior processing power and features.
UDM-SE: The more budget-friendly option, making it an attractive choice for those with smaller networks and tighter budgets.

Feature Comparison Table: UDM-Pro vs UDM-SE

Feature	UDM-Pro	UDM-SE
Processor	More Powerful	Less Powerful
Network Capacity	Higher	Lower
Built-in Storage	1GB NVMe SSD	None
UniFi Protect	Local recording supported	Requires external storage
Price	Higher	Lower
Ideal For	Larger Networks, demanding users	Smaller Networks, budget users

Which One Should You Choose?

Choose the UDM-Pro if:

You have a large network with many devices.
You need robust performance for demanding applications (e.g., 4K streaming, online gaming).
You want local storage for UniFi Protect recordings.
Budget is less of a concern.

Choose the UDM-SE if:

You have a small to medium-sized network.
Your network demands are relatively low.
You're on a tighter budget.
You are comfortable using cloud storage or a separate NAS for UniFi Protect.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I upgrade from the UDM-SE to the UDM-Pro later?

A: Yes, you can always upgrade to a more powerful UniFi device if your needs change.

Q: Does the UDM-SE support UniFi Protect?

A: Yes, but it requires external storage (cloud or NAS) for recordings.

Q: Which one is better for a home network?

A: For most home networks, the UDM-SE is sufficient. However, if you anticipate significant growth or have demanding applications, the UDM-Pro offers better future-proofing.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. Carefully consider the size of your network, your bandwidth requirements, and your storage needs before making a decision. Both the UDM-Pro and UDM-SE offer excellent value for their respective price points.