Optical Transceiver
SFP-10G-SR vs SFP-10G-SR-S vs SFP-10G-SR-X, What is the difference?
Oct
Initial Published: May 1st, 2019
SFP-10G-SR, SFP-10G-SR-S, SFP-10G-SR-X, and SFP-10G-SR-I are 10GBASE-SR SFP+ transceiver modules with similar specifications. They are commonly used in Cisco switches and other networking devices for short-reach applications.
Still, many IT managers need clarification when choosing a 10GBASE-SR SFP+ module. Which one should you order? What is the critical difference?
Let’s compare them today to help you learn the difference. Please note that all the information below is only for reference. You should buy the original transceiver directly from Cisco or its distributor.
First, we’d better learn some basic product information that helps us classify differences.
Table of contents
What is SFP-10G-SR
SFP-10G-SR is a 10GBASE-SR SFP+ transceiver module with 300m link lengths over OM3 fiber. Many transceiver manufacturers use it as a part number; the most famous is Cisco.
According to Cisco, the SFP-10G-SR module supports a link length of 26m on standard Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI)-grade Multimode Fiber (MMF). However, the link distance can reach 300 meters when using OM3 fiber or 400 meters when using OM4 fiber. The hot-swappable input/output device links a 10 Gigabit Ethernet port with a fiber optic network.
In some cases, SFP-10G-SR is a replacement model for a compatible 10GBase-SR SFP+ module with the same function. It is not the original one, but it has much better pricing. It is the most popular 10G SFP+ module in the market.
SFP-10G-SR vs SFP-10G-SR-S, What is the difference?
Like SFP-10G-SR, SFP-10G-SR-S is typically used as the part number of the Cisco S-Class 10GBASE-SR SFP+ Module. The main difference between SFP-10G-SR and SFP-10G-SR-S is the different features.
According to Cisco, S-class optics are inexpensive for enterprise and data center 10G and 40G applications. The S class is suitable for the below environments: non-temperature-controlled environments, e.g., rugged/ industrial (RGD), Optics plugged on platforms that require extended operating temperature range (EXT), and TAA compliance.
SFP-10G-SR-S is also a replacement model for a compatible low-price 10GBase-SR SFP+ Transceiver with the same function and performance supplied by many other third-party vendors and suppliers. It usually works with selected Cisco switches.
#1: Protocol Support
The critical difference is in features like FCoE and OTN.
SFP-10G-SR-S is primarily designed for Ethernet applications only. It does not support FCoE, OTN, or TAA compliance. Its focus is on cost efficiency by omitting unnecessary features.
In contrast, SFP-10G-SR can support additional protocols such as FCoE (Fibre Channel over Ethernet), OTN (Open Transport Network), and WAN-PHY (Wide Area Network-Physical Layer) and is also compliant with TAA (Trade Agreements Act) standards.
#2: Cost Difference
Another difference is the price. SFP-10G-SR-S is offered at a more attractive price because it does not display several unnecessary features like SFP-10G-SR. It is a good option for standard enterprise and data center applications that don’t require advanced features.
On the other hand, the SFP-10G-SR has advanced features, costs more, and is suitable for telecom applications.
Tips: S-class models will work correctly for most use cases. However, if you are willing to pay more, you should use SFP-10G-SR for some critical telecom applications.
SFP-10G-SR vs SFP-10G-SR-X, What is the difference?
SFP-10G-SR-X is also typically used as a 10GBASE-SR SFP+ transceiver part number by Cisco. According to Cisco, the 10GBASE-SR SFP+ Module supports multi-rate, including 10GBASE-SR, 10GBASE-SW, and OTU2/OTU2e, for an extended operating temperature range.
The main differences between SFP-10G-SR and SFP-10G-SR-X are as follows:
#1: Temperature Range
The SFP-10G-SR operates within a commercial temperature range, suitable for typical enterprise environments. On the other hand, the SFP-10G-SR-X has an extended temperature range, allowing it to function in more challenging conditions, which is beneficial for outdoor or industrial applications.
#2: Protocol Support
The SFP-10G-SR-X supports additional protocols like OTU2 and OTU2e, making it more versatile for various networking scenarios.
SFP-10G-SR-X is also a replacement model for a compatible 10GBase-SR SFP+ Transceiver, which offers the same function and specifications provided by many other third-party providers and stores.
SFP-10G-SR vs SFP-10G-SR-I
SFP-10G-SR-I is an industrial temperature multirate 10GBASE-SR SFP+ module. It supports multi-rate 10GBASE-SR, 10GBASE-SW, OTU2/2e, and various CPRI speeds. This module supports a link distance similar to the above SFP+ transceiver.
#1: Temperature Range
The critical difference feature is the operating temperature. Unlike the other commercial grade 10GBASE-SR SFP+ modules, the SFP-10G-SR-I supports -40 to 85°C industrial temperature. Therefore, it is especially suitable for industrial ethernet and hardened outdoor applications.
#1: Price
The SFP-10G-SR-I is designed to operate in industrial temperatures and uses industrial-grade components. It has undergone rigorous testing and certification to ensure reliable operation in harsh environmental conditions. However, all of these features result in much higher cost and pricing.
Therefore, it is only for deployment in demanding industrial environments, including extreme temperatures and challenging industrial networks.
Tips: For most use cases, you may go direct with SFP-10G-SR. Just choose the SFP-10G-SR-I only for industrial ethernet or if you don’t care about the pricing.
SFP-10G-SR vs SFP-10G-SR-S vs SFP-10G-SR-X vs SFP-10G-SR-I: Similarity and Difference
Let’s compare their detailed specifications. The table below lists the main specifications of those 10GBASE-SR SFP+ transceivers.
| Features | SFP-10G-SR | SFP-10G-SR-S | SFP-10G-SR-X | SFP-10G-SR-I |
| Apperance | Same | Same | Same | Same |
| Transceiver Type | SFP+ Module | SFP+ Module | SFP+ Module | SFP+ Module |
| Wavelength | 850 nm | 850 nm | 850 nm | 850 nm |
| Reach | 300 m | 300 m | 300 m | 300 m |
| Fibre Type | Multimode Fiber (MMF) | Multimode Fiber (MMF) | Multimode Fiber (MMF) | Multimode Fiber (MMF) |
| Connector Type | LC Duplex | LC Duplex | LC Duplex | LC Duplex |
| Data Rate | 10 Gbps | 10 Gbps | 10 Gbps | Multirate 10 Gbps, 10.7 Gbps, CPRI |
| Cabling Type | Ethernet 10GBASE-SR, FCoE | Ethernet 10GBASE-SR | 10GBASE-SR,10GBASE-SW, OTU2/OTU2e | 10GBASE-SR,10GBASE-SW, OTU2/OTU2e, CPRI |
| DOM Support | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 70°C (Commercial Grade) | 0°C to 70°C (Commercial Grade) | -5°C to 85°C (Extended Grade) | -40°C to 85°C (Industrial Grade) |
| Storage Temperature | -40°C to 85°C | -40°C to 85°C | -40°C to 85°C | -40°C to 85°C |
| Compatibility | ||||
| Power Consumption | 0.6 W | 0.6 W | 0.6 W | 0.6 W |
| Weight | 0.025 kg | 0.025 kg | 0.025 kg | 0.025 kg |
| Other features | Non-S-Class | S-Class | Extended Temperature and OTU2/OTU2e | Non-S-Class |
| Price (Router-Switch) | US$235.00 | US$158.00 | US$1,261.00 | N/A |
| Price (Monoprice) | N/A | US$136.75 | N/A | N/A |
| Price (Optcore) | US$9.9 | US$9.9 | US$14.00 | US$14.00 |
Conclusion
Let’s summarize their differences and help you locate the best choice. The common similarity is that SFP-10G-SR, SFP-10G-SR-S, SFP-10G-SR-X, and SFP-10G-SR-I are 10GBASE-SR SFP+ modules with a 300m link distance. All of them support a 10GBASE-SR ethernet connection.
They have the same main features but minor differences in specifications. The critical difference is the data protocols like OTU2/CPRI and the supported operating temperature. The SFP-10G-SR and SFP-10G-SR-S prices are relatively lower than the SFP-10G-SR-X and SFP-10G-SR-I prices; for most customers, SFP-10G-SR-S will be the right option at a lower cost.
Just summarize the quick tips below:
- If you want the cheapest 10GBASE-SR+ SFP module, please choose SFP-10G-SR-S. It also meets the most common applications.
- If your network needs to operate with FCoE, you should use SFP-10G-SR.
- If your network requests multirate and extended temperature support, SFP-10G-SR-X will be the best choice.
- If you run the network in a harsh environment, use SFP-10G-SR-I.
As a trusted third-party SFP supplier, Optcore offers high-quality 10GBASE-SR SFP+ transceivers that are 100% compatible with SFP-10G-SR, SFP-10G-SR-S, SFP-10G-SR-X, and SFP-10G-SR-I at the best price.
Read more:
- What is SFP+ Module? An Ultimate Guide
- Single Mode vs Multimode Fiber, What is The Difference?
- SFP-10G-SR vs SFP-10G-LR, LRM, ER & ZR, what is the difference
well described , Thank you!