With the recent new network build at my house, replacing my aging NIGHTHAWK mesh system with full UniFi equipment, including a E7 and U7 In-Wall access point, I found that the E7 requires PoE++, which my switches do not have. So, instead of upgrading to a new PoE++ switch for the E7, I opted to purchase a UniFi 10G PoE++ Adapter (60W) and wanted to share my thoughts on it.

The 10G PoE++ Adapter (60W) is an excellent accessory for powering and optimizing the performance of the UniFi E7 access point, particularly in enterprise or high-demand network environments. While the E7 can operate on lower PoE standards, leveraging a proper PoE++ (802.3bt Type 3) power source unlocks its full potential.

Performance and Compatibility

This adapter delivers up to 60 watts of power over a 10 Gigabit Ethernet connection, meeting and exceeding the UniFi E7’s PoE++ power requirements. It ensures full compatibility without needing a dedicated PoE++ switch—ideal for setups where only standard PoE or PoE+ infrastructure is in place. Setup is plug-and-play, requiring only an Ethernet input from your switch or router and an output to the E7.

Why Use PoE++ (Even Though It Works Without It)

Although the UniFi E7 can operate with PoE+ power, doing so can limit its peak performance and thermal stability. Using PoE++ provides several tangible benefits:

• Full Radio Performance: Ensures all radios (including 6 GHz and high-power 5 GHz bands) operate at full transmit power, improving range and throughput.
• Thermal Efficiency: Adequate power prevents the unit from throttling under load, especially in dense client or high-temperature environments.
• Accessory Powering: Enables full USB-C or auxiliary power features if the access point supports them.
• Future-Proofing: Provides the overhead needed for future firmware updates that may enable additional performance features or functionality.

In practice, users will notice improved sustained throughput, fewer connection drops, and better heat management when using PoE++ versus PoE+.

Build and Design

The adapter is compact and solidly built, with proper surge protection and grounding, suitable for professional installations. It runs cool under load and includes standard mounting options for wall or rack integration. The integrated cooling design and quiet operation make it ideal for office or data center environments.

Verdict

The 10G PoE++ Adapter (60W) is more than just a power injector—it’s an investment in the reliability and longevity of your UniFi E7 deployment. While the E7 will run on lower PoE power, pairing it with a proper PoE++ source ensures maximum wireless performance, network stability, and future readiness.

Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Recommended for: IT professionals, enterprise network admins, and performance-focused UniFi deployments.

Testing

I just heard from my wife that the PoE++ adapter has arrived, so I will get it installed after work today, and see what improvements it makes. Looking forward to it!

Always nice to come home to new equipment. Wish me luck!

Update 10/30/25

After playing around with the PoE++ adapter, I was surprised to see worse performance than just running on PoE+, but I believe it may be due to just my new placement of the E7, as I was trying to get it more forward-facing towards users, and in a more centralized location.

Overall, I am somewhat unsatisfied with the PoE++’s benefits over PoE+, but I imagine I just need to tinker with everything a bit more, as I was limited with time last night. I will see if I can get the E7 actually mounted today after work, and probably remove the basement’s U7 In-Wall, as I believe devices are clinging onto it and not the E7, which would have much better performance. Some projects never end!