Which subscriber terminal to choose: overview and comparison of Huawei models

Choosing the ideal ONT

Next, we will look at popular models of GPON optical terminals manufactured by Huawei — from basic solutions to modern devices with Wi-Fi 6. We will explain how they differ from each other, what advantages they offer, and who they are suitable for.

1. Huawei HG8120C — an economical basic solution

This is a basic model that is suitable for those who need a simple and reliable connection without unnecessary features.

Key features:

• Optical interface: 1 х GPON (SC/UPC)
• Ethernet ports: 1 x 100 Mbps + 1 x 1000 Mbps (RJ45)
• Telephony: 1 х POTS (RJ11)
• Speed: 2.5 Gbps inbound, 1.2 Gbps outbound
• Dimensions: 200 х 140 х 35 мм

Advantages:

The Huawei HG8120C subscriber terminal is a reliable workhorse without any frills. The terminal provides stable communication, supports Internet telephony (VoIP) and has a compact design. Low power consumption makes the device economical to operate.

Suitable for:

Ideal for small flats or private houses where you don't need to connect many devices. Suitable for those who use a Wi-Fi router separately or don’t need a wireless connection. It is also an excellent choice for a budget fibre optic Internet connection when the main task is to provide stable network access for several devices.

2. Huawei HG8240H — a classic terminal with gigabit ports

The next step in the line is a terminal with four gigabit ports, which provides more options for connecting devices.

Key features:

• Optical interface: 1 х GPON (SC/APC або SC/UPC)
• Ethernet ports: 4 x 10/100/1000 Mbps (RJ45)
• Telephony: 2 х POTS (RJ11)
• Speed: 2.4 Gbps inbound, 1.2 Gbps outbound
• Dimensions: 176 х 138,5 х 28 мм

Advantages:

The HG8240H subscriber terminal has twice as many ports for wired connections as the HG8120C, and they are all gigabit ports, which means you can use the full speed of up to 1000 Mbps on each port. Two telephone ports allow you to connect two landline phones simultaneously. High performance ensures excellent data transfer quality, voice calls via VoIP and HD video.

Suitable for:

An excellent choice for families who need to connect several devices via cable: computers, Smart TVs, game consoles or IPTV set-top boxes. The HG8240H model is also suitable for small offices that require a stable, high-speed connection for several workstations and telephones.

3. Huawei HS8546V5 — terminal with built-in Wi-Fi 5

The first model with a built-in wireless module in our review. This is a universal all-in-one solution, where the terminal also functions as a router.

Key features:

• Optical interface: 1 х GPON (SC/UPC)
• Ethernet ports: 4 x 10/100/1000 Mbps (RJ45)
• USB ports: 2 х USB 2.0
• Telephony: 1 х POTS (RJ11)
• Wi-Fi: dual-band 2.4 GHz + 5 GHz (802.11a/b/g/n/ac)
• Speed Wi-Fi: 0.867 Gbps inbound, 0.3 Gbps outbound
• Dimensions: 173 × 120 × 30 мм

Advantages:

The HS8546V5 is a full-featured home gateway that combines an optical network terminal and a Wi-Fi router in a single device. Dual-band Wi-Fi allows you to distribute the load: older devices connect to 2.4 GHz, while modern gadgets get fast access via 5 GHz. USB ports open up additional possibilities: you can connect an external drive to organise your home file storage. The device supports Plug and Play (PnP) technology, remote diagnostics and energy saving.

What it is suitable for:

The ideal solution for most modern flats and houses. If you have a lot of smartphones, tablets, laptops and smart devices that need stable Wi-Fi, the HS8546V5 terminal will handle the task. No need to buy a separate router — everything you need is already in this ONT. The model is suitable for families who actively use the Internet: for video calls, online learning, watching 4K movies and online games.

4. Huawei EG8145X6 — a powerful terminal with Wi-Fi 6

Let's move on to the most modern models with support for the new generation of wireless communication — Wi-Fi 6.

Key features:

• Optical interface: 1 х GPON (SC/UPC)
• Ethernet ports: 4 x 10/100/1000 Mbps (RJ45)
• USB ports: 1 х USB 2.0
• Telephony: 1 х POTS (RJ11)
• Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), dual-band 2.4 GHz + 5 GHz
• Technologies: MIMO 2×2, Beamforming, WPA3
• Wi-Fi speed: 2.4 Gbps inbound, 0.574 Gbps outbound
• Dimensions: 195 × 125 × 35 мм

Advantages:

The EG8145X6 is a new generation of optical terminals that support the latest Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) technology. Wi-Fi 6 provides higher speeds, lower latency (which is important for gamers) and works better when many devices are connected to the network at the same time.

Beamforming technology «targets» the Wi-Fi signal directly at devices, improving connection quality even in distant rooms. The new WPA3 security standard better protects the network from hacking, which is especially important in the era of smart homes.

What it's good for:

The best choice for those who want the best the modern market has to offer. Suitable for large flats and houses where several people live and everyone actively uses the Internet: some play online games, some work with video calls, and some watch 4K streaming. Wi-Fi 6 provides high speeds even when all devices are running simultaneously. It is also an excellent choice for smart homes with multiple IoT devices (smart light bulbs, video cameras, thermostats, etc.).

5. Huawei HN8546X / EN8145X6 — terminals of the future with XG-PON

The top models in the Huawei line with XG-PON technology support are a real investment in the future.

Key features:

• Optical interface: 1 х XG-PON (10 Гбіт/с)
• Ethernet ports: 4 x 10/100/1000 Mbps (RJ45)
• USB ports:2 х USB 2.0
• Telephony: 1 х POTS (RJ11)
• Wi-Fi:Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), dual-band 2.4 GHz + 5 GHz
• Technologies:MIMO 2×2, Beamforming, WPA3
• Wi-Fi speed:10 Gbps downstream, 2.5 Gbps upstream (XG-PON); 10 Gbps downstream, 10 Gbps upstream (XGS-PON)
• Dimensions: 195 × 123 × 35 мм

Advantages:

The key difference between these models is their support for XG-PON technology, which provides speeds of up to 10 Gbps on the input. This is several times faster than standard GPON. Even if such speeds seem excessive now, in a few years, when new services and applications appear (virtual reality, cloud gaming in 8K, instant downloading of large files), you will be ready for it.

In addition to speed, these terminals have all the advantages of Wi-Fi 6: stable operation with dozens of devices simultaneously, low latency, and improved coverage. Two USB ports allow you to connect more peripherals — for example, several external drives at the same time.

What it is suitable for:

This is the choice for those who think ahead. If you plan to use the terminal for 5-7 years and want to be sure that it will not become obsolete, the HN8546X6 and EN8145X6 will remain relevant longer than other models. Suitable for professionals who work with large amounts of data (designers, video editors, developers), as well as for large families with high demands on Internet speed and stability.

In practice, for most home users, the difference between GPON (EG8145X6) and XG-PON will not be noticeable right now, but if you want a terminal that will last for years to come, this is the option for you.

Which terminal should you choose?

To make it easier for you to compare Huawei ONU terminals and choose the model that best suits your needs, we have summarised the key features in a single table. Pay attention to the speed of local ports, Wi-Fi availability and supported technologies — these parameters have the greatest impact on your Internet experience.

What is important to consider when choosing an ONT?

To avoid making a mistake when choosing an optical terminal, there are several key points to consider. These parameters will help you determine which model is best suited to your situation. After all, there is no point in overpaying for features you will not use. But you should not skimp on what is really important either.

1. Number of connected devices. Count how many devices you plan to connect. If it's just one computer and a Smart TV, a basic model will suffice. If you have a large family with several laptops, tablets, smartphones, TVs and smart devices, it's better to choose a model with Wi-Fi 6.
2. Room size. For a small flat (up to 60 square metres), Wi-Fi 5 is sufficient. If you have a multi-storey house or a large flat, Wi-Fi 6 with its better coverage will be more useful.
3. Speed of your internet plan. There is no point in overpaying for a terminal with 10 Gbps support if your plan only gives you 100 Mbps. However, it is worth thinking about the future — perhaps in a year or two you will want to switch to a faster package.
4. eed for wired connections. If it is important for you to have a stable wired connection for your game console, work computer or IPTV set-top box, pay attention to the number of Gigabit Ethernet ports.
5. Telephony. If you use a landline phone via the Internet, make sure that the subscriber device you choose has the required number of POTS ports.

At Maxnet, you will always find not only high-quality equipment, but also a team of professionals who will help you connect and configure it so that your home Internet works flawlessly. If you are interested in a fast fibre optic connection, contact us and we will find the best solution for you.