QSFP 1G optical module price for 2026

QSFP 1G optical modules in 2026 are considered legacy and typically cost between $20 and $50 per module, depending on vendor and volume.

Market Context

In 2026, 1G QSFP modules are largely used for out-of-band management ports and legacy fiber links, as most enterprise and hyperscale networks have migrated to 25G, 100G, and 400G QSFP modules for high-speed data traffic. These modules are functional but are no longer the focus of high-density deployments, which means their prices are relatively low compared to modern high-speed optics.

Pricing Factors

Vendor Type: OEM modules from Cisco, Broadcom, or Juniper may cost more, typically $40–$50 per unit, while third-party or MSA-compliant modules can be as low as $20–$30. Volume Discounts: Bulk purchases for data centers or service providers can reduce the per-unit cost. Transmission Distance: Short-reach (SR) modules are cheaper than long-reach (LR) modules, though for 1G QSFP, most deployments are short-reach.

Market Trends: The QSFP market is expanding for higher-speed modules (100G, 400G, 800G), but 1G modules are in decline, which may slightly increase prices for rare or specialized units due to limited production.

Comparison to Higher-

Speed ModulesQSFP28 (100G): Typically $200–$500 for short-reach modules, much higher than 1G. QSFP-DD (400G/800G): Can range from $1,400 to over $10,000 depending on reach and vendor. 1G QSFP: Remains the most cost-effective option for legacy or low-bandwidth links, but is not recommended for new high-performance deployments.

Practical Advice

For 2026 procurement: Use 1G QSFP modules only for legacy or management links. Consider third-party MSA-compliant modules to reduce costs. Ensure compatibility with existing switches and transceivers, as 1G modules may not operate in newer 25G/100G ports.

In summary, expect 1G QSFP modules to cost roughly $20–$50 per unit in 2026, with pricing influenced by vendor, volume, and module type, while higher-speed QSFP modules dominate modern network deployments.