In high-density networks, 100G QSFP28 and SFP112 optical modules have their own advantages. The QSFP28 module is equipped with four channels with a transmission rate of up to 25Gbps per channel and a total bandwidth of 100Gbps. The SFP112 module is an extension of SFP+ and can support higher transmission rates and is suitable for data requirements that exceed 100Gbps. This article compares the two 100G transceivers to help you choose.

100G QSFP28 Overview

What is the QSFP28 100G Transceiver?

The 100G QSFP28 optical module is one of the high-speed modules widely used in current data centers and communication networks. The 100G QSFP28 optical module has 4 channels. The transmission rate of each channel increases from 10G to 25G, thus achieving a transmission rate of 100Gbps. Compared with the CFP series optical modules, the 100G QSFP28 optical module is smaller and can achieve higher-density wiring.

100G QSFP28 optical modules can be divided into single-mode and multi-mode. The single-mode 100G QSFP28 optical module is suitable for long-distance transmission, while the multi-mode 100G QSFP28 optical module is suitable for short-distance data transmission. Common 100G QSFP28 single-mode optical modules include 100G QSFP28 PSM4, 100G QSFP28 LR4, and 100G QSFP28 ER4. Multi-mode 100G QSFP28 modules is usually used in short-distance transmission, and 100G QSFP28 SR4 is a common product.

Advantages of  QSFP28 100G Optical Transceivers

High-bandwidth and Low-latency

100G QSFP28 transceivers can meet high-bandwidth demands, ensuring fast data processing and transmission. These modules also ensure low network latency, which is important for real-time tasks like financial transactions, online gaming, and video conferencing. 100G modules are ideal for high-performance networks.

High-density 

The QSFP28 optical module adopts a four-channel design, each channel supports a data rate of 25Gbps, and the total transmission rate reaches 100Gbps. Such a design not only enables the QSFP28 optical module to have higher data transmission capabilities while maintaining a compact size, but its high-density design also saves space and reduces system power consumption and heat dissipation costs.

Support Long-distance Transmission

QSFP28 100G can transmit over several dozen kilometres, making them ideal for inter-data centre connectivity, metropolitan area networks (MANs), and long-haul communications.

Support for Different Protocols and Interfaces

100G QSFP28 optical transceivers are compatible with different transmission protocols and interfaces (like LC, MTP/MPO). This means they can be used with many network devices, including switches, routers, and fiber channel systems.

SFP112 Overview

What is SFP112 Transceivers?

100G SFP112 uses a 53G EML laser and PAM4 modulation technology. The module is a single-channel transmission, including DR/FR/LR/ER and other specifications. The 100G SFP112 is compatible with SFP28 and SFP56, making it easy to upgrade from 25G or 50G to 100G. The 100G SFP112 form factor represents innovation in the field of optical modules, and they can meet the demands for high-speed, high-bandwidth, and low-latency networks. It’s a great fit for applications like data center intranets, data center connections, and metro area networks.

Advantages of SFP112 Transceiver Modules

Higher Transmission Rate

The SFP112 has a theoretical transmission rate of 112 Gbps, which is faster compared to the QSFP28 100G and meets applications with higher bandwidth requirements.

Strong compatibility

Compatible with SFP28 and SFP56, supports seamless upgrade from 25G/50G to 100G, and has high flexibility.

Efficient Transmission Performance

The SFP112 optical module uses PAM4 modulation technology, which can transmit data in a more efficient manner compared with traditional technology. 

QSFP28 100G and SFP112, What’s the Difference?

Here’s a comparison table outlining the differences between 100G QSFP28 and SFP112 optical transceivers in terms of data transfer rate, form factor, port density, compatibility, use cases, reach and applications, and power consumption:

Comparison Factor

QSFP28

SFP112

Data Transfer Rate

100Gbps

Supports higher data transfer rates, up to 112Gbps

Form Factor

QSFP28, compact and hot-pluggable, ideal for high-density and performance

Resembles the SFP+ but is designed for higher bandwidth

Port Density

Allows for high port density in networking equipment due to its compact size

May offer similar or slightly reduced port density,  depending on its dimensions

Compatibility and Use Cases

Widely used in data centers, enterprise networks, and high-performance computing; well-supported

Suitable for applications needing bandwidth beyond 100Gbps; newer and requires compatibility check

Reach and Applications

Supports various distances based on transceiver type (SR, LR, ER) and fiber type

Reach varies by specification, potentially suited for similar or longer distances with enhanced performance

Power Consumption

Designed for efficient power consumption by current standards, varies by manufacturer and model

May have slightly higher power consumption due to increased data rate; consider cooling and power budget

100G QSFP28 and SFP112 Modules, How to Choose?

The 100G QSFP28 module is a suitable choice in the following situations: If the network application demand is within 100Gbps bandwidth, the QSFP28 module is a highly efficient choice, especially for data centres, enterprise networks and high-performance computing environments. Its quad-channel design combines high performance and high density, enabling more port placement and saving cabinet space. Meanwhile, 100G QSFP28 is compatible with a wide range of devices and standards, suitable for different connectivity scenarios from short to long reach, such as SR4, LR4, ER4, etc., which can flexibly adapt to different network requirements.

In higher bandwidth demand scenarios, SFP112 module may be a more ideal choice. With a 112Gbps transmission rate, it is suitable for applications that exceed the 100Gbps transmission limit, such as edge computing with high data throughput, high-speed data analytics platforms, and large-bandwidth storage networks, etc. SFP112 modules typically support newer signal processing technologies and may have improved long-haul transmission, signal integrity, and interference immunity, making them suitable for network architectures that may require higher data rates in the future. network architectures that may require higher data rates in the future.

Conclusion

In summary, 100G QSFP28 and SFP112 optical modules have their own characteristics and are applicable to different scenarios. With its four-channel design, 100Gbps transmission rate and high density, the QSFP28 module is very suitable for application scenarios with demand within 100Gbps such as data centers, enterprise networks and high-performance computing. The SFP112 module supports a higher 112Gbps transmission rate and is suitable for scenarios with ultra-high bandwidth requirements, such as edge computing and large-bandwidth storage networks. Selecting appropriate modules based on actual needs can better meet the performance and transmission distance requirements of different network architectures.