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Both gateways run the same UniFi Network OS and give you the same enterprise-style management, so the decision mostly comes down to port layout, built-in switching capacity, and how much you want the gateway to also replace a separate switch.
UniFi Dream Machine SE: the all-in-one for most home labs
The Dream Machine SE bundles routing, an 8-port switch (with PoE budget for cameras and APs), and a built-in NVR-style storage bay for UniFi Protect footage — genuinely enough for most home lab setups without adding a separate switch.
- Powerful Accessories
- 10G Direct Attach Cable
- 10G Long-Range Direct Attach Cable
UDM Pro: the pick for larger or more complex networks
UDM Pro offers more routing throughput headroom and is the more common choice once your network grows past what the SE’s built-in switch ports can handle — better suited to setups already running multiple downstream switches.
- Individual port operation modes (switching, mirroring, or aggregate).
UniFi Dream Router: for a smaller footprint, lower cost entry
If either the SE or Pro is more gateway than your home actually needs, the Dream Router keeps the same UniFi OS and app experience in a much smaller, cheaper, Wi-Fi-6-equipped package.
Running a typical home lab with a handful of cameras and APs? Dream Machine SE covers it. Already running multiple switches and want more routing headroom? UDM Pro.