Unboxing the Unifi UDM Pro Max: A Comprehensive Review

April 30th, 2024
Unboxing the Unifi UDM Pro Max: A Comprehensive Review

Are you ready for a deep dive into the latest innovation from Unifi? Today, we're taking a close look at the Unifi UDM Pro Max. With its impressive features and robust capabilities, this device is making waves in the Managed Service Provider community.

Initial Impressions

If you've been following Unifi's recent teasers, you've likely heard about the Pro Max. I was fortunate enough to receive a pre-release unit from Unifi for testing purposes. Before diving into the details, I want to clarify that while Unifi provided the units, this review reflects my unbiased opinions.

If you are familiar with the Dream Machine Pro line you will be very comfortable with this unit.  It uses the same OS as the UDM-Pro and UDM-Pro SE.  The build quality and packaging are what we come to expect from Ubiqiti and are top notch.  I'm really happy with the $599 price of the unit, I think this is an amazing value compared to it's competition.

Key Features

Let's start with some of the headline features of the UDM Pro Max:

  1. True Shadow Mode: With OS 4.0, the UDM Pro Max introduces true shadow mode, ensuring seamless continuity in case of unit failure.
  2. 2.5 Gigabit Interface: Perfect for high-speed connections, this feature sets the Pro Max apart.
  3. Enhanced Processing Power: With double the processing power of previous units, the Pro Max can handle a multitude of devices with full DPI and IPS security enabled.
  4. Redundant Drives: Two drives offer redundancy for Protect installations, ensuring data integrity.

Full details from Unifi:

  • 10 Gbps Cloud Gateway with 200+ UniFi device / 2,000+ client support, 5 Gbps IPS routing, and redundant NVR storage.
  • Enhanced computing power and memory for 2x the UniFi device and client capacity of Dream Machine Pro/SE
  • Includes full UniFi application suite for device management
  • 5 Gbps routing with IDS/IPS
  • (1) 10G SFP+*, (8) GbE RJ45 LAN ports
  • (1) 10G SFP+*, (1) 2.5 GbE RJ45 WAN ports
  • (2) 3.5" NVR HDD bays with RAID data protection
  • Built-in 128 GB SSD for NVR detection recordings
  • 1.3" touchscreen

Shadow Mode and Automatic Failover

One of the most impressive features of the Pro Max is its shadow mode with automatic failover. Setting up this functionality was surprisingly easy, thanks to the intuitive interface. Within minutes, I had the system synced and ready to go. Automatic failover ensures uninterrupted service, making it ideal for critical applications.

Use Cases

So, who is the UDM Pro Max for? While it may be overkill for home users, it's perfect for organizations with large infrastructures and multiple sites. MSPs, in particular, will appreciate its capabilities, especially when combined with Unifi's new 24X7 support options. Additionally, high-end home enthusiasts seeking top-tier performance will find the Pro Max a worthy investment.

Future Considerations

As I tested the Pro Max, I couldn't help but ponder its potential impact on the MSP space. With its competitive pricing, ease of maintaining for technicians and robust features, Unifi seems poised to make significant strides in this market. However, there are still areas for improvement, such as global management options and channel sales/device availability.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Unifi UDM Pro Max is a powerful networking solution with broad applications. Whether you're managing a complex network or simply seeking top-notch performance, the Pro Max delivers. As Unifi continues to evolve its offerings, I'm excited to see how the Pro Max shapes the future of networking.

What are your thoughts on the Unifi UDM Pro Max? Share your comments below, and don't forget to like and subscribe for more in-depth reviews!

Affiliate link to the UDM Pro Max here: https://store.ui.com/us/en/pro/products/udm-pro-max?a_aid=DPCTechnology

Click here to watch the YouTube video!