The Best Types Of Ethernet Cables In 2023
Using various types of ethernet cables allows you to stream your favorite shows or reach the leaderboards of your favorite competitive online games without interruption.
Ethernet cables are enclosed wires transmitting data between your computer and your router or modem. If you work from home and want a reliable connection, an ethernet cable is more secure than a Wi-Fi connection.
In this article, we’ll look at the types of ethernet cables and help you decide on the most suitable one for your requirements.
What Are The Various Types Of Ethernet Cables?
An outdated ethernet connection may prevent you from obtaining today’s fast speeds; replacing it with a more recent one will boost your internet performance. If you recently upgraded your internet plan and got a new modem to find that your internet performance has yet to improve, the problem may be your ethernet cable.
When purchasing ethernet cables, you should know that “Cat” represents the category and quantity. In general, cables with higher numbers support faster speeds.
The various types of ethernet cables are:
Cat 5e
The Cat 5e cable is the most economical but lowest-quality type of ethernet cable available today. Although a Cat 5e cable can support line speeds of up to 1000Mbps (megabits per second) and bandwidth up to 100MHz, this cable is suitable for those who don’t have substantial performance demands.
Cat 6
One of the most expensive types of ethernet cables is the Cat 6 compared to Cat 5e. It supports data transfers up to 1000 Mbps but has a slightly higher bandwidth of 250GHz, making it suitable for mid-range video calling and gaming. This cable uses foil or braided shielding to reduce crosstalk.
Cat 6a
An “a” after the “6” indicates that this is an augmented version of the Cat 6 in types of ethernet cables. These cables support twice the bandwidth and have thicker coatings to prevent crosstalk. Cat 6 and 6a cables are popular with people who want to stream.
Cat 7
Cat7 cable is a high-end patch cable used to deliver the wired Gigabit Ethernet setups’ core infrastructure. This ethernet cable currently supports specific applications with higher speeds, leading to higher costs.
Cat 8
These ethernet cables can handle as much as 30 Gbps (gigabits per second) and 2000MHz, which is perfect for people looking for the best possible performance. This might seem like excess, but these cables may be a good choice for those who habitually run through cables and want them to last longer.
Buying Guide For The Types Of Ethernet Cables
The network cable’s purpose determines the best types of ethernet cables for you. Spending money on a high-speed ethernet cord when all you have are Cat 3 cables is not a good idea.
On the other hand, wasting money on a high-speed ethernet cord would be foolish if you have no intention of using a higher-speed internet connection to its full potential.
It’s crucial to remember that you can replace a lower-category cable with a UTP cable. For instance, you can use a Cat 6 wire instead of a Cat 5 wire, but neither a Cat 5 nor a Cat 6 wire can replace a Cat 8 wire.
- Category and Compatibility
Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) ethernet cables are more popular than shielded ones because they are cheaper and easier to use. Cat 5 through 8 are the types of UTP cables you will most likely see.
It’s crucial to remember that a UTP cable can replace a cable of a lower category. Still, a cable of a lower category cannot replace a cable of a higher category. For instance, a Cat 6 wire can be used in place of a Cat 5 wire, but neither a Cat 5 nor a Cat 6 wire can be used in place of a Cat 8 wire.
- Cable Lengths
There are several types of ethernet cables that vary in length, but for the classes examined, you will only find a cable length that is 100 meters. As long as you stay within the 100-meter limit for cable length, the length of the cable you are using should not significantly impact the cable’s speed.
Longer cables produce a slight delay, but the 100-meter restriction produces a delay of fewer than 0.00035 milliseconds. Keep data lengths down to prevent data loss and other issues, such as long delays.
- Durability and Style
When searching for the best types of ethernet cables, you may see a letter next to the category, such as Cat 5e or Cat 6a. These categories are technically separate from Cat 5 and Cat 6, specifically.
Compared to Cat 5e, Cat 6a operates at the same speeds but provides better Electro-Magnetic Interference (EMI) protection. Cat 6a provides better EMI protection and operates at higher rates than Cat 6, which offers better performance. These cables are specifically used for their speed in EMI-prone environments.
List Of Best Types Of Ethernet Cables
| Image | Name | Special Features | Price | Rating |
 | DBillionDa Direct CAT8 Gaming Ethernet Cable | A must-have for gaming. | Check Price | 4.9/5 |
 | Jadaol Cat 7 Flat Ethernet Cable | Best for the money. | Check Price | 4.8/5 |
 | AmazonBasics Ethernet Patch Cable | Best for max bandwidth. | Check Price | 4.7/5 |
 | Mediabridge Ethernet Cable (15 Feet) | The most affordable ethernet cable. | Check Price | 4.7/5 |
 | Tera Grand Ultra Flat Ethernet / Networking Cable | The best overall design. | Check Price | 4.7/5 |
 | Cable Matters Cat6 Ethernet Cable | Most flexible that guarantees high-speed data transfer. | Check Price | 4.7/5 |
 | Mediabridge Ethernet Cable (100 Feet) | Overall the most compatible with any ethernet device. | Check Price | 4.6/5 |
Best Types Of Ethernet Cables
DBillionDa Direct CAT8 Gaming Ethernet Cable
Specifications
- Connector type: RJ45
- Cable type: Ethernet
- Compatible devices: Laptop, Television, Server, Personal Computer, Router
- Special features: High Speed, Waterproof, Weatherproof, UV Resistant
- Type of ethernet cable: Cat 8
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DBillionDa Direct’s gigabit ethernet cables are the fastest Cat 8 ethernet cables available. These cables are weatherproofed for outdoor use and come in various lengths, ranging from 6 to 100 feet.
With a bandwidth of 2,000 MHz and a data transmission speed of 40 Gigabits per second, you can maximize your internet provider’s bandwidth with this high-speed ethernet cable.
This ethernet cable is only for some, but content creators and gamers will be astounded by its speed and power. Unlike previous RJ45 connectors, this one sports gold-plated RJ45 connectors. Gold plating does not affect performance, but it is a stylish addition that will help you tell it apart from other cables.
The Cat 8 cable is resistant to EMI, so it is very versatile and can be used in place of any other Ethernet cable for any purpose.
You will no longer have to concern yourself with cat6 vs. cat7 cables or other cable comparisons since the entire cable is EMI resistant. You should have no trouble finding a use for these high-quality ethernet cables, as they are versatile.
These wires are the best option for gaming, and they are also the best choice if you have a PS4.
Jadaol Cat 7 Flat Ethernet Cable
Specifications
- Connector type: RJ45
- Cable type: Ethernet
- Compatible devices: Modem
- Color: Black
- Connector gender: Male-to-Male
- Type of ethernet cable: Cat 7
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Jadaol’s Cat 7 Ethernet Cable is a well-made alternative to Wi-Fi in terms of performance and aesthetic appeal. It should function just as well and have a unique design to boot. This cable is flat, which makes it suitable for being hidden under a carpet or against a wall, making installing an ethernet cable much more convenient.
Jadaol has put thought into user convenience by providing 15 cable clips with each cable. Because some ethernet cables have trouble traveling around doorways, these clips help maintain them in place.
Despite being extremely thin and durable, this networking cable from Jadaol operates without issues. This cable comes in 50-foot lengths, which may be excessive for your needs, but it stays within the 100-meter restriction and has RJ45 connectors with a bandwidth of 250 MHz.
AmazonBasics Ethernet Patch Cable
Specifications
- Connector type: RJ45
- Cable type: Ethernet
- Compatible devices: Personal Computers
- Color: Black
- Connector gender: Male-to-Male
- Type of ethernet cable: Cat 6
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The AmazonBasics RJ45 Cat6 Ethernet Patch Internet cable is among the finest ethernet cables. It is a Cat 6 variety, which can support up to 1 Gigabit per second and high-bandwidth broadband communication, making cat 5 versus cat 6 cables visible.
Choose CAT 6A, CAT 6E, CAT 7, or CAT 8 for higher speeds, as these RJ45 connectors support a 250 MHz bandwidth and are unlikely to have any issues.
Cat 6 Ethernet cables typically have a plastic core to boost the cable’s toughness and endurance. You should be able to find the length that is perfect for your purpose, as the lengths range from 3 to 50 feet, which stays within the 100-meter limit.
This ethernet cable should last a long time without needing to be replaced, providing high-speed internet without delay. Even though it is a high-quality cable that comes at an economical cost, if you break it and need to replace it within the first year of owning it, there is a one-year guarantee.
With this cable, you can take full advantage of your internet connection’s full bandwidth, providing you with a fast connection.
Mediabridge Ethernet Cable (15 Feet)
Specifications
- Connector type: RJ45
- Cable type: Ethernet
- Compatible devices: Personal Computers, Router
- Color: Gray
- Connector gender: Male-to-Male
- Type of ethernet cable: Cat 6
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A Mediabridge Cat 6 cable can achieve up to 10 gigabits per second speed, thanks to the Cat 6 standard. The previous Cat 6 entry was flat and therefore less expensive, but these Cat 6 cables are cheap alternatives to regular cables and can achieve up to 10 gigabits per second speed.
Although Mediabridge offers Cat 6 ethernet cables of various lengths, this cable seems to come exclusively in a 15-foot size. If the cable is sufficient for your purposes, it should function like any other Cat 6 cable.
Mediabridge is known to deliver counterfeit cables when ordering from them, as they quickly respond and replace them.
One of the drawbacks of purchasing equipment at such a low cost is that this situation might occur.
Tera Grand Ultra Flat Ethernet / Networking Cable
Specifications
- Connector type: RJ45
- Cable type: Ethernet
- Compatible devices: Server, Router, Modem, Printer
- Color: Black & Blue
- Data transfer rate: 10 Gigabits Per Second
- Type of ethernet cable: Cat 7
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With Tera Grand Ultra Flat Ethernet Cable, you can get a dependable internet connection. This wire is also slim and flexible, easy to fit into the tightest spaces.
A Cat 7 cable is faster and can handle more data than the previous generation’s Cat 6 cable, so if your old cable wasn’t fast enough for your purposes, this should serve you well as a cheap upgrade.
This cable is suitable for almost any ethernet connection because it is a Cat 7 cable. The only situation in which you might need a cat7 cable is when you compare it to a cat8 cable, and that situation should only arise sometimes.
Cable Matters Cat6 Ethernet Cable
Specifications
- Connector type: RJ45
- Cable type: Ethernet
- Compatible devices: Server, Personal Computer, Router
- Color: Black
- Connector gender: Male-to-Male
- Type of ethernet cable: Cat 6
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At 150 feet, it’s close to being unusable due to signal attenuation. It might be a good idea to pair shorter lengths with an active ethernet adapter to compensate for the signal drop. The cable has a strict no-return policy and comes with a lifetime warranty.
You can trust Cat 6 cables to deliver the results you need if you’re connecting an ethernet-enabled printer, gaming console, smart TV, laptop, or desktop computer. These cables are widely used in both commercial and residential construction.
The cable comes in gray, black, blue, or red so that you can match it to your décor. Thanks to its cladding and shielding, this cable is ideal for any situation and is a great investment for your network.
Mediabridge Ethernet Cable (100 Feet)
Specifications
- Connector type: RJ45
- Cable type: Component, Ethernet
- Compatible devices: Router, Personal Computer, Printer
- Color: Black
- Data transfer rate: 10 Gigabits Per Second
- Type of ethernet cable: Cat 6
Today’s Best Deal
The Mediabridge Ethernet Cable comes in several lengths, ranging from 10 to 100 feet. It is the same as the other Mediabridge entry, but it is guaranteed to maintain its 10 gigabits per second speed when used at 100 feet.
The cables come with a Velcro strap to help with cable management, and the packaging is very convenient. You can see through the packaging to see your cable, and the cables are snuggly secured and rolled up.
Mediabridge makes excellent storage solutions for cables that are not in use.
Faqs On Types Of Ethernet Cables
1. How long can my cable run be?
There are several cable types, and the length varies based on the standard. Cat 5 cable, for instance, is suitable for runs of up to 100 feet. Cat 6 cable, in contrast, may be used for runs as long as 300 feet. If you want to cable a large house, you may require Cat 7 or Cat 8 cable to run from the swimming pool to your movie room.
2. What is CAT 7 cable used for?
A CAT 7 cable, commonly known as a CAT 7 or Cat-7 cable, is used to build Gigabit Ethernet cabling infrastructure. A CAT 7 cable can transmit data up to 600MHz.
3. Can Cat5e handle Gigabit speed?
CAT5e and CAT6 can handle speeds of up to 1000 Mbps or a Gigabit per second. This is more than sufficient for most internet connections.
4. Does the type of ethernet cable matter?
Yes, the wires used in ethernet cabling are copper, an excellent conductor of electricity. So when the cables are transferring large amounts of data at once, there will be a lot of resistance.
This will slow the ethernet connection down. Good quality ethernet cables are shielded, which keeps the data signals from being affected by the signals from other cables running through the same wire. This will make the connection quicker and is worth the extra few dollars to ensure a reliable connection.
5. What is the fastest type of ethernet cable?
The fastest type of ethernet cable is the DBillionDa Direct CAT8 Gaming Ethernet Cable, which is not coincidental. It’s a Cat 8 ethernet cable. Most Cat 8 ethernet cables are not widely available, and Cat 7a (Cat 7 augmented) is the following highest-performing ethernet cable that is more publicly available.
The Cat 7a cable can accommodate bandwidths of up to 1,000 MHz, which is significantly higher than Cat 6a and Cat 7 cables, which support data transfer rates of up to 10,000 Mbps.
Conclusion
An ethernet cable’s Cat number is sometimes responsible for deciding which one to purchase. The quality of the internal wiring and the build quality is among the issues to be considered.
Your network will determine how much cable you need, but Cat 6 will be sufficient for most individuals. If you are burying your cable or using it in your attic or crawl spaces, the Jadoal Cat 7 entry will be sufficient. If you want to install a cable that you can switch out easily, a Cat 6 cable is sufficient, and you won’t go wrong at this price point.
The AmazonBasics is still a great piece of wire, though, if you need to shave even more off the budget.
Related Article:
Cat 7 Vs Cat 8: Which One Is Better For Your Needs?
Mark is a tech-obsessed serial entrepreneur who also enjoys reading and writing. He has a strong urge to keep learning and talking about technology, which led him to become an author. Mark has co-founded two successful startups, one of which was acquired in 2018.
