Cat5e vs Cat6 Ethernet Cables: Which is Best for You?

Cables.com has the cables you need to be sure that your operation is running at maximum efficiency. But how do you know which ethernet cable is the right one for your particular needs?

Key Differences Between Cat5e and Cat6 Ethernet Cables

Here on Cables.com you can find Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat 6a Ethernet Cables for your data network needs. While these different kinds of ethernet cables each have their pros and cons, there are some noteworthy differences to consider when you're deciding which to install. 

Cat5e and Cat6 cables are both capable of supporting speeds up to 1,000 Mbps, which is suitable for most commonly used internet connections. Where do they differ, then?

The big contrast between these kinds of ethernet cables is found in bandwidth: namely, Cat5e ethernet cables operate on frequencies only up to 100 MHz, while Cat6 ethernet cables are capable of operating at up to 250 Mhz, resulting in significantly faster data transfer. 

Why Choose Cat5e?

What are the pros and cons of these different types of cables? To start with, the most noteworthy is cost. Here on Cables.com, 1 ft of Category 5e Bootless Ethernet Cable will cost $1.25. 1ft of Cat6 Bootless Ethernet Cable, in contrast, will cost $1.50. It isn't a significant price difference, maybe, but when you're looking at more cable for a more complex network, the difference begins to add up. 

Why Choose Cat6?

Cables.com's Category 6 ethernet cables are more expensive than Cat5e ethernet cables, but they're also capable of 550 Mhz speeds compared to Cat5e's 350 Mhz. In terms of construction, they're assembled similarly to the Cat5e cables with a bootless assembly type ensuring a snug fit, gold plated RJ45 plugs, and 4 pair 24 AWG High Quality 100% bare copper wire interior. The Cat6 ethernet cables on Cables.com come in lengths from 6 inches to 200 feet, and as with our 5e cables you can check out our Custom Cable Builder if you're seeking a particular fit for your installation. 

Why Choose Cat6A?

Ethernet cables have advanced rapidly in speed and bandwidth since the release of Cat 1, an unshielded twisted-pair cable introduced in 1985 with a data rate of 1 Mbps. Though there are now faster, more advanced cables used for data transfer, Category 6A ethernet cables remain the industry standard for data network installations. The "A" stands for "Augmented," referring to the cable's enhanced performance speeds in comparison to standard Category6 ethernet cables. Cat6A cables combine affordability with connection quality, and when you're purchasing from Cables.com, you can be sure you're getting the best cable for your money. Rated for up to 500 Mhz, Cat6A cables can offer up to twice the speed of Category 6 cables and are gigabit rated, which makes them suitable for POE (Power Over Ethernet) devices - no additional cables needed! Out Datacomm Cat6A cables offer a reliable and secure connection between your devices and your home or office network. 

Why Shop Cables.com?

All of Cables.com's Datacomm cables are proudly manufactured here in the US at our New York warehouse and come with a lifetime guarantee. We offer our cables for purchase at some of the lowest prices on the market with lightning-fast shipping and easy returns. When you're shopping from Cables.com, you have the option to order your cables in custom colors, lengths, and configurations based on your specific needs. If you have any questions about placing an order with us, feel free to Contact Us through our website or send us an email at sales@cables.com!

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