Single Mode or Multi Mode: Which Is Better?

There are two different types of fiber optic cords - multi mode fiber, and single mode fiber. Which fiber optic network patch cable is better for your data network? Let's look at the pros and cons of each to determine which one would be the right cable for you. 

What Types of Fiber Optic Cable Are There?

Single Mode Fiber

There are two different types of fiber optic cords - multi mode fiber, and single mode fiber. Let's consider single mode fiber optic cables first.  Cables.com's Datacomm single mode cables offer exceptional quality at the lowest prices in the industry. What are the perks of choosing a single mode cable over multi mode? You would think that multi mode would be better, right? When it comes to fiber optic connections, though, you would be mistaken. Single mode fiber optic cables offer near-unlimited bandwidth. Its features include low insertion loss and high return loss, as well as high quality zirconia ferules in some instances. Cables.com offers a variety of configurations, including APC (Angled Physical Contact) Single mode Cables and Single mode LC to SC 8/125 micron cables made with the highest quality Corning glass. These hair-fine glass cores are contained within standard yellow PVC jackets, some of which are riser-rated, and they're factory tested for optimum performance. Our LC to LC Single Mode Fiber Optic Cable with Flexible boots offers the security of a booted connectors that fit snugly into receptacles without sacrificing flexibility, allowing for up to 90 degree bending on either end. 

Multi Mode Fiber

Multi mode fiber optic cables usually feature a standard aqua blue jacket, which might make them hard to distinguish from each other. Datacomm manufactures both our OM3 and OM4 cables in the US, and they're assembled using high-quality materials for optimum performance. But there are different types of multi mode fiber cables! 

OM3 fiber optic cable is rated for 10GB up to 300 meters. They're capable of transmitting at speeds at 40GB up to 150 meters, or even 100GB up to 100 meters. Meanwhile, our OM4 fiber optic cords can achieve 40G performance over 150 meters, and 100G over 100 meters. Like our OM3 cables, these fiber patch cables are a big step up from copper cables. They're available in the same variety of configurations as the OM3 cables, but it's important to keep in mind that whichever cable you decide on for your data network, you'll always have the option of purchasing in custom colors and lengths from Cables.com. 

In terms of speed and reliability of your internet connection, single mode is the best option by far. The noteworthy downside is that it's priced accordingly. While single mode fiber cable only allows for one type of light mode to be transported at any given time, multi mode fiber cable allows for multiple types. Cables.com offers both 10Gb OM3 and 40Gb OM4 Fiber optic cables. Our OM3 cables are capable of transmitting data of speeds up to 40Gb up to 150 meters, and our OM4 cables can achieve a performance of 100G over 100 meters. 

How Do I Choose?

With so many options, it's understandable that you might not be sure where to start. Cables.com wants to make your cables-shopping experience as easy and convenient as possible. Use our Quick Patch Finder tool to narrow your options down based on your cables need. You also have the option of purchasing Custom Cables, combining your choice in cables with the configuration or jacket color you would like. 

Still have questions? Send us an email at sales@cables.com! We look forward to working with you.

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