Comparing Ethernet Cables: Cat 3, 4, 5, 5e, 6, and Beyond
Ethernet cables are essential components in wired networks, enabling data transmission between devices. They are categorized based on their performance capabilities, such as data transfer speeds and bandwidth. Understanding these categories helps in selecting the appropriate cable for your networking needs. Below is a comparison of various Ethernet cable categories:
| Category | Max Data Rate | Bandwidth | Usage | Amazon UK Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cat 3 | 10 Mbps | 16 MHz | Used in early Ethernet networks; now largely obsolete. | N/A |
| Cat 4 | 16 Mbps | 20 MHz | Primarily used in Token Ring networks; now obsolete. | N/A |
| Cat 5 | 100 Mbps | 100 MHz | Supported Fast Ethernet; replaced by Cat 5e. | N/A |
| Cat 5e | 1 Gbps | 100 MHz | Enhanced to reduce crosstalk; widely used in residential and commercial networks. | View on Amazon UK |
| Cat 6 | 1 Gbps up to 100 m; 10 Gbps up to 55 m | 250 MHz | Suitable for Gigabit Ethernet and short-distance 10 Gigabit Ethernet. | View on Amazon UK |
| Cat 6a | 10 Gbps | 500 MHz | Supports 10 Gigabit Ethernet over longer distances with better shielding. | View on Amazon UK |
| Cat 7 | 10 Gbps | 600 MHz | Features extensive shielding; suitable for high-speed networking. | View on Amazon UK |
| Cat 8 | 25 Gbps or 40 Gbps | 2000 MHz | Designed for data centres requiring high-speed connections over short distances. | View on Amazon UK |
Best Ethernet Cable for Home Use
For most home users, Cat 6 or Cat 6a cables provide the best balance between performance and affordability. They support Gigabit Ethernet (1 Gbps) over 100 metres and even 10 Gbps speeds over shorter distances, making them ideal for streaming, gaming, and working from home.
- Recommended: Cat 6 Ethernet Cable
Buy Cat 6 on Amazon UK - Recommended: Cat 6a Ethernet Cable (for higher performance)
Buy Cat 6a on Amazon UK
Popular Ethernet Cables on Amazon UK
- Amazon Basics RJ45 Cat-6 Ethernet Patch Internet Cable – 5 foot (1.5 metre), Black
View Product - UGREEN Ethernet Cable 10M, Flat RJ45 LAN Gigabit Cat 6 Network Cable
View Product - Nixsto Ethernet Cable 5M, Cat6 High-Speed Network Patch Cord
View Product
When selecting an Ethernet cable, consider the required data transfer speeds, network environment, and future-proofing your setup. Higher-category cables like Cat 6a and above offer improved performance and shielding, making them suitable for high-speed applications and environments with potential electromagnetic interference.
