Best Cat 6 Ethernet Cables

In today’s fast-moving world, a fast, reliable, and stable internet connection has become a crucial asset for each and every establishment. Since almost all communications and transactions are performed over the Internet and a complete history of previous work is maintained on cloud servers, you definitely need fast and reliable connectivity to gain quick access to all of your data.

Also, local area network connections have also been facing continuously increasing demands for domestic purposes after the rise of smart TVs and a variety of smart home systems that rely on Wi Fi. But. for a stable connection, you will have to pay close attention to what equipment you are using for your network stability, especially the ethernet cable. Here are some qualities of a decent ethernet cable that differentiates it from other generic choices.

• Conductor Gauge: The conductor gauge is the most important quality of an Ethernet cable as it represents the performance of the cable as well as its build quality and longevity for the long term. It is simply the measurement of the core copper wire diameter inside the Cat 6 ethernet cable. This thickness is not mentioned directly, but categorized based on the AWG (American Wire Gauge) standards. The conductor gauge also influences the electrical properties of the cable as well as its resistance to the data transfer.

• Bandwidth Capacity: Bandwidth capacity is a crucial aspect of Ethernet cables, as it directly represents the ability of the ethernet cable to transmit data efficiently and accommodate the increasing demands of modern networking, which is higher bandwidth capacity. Bandwidth refers to the maximum data transfer rate that a network can support. Thus, a higher bandwidth capacity allows for faster data transmission speeds across the network. This is particularly vital as the demand for rapid data transfer has escalated with the evolution of technology and the addition of bandwidth-intensive applications in the past decade or so.

If you are looking for standard networking hardware such as a LAN hub, or a router, you can easily find out the best option for your needs as there is a wide variety of options available from a number of popular suppliers. But almost all modems and routers are paired with necessary accessories such as ethernet cables. So, the market for such accessories, especially the cables, is a bit thin in comparison. Therefore, we are bringing you the best and most popular options available for a Cat 6 Ethernet cable that can work as an excellent replacement for factory ones. We will also provide a “Buying Guide” for the best Cat 6 ethernet cables where we are going to discuss some more features of this product and try to explain their significance in different applications.

Best Cat 6 Ethernet Cables Table

Best Cat 6 Ethernet Cables	Conductor Gauge	Bandwidth	Buy Now
Jadaol Cat 6 Ethernet Cable	30 AWG	Up to 250 MHz	Check On Amazon
DEEGO Cat 6 Ethernet Cable	32 AWG	Up to 250 MHz	Check On Amazon
Cable Matters Cat 6 Ethernet Cable	24 AWG	Up to 550 MHz	Check On Amazon
Amazon Basics Cat 6 Ethernet Cable	23 AWG	-	Check On Amazon
CableGeeker Cat 6 Ethernet Cable	31.0 AWG	Up to 500 MHz	Check On Amazon
GearIT Cat 6 Ethernet Cable	24 AWG	Up to 550 MHz	Check On Amazon
Ultra Clarity Cables Cat6 Ethernet Cable	24.0 AWG	Up to 500 MHz	Check On Amazon

Best Cat 6 Ethernet Cables Reviews

1. Jadaol Cat 6 Ethernet Cable

We will start off our list with the most popular brand available right now for an ethernet cable. Jadaol has managed to deliver thousands of ethernet cables so far with an overwhelmingly positive response.

In the 1st place, we are introducing the Jadaol Cat 6 Ethernet Cable, a reliable and high-performance networking solution designed to meet the demands of both indoor and outdoor connectivity. This is an all-purpose Cet 6 ethernet cable solely designed to offer exceptional performance. Constructed with high-quality 30 AWG wires, this UL-listed cable with RJ45 gold-plated connectors ensures universal connectivity for LAN network components, delivering a seamless experience for PCs, servers, printers, routers, and other network devices. The cable supports Cat7 networks, offering impressive performance up to 250 MHz at 10Gbps, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

For added convenience, the Jadaol Cat 6 Ethernet Cable comes bundled with 20 cable clips, eliminating the need for a separate purchase. This cable’s special features include being tangle-free, UV-resistant, water-resistant, and waterproof, ensuring durability and longevity in various environmental conditions. One of the key advantages of this cable is its unique flat cable shape, facilitating a cleaner and safer installation. The flat design allows for easy cable runs along walls, following edges and corners, or even discreetly sliding it under a carpet.

Best Features:

• This is a 30 AWG gauge ethernet cable
• It supports up to 250 MHz bandwidth frequency
• Suitable for up to 10 Gbps connections
• The cable length is about 50 feet

Pros:

• Most popular option for an all-in-one ethernet cable
• Perfect option for multicam surveillance setup
• Build quality is very good

Cons:

• Not the best option for desktop or TV connections

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2. DEEGO Cat 6 Ethernet Cable

Up next, we are bringing a budget choice for a similar option that you can use for multiple applications from DEEGO. DEEGO also manufactures a variety of different budget products such as travel backpacks and proof bags.

Our 2nd choice for the best Cat 6 ethernet cable comes from DEEGO. The DEEGO Cat 6 Ethernet Cable is an affordable and visually appealing option for those who prioritize both performance and aesthetics. One of the best features of this cable is its faster speed and superior interference protection. It is a 4 UTP patch LAN cable with its RJ45 connectors made of copper wires, providing a remarkable performance of up to 250 MHz. This design protects the cable from crosstalk, noise, and interference and ensures a stable and high-speed connection suitable for various applications, including gaming, streaming, and data transmission.

The DEEGO Cat 6 Ethernet Cable also boasts a flat design enhanced with Ultra-thin technology, offering a space-saving solution that avoids tangled cords. The package includes 20 free cable clips, allowing users to effortlessly install the cable around awkward places. This super-flexible cable can be easily maneuvered under carpets or bent in the plane of its thin cross-section, providing a cleaner and safer installation.

Best Features:

• This is a 32 AWG gauge ethernet cable
• It supports up to 250 MHz bandwidth frequency
• Suitable for up to 10 Gbps connections
• The cable length is about 50 feet

Pros:

• Budget choice for a long ethernet cable
• Cable design is very elegant
• Additional clips included for ease of installation

Cons:

• Cable needs to be clipped and crimped multiple times

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3. Cable Matters Cat 6 Ethernet Cable 

Cable Matters is one of the most trusted brands that delivers all kinds of cables and other similar accessories that serve as a fine replacement option for many users. The following ethernet cable from Cable Matters is one such option with great qualities.

In the 3rd place, we are offering a fine choice for a Cat 6 ethernet cable from one of the most prominent suppliers for ethernet cables, or cables in general. Designed in a sleek black color, the Cable Matters Cat 6 Ethernet Cable not only delivers on performance but also adds a touch of sophistication to your networking setup. Despite being a Cat 6 variant, Cable Matters is offering this 25-foot-long cable at the same price point as the Cat 5e variant. Hence, it is an excellent investment for future-proofing their networks for 10-Gigabit Ethernet. The cable also exceeds Category 6 performance standards in compliance with the TIA/EIA 568-C.2 standard, ensuring a robust and secure connection for various LAN network components, including PCs, servers, printers, routers, and more.

Despite the cheaper price tag, the cable comes with gold-plated contacts and strain-relief boots on the connectors, this cable guarantees durability and a secure connection. The use of bare copper conductors further enhances cable performance, ensuring it complies with specifications for communications cables. As Cable Matters focuses on all cable needs, you can find multiple color choices and length variations going up to 150 feet.

Best Features:

• This is a 24 AWG gauge ethernet cable
• It supports up to 550 MHz bandwidth frequency
• Suitable for up to 10 Gbps connections
• The cable length is about 25 feet

Pros:

• Connectors and conductor is made up of high-quality material
• Highly flexible cable design
• It is offering a much higher bandwidth frequency compared to other options

Cons:

• It has the traditional round design instead of the modern flat structure

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4. Amazon Basics Cat 6 Ethernet Cable

If you are still looking for a budget-friendly alternative that promises the best build quality and reliability, then stop right here. AmazonBasics, just like a lot of other accessories, also has an alternative option available for Cat 6 ethernet cables.

AmazonBasics has managed to deliver the one-of-a-kind budget alternative for cat 6 ethernet cables with the AmazonBasics RJ45 Ethernet Patch Cable, along with hundreds of thousands of satisfied customers. This is by far the best option for small applications such as desktop setups or connecting your range extenders to the smart TV without making a mess at all. This 5-foot-long cable easily stays hidden behind your desk or TV. However, it still offers up to 1000 Mbps bandwidth transfer which is around 100 times faster than the Cat 5e variant. The RJ45 connectors of this cable also ensure universal connectivity, making it compatible with a wide range of devices such as laptops, tablets, gaming consoles, and more.

The durability of the AmazonBasics Cat 6 Ethernet Patch Cable is also one of its strong suits with its gold-plated RJ45 connectors, which not only provide accurate data transfer but also ensure corrosion-free connectivity. This ensures a stable and reliable connection for your devices, making it suitable for various applications in your home or office. And if you want a longer version, you can go with the 10, 14, 25, or 50-foot versions from the brand that are equally as affordable compared to other similar choices.

Best Features:

• This is a 23 AWG gauge ethernet cable
• Multiple length variations are available
• Suitable for up to 1 Gbps connections
• The cable length is about 5 feet

Pros:

• Most affordable choice amongst this list of the best Cat 6 ethernet cables
• Perfect option for smart TVs and desktop connections
• Cable management is very easy with this option

Cons:

• Bandwidth capacity is not suitable for industry requirements

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5. CableGeeker Cat 6 Ethernet Cable 

A lot of you might be looking for a Cat 6 ethernet cable to connect a set of surveillance cameras or a pair of video doorbells around your house. In such a case, it makes more sense to get a pack as offered by CableGeeker rather than a single long cable.

Unlike most other options we have covered so far, the CableGeeker Ethernet Cable has a diverse range of size options including this set of two 15-foot-long Cat 6 cables. So, you can choose the perfect fit as per your specific needs. With a focus on meeting TIA/EIA 568-C.2 performance standard for Cat 6 cables, this cable ensures a robust connection for all network devices such as servers, routers, desktop computers, and so on.

This is also a flat-design ethernet cable, which not only helps prevent tangled cords but also saves space at the time of installation. The super-flexible flat Ethernet cable is perfect for running under other surfaces or bending around its thin cross-section without any damage to the conductor. Thus, making it ideal for various installations around doors, rotating arms, and drawers. And as for its performance, you won’t find any room to complain as the cable is made up of 100% bare copper wire that completely eliminates the external noise and interference.

Best Features:

• This is a 31 AWG gauge ethernet cable
• It supports up to 500 MHz bandwidth frequency
• Suitable for up to 1 Gbps connections
• The cable length is about 15 feet each

Pros:

• Cable design is perfect for articulate installation
• Set of 2 cables to avoid the hassle of crimping
• Suitable for camera installation

Cons:

• Bandwidth capacity is much lower than other options

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6. GearIT Cat 6 Ethernet Cable

GearIT is also bringing a fine solution for those who are looking for a large set of high-performance ethernet cables. This is also a fairly well-known option with thousands of buyers.

The GearIT Cat 6 Ethernet Cable Pack is a high-precision networking solution designed for maximum reliability and versatility of installation. It also brings ANSI/TIA-568-C.2 compliance, ETL verification, and premium build quality with durable materials for long-lasting results. Also, the cable is available in an array of colors so users can easily implement proper color coding for their networking setup. The cable is pre-terminated with RJ45 connectors, ensuring a hassle-free installation process right after unboxing.

One of the best features of this cable is its UTP 24AWG stranded conductors, providing flexibility and eliminating crosstalk altogether. The conductors are twisted in pairs and nested in a spline for optimal performance. With 50-micron gold-plated contacts, this cable ensures high-speed data transfer and corrosion resistance, further contributing to its long-lasting durability. You will also find sets of 10 cables from the brand with lots of options in terms of length variations varying up to 100 feet.

Best Features:

• This is a 24 AWG gauge ethernet cable
• It supports up to 550 MHz bandwidth frequency
• Suitable for up to 10 Gbps connections
• The cable length is about 6 feet

Pros:

• The best option for complex network setups
• It supports PoE connections
• It offers a lot of variations based on user requirements

Cons:

• Only an angle color cable is available in each set

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7. Ultra Clarity Cables Cat6 Ethernet Cable

We are rounding up our selection for the best Cat 6 ethernet cable with yet another brand that is dedicated to connectivity options. Ultra Clarity Cables develops ethernet cables, coaxial cables, HDMI cables, and even BNC connectors.

For the last position, we have saved yet another set of ethernet cables from Ultra Clarity Cables. The Ultra Clarity Ethernet Cable pack includes a set of 2 12-foot-long cables, offering up to 10 Gbps bandwidth capacity each to ensure best results with all network configurations. On top of that, this set is designed with a distinctive blue & black color combination so that you can easily manage your cables without any confusion. You will also find a wide range of size options, including Cat6 3 Ft, Cat6 6 Ft, Cat6 10 Ft, and more, users can choose the perfect length for their specific networking requirements.

Apart from visual appeal, the cable set also offers highly optimized performance with extremely well-matched components. You can expect outstanding uniform impedance, very low return loss, lower crosstalk, and a higher signal-to-noise ratio. Supporting frequencies of up to 500 MHz. These cables are also suitable for high-speed internet connections so you can use them for high-end LAN network applications.

Best Features:

• This is a 24 AWG gauge ethernet cable
• It supports up to 500 MHz bandwidth frequency
• Suitable for up to 10 Gbps connections
• The cable length is about 12 feet

Pros:

• Cable length is perfect for a versatile range of applications
• Bandwidth frequency and speed are very good
• Distinguished build quality

Cons:

• Other options are much cheaper in comparison

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Buying Guide For The Best Cat 6 Ethernet Cables

Checking the important characteristics of Cat 6 Ethernet cables before purchasing is crucial for ensuring optimal network performance, reliability, and compatibility with evolving technological standards. If you want to ensure that your network setup sustains increasing demands of your application, and offers room for upgrades in the future, you need to carefully consider the important parameters for all of your network hardware, including your ethernet cables.

While the technical specifications of an ethernet cable are often ignored, we can assure you that it is one of the most important parts in your network setup that can bottleneck your network performance severely. To avoid that, we have prepared this buying guide where we will discuss the importance of all the core qualities of a CAT 6 Ethernet cable and tell you how you can make the right choice by checking these specifications.

1. Conductor Gauge

Each electrical wire has a certain gauge rating which is represented in the AWG unit. This is a wire gauge standard set by the American Society for Testing and Materials that allows buyers to get a quick idea about the physical parameters of the wire.

The wire gauge directly affects the cable’s physical as well as electrical properties, including resistance to signal and integrity of energy transfer. One of the primary considerations for conductor gauge is signal attenuation, which is the reduction in signal strength as it travels along the cable. Thicker conductors, represented by lower AWG numbers, have lower electrical resistance, resulting in less signal attenuation.

Moreover, the conductor gauge affects the cable’s ability to handle power over Ethernet (PoE) applications. PoE involves the transmission of both data and electrical power over the same Ethernet cable. Cables with larger conductor gauges can carry higher power loads more efficiently, reducing the risk of voltage drop and ensuring that devices such as IP cameras, VoIP phones, etc.

2. Bandwidth

The bandwidth capacity of Cat 6 ethernet cables is yet another one of its core qualities that plays an important role in determining the frequency range of the data transfer over a network. The MHz rating simply tells you that the cable can effectively carry signals at a particular frequency without any noticeable attenuation or loss. As you can imagine, a higher MHz rating on an ethernet cable indicates that the cable can support higher data transfer rates and enhance performance over long distances.

Unlike previous versions of Cat 6 ethernet cables such as Cat 5e, Cat 6 ethernet is designed to support higher bandwidth connections specifically. Therefore, it is important to check all the core features of the cable such as its bandwidth to ensure that the cable won’t affect your network speed at any point.

Additionally, the MHz rating is directly linked to the cable’s capability to mitigate the impact of crosstalk, which is the unwanted transfer of signals between adjacent pairs of wires. A higher MHz rating implies improved shielding and tighter twists in the cable, reducing the risk of crosstalk and electromagnetic interference. This, in turn, enhances signal integrity and reliability, contributing to a stable and efficient network connection

3. Compatible Devices

Firstly, the Cat 6 cable is optimized to handle Gigabit Ethernet and beyond, providing the necessary bandwidth for high-speed data transmission. However, to fully benefit from these capabilities, the connected devices, such as routers, switches, and network interface cards, must also support Gigabit Ethernet or higher standards. Incompatibility between the cable and the devices can result in a bottleneck, limiting the network speed to the capabilities of the slower component. Furthermore, the compatibility of devices extends to their Ethernet ports and connectors. Cat 6 cables typically use RJ45 connectors, and it is essential to ensure that the devices have corresponding RJ45 ports for a proper and secure connection.

Compatibility also plays an important role when Power over Ethernet is used. It is important to ensure compatibility between the Cat 6 cable and PoE-enabled devices to avoid power delivery issues. PoE involves the simultaneous transmission of data and electrical power over a single Ethernet cable, typically used to power devices like IP cameras, VoIP phones, or access points. An incompatible cable may not be able to handle the power requirements, leading to voltage drops, potential damage, or unreliable power delivery to the device.

4. Shielding

Shielding in a Cat 6 Ethernet cable enhances the cable’s performance by minimizing electromagnetic interference and radio-frequency interference. Cat 6 cables, designed for high-speed data transmission and increased bandwidth, are a lot more sensitive to external interference that can degrade signal quality. So, shielding the cable serves as a protective measure, safeguarding the integrity of the transmitted signals and ensuring a reliable and stable network connection.

Electromagnetic interference and radio-frequency interference can come from various sources, including other nearby cables, electronic devices, power lines, or fluorescent lights. The shielding of the Cat 6 ethernet cable cables consists of a metallic layer typically made of foil or braided strands around the cable’s internal twisted pairs. This shielding also acts as a barrier, preventing external electromagnetic fields from penetrating the cable and interfering with the signals traveling through the conductors.

5. Cable Length

As the length of the Cat 6 ethernet cable increases, the signal traveling through the conductors faces various challenges such as signal drop. This phenomenon becomes more pronounced with higher frequencies, and Cat 6 cables are optimized for handling these frequencies. Therefore, exceeding the recommended cable length can lead to signal degradation, resulting in data loss, increased error rates, and diminished network performance.

The maximum recommended length for Cat 6 cables is influenced by factors such as the cable’s construction, the quality of materials used, and the specific networking standards being followed. It is essential for users to adhere to these guidelines to prevent issues like signal loss or crosstalk, which can negatively impact the overall network quality. Cable length is especially critical in scenarios where the network infrastructure involves long-distance cable runs, such as in large office spaces, data centers, or industrial environments. In such cases, it becomes imperative to carefully plan and install the Cat 6 cables within the specified length limits to maintain the integrity of the transmitted signals.

6. Cable Design

Last but not least, you should also pay attention to the design of the cable as it can also impact its reliability and longevity. Cat 6 cables utilize twisted pairs of copper conductors to minimize EMI and other similar problems. The design involves tightly twisting pairs of conductors at set intervals, which helps in canceling out external electromagnetic interference and reduces the likelihood of signal bleed. A well-designed cable also ensures that these twists are uniform and consistent, contributing to the cable’s ability to maintain signal integrity over longer distances.

The quality of the cable’s insulation and shielding is another critical part of its design. Insulation materials protect the conductors from external environmental factors and help prevent signal leakage. Shielding, often in the form of metallic foil or braided strands, plays a crucial role in minimizing electromagnetic interference from external sources. Therefore, the design must strike a balance between flexibility and robust shielding to ensure the cable is durable, easy to install, and resistant to interference.

Cat 6 Ethernet Cables – FAQs

Conclusion

The necessity for stable and fast Internet connectivity is directly dependent on the rise of digital technologies and their integration into various different devices such as smart TVs, modems, gaming consoles, and even streaming devices. Whether in business, education, healthcare, or other sectors, a reliable Internet connection is crucial for smooth operations, and effective communication. To achieve that, you have to carefully decide what network hardware and accessories you are using for your network setup. Right now, you will find many different options for a Cat 6 ethernet cable on the market. But, there are only a handful of choices that are actually preferred in the industry for their reliability and performance. In this guide, you will find all such options for a Cat 6 ethernet cable along with a brief review so that you can understand the product before you make the call. We also have a buying guide for the best Cat 6 ethernet cable so that you can check the important parameters of the device and choose the perfect option according to your needs.

• If you are looking for an alternative brand option that is not only affordable but also as reliable as the majority of premium options, then look no further. The Amazon Basics Cat 6 Ethernet Cable is the cheapest alternative that you can find right now that offers great specifications for this price point such as a 23 AWG wire gauge rating and the standard 1000 Mbps bandwidth capacity. Also, you will receive 5 feet of ethernet cable with this package which is more than enough for a basic home or office setup for an individual system. And if you want a longer option, Amazon Basics also offers 10, 14, 25, and 50-foot options which can be perfect for larger setups.
• But, there are only a few choices that are specifically aimed at professional needs such as the GearIT Cat 6 Ethernet Cable. This is a package of 5 Cat 6 ethernet cables that you can use for setting up your surveillance system, or connect various different systems in your office to the network without having to look for more cables. Each cable included in this package is about 6 feet long and supports up to 550 MHz which is higher than what most other Cat 6 ethernet cables offer. Also, the cables are made up of a premium quality and long-lasting material and backed by a lifetime warranty period to further ensure its strong build quality.
• Lastly, we will recommend the Jadaol Cat 6 Ethernet Cable as this multi-purpose option is preferred by hundreds of thousands of buyers so far. This is a single cable unit that is about 50 feet long, ensuring you will always have a Cat 6 cable lying around whenever you need it. Plus, the cable offers bandwidth capacity of up to 10 Gbps at 250 MHz, offering compatibility for almost all types of domestic and professional needs. You will also receive 20 cable clips included in the package which makes the installation process easier and you can create a cleaner setup despite a long ethernet cable. As for the quality, the Jadaol Ethernet Cable is a UTP cable with gold-plated connectors for little to no external interference.