Difference Between Cat5 and Cat6 Cables – Which One to Choose?
No matter if it’s for your home or business, having a reliable and stable network is essential. And for that, having the right type of Ethernet cable is crucial. The two most commonly used Ethernet cables are Cat5 and Cat6, and they have a few differences to consider before making a choice.
What is Cat5 cable?
Cat5 or Category 5 cable is the older version of Ethernet cables, first introduced in 1995. It is rated for speeds up to 100 Mbps and has a bandwidth of 100 MHz. It has four twisted pairs of copper wire, and it’s used in places where higher bandwidth is not necessary.
What is Cat6 cable?
Cat6 or Category 6 cable is an upgraded version of Ethernet cables, introduced in 2002, and offers faster and more reliable speeds. It is rated for speeds up to 10 Gbps over a maximum distance of 55m and has a bandwidth of up to 250 MHz. It has four twisted pairs of copper wire, similar to Cat5.
The Differences between Cat5 and Cat6 Cables
The primary differences between Cat5 and Cat6 cables are as follows:
1. Speed: As mentioned above, Cat6 cables can handle speeds up to 10 Gbps, while Cat5 can handle up to 100 Mbps.
2. Bandwidth: Cat6 cables offer a higher bandwidth than Cat5, which is 250 MHz compared to 100 MHz.
3. Frequency: Cat6 cables can transmit at higher frequencies than Cat5, which can reduce signal interference.
4. Cable Length: Cat5 cable has a maximum length of 100 meters, while Cat6 cable has a maximum length of 55 meters.
5. Cost: Because of its more advanced components and performance capabilities, Cat6 cables are more expensive than Cat5 cables.
Which One to Choose?
If you are setting up a new network, it is always a good idea to use Cat6 cables, as it will provide better performance, speed, and bandwidth. However, if you are upgrading an existing network, adding Cat6 cables may not be necessary if the existing Cat5 cables are not causing any problems.
In conclusion, Cat6 cables are the better option if you want a fast and reliable network. However, if you are on a tight budget or want a simple network, Cat5 cables will perform well for most applications. Always consider your needs before choosing an Ethernet cable.
Table difference between cat5 and cat 6
| Cat5 | Cat6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Frequency | 100MHz | 250MHz |
| Bandwidth | 100Mbps | 1Gbps |
| Cable Length | 100m | 100m |
| Wire Gauge | 24 AWG | 23 AWG |
| Shielding | Unshielded | Shielded or Unshielded |