Cat Cable Ratings for Ethernet: Complete Guide (2025)

Picking the right Ethernet cable can be a real head-scratcher. Whether you're wiring up a home office or building a full-blown network, the small print on the box, Cat5, Cat6, Cat7, etc., can leave anyone scratching their head.

And with speeds, shielding, lengths, and environments to think about, it gets even trickier. Nevertheless, this guide breaks it all down in plain, everyday language. You’ll know exactly what to plug in and why it matters by the end. It will help you find out which cable gives you the best shot at speed and future-proofing.

Network Cables Quick Overview

Ethernet cables are the wires that connect computers, routers, switches, and other gear in your network. They are like digital highways that move your internet traffic from one place to another. Each type of cable has its own limit on speed, distance, and how much interference it can handle.

These limits are measured in categories such as Cat5, Cat6, Cat7, and so on. The table below shows the transmission speed and max bandwidth of each network cable:

Each new category improves performance. But newer doesn’t always mean better for your setup. It depends on your:

• Devices
• Internet plan
• Goals like streaming movies, playing games online, or running a business.

Choosing the Right Ethernet Cable

Choosing the right Ethernet cable depends on your setup. Some cables are faster while others are built for longer runs or better shielding. Picking the wrong one can bottleneck your network. If you're upgrading your home, gaming station, or business connection, the cable type can make or break your speed and signal quality.

• Think about speed – Check if your device supports high Ethernet CAT speeds like 1 Gbps, 10 Gbps, or more.
• Know the cable category – Newer types of Cat cables (like Cat7 or Cat8) give better bandwidth and shielding.
• Plan for distance – If you're running a long line, pick a cable like Cat6a that performs well over 100 meters.
• Look at interference levels – Environments with lots of electronics or wiring may need shielded Cat 6a cables.
• Future-proof your setup – Installing higher-grade cables now saves time and hassle later as devices demand more speed.

Ethernet Cables Comparison

Each category offers something different in terms of speed, interference protection, range, and more. Understanding these differences helps you pick the right one for your needs. Below are side-by-side comparisons of the different categories of Ethernet cables, explained simply and clearly before the bullet points.

Cat6 vs. Cat5

Cat6 and Cat5 cables look similar, but what's under the hood sets them apart. Cat6 has tighter twists, higher performance, and less interference. While Cat5 was the standard for years, it's quickly fading out of use. Cat6 is now the go-to for homes and small businesses needing more stable, faster internet. Here are the key differences:

• Cat6 supports up to 10 Gbps (short distances)
• Cat5 is limited to 100 Mbps or 1 Gbps max
• Cat6 uses tighter twists to reduce crosstalk
• Cat5 lacks shielding in most cases
• Cat6 is better for heavy streaming and gaming

Cat5 vs. Cat5e

Cat5e is the upgraded version of Cat5. It was introduced to fix signal noise issues and allow faster transfer rates. Although both look identical from the outside, Cat5e has internal improvements that make it more suitable for modern use. If you're wiring a basic home network, Cat5e is still a decent pick. Here are the key differences:

• Cat5e supports gigabit speeds (up to 1 Gbps)
• Cat5 tops out at 100 Mbps
• Cat5e reduces electromagnetic interference
• Cat5e is more reliable for streaming and downloading
• Cat5 is outdated and rarely installed now

Cat6 vs. Cat6a

Cat6a improves on everything Cat6 offers, especially distance. The best thing about Cat6a is that it holds steady at high speeds. However, Cat6 drops performance over longer cable runs. It’s built for offices, crowded networks, and places where interference is a problem. Cat6a might be worth the extra investment for homes with future-proofing in mind. Here are the key differences:

• Cat6a handles 10 Gbps over 100 meters
• Cat6 begins to lose performance beyond 55 meters
• Cat6a has thicker insulation for noise resistance
• Cat6a is bulkier and harder to bend
• Cat6a is used in large, noisy environments

Cat6 vs. Cat7

Cat7 takes performance a step further than Cat6. It's fully shielded, which cuts down interference dramatically. However, it also uses different connectors and isn’t always compatible with older devices. For high-end systems or advanced installations, Cat7 could work. But for most homes, Cat6 is simpler and more than enough. Here are the key differences:

• Cat7 supports 10 Gbps over longer distances
• Cat6 supports the same speed, but with limitations
• Cat7 is shielded (S/FTP), Cat6 may not be
• Cat7 often uses GG45 or TERA connectors
• Cat6 uses standard RJ45 connectors

Cat7 vs. Cat8

Cat8 is built for speed. It's made for short-distance, high-speed data centers, not general home networking. It supports massive bandwidth and transfer rates, but it’s stiff and expensive. Unless you're setting up a server rack, Cat7 or Cat6a is usually plenty. But Cat8 is the fastest option available right now. Here are the key differences:

• Cat8 supports 25–40 Gbps at up to 30 meters
• Cat7 maxes out at 10 Gbps
• Cat8 has a higher Ethernet cable bandwidth
• Cat8 cables are very thick and not flexible
• Cat7 is more practical for average users

Cable Jacket Considerations for Different Environments

Choosing a cable isn't just about speed. If you're installing on walls, ceilings, or outdoors, the outer jacket matters just as much. There are different LAN wire types built to survive fire, water, UV rays, and other hazards.

CM cables

CM stands for “Communications Multipurpose.” These are basic cables for everyday use. They’re made for general spaces with normal airflow. Think short home runs between your router and PC. CM cables aren't fire-rated for vertical shafts or plenum spaces, but they’re solid for basic indoor setups.

CMR cables

CMR cables are rated for riser spaces, like the vertical shafts between floors. These cables can slow the spread of flames from one floor to another. They’re stronger than CM cables and are usually used in multi-floor buildings. CMR makes sense for offices or homes with lots of floors and walls.

CMP cables

CMP stands for plenum-rated. These cables are built for spaces with a lot of air movement, like HVAC systems. They’re more expensive, but safer for fire risk. If you’re running cable through ducts or ceiling spaces with airflow, CMP is the way to go.

CMX cables

CMX cables are designed for outdoor use. They resist sunlight, moisture, and rough weather. These cables are perfect if you’re running a line outside to a detached garage or across your backyard. Just don’t bury them without conduit unless labeled direct-burial safe.

Conclusion

Each Ethernet cable has a job it does well. From Cat 5e Ethernet cable to Cat 6a cables, picking the right one depends on your needs and not the fanciest label. Focus on distance, speed, interference, and where the cable will run. Power your network the right way with TS Cables. Get durability, speed, and reliability all packed into one wire.

FAQs

Q1: Do different Ethernet cables have different speeds?

Yes, they do. Each cable category has its own speed and bandwidth limit based on how it’s made.

Q2: What is the best Ethernet cable type for gaming?

Cat 6a cables are great for gaming. They support high speeds and lower signal interference.

Q3: Can I use Cat5 cables for streaming 4K video?

It’s possible, but Cat 5e Ethernet cable or higher is a better choice for smooth 4K streaming.

Q4: Are all Ethernet cables compatible with each other?

Most are backward compatible, but older cables may slow your network even if the devices support faster speeds.