The best thing about Ethernet cables is that they can run long distances and still provide an efficient service. Figuring out which ethernet cable is best for long distance connection is crucial to get the best results.
If you are burdened with the decision to choose the best Ethernet cable for long distance use, you are in the right place. In this guide, we will talk about the factors that matter the most when buying the best Ethernet cable for long distances.
Best Ethernet Cable For Long Distance – Our Top Picks?
- Maximm CAT 6 CCA ethernet cable offers high performance at a cost effective way to connect your...
- Bandwidth of up to 550mhz for high speed data transfers 10/100/1000 mbps and uninterrupted streaming...
- Made with solid UTP 24AWG copper clad aluminum wires protected by UV Resistant PVC LLDPE waterproof...
- 100% new high quality Original Standard Ethernet Cable, CAT6
- Wire Construction: CCA - Copper Clad Aluminum (Solid wire)
- This CAT6 patch cable has two RJ-45 male to male connectors and features 50-micron gold plated...
- Cat7 Ethernet Cable Supports Gigabit 1000 BASE-T; 100 BASE-T; 10 BASE-T. Meets or exceeds Category 7...
- Compatible with Cat5 / Cat5e / Cat6 / Cat6A / Cat7, provides universal connectivity for Xbox One,...
- The improved PVC provides better protection against EMI/RFI Interference, extremely low signal...
- Cat 6 performance at a Cat5e price but with higher bandwidth. Bundled with the 50 cable clipes,no...
- High Performance Cat6 ,30 AWG,UL Listed,RJ45 Ethernet Patch Cable provides universal connectivity...
- Jadaol waterproof standard cable support Cat7 network and provides performance of up to 250 MHz...
- Compliance Standards: EIA/TIA-568B Category 5E
- Works Best For Your Desktop, Laptop, Router, Modem, Switch, Hub, DSL, xBox, PS2, PS3, And More
- Connector(s) (Both Sides): 1 x RJ-45 - Male
- ❤【High Speed】Outdoor Cat7 Ethernet Cable Supports Gigabit 1000 BASE-T; 100 BASE-T; 10 BASE-T....
- ❤【High Compatibility】Compatible with Cat5/Cat5e/Cat6/Cat6A/Cat7, provides universal...
- ❤【BURIED-CAPABLE CABLE】The improve PVC is more effective to protect against EMI/RFI...
- This cable connects all the hardware destinations on a Local Area Network (LAN).
- Length: 200 feet. Connector(s) (Other Side): 1 x RJ-45 - male
- Wire Construction: CCA - Copper Clad Aluminum (Solid wire)
- High Performance Internet cable is Cat6 rated; The Ethernet cord with 24 AWG copper wire provides...
- Cat6 performance at a Cat5e price but with higher bandwidth; Future-proof your network for...
- A Category 6 Ethernet patch cable is also referred to as a Cat6 network cable, Cat6 cable, Cat6...
- 【SUPER HIGH SPEED】 Long flat Ethernet cables 100ft support the bandwidth up to 250MHz, 1000Mbps...
- 【PREMIUM QUALITY BARE COPPER CONDUCTOR 】 Made of 4 shielded twisted pair of 8 oxygen-free copper...
- 【FLAT CABLE DESIGN & BUNDLED WITH 20 CABLE CLIPS】 Helps avoid tangled cords and saves space....
Best Ethernet Cable For Long Distance Buying Guide
There exist different types and categories of Ethernet cables, and each of them is different from the others. The maximum length you can run an Ethernet cable is 100 meters or 328 feet. This standard is set by TIA which is followed by cable manufacturers.
1. Ethernet Cable Type
To choose the right Ethernet cable, you must know the types that exist. The latest standard is Cat 8, while the oldest standard is Cat 1.
- Cat 5
This is one of the oldest standards of Ethernet cable. Since it has become obsolete, there’s no point talking about it.
- Cat 5e
This is an upgraded version of the Cat 5 cable. However, it is manufactured under more stringent testing standards. This is done to prevent unwanted signal transfer between communication channels.
Cat 5e is currently the most popular type of Ethernet cable. It is also quite affordable.
- Cat 6
Cat 6 Ethernet cable is faster than all the other previous standards. It supports speeds up to 10Gbps for up to 55 meters. Compared to Cat 5e, Cat 6 cables are more expensive.
These cables are usually outfitted with braided or foil shielding. It helps protect the wire inside the cable.
- Cat 6a
Cat 6a can support twice the bandwidth. These cables have a high transmission speed even over long distances.
Cat 6a cables are available shielded, which helps reduce crosstalk. This way, it makes a better choice than Cat 6 cables.
- Cat 7 and Cat 7a
These high-performance Ethernet cables support faster transmission speeds and bandwidth. They can reach up to 100Gbps for up to 15 meters.
Cat 7 and Cat 7a cables are always shielded. They are equipped with a GigaGate45 connector, which has support for RJ45 Ethernet ports.
- Cat 8
This is the latest standard in the industry and the fastest of all Ethernet cables. It can reach speeds of up to 40Gbps over 30 meters and has a maximum frequency of 2000MHz.
Like Cat 7 cables, Cat 8 cables are also shielded. The unique thing is that they support two connectors. This allows you to connect three cables for a maximum length of 30 meters.
2. Shielding
Ethernet cables are affected by electromagnetic interference. This can lead to serious problems when the cables are run outdoors, near, or alongside other communication wires. The solution to this is shielding. The shield status of a cable can be understood by the codes labeled on the wires.
A cable with the ‘F’ tag means it has a foil shield. This type of layer is made of metal foil, aluminum, or copper with an additional polyester cover for durability. It is an effective method of shielding, but it is not suitable for all types of environments.
An ‘S’ means a braided screen. It is a weave made of very thin tin or copper wire. This type of shielding is more durable than foil.
Sometimes the cables are tagged as ‘STP’ which indicates shielded wires, but the specifics are not mentioned.
3. Styles of Ethernet Cables
Even the design and style of ethernet cable matter when it comes to long-distance connection. Ethernet cables are available in different styles because they are designed for specific purposes.
- Slim
This type of cable features a compact casing and is used in places where there’s limited space. They are widely used in server rooms and data centers.
- Solid core
Solid core wires are used for larger Ethernet installations. The advantage of solid core cables is that they preserve signals for long distances while reducing signal loss.
- Flat
These types of cables are ideally run under baseboards, carpets, etc. Due to the flat shape, the cables are easy to hide.
- Braided
This type of cable comes with a nylon braid on the outside for protection.
- Armored
These cables can be recognized by their thick outer layers. Armored cables are best suited for outdoor installations. They can withstand corrosion better than other types of Ethernet cables.
4. Application
Ethernet cables are used both indoors and outdoors. For indoor use, you can go with any standard Ethernet cable, but for outdoor purposes, you need a durable cable.
Outdoor Ethernet cables should be able to withstand different weather conditions. Look for cables with PE coating or you can use solid copper wires. For cables in the ground, you should look for direct burial wires.
The various Ethernet cable types make it difficult to choose the right one, which is why figuring out your requirements is a must. Regardless of the Ethernet cable, you should avoid running it beyond 328 feet. Anything beyond that increases the risk of signal failure. The internet speed, transmission capacity, and your specific use case are the most important things to consider.
FAQs On Ethernet Cable For Long Distance
Q1. What is the maximum length for an Ethernet cable?
Ans: The maximum length for an Ethernet cable is 328 feet.
Q2.Does a long Ethernet cable reduce speed?
Ans: The length of the Ethernet cable doesn’t affect the speed. Also, there are very rare cases when Ethernet cables run longer than 300 feet.
Q3. What happens when the Ethernet cable is too long?
Ans: Ethernet cables can be run for long distances. The maximum length for copper cables is 328 feet. Running anything beyond the set limit can deteriorate signal strength.
Q4. What is the most common use of Ethernet cable?
Ans: Ethernet cables are commonly used to connect devices in a network. It is mainly needed for network connection. It is used for security, high speed, and reliability.
Q5. Is Ethernet faster than Wi-Fi?
Ans: An Ethernet cable is generally faster than Wi-Fi. Additionally, it provides a more secure and reliable connection
Conclusion on Best Ethernet Cable For Long Distance
The various Ethernet cable types make it difficult to choose the right one, which is why figuring out your requirements is a must. Regardless of the Ethernet cable, you should avoid running it beyond 328 feet. Anything beyond that increases the risk of signal failure. The internet speed, transmission capacity, and your specific use case are the most important things to consider.
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Hi, I am James Burns a skilled and experienced network engineer with a passion for optimizing digital connectivity. With a wealth of expertise in designing and managing intricate network infrastructures, I excel in enhancing performance and security. I hold a distinguished record of delivering top-notch results in various Network courses, including the Juniper Networks Certified Associate (JNCIA) certification, demonstrating my commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. My dedication to staying at the forefront of emerging technologies makes me an invaluable asset in ensuring seamless and reliable network operations. Whether troubleshooting complex issues or implementing innovative solutions, I am dedicated to creating robust and efficient network environments for businesses and individuals alike.