Last update on 2023-03-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Gone are the days when computers were the only electronic devices that connected to the internet. With the rapid development in the technological field, we have more and more new devices that need an internet connection. For example, we have media players, smart TVs, NAS, printers, and others. Although these devices can be connected to the internet via Wi-Fi, a wired connection is considered to be more stable and faster. This is where the need for Cat cables comes into the picture.
A Cat cable is used to establish a wired connection between devices and the internet. These cables are used both at home and in offices. There are different categories of Cat cables in the market. However, some of those categories are already outdated.
The latest and most preferred Cat cables are Cat6 and Cat7. To choose the right one, you need to first know the difference between the two. In this post, we will compare Cat7 vs Cat6 and highlight the main differences between the two.
The Differences Between Cat 6 vs Cat 7 Ethernet Cables
Cat7 and Cat6 cables both connect devices to the internet. They might have the same function, but there are major differences between the two. We have broken down the difference between the two in the table below. Have a look.
| Criteria | Cat 7 | Cat 6 |
|---|---|---|
| Max Speed | 40 Gbps at 10 meters | 10 Gbps at 35 meters |
| Frequency | 600 Mhz | 250 Mhz |
| Lifespan | Up to 15 years | Up to 10 years |
| Crosstalk | Less than Cat6 | More than Cat7 |
| TIA/EAI Recognition | No | Yes |
| Average Cost | $0.50 per foot | $0.30 per foot |
What is a Cat 7: Know the Function, Uses, Pros & Cons
The Function of Cat 7
Cat7 is the seventh generation Ethernet that is much faster and better than all other previously released Cat cables. It comes with a higher bandwidth and transfer speed than Cat6. Is obvious, Cat7 cables are more expensive than Cat6 cables.
The maximum transfer speed of Cat7 cables is 100 Gbps, which is much higher than the 10 Gbps speed provided by Cat6 cables. The best thing about Cat7 cables is the construction. They have a fully shielded body and therefore, they don’t get affected due to noise. As a result, it provides a better connection quality.
Instead of RJ-45 connectors, Cat7 cables use Giga Gate 45 connectors. This allows them to be a step ahead of other previous-generation Ethernet cables. However, Giga Gate 45 connectors are not present in all networking devices. Before you decide to use a Cat7 cable, make sure that it has the right connector. Otherwise, it will not work with your networking device.
When to Use Cat 7?
Cat7 is a high-end Ethernet cable that is used for Ethernet gigabit setups. It is widely used to connect hubs, computers, and modems on networks of all sizes and shapes. Not only that, but Cat7 cables are also common in industrial and commercial applications.
The main advantage of Cat7 is that it can withstand harsh environments, including moisture, UV, high temperatures, and contact with oils and chemicals. Due to this reason, they are widely employed in industries. These cables do a better job in those setups than at home.
However, you can also use Cat7 cables for the domestic LAN cable network. It makes a great choice for all game enthusiasts.
Pros & Cons of Cat 7
Cat7 cables have quite a few advantages over Cat6 cables. But it also includes a few cons. Whether Cat7 is right for you or not depends on your requirement. Before that let’s take a look at the pros and cons.
Pros
- Larger bandwidth
- Transfer speed of up to 40 Gbps
- Less interference
- More advance than Cat6
Cons
- Expensive
- No TIA/EIA installation
- Thick Ethernet cable
- Not easy to install
What is a Cat 6: Know the Function, Uses, Pros & Cons
The Function of Cat 6
Cat6 cables comprise four twisted pairs of copper wires. It supports transfer speeds of up to 10 Gbps and has a frequency of 250 Mhz. It’s the sixth generation of Ethernet cables that is backward compatible with Cat5e and Cat5 cables.
It is a versatile cable choice mainly for newer installations, both in the home and office. It is also used by businesses and data centers. Almost all Cat6 cables are equipped with an RJ-45 connector.
The thick sheath protects the cable from alien crosstalk and near-end crosstalk which used to be an issue with previous generation Cat cables. Crosstalk issues can lead to noise and interference which in turn reduces data transfer speeds.
When to use Cat 6?
If you want faster internet speeds at home, Cat6 cable could be the best choice for you. It offers the right amount of speed and bandwidth suitable for a home network. Unlike Cat7 cables, it will not be overkill when installed at home.
Cat6 cables are ideal for those who want to upgrade their Ethernet setup from Cat5 or Cat5e. It is perfect for computer networks reaching 1 Gbps of data transfer speeds or higher. They are capable of accommodating 10 Gbps of connection speed over the network.
Pros & Cons of Cat 6
Cat6 cable is mainly used for newer installations. It has excellent bandwidth and speed. However, it is not free of drawbacks.
Pros
- Low crosstalk
- Transfer speed up to 10 Gbps
- Backward compatible
- 250 Mhz frequency
Cons
- Difficult to install
- Slower than Cat7
- Not good for multiple applications
(Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1. What is the maximum transfer speed of Cat6?
Ans: Cat6 cables have a maximum transfer speed of up to 10 Gbps.
Q2. What Ethernet cable is suitable for commercial and industrial setups?
Ans: Cat7 and higher-generation Ethernet cables are great for commercial and industrial use.
Q3. Is Cat6 better than Cat5?
Ans: Cat6 cables are an upgraded version of Cat5 cables. It has better speed and bandwidth.
Last update on 2023-03-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Conclusion on Cat 7 vs Cat 6
Both Cat 7 and Cat 6 Ethernet cables are good in their ways. They serve the same function but have different applications. Your choice of Cat cable depends on the equipment or thing you need it for. For instance, Cat 6 cables are great for a home network, but a Cat 7 will be overkill in such a setup. On the other hand, a Cat 6 cable is not suitable for industrial or commercial use. So you need to pick one based on your requirement.
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