- Bandwidth
- Speed
- Maximum Length
- American Wire Gauge (AWG) sizes
- Visual Difference
- Power over Ethernet
- Interference
- Compatibility
- Pros and Cons
- Future Expectations
- Cost
Ethernet cables are an integral part of networking infrastructure. They are frequently used to establish internet connections between devices. Cate 5e and Cat 6 cables are two advanced ethernet cables used extensively to increase bandwidth, speed and minimize noise.
Cat5e vs. cat6 has been a hot topic among businesses due to the features each offers. Despite all the technological advancements, both are popular options for MNCs and business networking.
This blog helps you explore the difference between cat5E and cat6 cable, its speed, bandwidth, price, and more.
Difference Between Cat 5e and Cat6
Cat 5e (Category 5 Enhanced) and Cat 6 (Category 6) are both types of twisted pair cables used for Ethernet and other networking standards. There are some significant cat 5e vs cat 6 difference that every business should know. They are widely used in offices for connecting computers, routers, switches, and other network devices. Let’s see whether you should choose cat6 or cat5e.
Cat5E vs. Cat6: Bandwidth
When it comes to cat5e versus cat6 bandwidth, cat5E supports a maximum bandwidth of 100 MHz per second which is adequate for SMBs (Small and Medium Businesses). The 100 MHz bandwidth ensures reliable data transmission between network connecting devices like routers, switches, and modems.
Cat6 has made a significant jump in terms of bandwidth from 100 MHz to 250 MHz. This means that Cat 6 network cables can transmit more data than Cat 5E, making it an ideal choice for large-scale businesses and enterprises.
Cat5E vs. Cat6: Speed
Cat5E offers you a speed of 1 Gbps which is an ample data transfer speed for most enterprises with day-to-day tasks. However, Cat 6 is designed for heavy applications, it supports data transfer rates up to 10 Gbps.
This cat5e vs cat6 speed makes Cat6 suitable for more demanding applications, such as HD video conferencing and large file transfers over the Internet. This makes cat 6 a better option in cat5e versus cat6 speed comparison. Moreover, if your internet connection transfers data at a higher speed than 10 Gbps then opting for a fibre optic cable is a better option.
Cat5e vs. Cat6: Maximum Length
When it comes to cat5e vs. cat6 distance, Both Cat 5E and Cat 6 cables can transfer data effectively over a max length of 100 meters (328 Feet) for standard 1 Gbps. However, if you decrease the length to 55 meters then you can enjoy 10 Gbps on Cat6 cable which is not achievable in Cat 5E cables.
Cat6 vs. Cat5E: American Wire Gauge (AWG) sizes
AWG stands for American Wire Gauge, a standard system to measure the diameter of electrical conductors, primarily in North America. The larger the AWG, the smaller the copper wiring is inside. Cat5E usually has a 24AWG while CAT6 comes with 23AWG because of thick copper.
However, visually there is no apparent difference between Cat 6 vs. Cat 5e thickness. This is because, in Cat 6, the copper is twisted more tightly than CAT5E which gives them similar thickness.
Cat6 vs. Cat5e Cable: Visual Difference
Both CAT 5E and CAT 6 cables are identical with similar colors and both use RJ45 connectors. However, to differentiate the cat5e vs. cat6 cables, most brands print the cable category and if it is not printed, just untwist the cable and the thicker one will be the Cat 6 cable.
Cat 6 vs. Cat 5E: PoE (Power over Ethernet)
In terms of cat5e vs cat6 ethernet cable, Cat 5e can handle basic PoE standards, including IEEE 802.3af (PoE) and IEEE 802.3at (PoE+). It delivers up to 15.4 watts and 30 watts of power, making them suitable for networking devices like IP cameras, and wireless access points.
On the other hand, Cat 6 cables also support these standards but are better suited for higher-power PoE applications, such as IEEE 802.3bt (PoE++). It can deliver up to 60 watts (Type 3) or even 100 watts (Type 4). This makes Cat 6 ideal for more power-intensive devices, including LED lighting, PTZ cameras, and building management systems.
Cat 5E vs. Cat 6: Interference
Cat 5e cables are designed with a basic level of interference resistance but remain vulnerable to high Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) and crosstalks. It occurs when the signals from one pair of wires interfere with the signals on another pair within the same cable. While Cat 5e cables are built to minimize crosstalk, they use basic techniques, such as tight twisting of the wire pairs, to reduce interference.
Cat 6 cables are engineered with strict specifications to combat interference effectively. They have more tightly wound wire pairs and often include a separator, known as a spline, that physically separates the wire pairs within the cable. This design helps to further reduce crosstalk and protect against EMI. Additionally, Cat 6 cables are available in both unshielded (UTP) and shielded (STP) versions. the shielded variant provides greater protection against interference.
Cat5e vs. Cat6 Ethernet Cable: Compatability
Cat 5E and Cat 6 cables are compatible with most networking equipment like Wireless routers and extenders. Cat 6 cables offer higher speed for seamless network connectivity, supporting up to 10 Gbps and greater bandwidth. If your network infrastructure can benefit from these enhanced capabilities, Cat 6 is the preferred choice for setting up your Wi-Fi mesh router, though Cat 5e remains adequate for less intensive environments.
Cat5e vs. Cat 6: Pros and Cons
Following are the Pros and Cons of Cat 5E and Cat 6 ethernet cables.
| Pros | Cons | |
| Cat 5e | 100 MHz bandwidth | Lower bandwidth compared to Cat 6 |
| More affordable and widely available | May require upgrading | |
| Ideal for small business network | Not a good option for a Large Network | |
| Cat 6 | Supports up to 10 Gbps | Maximum Speed is only achievable till 55 meters |
| 250 MHz bandwidth allows for more data throughput. | Higher bandwidth may not be necessary for all users. | |
| Better protection against crosstalk and EMI. | Shielded versions are more expensive and bulky. |
Cat 5E vs. Cat 6: Future Expectation
Cat 5E provides good future-proofing for small businesses where the network requirement is low. However, it will not support the latest Wi-Fi standards like Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7, which can be a deal breaker for most businesses. On the other hand, Cat 6 supports repeaters with Wi-Fi 6 and 7 standards and it will likely support the Wi-Fi 8 standard (in the future).
Moreover, you can expect to see Cat 7 and Cat 8 in the Wi-Fi repeaters and extenders which can increase the bandwidth and speed up to 2000 MHz and 25-40 Gbps respectively. Furthermore, the development and adoption of new Ethernet standards, such as 10GBASE-T, and 25GBASE-T will set the stage for the future of Ethernet cables. These standards will drive the evolution of cables capable of supporting ultra-fast data rates and meeting the demands of modern and future networks.
Cat5e vs. Cat6 Cable: Cost
The cat5e vs. cat6 cost is generally the most discussed feature of both cables. Cat 5e cables are generally more affordable ranging from $20 to $60. They are widely available and considered budget-friendly networking accessories for basic networking needs. The lower cost of Cat 5e makes it an attractive choice for small businesses where 1 Gbps speed is sufficient.
Cat 6 cables are more premium due to their higher performance standards. Cat 6 ranges from $20 to $240 depending on the length and material. Cat6 is often chosen for environments that demand better performance, such as larger businesses, and data centers with servers.
Computing Worlds has a range of new, used cat5e and cat6 ethernet cables for layer 3 switches and servers that enterprises buy for the networking ecosystem.
Cat 5E Ethernet Cables
Cat 6 Ethernet Cables
You can also request a bulk quote online for the high-quality cables and adapters.
Which one Should you Choose?
If your applications involve standard internet usage, basic streaming, and general office work, Cat 5e will meet your needs. However, if you have a bandwidth-intensive task then choosing cat6 is a better option. Also, whether you opt for Cat 5E or Cat 6, pair it with WI-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 6E to get seamless wireless connectivity throughout the office.
FAQs
Which cable between Cat5e and Cat6 has lower latency?
When it comes to cat5e vs. cat6 latency, cat 6 cables have lower latency than Cat 5e due to their higher performance specifications.
Can I use a Cat6 connector on a Cat5e cable?
Yes, Cat6 connectors can physically be used on Cat5 cable. The RJ45 connectors are compatible with cat5e vs cat6 ethernet cable.
Can I replace Cat6 with Cat5e?
Yes, cat5e vs. cat6 connectors are irreplaceable as they both use the RJ45 connector.
That was a detailed cat5e vs. cat6 comparison. Both cat5e and cat6 cables are relevant in today’s market. However, it is important to analyze all the advantages and drawbacks of Cat 5e and Cat 6 to make an informed decision. Enterprises also secure their wireless router and install the mesh Wi-Fi router ecosystem to ensure a secure network with no dead zones.
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