Check the requirements of your project and select the appropriate cable standard accordingly.
Check the requirements of your project and select the appropriate cable standard accordingly.
Cat5 supports up to 100Mbps, you could achieve gigabit speeds very close to the distance but it's not reliable and may not be worth the investment. Cat5e offers speeds from 1Gbps to 100 meters, while Cat6 delivers up to 10Gbps over 55 meters and 1Gbps over 100 meters. If you anticipate needing 10Gbps later, opt for Cat6 or Cat6a for longer runs. For installations inside walls, choose Cat6 or Cat6a and steer clear of CCA (copper clad aluminum) cables—they’re weak and don’t meet the required standards. If you require a gigabit connection outside walls, Cat5e is sufficient.
Use Cat6 or Cat6a for reliable performance. Avoid higher grades like Cat7 or above unless necessary, as they often don’t add value. Skip the lowest options and steer clear of cables labeled with CCA—this stands for copper-clad aluminum, meaning the inner wires are actually aluminum with a copper coating. Such cables are meant for short runs or temporary connections, not long-term use. The thinnest and cheapest cables frequently have covers made from materials that degrade over time, causing the wires to become exposed and potentially fail.
Based on opinions, it comes down to whether you prioritize future-proofing, labor costs, or expenses. Cat5e is suitable if you don’t mind or it’s not cost-effective. Cat6a is better for running 10Gbps without needing new cabling soon.