Best Ethernet Cables for Reliable Connection
-
Ultra Clarity Cables Cat6 Ethernet Cable -
GearIT Cat6 Snagless Ethernet Cable -
Cable Matters Snagless Cat6 Ethernet Cable -
Jadaol Solid Cat6 Ethernet Cable -
Amazon Basics RJ45 Cat6 Ethernet Cable -
Buyer's Guide
In 2021, you cannot be offline. Almost every activity now requires an online presence, and a slow internet connection is something everybody should avoid in today's world. You need to get all the necessary tools and resources that can help you stay online and give you a super-fast internet connection. One of these necessities is the ethernet cable. Ethernet cables are not the most popular consumer products, so choosing the right one for you might be a little difficult. Luckily, our team researched some of the best ethernet cables in 2021 just for you.
Ethernet cables are a reliable way to access a high-speed internet connection. Once your router and other network devices are online and stable, your ethernet cable will make sure you never miss a minute of online action. Wi-Fi is popular today because of its flexibility, but ethernet cables are used at large organizations, and even at home, because it can be faster, more reliable, and more secure than standard Wi-Fi. Our team as curated a detailed list of the best ethernet cables so you can take advantage of these benefits. When you are done going through our list of the best ethernet cables in 2022, you will hopefully have found one perfectly suited to your needs.
Compare The Best Ethernet Cables Of 2022
Ultra Clarity Cables Cat6 Ethernet Cable - Best Overall
If you need a durable, functional ethernet cable, you should consider getting this Ultra Clarity Ethernet Cable. Easily enjoy the best internet connection with a cable that can support frequencies up to 500MhZ and has a speed of 10gbps. This ethernet cable is Cat6 and every inch of the cable has been tested to ensure a speedy and reliable network. The cable is flexible, will resist wear and tear, and has molded strain relief boots that help prevent snags that could damage the cable. You can expect it to last longer than others, and if it goes bad within a year, Ultra Clarity will give you a replacement. This cable comes in different lengths with the longest being 15 feet and the shortest being 1.5 feet. You can get the cable in the traditional black color in other colors as well.
GearIT Cat6 Snagless Ethernet Cable - Runner Up
People that buy ethernet cables are looking for a speedy internet connection, stable transmission, and zero signal loss. Luckily, the GearIT ethernet cables offer all of these and more. This special Cat6 cable is made from pure, bare copper and it can support high bandwidth frequencies up to 550MhZ. The cable can transmit up to 10gbps and the micron gold-plated connectors help enhance the signal transmission. You don’t have to worry about your cable getting damaged because of the special snagless design that allows you to plug and unplug smoothly, and the cable has a universal design that can be plugged into all computer and network devices. This ETL-verified ethernet cable has a lifetime warranty and is available in different lengths and colors to suit your space's needs.
Cable Matters Snagless Cat6 Ethernet Cable - Honorable Mention
If you are on a tight budget and are looking for a cost-effective product that can serve your needs, you should consider getting this Cable Matters ethernet cable. This Cat6 cable is a high-performance ethernet cable that allows you to connect all computer and network devices to fast and reliable internet. The data transfer rate of this cable is 10gbps and it runs over a 550MhZ bandwidth frequency. This cable is made with gold-plated RJ45 connectors that ensure a secure connection and enhanced durability. Enjoy a seamless internet connection in your home or office thanks to this reasonably-priced and reliable ethernet cable.
Jadaol Solid Cat6 Ethernet Cable - Contender
Gamers who want to buy an ethernet cable should consider buying this versatile product. The Jadaol ethernet cable provides connectivity for all LAN network components including Xbox, PlayStation, and other gaming devices. This Cat6 ethernet cable transmits a bandwidth frequency of 250MhZ and up to 10 Gbps, which means you can enjoy a fast internet connection while playing your games — no need to worry about lag or surprise disconnects. One distinct feature of this cable is the flat shape that allows you easily run it along the walls and install it however you like. The RJ45 gold-plated connectors also allow for a more reliable connection while the snagless design prevents internal cable damage. The Jadaol ethernet cable comes in 25-foot and 50-foot lengths and is guaranteed for up to 12 months after purchase.
Amazon Basics RJ45 Cat6 Ethernet Cable - Consider
As you'd expect from Amazon Basics, here's an ethernet cable that is equally affordable and functional. This Amazon Basics ethernet cable is suited for both home and office networks, as it can be used for any wired local area network. Plus, with lengths varying from 3 feet to 50 feet, there is sure to be a cable for any space in need of reliable connection. The cable has a bandwidth frequency of 250 MHz and it can transmit data at rates up to 1 Gbps. With RJ45 connectors, this cable allows for universal connectivity. These gold-plated connectors have an outer PVC jacket that keeps them safe from corrosion and damage.
Buyer's Guide
Ethernet cables provide users with a high-speed internet connection and increased security. If you have the ability to have ethernet connection, you should use it. We have already outlined some of the best ethernet cables in 2021 and any one of them will serve you well. However, if you still need more information to make the right purchase decision, this buying guide has everything you need.
What is an ethernet cable?
In technical terms, an ethernet cable transmits broadband signals between wired, internet-adapted devices. It helps to transfer the internet connection from your modem, server, or router to your computer, gaming consoles, and other devices. Ethernet cables can be used in small spaces and can be as short as a few feet, or they can also be spread out through a very large building or area and be as long as 350 feet. Ethernet cables can be used anywhere and they are useful because they provide stable, fast, and reliable internet connection.
What are the factors to consider before buying an ethernet cable?
Frequency
The frequency/bandwidth of an ethernet cable refers to the range of frequencies used to transmit a signal. If a cable has a frequency of 500 megahertz, it means it can allow for up to 500 million cycles per second. The bandwidth determines the volume of information that can conveniently flow back and forth in an ethernet cable. If you want to use your ethernet cable for your home, you should get one with a frequency of 500MhZ or maybe a bit less. However, if you are ordering ethernet cables for an office or an organization where different people work, you should get a cable with much higher bandwidth.
Cable category
Even though the ultimate speed of your internet will depend on the network and your network provider, the category of your ethernet cable has a huge role to play. Once your network runs perfectly, the category of your cable will determine your maximum data rate. Your maximum data rate is the amount of information that can be sent over a specific connection in a second. The most common cable category for households is category 6a because it allows data transfer of up to 10 gigabytes per second. A Cat6 cable will give you a super-fast internet connection, but you could also opt for lesser categories that allow for 1 gigabyte per second. If you are using ethernet cables for a large organization, you can opt for a Cat8 cable for even faster transfer.
Cable length
The longest ethernet cables stop around 350 feet, meaning you can always find the right cable size for your space. Before you head out to buy any ethernet cable, you should determine what you want to use it for and how long of a cable you need. If the space from your router to other devices is not very far, you can opt for a shorter length. However, you should always lean towards getting more cable length to accommodate for unplanned detours. If you are getting ethernet cables for a longer path, keep in mind that the signal slowly degrades as it travels. The only way to prevent this is by getting an ethernet cable with appropriate shielding to help prevent radio frequencies and other elements that might interrupt the signal.
Connectors
Most ethernet cables are built with similar materials. However, if the connectors on the cable don’t meet certain criteria, your connection will be a little stifled and you may not be able to prevent interference from messing with your connection. The best connectors are gold-plated bare copper conductors. Gold is a durable material, preventing the connector from tarnishing or oxidizing. Therefore, the cable maintains its conductivity.
Color
Most people are comfortable buying black ethernet cables and this is okay. However, you might want to have different colors to allow you to pick out connections easily. Even though most cables come in black, there are many that come in multiple colors and you can opt for those instead. Having your ethernet cable a different color than your other cables can keep you from getting confused and accidentally unplugging the wrong cable.
Warranty
When it comes to electrical products like ethernet cables, a customer can only be as sure as the manufacturer. Most ethernet cables are strong and they can last for quite some time. If your ethernet cable does not come with a well-spelled-out warranty, then you should probably opt for another one. Ethernet cables generally come with a one-year warranty but some products come with a lifetime warranty. With a warranty, you can be sure to get the most out of your purchase.
What are the alternatives to ethernet cables?
Wi-Fi
Schools, hotels, public companies, and private organizations use Wi-Fi in their facilities. Wi-Fi is easier for people to access and easily get an internet connection. However, a Wi-Fi connection can get very slow the further you get from the router or when there are a lot of people on it. It can also be affected by a lot of other factors and is less secure than ethernet. Wi-Fi is best used to serve temporary visitors and those who need a quick, seamless connection in the area while ethernet cables will work best for permanent residents.
Powerline adapters
Powerline adapters are a very popular ethernet cable alternative for homeowners. This device works by sending data signals through a buildings’ electrical wiring. The adapters (minimum of two) are plugged into the wall sockets and you can then connect them using ethernet cables. You plug the router into the adapter at one end and then your device at the other end. If you have more than one adapter, you can plug another device into it and enjoy the same high-speed connection. If you live in a duplex or a large space, this option will serve you perfectly. You should do a proper check to make sure your electrical wiring is in proper working order before you install a powerline adapter.
MoCA adapter
A MoCA adapter is a special adapter that gives you better Wi-Fi coverage and performance throughout your home. This device is a wired network solution that allows for a direct connection. With this device, your internet and Wi-Fi speed can stay fast and stable. If you use Wi-Fi, this adapter will not overrun your connection — it will enhance it and make it better.
How much does an ethernet cable cost?
The price of an ethernet cable will depend on the length, brand, capacity, and materials used for manufacturing. A 10-foot ethernet cable can cost anywhere from 15 dollars to 30 dollars. If you are buying an ethernet cable for your home, your budget should not exceed 50 dollars. Oftentimes, shorter cables cost less than longer ones, costing as little as 5 dollars.
Ethernet Cable FAQ
Q: Is ethernet faster than Wi-Fi?
A: Ethernet connections are generally faster than Wi-Fi. The hardware makes it more stable and reliable than the network-based Wi-Fi.
Q: What are the categories of ethernet cables?
A: Ethernet cables are divided into 11 categories. Cat1, Cat2, Cat3, Cat4, Cat5, Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, Cat7, Cat7a, and Cat 8. If you want to use your ethernet cable for personal purposes, a Cat5e or Cat6 cable will serve you well.
Q: Which is better: flat or round ethernet cable?
A: Round ethernet cables tend to last longer than flat cables for multiple reasons. Round ethernet cables are more durable and less prone to damage than flat cables. If you want to buy an ethernet cable that will last for a very long time, buy one with a rounded design.
