Let’s face it, we all despise cords! That’s why, in all of our server and gaming PC guides, we discuss cable management. When it comes to network connection speeds, though, we want the finest we can get.
While Wi-Fi connections are more convenient than traditional Ethernet connections, they are slower. When we consider how our internet gaming and streaming have evolved, we need the fastest connection speeds possible. They must also be consistent and have minimal latency.
Ethernet cables aren’t going away anytime soon for these reasons. Remember that the latest Wi-Fi standards like 802.11ac provide maximum rates of 866.7 Mbps, which is sufficient for most of our regular work. Only that, because to their greater latency levels, they are untrustworthy.
We’ve created a complete guide to help you find the best Ethernet cable for gaming and streaming. Because cords come in different categories with varied features to fit different demands, we’ve created a detailed guide to help you find the best Ethernet cable for gaming and streaming. Whether you’re playing online games that necessitate quick reflexes. You should be able to find the perfect cable here to connect devices that stream from a media server like Kodi or exchange huge files on your local network.
Best Ethernet Cable in 2020
| Ethernet Cable | Category | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vandesail |
Cat 7 | Maximum Speed (Gbps): 10 Maximum Bandwidth (MHz): 1,000 Length (Feet): 3 to 146 |
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| AmazonBasics |
Cat 6 | Maximum Speed (Gbps): 10 Maximum Bandwidth (MHz): 250 Length (Feet): 3 to 50 |
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| Mediabridge |
Cat 5e | Maximum Speed (Gbps): 10 Maximum Bandwidth (MHz): 550 Length (Feet): 3 to 100 |
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| XINCA |
Cat 6 | Maximum Speed (Gbps): 1 Maximum Bandwidth (MHz): 250 Length (Feet): 6 to 100 |
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| TNP |
Cat 7 | Maximum Speed (Gbps): 10 Maximum Bandwidth (MHz): 600 Length (Feet): 1.5 to 50 |
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| Cable Zosion |
Cat 8 | Maximum Speed (Gbps): 40 Maximum Bandwidth (MHz): 2000 Length (Feet): 1.64 to 100 |
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| Cable Matters |
Cat 6a | Maximum Speed (Gbps): 10 Maximum Bandwidth (MHz): 550 Length (Feet): 1 to 200 |
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| Cables Direct Online |
Cat 5e | Maximum Speed (Gbps): 1 Maximum Bandwidth (MHz): 350 Length (Feet): 30 |
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| Cables Direct Online |
Cat 6 | Maximum Speed (Gbps): 1 Maximum Bandwidth (MHz): 550 Length (Feet): 50 |
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| Ugreen |
Cat 7 | Maximum Speed (Gbps): 10 Maximum Bandwidth (MHz): 600 Length (Feet): 3 to 100 |
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How Do You Choose The Best Ethernet Cable?
Everything boils down to the range and performance requirements you require. However, cords are more than meets the eye.
1. Speed and Bandwidth
You’re most likely opting for a wired connection to increase your internet speed. However, you must first determine the speed of your home internet connection or the router of your ISP.
An older ethernet cable will slow you down if you have gigabit internet (above 1 Gbps). Similarly, if your connection is slow, say 15 Mbps, newer cable types will bottleneck. Cat 5e, Cat 6, and Cat 7 are examples of such models.
Ethernet cables are classified into eight categories (Cat) that reflect various ethernet technology. Speeds and bandwidth are better in newer categories. We’ll focus on the five categories that make the most sense today for this guide. Cat 5e, Cat 6, Cat 6a, Cat 7, and Cat 7a are among them.
Other kinds include Cat 3 and Cat 5, both of which have outlived their usefulness in terms of power. They have reduced bandwidth and speeds. These are the reasons why we don’t think you should buy them! Cat 8 cables are also not widely accessible on the market at the time of this writing.
(i) Cat 5e
They are unshielded and can transmit data at speeds of up to 1 Gbps (1,000 Mbps) across a distance of 100 meters at a maximum frequency of 100 MHz. The “e” stands for “enhanced” – a kind from category 5. Cat 5e cables are not only cost-effective but also dependable when it comes to managing everyday internet tasks. Browsing, streaming movies, and productivity are just a few examples.
(ii) Cat 6
With speeds up to 1 Gbps (1,000 Mbps) at 100 meters and a maximum frequency of 250 MHz, they are available in both shielded and unshielded versions. Shielding protects the twisted pairs of wires in the cable, preventing noise interference and crosstalk. Their higher bandwidths render them ideal for gaming consoles like Xbox and PS4.
(iii) Cat 6a
They are insulated and can transmit data at speeds of up to 10 Gbps (10,000 Mbps) over a distance of 100 meters at a maximum frequency of 500 MHz. The letter “a” stands for “additional.” They offer twice the bandwidth of Cat 6, as well as the ability to maintain faster transmission speeds over longer wire lengths. Their extensive shielding makes them denser and less flexible than Cat 6, but it also allows them to eliminate crosstalk.
(iv) Cat 7
They are insulated and can transmit data at speeds of up to 10 Gbps (10,000 Mbps) over a distance of 100 meters at a maximum frequency of 600 MHz. These connections make use of the most up-to-date ethernet technology, which allows for greater bandwidth and faster transmission speeds. That is, you will be able to achieve 10 Gbps in practice, not simply on paper. Some can attain rates of up to 100 Gbps at 15 meters, although we doubt you’ll need that. We could be completely wrong! Cat 7 cables are backward compatible with standard ethernet ports because they employ a modified GigaGate45 connector.
(v) Cat 7a
They are insulated and can transmit data at speeds of up to 10 Gbps (10,000 Mbps) over a distance of 100 meters at a maximum frequency of 1,000 MHz. A Cat 7a ethernet cable, we can certainly state, is excessive! Even though they offer the same transmission speeds as Cat 7, they are significantly more expensive. They merely provide you with some extra bandwidth that you don’t require!
2. Compatibility
Backward compatibility exists between Cat 6 and Cat 7 cables. They will not, however, provide you with the claimed speeds if you are using a slower ISP (or router). Simply explained, if your router’s maximum internet speed is 100 Mbps, a Cat 6 ethernet connection will not increase that speed to 1,000 Mbps.
When playing internet-intensive online games, such a cable will most likely provide you with a connection with lower ping and no lags. It will help lessen interference caused by dropped signals as a result of things blocking the connection throughout your home. When using Wi-Fi connections, this is the case.
Make sure the cables you buy are compatible with the devices you want to use them with. You’ll also want to make sure they don’t slow things down or become excessive. Getting a Cat 7 ethernet cable for your Facebooking laptop, for example, is usually a bad idea!
3. Range
It’s time to think about the range now that you’ve examined the speeds, bandwidth, and compatibility. What’s the maximum length of the wires you’d like them to go? A 10-foot wire would most likely suffice to connect your router to your workplace PC. However, an outdoor connection or a connection from one room to another in a large house would almost certainly necessitate a 100-foot cable.
1. Vandesail CAT7 Ethernet Cable – Best Bang for the Buck
Copper-plated RJ-45 connectors on Vandesail CAT7 offer a robust, interference-free connection. Because of its flat design, you can simply route it in difficult-to-reach areas like corners and under rugs. It’s one of the best ethernet cables, and it works with PS4, PCs, laptops, routers, and most other devices.
Two cables, ranging in length from 3 feet (1 meter) to 164 feet, are included in the package (50 meters). Because of its flat shape, it is lightweight and easy to wrap. Because of these properties, it is the ideal cable for traveling because it rolls up little. The Vandesail CAT7 would be ideal for 4K streaming from media servers like Kodi and Plex, or for very intense online gaming.
2. AmazonBasics CAT6 – Best Ethernet Cable for Streaming
A Cat 6 cable allows you to get the most out of your home internet if it can reach speeds of 1 to 10 Gbps. The AmazonBasics Cat 6 Ethernet cable can transmit data at up to 10 Gbps over a distance of up to 55 meters.
It is equipped with an RJ45 connector for universal connectivity. The cable is inexpensive, safe, and dependable. It’s great for streaming because it’s insulated and has a bandwidth of 250 MHz.
The AmazonBasics RJ45 is available in lengths ranging from 3 to 50 feet. However, its primary flaw is the spherical form, which makes cable management difficult. For a longer cord, the design can potentially be cumbersome.
3. Mediabridge CAT5e Ethernet Cable — Best Affordable
The Mediabridge CAT5e cable is extremely adaptable. Because of the Rj45 connector, it can be used in almost any standard port. It has a speed of up to 10 Gbps and is available in lengths ranging from 3 to 100 feet.
CAT6, CAT5, and CAT5e applications are supported by Mediabridge CAT5e. You may expect high-speed data transfer thanks to the 550 MHz bandwidth. Mediabridge has provided reusable Velcro straps to help you arrange your cords as a bonus to these amazing features.
When streaming HD videos online or playing esports, this is a cable you can count on. It will still be able to manage the majority of your day-to-day internet needs at home and work.
4. XINCA CAT6 Ethernet Cable for PS4 Streaming
The XINCA Ethernet cable has a flat-wire construction with a thickness of 0.06 inches. Its ultra-thin form allows it to be hidden behind rugs and furniture. Its RJ45 connector provides universal connectivity, making it one of the most cost-effective and excellent ethernet cables for PlayStation 4 gaming.
It has a data transport rate of up to 1 Gbps and a frequency of 250 MHz. This cable will suit both your performance and aesthetic needs thanks to its design and superb features. It comes in a variety of lengths ranging from 6 to 100 feet.
XINCA CAT6 is made entirely of pure copper. Making it RoHS-compliant is a must. It can be used to connect routers, Xboxes, Gigabit Ethernet switches, and PCs, among other devices, just like the rest of the cables on our list.
5. TNP CAT7 Ethernet Cable – Best for 4K Streaming
The TNP CAT7 Ethernet Cable comes with all of the basic features of a Category 7 Ethernet cable. That, however, is not one of its selling points. Its adaptable design and long-lasting durability set it apart from the competitors.
With a bandwidth of 600 MHz, the cable can deliver connection rates of up to 10 Gbps. It was created by a reputed company and offers error-free signal transmission. CAT6, CAT5e, and CAT5e are all backward compatible with this cable.
6. Cable Matters 160021 CAT6 Snagless Ethernet Cable
Anyone looking for a short ethernet cable with up to 10 Gbps transfer speeds may choose the Cable Matters 160021 CAT6. It comes in a pack of five cables with lengths ranging from one to fourteen feet.
Cable Matters understands that you may want color alternatives that make cable management and identification easier. As a result, the cables come in a variety of hues — Black, Blue, Green, Red, and White – in each pack.
This is most likely the best ethernet cable for connecting several devices. Set up an office server at home, or connect PoE devices, VoIP phones, printers, and PCs. The snug-free design makes disconnecting a breeze.
7. Cable Zosion CAT8 – Best for Complex Office Networks
The RJ 45 on the Zoison Cat 8 is copper-plated for added stability and robustness. Because the STP is rounded, it provides superior protection from crosstalk, noise, and disturbance. The cable’s outer layer is made of environmentally friendly PVC, which ensures its longevity, elasticity, and anti-aging properties. The cable works with all devices equally well and is backward compatible with earlier lines such as Cat 7/Cat 6/Cat 6a, and so on.
The cable is best suited for those using a 100 Mbps package at home. It transfers data at a high rate of transfer and is far more dependable than cat 7 connections. A single cable ranging in length from 1.5 to 100 feet is included in the bundle. Zoison has gone out of its way to provide 5 clips and 5 cable ties in the box.
8. Cables Direct Online CAT5e 30FT Networking RJ45 Ethernet Patch Cable
When it comes to extending our internet connections, a 30-foot ethernet cable appears to be the standard length. Connecting our modem/router to PCs, laptops, and gaming consoles is adequate.
A cable like the Cables Direct Online CAT5e comes with a 30 foot (10 meters) long cord. It has a bandwidth of up to 350 MHz and can achieve 1 Gbps speeds. You can obtain a good cable without breaking the bank for $5.
9. Cables Direct Online CAT6 50FT Networking RJ45 Ethernet Patch Cable
Cables Direct Online has released yet another excellent ethernet cable. A 50-foot CAT6 cable is available as an alternative. This is more than enough length to expand your internet connections at work and home.
With a maximum bandwidth of 550 MHz, the cable will be capable of transfer speeds of up to 1 Gbps. It is reasonably priced at $6.95, offering it a low-cost option for gaming lovers on a tight budget.
10. Ugreen CAT7 Ethernet Cable – Best Ethernet Cable for PS4
Two other cords that are perfect for PlayStation games have already been mentioned. The Ugreen CAT7 Ethernet Cable, on the other hand, not only has performance features but also has a black-feel design that complements the PS4 gaming system.
It has a bandwidth of roughly 600 MHz and a maximum transfer speed of 10 Gbps. As a result, it’s an excellent ethernet cable for playing high-resolution games at high speeds. Furthermore, the clip protector will shield the RJ45 connector from undesired snugs while the cable is routed.
The cable comes with cords ranging in length from 3 to 100 feet. It is made up of four STP copper wires that provide greater interference and crosstalk noise prevention. Even while streaming 4K media, such features ensure the finest signal quality.
Final Remarks:
The ideal ethernet cable is determined by your internet speed requirements. And how long you want the connection to be extended. Mostly, a CAT5e ethernet cable will give you all the performance you need for your day-to-day internet needs.
Getting a CAT7 cable, on the other hand, assures that you’re using the most up-to-date ethernet technology, which offers data transmission speeds of up to 10 Gbps. When streaming 4K videos and gaming, such speeds will give you peace of mind.
