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Shadow Kira01 · 2009-01-11, 22:16

I just bought a new ethernet cable, since the old one seems to have twisted wires or something like that. From browsing at various stores, I have become curious of the prices..

What is the differences between a 30 dollar Cat5e cable and a 10 buck one? Does it offer more speed or a longer lifespan?

Claies · 2009-01-11, 23:17

They might have better-built connectors (more durable plastic, covers over the "clip" thing) or maybe a slightly better jacket.

If you maintain your cables properly you'll probably do much better with three $10 cables.

Sci-Fi · 2009-01-11, 23:39

To be honest, not much difference. To qualify as Cat 5E, the wires have to meet minimum tolerances and specs. For $30.00, I can get a pre-made 50ft length of Cat 6: http://www.blackbox.com/Store/Result...294965744/p-63

Can find Cat 6 patch cables for $8-10. Prices aren't that much different between Cat 5E and Cat 6. Much of the cost difference is if the wire(s) is stranded or solid (higher cost). Many just opt for Cat 6, just for the higher rated bandwidth for any future expansion or upgrades to their network.

Shadow Kira01 · 2009-01-11, 23:55

Thanks for the suggestions. That's what I thought too. Replacing the 10 buck cables for another 10 buck cables is a better option.

Strahan · 2009-01-12, 16:36

I wouldn't even buy a $10 cable, heh. Monoprice has very low cost cables, may want to check them out. You didn't specify a length, but if you need say 10' cables they are only $1.28.

Well, I actually just realized I misread your last post. I thought you meant you were looking for 10 cables. If you only need one, nevermind. With the cost of shipping, it's about pointless ($6 something with shipping). If you need alot is when it is great.

2009-01-11, 22:16	Link #1
Shadow Kira01 Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: PMB Headquarters	Ethernet Cables I just bought a new ethernet cable, since the old one seems to have twisted wires or something like that. From browsing at various stores, I have become curious of the prices.. What is the differences between a 30 dollar Cat5e cable and a 10 buck one? Does it offer more speed or a longer lifespan?

2009-01-11, 23:17	Link #2
Claies Good-Natured Asshole. Join Date: May 2007 Age: 34	They might have better-built connectors (more durable plastic, covers over the "clip" thing) or maybe a slightly better jacket. If you maintain your cables properly you'll probably do much better with three $10 cables.

2009-01-11, 23:39	Link #3
Sci-Fi Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2007	To be honest, not much difference. To qualify as Cat 5E, the wires have to meet minimum tolerances and specs. For $30.00, I can get a pre-made 50ft length of Cat 6: http://www.blackbox.com/Store/Result...294965744/p-63 Can find Cat 6 patch cables for $8-10. Prices aren't that much different between Cat 5E and Cat 6. Much of the cost difference is if the wire(s) is stranded or solid (higher cost). Many just opt for Cat 6, just for the higher rated bandwidth for any future expansion or upgrades to their network.

2009-01-11, 23:55	Link #4
Shadow Kira01 Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: PMB Headquarters	Thanks for the suggestions. That's what I thought too. Replacing the 10 buck cables for another 10 buck cables is a better option.

2009-01-12, 16:36	Link #5
Strahan Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Pennsylvania	I wouldn't even buy a $10 cable, heh. Monoprice has very low cost cables, may want to check them out. You didn't specify a length, but if you need say 10' cables they are only $1.28. Well, I actually just realized I misread your last post. I thought you meant you were looking for 10 cables. If you only need one, nevermind. With the cost of shipping, it's about pointless ($6 something with shipping). If you need alot is when it is great.