Networking cables are increasing gradually, and rapid development is being made in network applications due to the higher bandwidth demands.
With the progression of technologies, Ethernet cables are introducing higher speed and frequency rates in the market. Ethernet cables come in different sizes, shapes, and lengths, but there are some significant differences beyond these features.
Although various ethernet cables such as cat5, cat6, and cat8 cables seem quite similar, the Cat7 Ethernet cables are a bit unique from other versions. This cable offers some inspiring features and is highly popular amongst many people.
But what exactly varies this cable from others? Let’s dig into everything about the Cat7 Ethernet cable and determine whether you should use this cable or not.
What is Cat7 Ethernet Cable?
The category-7 cable is a type of high-end data network cable which is used as a cabling infrastructure for Gigabit Ethernet.
It is a shielded twisted pair cable that is essentially used to gain a high-speed internet connection with a transfer rate of 1 Gbps or above between the linked servers.
This cable offers an excellent execution of up to 600MHz. However, its maximum distance to achieve the ideal speed is 100m. Cable beyond this length lacks the bandwidth connection.
The double-shielded Cat7 cable encompasses either SFTP or SSTP wiring, entirely reducing crosstalk and significantly improving noise resistance. Its shielded twisted pair construction is advantageous for providing high-speed networking.
Cat7 Ethernet Cable Specifications
The Cat7 cable specifications are also known as Class-F standard cable, which is capable of delivering a certain amount of data transfer over a specific distance range. However, several Ethernet Cat7 features are mentioned below:
Connector
The Category-7 Ethernet cable comes with a GG-45 connector, which is backward compatible with the Cat5e and Cat6 cables as well. The GG-45 connector consists of four additional conductors that support frequencies of up to 600MHz. Yet, its higher frequencies provide the Cat7 cable to support 10Gbps Ethernet.
Speed and Frequency
Cat-7 is basically designed to support a minimum of 10Gbps Ethernet. But it shows the ability to exceed this limit and transmit data in 50Gbps with 50m and up to 100Gbps with 15m short length. The shorter the distance, the higher the speed.
Moving towards the frequency of the Cat7 Ethernet cables, this cable supports the frequency of up to 600MHz over 100m lengths.
In terms of frequency, the Cat7 is six times greater than the Cat5e cable, which supports 100MHz and is 2.4-times higher than the Cat6 cable with 250MHz frequency.
Short Distance
The maximum distance for all Ethernet cables is 100 meters. However, the Cat7 cable has a harsher distance limit as compared to Cat5e and Cat6.
This cable can be extended to up to 100m, but to achieve 50Gbps the length must be below 15m. If the distance is exceeded beyond this limit, the cable begins to drop its speed to 1Gbps.
Comparing Ethernet Cat7 with Cat5 vs. Cat6 vs. Cat8 Cables
| Specifications | Cat 5 | Cat 6 | Cat 7 | Cat 8 |
| Speed | 10/100 Mbps | 1000 Mbps | 10 Gbps | 25/40 Gbps |
| Frequency | 100 MHz | 250 MHz | 600 MHz | 2000 MHz |
| Connectors | RJ-45 | RJ-45 | GG-45/RJ-45 | RJ-45 |
| Shielding Type | UTP or STP | UTP or STP | Shielded only | Shielded only |
| Ideal Short Distance | 100 Meters | 100 Meters | 15 Meters (Can be extended to 100m) | 30 Meters (Can be extended to 100m) |
Now that you’ve got a basic idea about the different specifications offered by these Ethernet cables. But which Ethernet cable is used for what purpose?
Well, by understanding several features, you should know your requirements before choosing the best Ethernet cable for you. Thus, the Cat5 cable is used to acquire an internet connection for domestic use.
However, this cable is no longer available in the market, so many people opt for its other version called Cat5e cable. Although this cable supports a similar frequency, it transmits files with 1Gbps of speed.
On the other hand, if you want high-speed internet for streaming videos and playing video games, then the best Cat6 cable is recommended. This cable allows you to stream HD videos and play digital games with reduced crosstalk.
Regardless, if you require the best Ethernet cable for PS4 or Xbox, it is advised to pick the Cat8 Ethernet cables. This cable provides the highest internet speed from 25-40Gbps with a 2000MHz frequency.
Yet, if your household contains several innovative appliances that operate through a high-bandwidth internet connection, then you should go for the Cat7 Ethernet cable. You can also use this cable for offices with such technologies.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here is the list of FAQs.
What is the Cat7 cable used for?
The Cat7 Ethernet cable is used for the cabling infrastructure Ethernet, which offers execution of up to 600MHz.
In other words, a CAT7 cable is recommended to use for wiring your smart home.
Is Cat7 the fastest Ethernet cable?
You may have heard that the Cat7 cable has a maximum speed of up to 10Gbps than cat5 and cat6, and supports up to 600MHz.
But, the fastest Ethernet cable is the Cat8 which provides 25 to 40 Gbps speed with 2000 MHz frequency.
Can I Use a Cat7 Ethernet Cable for PS4?
You may have heard that the Cat7 cable has a maximum speed of up to 10Gbps than cat5 and cat6, and supports up to 600MHz.
But, the fastest Ethernet cable is the Cat8 which provides 25 to 40 Gbps speed with 2000 MHz frequency.
In a Nutshell
While choosing the Cat7 Ethernet cables, you must know about how this cable is distinguished from other Ethernet cable versions.
The Cat7 cable optimally supports a higher internet speed with a great frequency rate, but it only delivers its ideal speed at a 15m short distance.
This feature differs from cat7 from other cables. Besides that, you may find it pretty expensive which often provides drastic results for residential or commercial use.