The Differences Between Cat 6a and Cat 7 Cables

Cat 6a and Cat 7 cables are both high-performance network cables that are used in a variety of applications, including data centers, offices, and homes. However, there are some key differences between these two types of cables that can affect their performance and cost.

Conductor Material

Cat 6a cables are typically made with copper conductors, while Cat 7 cables can be made with either copper or aluminum conductors. Copper conductors are more expensive than aluminum conductors, but they offer better performance in terms of signal quality and speed. Aluminum conductors are more affordable, but they can be more susceptible to interference and noise.

Shielding

Cat 6a cables are typically shielded with a foil shield, while Cat 7 cables are typically shielded with a braided shield. Foil shields are less expensive and easier to install than braided shields, but they offer less protection from interference and noise. Braided shields are more expensive and difficult to install, but they offer better protection from interference and noise.

Category Rating

Cat 6a cables are rated for speeds of up to 10 Gigabit Ethernet (GbE), while Cat 7 cables are rated for speeds of up to 100 GbE. This means that Cat 7 cables can support faster speeds than Cat 6a cables. However, it is important to note that the actual speed of a network connection is determined by the slowest component in the system. This means that even if you have Cat 7 cables, you will not be able to achieve speeds of 100 GbE unless you also have a network card and switch that support this speed.

Price

Cat 6a cables are typically more expensive than Cat 7 cables. This is because Cat 6a cables are made with higher-quality materials and are more difficult to manufacture. However, the price difference between these two types of cables is becoming smaller as Cat 7 cables become more popular.

Conclusion

Cat 6a and Cat 7 cables are both high-performance network cables that can support a variety of applications. However, there are some key differences between these two types of cables that can affect their performance and cost. When choosing between Cat 6a and Cat 7 cables, it is important to consider your specific needs and budget.