How to Choose the Right Ethernet Cable (Cat5e vs Cat6)

How to Choose the Right Ethernet Cable (Cat5e vs Cat6)

Buying an Ethernet cable shouldn’t feel complicated—but “Cat5e vs Cat6” makes it sound like you need an IT degree. You don’t.

For most home setups, both work great. The right choice depends on speed needs, cable length, and your space. Here’s a simple guide you can trust.

Cat5e vs Cat6 (the simple difference)

Cat5e

  • Great for most homes and home offices

  • Handles typical internet speeds easily

  • Usually cheaper and more flexible

Cat6

  • Better performance over longer runs

  • More headroom for faster networks

  • Often slightly thicker/stiffer

✅ Quick summary:
Cat5e is enough for most desks. Cat6 is a smart “future-friendly” choice—especially for longer runs.

Choose Cat5e if…

Cat5e is a great pick when:

  • your cable run is short (router to desk, desk to switch)

  • you just want stable internet for work and calls

  • you want a cable that’s easier to route (more flexible)

✅ Best for: home office, Zoom calls, everyday browsing, smart TVs

Choose Cat6 if…

Cat6 is worth it when:

  • your cable run is longer (across rooms, along baseboards)

  • you want extra stability and future headroom

  • you plan to add more wired devices (switch, NAS, streaming gear)

✅ Best for: creator setups, home networking upgrades, long cable paths

The #1 thing people get wrong: cable length

The wrong cable length creates clutter fast.

Do this instead:

  1. Measure the path (router → desk)

  2. Add a small buffer (a little slack is good)

  3. Buy the closest length that avoids big loops

✅ If it makes a loop on your desk, it’s too long.

Shielded or unshielded? (don’t overthink it)

Most homes are fine with standard unshielded cables.

Consider shielded only if:

  • you run cables near lots of power lines

  • you have heavy interference equipment

  • you’re doing long runs through crowded wiring areas

✅ For most people: standard cables are perfect.

A clean Ethernet setup tip (makes it look “finished”)

To keep cables tidy:

  • use short Ethernet cables from switch → device

  • route the main cable along the baseboard

  • use cable clips

  • label ends (router, switch, TV, PC)

This turns troubleshooting into a 30-second task.

Shop-friendly CTA (you can paste into Shopify)

Need a clean, reliable wired setup? Cat5e is great for most desks, while Cat6 is a smart upgrade for longer runs and future growth. Explore our Networking & Ethernet collection for Ethernet cables, couplers, wall plates, and cable management accessories.

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