Cat6 or Cat6A? 3 questions that tell you which cable your building needs.
Both carry fast internet to a desk. The difference shows up over long runs, at 10 gigabit speeds and with newer Wi-Fi access points. Here's how to choose without overpaying.
- Most homes: Cat6.
- Small offices with short runs: Cat6.
- New office fit-outs: Cat6A.
- Wi-Fi access points and long runs: Cat6A.
Cat6 vs Cat6A side by side: what you actually get
| Cat6 | Cat6A | |
|---|---|---|
| Gigabit speed | Full 100 m run | Full 100 m run |
| 10 gigabit speed | Up to about 55 m, conditions permitting | Full 100 m run |
| Bandwidth | 250 MHz | 500 MHz |
| Cable size | Thinner and easier to run | Thicker, needs more room in trays and walls |
| Install effort | Faster to terminate | Takes longer and needs more care |
| Best for | Homes, small offices, short runs | Offices, access points, long runs, future-proofing |
3 questions that decide which cable you need
How long are the runs?
If any run from the cabinet to a desk or ceiling is longer than about 55 m and you may want 10 gigabit later, Cat6A is the safe choice.
Are you wiring Wi-Fi access points?
Newer access points can use faster uplinks than one gigabit, and they draw power over the same cable. Cat6A handles both with headroom.
How long will you stay?
Cabling is built into the walls. If you plan to be in the building for years, the extra cost of Cat6A now is small next to re-cabling later.
Why the install matters more than the cable you pick
A Cat6A cable installed badly performs worse than a Cat6 cable installed well. Whatever you choose, ask for these.
- Every run tested, with a written test report at handover.
- Matching parts: cable, outlets and patch panel all rated the same category.
- Runs kept clear of power cables and lighting.
- Every outlet labelled to match the patch panel.
- Installed to the New Zealand cabling standard (AS/NZS 3080).
- A workmanship warranty in writing.
Want us to spec it for you?
We'll look at your runs, your Wi-Fi plans and how long you'll stay, then recommend the right cable.
Cat6 and Cat6A questions
Will Cat6A make my internet faster?
Not on its own. Your internet plan sets the speed coming into the building. Cat6A matters for speeds inside your network, between devices, servers and access points.
Can I mix Cat6 and Cat6A?
Yes, on different runs. On a single run, every part needs the same rating, or the run only performs to the lowest part.
Is Cat5e still OK?
It still works for gigabit on existing runs. For new cabling we install Cat6 or Cat6A.
Do you test the cable after installing it?
Yes. Every run is tested and you get the results in writing, with a 12-month workmanship warranty.
Need patch leads for your new points?
The cable in the wall is only half the link. Pure copper Cat6 patch leads, from $8.90, connect your devices to the outlet.
Get the right cable specified for your building
We'll walk the site and give you a fixed quote in writing within 24 hours.
We reply within 1 hour, 24/7.
Call before 12pm for a same-day response.