Cat6 vs Cat6A: which cable does your business need?
A plain comparison for offices, warehouses and shops planning a new installation.
The short answer
Choose Cat6 for most desks, cameras and POS terminals. Choose Cat6A when you need 10 Gb over long runs, are building a space you will not re-cable for years, or are cabling wireless access points that may move to faster speeds.
Cat5e, Cat6 and Cat6A compared
| Cable | Gigabit to 100 m | 10 Gb | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cat5e | Yes | No | Common in older buildings. Fine for gigabit. |
| Cat6 | Yes | Short runs, roughly up to 55 m in good conditions | The standard for most new business installs. |
| Cat6A | Yes | Full 100 m | Thicker, stiffer and more expensive to install. |
Where the difference matters
- Wi-Fi access points: newer access points can have 2.5, 5 or 10 Gb uplinks. Cat6 handles 2.5 and 5 Gb to 100 m. Cat6A covers 10 Gb.
- Server rooms and rack links: 10 Gb links are common, and Cat6A handles them at full distance.
- Long runs: copper Ethernet is limited to 100 m including patch cords, whichever category you pick.
Cost and installation
Cat6A cable is thicker and stiffer, so it needs more space in trays and conduit and a wider bend radius. Cable and labour cost more than Cat6. For a typical office desk, Cat6 is usually enough. See what affects cabling cost.
How to decide
- Will any link need 10 Gb in the next several years?
- Are you cabling access points, a rack or a server room?
- Is this a new build where re-cabling later would be disruptive?
If you answered yes to any of these, ask about Cat6A. Our network cabling team can recommend the right mix for your site.
Common questions
Can I mix Cat6 and Cat6A in the same network?
Yes. Each link runs at what its weakest part supports, so many sites use Cat6A for backbone and access point runs and Cat6 for desks.
Is Cat6 enough for Wi-Fi 6?
Usually. Most access points use gigabit or 2.5 Gb uplinks, which Cat6 handles. Check your access point's specifications or ask us.
What is the maximum cable length?
100 metres for a copper Ethernet run, including patch cords at both ends. Longer distances need another switch.
Planning a cabling, camera or IT project?
Tell us about the site and we will come back with a clear quote.