About The Article:
- CAT7 and CAT8 are Ethernet cable standards with varying speeds and specs.
- The article compares CAT7 vs CAT8 in performance, speed, frequency, shielding.
- It analyzes the pros and cons of CAT7 and CAT8 cables for networking uses.
- Key differences are covered to help choose the right Ethernet cable type based on usage and future-proofing needs.
Written By – 
Manvendra Singh
Have you ever been to a mechanical shop but unsure which cable to get. It can get pretty confusing with so many different ones available like the Cat 6, Cat8, Cat 5, and more.
Mostly Cat 7 and Cat 8 cables.
Firstly what are these Cat cables? And what is the difference between Cat 7 Vs Cat 8 cables?
Quick Answer:
CAT 7 supports speeds up to 10 Gbps over 100 meters with a maximum bandwidth of 600 MHz, while CAT 8 supports speeds up to 25-40 Gbps over 30 meters with a maximum bandwidth of 2000 MHz.
They are mainly used when you install data cables in your house. They are ethernet cables. What are Ethernet cables, you ask?
They are network cables and are used in the wired network connection. This type of connection occurs between devices and the internet.
They are usually used to connect all kinds of devices on the LAN or routers. Even PCs and switches can be connected using these.
However, within all the options you get when buying a cable, the most common one that is needed nowadays is either the Cat 7 or the Cat 8 cable.
These two cables are dominating the market now. Therefore, knowing their features and deciding which line you should buy is essential.
However, before you begin to compare them, it is essential to know their features and some other general information about the cables.
CAT 7 Vs CAT 8: What Is The Difference Between Them
Cat 7 Cable
Cat 7 is the abbreviation for category 7, but what does this mean? Well, these cables are used while connecting using gigabit ethernet.
Gigabit Ethernet is a transmission technology used depending upon the ethernet format in different LANs and provides data rates.
These cables have a capacity of around 600MHZ and are one of the most critical choices for a well-networked house. Once installed, you might also view some options for various automation ideas.
These cables support high-speed internet, and the connection can hold up to 10Gbps. They may also be used with other Cat cables, one of the most outstanding features.
You will also get a 100-meter and a 4-connector channel with shielding cabling. By becoming a complete shield system, they demand braided wires.
Such methods include screen-shielded twisted pair (SSTP) and filtered foiled twisted pair (SFTP) wire.
It minimizes alien crossover speech thanks to improved noise resistance. It enables users to achieve faster speeds by using longer wires.
Cat 8 Cable
Category 8, often known as Cat8 cable or Cat-8 cable, is an ethernet cable that differs from prior cables. It operates at a frequency band of up to 2GHz, or 2000MHz.
It’s only suitable for a 30-meter 2-connector channel. It also necessitates insulated cabling. The main thing to remember is that it can sustain speeds of 35 or 40 gigabits per second.
Overall, it has a similar physical look to lower-category cables.RJ45 or non-RJ45 links are used to terminate them.
All previous versions are perfectly compatible with it. Standard ports of earlier versions, such as Cat-7, are usable.
CAT 7 VS CAT 8 Cable Difference
Cat7 cable has a bandwidth of 600 MHz, while Cat8 has a bandwidth of 2000 MHz in terms of performance.
Cat 7 networks have a maximum cable length of 100 meters and a maximum data rate of 10 gigabits per second.
Cat8 has a total height of 30 meters and speeds of 25 or 40 Gbit / s. However, cat 7 cables are much more budget-friendly, whereas cat 8 cables will need some serious money based on the different features.
In both cables, the shielding cable structure is present. Because Cat 7 cable has a lot of shielding, it is less prone to distortion.
They require specific GigaGate45 connectors to benefit from the increased performance capabilities fully.
Even if it worked at a different intensity, there would be no boost in data rate because Category 7 cables supply one 100-meter 4-connector channel with shielded cabling.
According to IEEE 802.3, 10GBase-T is the most robust braided complete set data rate. As a result, even if your network uses Category 7 cabling, any active equipment will be limited to 10-Gbit/sec speed.
It is not recognized as a category by the TIA. For Category 8 cables, shielded cabling is required.
And doesn’t provide an electrical discharge twisted pair, unlike Cat 5 to Cat 4. The most typical cable construction for Category 8 is 22-AWG S/FTP cabling.
Conclusion:
Now you know the difference between the cables; you can choose one to get for your house.
However, if you are unsure, it might be better to get a second opinion from a handyman or electrician about which cable to get. Both cables will work great.
However, their usage depends on the type of work you need the cables to perform. Stay connected with PCSynced.com
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