Cat5e vs Cat6 vs Cat6A: Choosing Ethernet Cable for CCTV

Compare common twisted-pair cable categories for CCTV, PoE, office networking and future expansion.

Cat5e

A practical choice for many 1 Gb/s CCTV and office links when the project requirements fit standard channel distances.

Cat6

A common choice for new structured cabling, offering improved performance margins and a sensible path for many future upgrades.

Cat6A

Designed for 10 Gb/s Ethernet over standard channel distances and often selected for higher-speed structured cabling. It is generally larger and requires more installation space.

PoE and cable quality

Use good-quality copper cable and follow PoE installation requirements. Avoid questionable copper-clad aluminium cable in professional permanent installations.

Installation quality

Poor terminations, excessive untwisting, tight bends and poor patch cords can degrade performance. Test installed runs and label them.