Although most households will fare just fine with a 100-Megabit network which would be run with Cat5e. However, avid gamers need high-speed, reliable internet access. That means that choosing the right Ethernet cable for gaming can feel as high-stakes as the games being played. There are a few considerations to keep in mind when selecting your Ethernet cable for these purposes. We’ve created a little guide to these considerations below.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Ethernet Cable For Gaming

• Length of Cable: A shorter patch is going to work best. Instead of buying the longest cable available, get a cable that offers the shortest distance without sacrificing personal comfort.
• Cable Category: As you may know, Ethernet cables come in a few different categories. Cat5e cables are good for the typical electronics user, while Cat6 Ethernet cables are often used in commercial or professional settings. But both Cat5e and Cat6 cables are also preferred by gamers. Cat5e cables are rated at 100MHz, while Cat6 cables are rated at 250MHz — which means the latter can offer higher speeds. Cat6 cables are also best-suited to the latest technologies and/or heavy game files. You can technically use either one, but serious gamers may opt for Cat6, assuming that the devices they use are top-of-the-line.
• Compatibility: Say you’ve decided you want to use the gold standard for gamers — the Cat6 cable. Before you make a purchase, you’ll need to make sure that all of your equipment is compatible. Double-check to make certain that all of the cables in your network are the same; if they aren’t, it can slow your entire system down and lead to gameplay interruptions. You may also want to purchase internet cables that are actually manufactured by the same provider, as these will provide peace of mind that both the jacks and cables will function properly. This isn’t necessarily a requirement, though.

If you’re a die-hard gamer, you’ll want to do everything you can to boost your internet connection. By selecting the correct type of Ethernet cable, you’re actually making an investment in your ability to play the way you want. For more information on the Ethernet cables we offer, please contact us today.