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Cat6 vs Cat6A: What's the Difference?
If you're planning a wired network installation, the choice between Cat6 and Cat6A is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Here's what you need to know.
Cat6 (Category 6)
- Supports 1 Gbps at up to 100 meters
- Bandwidth: 250 MHz
- Thinner, more flexible — easier to run through walls
- Lower cost per foot
- Ideal for most residential applications
Cat6A (Category 6A — Augmented)
- Supports 10 Gbps at up to 100 meters
- Bandwidth: 500 MHz
- Larger diameter due to additional shielding
- Better rejection of crosstalk (alien crosstalk)
- Required for PoE++ applications (up to 90W)
- Ideal for commercial, home offices, and future-proofing
Our Recommendation for Seattle Homes
For standard residential installs with typical speeds: Cat6 is perfectly sufficient and more cost-effective.
For home offices, media rooms, or anywhere you're running PoE cameras or access points: invest in Cat6A. The price difference per drop is minimal at install time but significant if you have to retrofit later.
Have questions about your project? Contact us for a free estimate.